Alaska Cruise Packing List: Complete Guide and Essentials

Alaska's wild and rugged terrain, coupled with its ever-changing weather, can make creating an Alaska cruise packing list seem like a daunting task. Getting it right and knowing exactly what to pack for an Alaska cruise is crucial to making the most of this epic adventure.

When you're hiking through Denali National Park and Preserve, biking along Anchorage's Tony Knowles Coastal Trail or enjoying a day sightseeing in Juneau, this guide provides you with the packing lists and tips you need to have a great Alaska vacation.

Read on to learn what to stash in your suitcase to stay warm, dry and comfortable, and to truly experience those priceless moments. Let's get packing!

Key Takeaways: Alaska Cruise Packing List

● Alaska cruise must-haves: Pack warm layers, waterproof clothing and binoculars to explore stunning landscapes and wildlife.

● Clothes to bring on an Alaskan cruise: Prioritize moisture-wicking base shirts, insulating fleece jackets and completely waterproof outer shells over bulky jackets.

● Alaska cruising essentials: Carry compact binoculars, a waterproof daypack, a reusable water bottle and a reliable camera for shore excursions.

● Alaskan cruise accessories: Protect yourself with polarized sunglasses, sun-protective lip balm, a warm neck gaiter and a sleep mask.

● Helpful extras to bring: Bring durable rain pants, a sturdy compact umbrella, a waterproof phone case or bag, bug spray and seasickness medication.

● What to bring by month: Pack thick thermal layers for May, bug spray and lighter layers for mid-summer and insulated outerwear for cooler September sailings.

● What not to pack: Leave behind any impractical formal attire, such as stiletto heels, flimsy umbrellas, partially waterproof clothing and bear spray. 

● Explore Alaska cruises and start checking off your Alaska bucket list.

Packing Checklist: Alaska Cruise Must-Haves

Before you set sail on your unforgettable adventure, make sure you’re fully prepared with this easy-to-follow Alaska cruise packing list. From warm layers to waterproof essentials, having the right gear ensures you can focus on exploring Alaska’s stunning landscapes and wildlife in comfort for the entirety of your Alaskan cruise.

Alaska Cruise Attire

● Moisture-wicking base layers — tops and bottoms.

● Insulating fleece or packable down jacket.

● Waterproof jacket with hood.

● Long- and short-sleeved shirts.

● Quick-dry pants or jeans.

● Warm hat and gloves.

● Scarf or neck gaiter.

● Pajamas and undergarments.

● Waterproof walking or hiking shoes.

● Casual shoes for wearing on board the ship.

● Optional: Smart casual outfit for dinner.

Essential Items for Your Alaska Cruise

● Daypack or waterproof backpack.

● Camera or smartphone with charger and extra storage.

● Binoculars — essential for glacier viewing and wildlife.

● Refillable water bottle.

● Rain pants for excursions.

● Sunglasses with UV protection.

● Sun hat or cap.

Nice-To-Have Accessories for Cruises to Alaska

● Lip balm with SPF.

● Sturdy, compact umbrella.

● Waterproof phone case.

● Travel pillow or blanket.

Alaska Cruise Essentials List

● Bug spray or mosquito-repellent patches.

● Sunscreen — yes, even in Alaska.

● Sleep mask to black out the midnight sun.

● Prescription medications.

● Toiletries, including travel-size shampoo and toothpaste.

● Motion sickness medication.

What Clothes To Bring on an Alaskan Cruise

When packing for an Alaskan cruise, it’s important to cover your bases. Bring layered clothing, including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers like fleece or down and a waterproof outer shell to stay warm and dry in changing weather.

Alaskan cruises sail from spring through to fall, but the most popular sailing months are during summer, when temperatures range from the low 50s to the mid-60s and occasionally reach the 70s (Fahrenheit, of course). Whenever you choose to visit, it's a good idea to dress in layers. Even during the peak summer months, early mornings can be chilly.

The Basics: Alaska Cruise Attire

● Base layers: Lightweight, breathable short- and long-sleeved shirts keep you warm without bulk.

● Mid-layers: A fleece, an insulated jacket or a vest adds warmth. Lightweight outer layers are easier to tuck away in a daypack than bulky fleece.

● Outerwear: A waterproof, wind-resistant shell is a must because the most popular months to see Alaska — July and August — are also the rainiest.

● Bottoms: Bring rain or quick-dry pants and extra pants for warmth, especially if you’re planning a full-day hike.

● Footwear: Waterproof shoes or hiking boots are ideal for exploring ports like Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. Also, bring casual shoes to wear while on board.

● Evening attire: While cruises are casual, some guests choose to dress up for dinners. Pack one nice outfit or business-casual clothing.

How To Pack Just the Right Amount of Clothing

If you're wondering how much to pack for your Alaskan cruise, consider these packing best practices:

● One top for every two days of travel.

● One pair of pants for every three days.

● Extra undergarments and socks — a rainy day can deplete your supply quickly.

The Right Gear: Alaska Cruise Essentials List

No Alaska vacation on land or at sea is complete without viewing and photographing some of the most beautiful sights on the planet. To be prepared when you’re capturing glacial wonders from your balcony and heading ashore for excursions, your gear matters.

● Binoculars: Compact binoculars are the best binoculars for Alaska cruises, as they’re easy to pack and allow you to spot wildlife, like whales in Icy Strait Point, from a safe distance.

● Camera and/or smartphone: Capture the wonders of Alaska for lasting memories. Bring extra batteries or a power bank and SD cards so you’re always ready to snap that once-in-a-lifetime memory.

● Daypack: Choose something waterproof and lightweight, perfect for carrying essentials ashore.

● Water bottle: Staying hydrated during hikes and walking tours is key. Maybe a snack or two as well, to keep you energized for exploration.

Planning to hike or kayak? Alaskan cruises offer tours providing unforgettable adventures, but be sure to pack the essential gear to make it a truly remarkable experience.

Accessories: Alaskan Cruise Must-Haves

Knowing what to pack for a cruise to Alaska requires some forethought into what weather-related issues might arise.

These small but essential items help you stay comfortable on board and on shore.

● Sunglasses: Even cloudy days in Alaska can be bright due to light reflecting off snow and glaciers.

● Lip balm and sunscreen: UV exposure is strong at higher latitudes.

● Scarf or gaiter: These can provide warmth and act as an eye cover or even a travel pillow.

● Sleep mask: Alaska is the land of the midnight sun. A sleep mask is a good idea if you’re cruising to Alaska in the summer, when the sun barely sets.

Helpful Extras

General Packing Tips for Alaska

Seasonal Packing Tips: What To Bring by Month

Alaska’s cruise season spans May through September. Your Alaska cruise packing list will vary depending on your month of travel.

Packing List for an Alaska Cruise in May

May is the start of the Alaska cruise season. It’s generally the driest month of the year, but also one of the coolest, with daytime temperatures hovering between 45°F and 55°F. Expect stunning views of snow-capped mountains and rushing waterfalls fed by early snowmelt. It is a fantastic time for spotting newborn wildlife ashore, such as moose calves and harbor seal pups resting on ice floes.

Early in the Alaska cruise season, you’ll want to pack:

● Thermal base layers.

● Heavy-weight fleece or sweater.

● Beanie and gloves.

Packing for an Alaska Cruise in June

June brings the summer solstice, with 18 to 20 hours of daylight and temperatures comfortably between 55°F. and low 68°F. This abundance of daylight triggers bursts of activity in nature, including seabird colonies, wildflowers and humpback whales.

Here are some items to pack for a June cruise:

● Sleep mask.

● Polarized sunglasses and sunscreen.

● Sturdy hiking shoes.

Packing for an Alaska Cruise in July

July is typically the warmest month in Alaska, with temperatures reaching between 55°F and 70°F. During the peak of the Alaskan summer, you’ll find mosquitoes around, more frequent rain showers and upwards of 17 hours of daylight per day. 

In July, you can see bald eagles and brown bears hunting for salmon in the rivers, whales swimming in the channels and spectacular tidewater glaciers that calve into the sea.

Here are some summer essentials for summer Alaskan cruises:

● Insect repellent.

● Sun protection.

● Sleep mask.

● Short-sleeve shirts.

● Sturdy, compact travel umbrella.

● Binoculars and a camera for wildlife spotting.

Packing for Alaska in August

In August, the transition toward autumn begins. Temperatures cool down to around 50°F and regional rainfall increases. This is prime time for spotting bears fishing along streams, and later in the month, lucky travelers might catch a glimpse of the early northern lights.

If you’re cruising in August, bring:

● A high-quality rain jacket.

● Waterproof daypack.

● Binoculars.

Packing for an Alaska Cruise in September

September is the wettest and coolest month, with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 55°F. During this time, the increasingly dark, clear nights offer the best opportunity of the cruise season to witness the northern lights. 

For September cruises, remember to pack: 

● A fast-lens camera to capture low-light landscapes and potential aurora displays.

● Hand warmers.

● Waterproof boots for muddy trails.

What Not To Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Preparing for an Alaskan cruise requires preparation for the elements, making it easy to overpack. Here are a few items to leave off your packing list to keep your gear practical:

● Elaborate evening gowns: Most Alaskan itineraries favor relaxed, smart-casual dress codes over a black-tie wardrobe. You can still bring a special outfit for formal evenings; just keep Alaskan temperatures and the elements in mind.

● Flimsy umbrellas: Strong coastal winds will easily invert umbrellas. Bring a sturdy, compact umbrella or hands-free waterproof rain gear.

● Heavy winter coats: Huge parkas, while warm, take up a lot of space in your suitcase. Aim to pack efficient layers instead.

● Open-toed fashion shoes: Unless you plan to wear them indoors on board the ship, sandals and heels are generally impractical for Alaskan terrain.

● Disposable plastic ponchos: Thin plastic can easily tear during hikes through the forest, increasing the risk of accidental litter (and getting wet).

● Bear deterrent spray: Most cruise ships strictly ban bear spray in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Start Your Alaskan Adventure

Checking every box on your Alaska cruise packing list, no matter what month you’re traveling, is key so that each day is as magical as the one before. That way, you’re ready to check off every Alaskan adventure on your bucket list.