Must-Have Items for Your Alaska Cruise Packing List
Glacier Bay National Park
While fantasizing about the taste of fresh-caught Alaska halibut or daydreaming about the glory of the great glaciers, many travelers wonder what to pack for an Alaska cruise. The items you choose to bring can make your dreams an even better reality. You should include everything from clothing and weather coverage — like a raincoat and sunscreen — to accessories and equipment that will complement your every adventure. Here’s what to pack for a cruise to Alaska.
Clothing
Whether you choose to zipline through forests or kayak through a crystalline fjord, the best attire for your daily affairs is casual, active sportswear. Cruise lines travel to Alaska from late spring to early fall. Temperatures can range anywhere from 30-80 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the port of call and time of year. To make sure you’re prepared for the warmth of the afternoon sun and the gentle touch of the evening sea breeze, pack items that can be layered, including:
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Sweaters
- A warm, water-repellent jacket
- A lightweight windbreaker
- Pants
- Shorts
- Walking shoes or sneakers
- A scarf
- A rain hat
- Touchscreen gloves
- Sunglasses
While your daytime attire may be more relaxed, there are several opportunities to dress up while on board. Formal dinner nights call for cocktail dresses or gowns for women and tuxedos or suits for men. The number of formal evenings will depend on the length of your cruise. To help determine what to pack for dinner wear, speak with your travel agent as each cruise line has different dress codes.
Medicine and More
All the major cruise lines come equipped with 24-hour medical service. You may still want to include the following items on your Alaska cruise packing list to bring on shore excursions:
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Band-Aids
- Nausea-relief medicine
- Daily medication
Technology
Whether admiring monumental glaciers from your stateroom balcony or coming face-to-face with exquisite wildlife, an Alaska cruise offers endless picture-worthy moments. Consider packing the following devices so that you can capture each untouched landscape and every snow-capped summit:
- Waterproof camera
- USB converter
- Portable charger
- Protective phone case
- Memory cards
- Extra batteries
DO NOTpack a power strip! These are not allowed on-board, your stateroom outlets are not designed to handle the voltage of power strips. These items will be confiscated.
You may also want to pack binoculars for an even closer look at all the splendor the Great Land has to offer.
Bags
Some of the most awe-inspiring Alaska shore excursions are the scenic hikes that lead you through lush rainforests to snow-capped peaks or scenic, sandy beaches. Since most of these expeditions can last several hours, make sure you have the right gear to keep you moving through Alaska’s unparalleled habitats. Popular items include:
- Backpack
- Packaged snacks from onboard cafes
- Collapsible hiking poles
- An umbrella and/or rain cover
Knowing what to pack for an Alaska cruise can make your journey to new lands even more seamless, allowing you to make the most of your vacation. As you begin crafting your Alaska cruise packing list, allow every item to stir your imagination and spark a sense of excitement for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead.
