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Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist – What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise


How do you pack for an Alaskan cruise? That’s the query. When packing for our first Alaska cruise we needed to do some critical considering. Since then, we’ve taken two different Alaskan cruises plus a cruise to Antarctica and Greenland, so we now have realized lots about packing for polar areas. When touring to Alaska you need to be ready for each kind of climate. Like different cruises, there are formal nights and cocktail evenings, however in Alaska, days are extra informal and the dinner apparel is extra relaxed. Alaska climate modifications shortly, so you’ll need layers to tackle and off as wanted.

Best Things to pack for an Alaskan Cruise

What To Pack For An Alaska Cruise

Packing for a cruise trip to Alaska is totally completely different than a Caribbean cruise. Caribbean cruises are simple to pack for. Throw in swimwear, beachwear flip-flops, and some sensible outfits for evenings and you might be good to go. When cruising to Alaska, you’ll have a mixture of sizzling climate and chilly climate, so you should pack layers.

Climate in Alaska will be unpredictable, starting from heat and sunny to chilly and wet, typically inside the identical day. Additionally, onboard the ship, you’ll have a mixture of informal and formal occasions, and you could be taking part in shore excursions that transcend strolling excursions. You would possibly end up on a zodiac or kayak in the course of a Fjord.

alaska cruise packing list watch our video

To see precisely what we packed for our Alaska Cruise skip to:

We’ve taken three completely different Alaska cruises and our newest took us down the Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska and British Columbia on the Nieuw Amsterdam ship by Holland America Cruise Line. This ship supplied the proper mixture of luxurious with journey, but it surely makes packing a bit extra concerned since you’ll need journey and activewear, but in addition some formal and sensible informal clothes. Don’t fear, we’ve created the final word Alaska Cruise Packing record so you’ll be snug and look good.

We’ve got additionally taken a cruise to Alaska with Princess Cruises and UnCruise. Princess Cruises is similar to Holland America Cruise Line, however in order for you extra of an expedition cruise on a small ship to Alaska, take a look at our expertise with UnCruise.

Alaska Cruise Packing Ideas – Layering

alaska cruise packing list people on ship

When packing for an Alaska cruise, you will need to take into consideration layering. Southeast Alaska will be very heat through the cruise season, however you might be nonetheless going to be cruising Arctic waters near glaciers and icebergs so that you’ll need each shorts and t-shirts with a mixture of thermal layers and water resistant clothes.

Layered clothes: The climate in Alaska can change quickly, and layering will help you adapt to various situations. Contemplate packing T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and jackets. Waterproof Pants that convert to shorts are an excellent possibility for Alaska as you’ll be able to change shortly.

Additionally keep in mind, if you’re cruising early or later within the Alaska cruise season, the climate will likely be cooler, so pack some heat wool socks and a heavier sweater in your mid-layer.

On Deck

Alaska Cruise Packing List On Deck

Even when the solar is shining, there will likely be a really cool breeze. Standing on the deck it would be best to have windproof and waterproof layers with a hat and gloves.

You’ll need to be snug so you’ll be able to actually absorb the fantastic thing about this once-in-a-lifetime scene. (don’t be that man in shorts coming out for under 5 minutes as a result of he was too chilly)

On Shore

what to pack for alaska cruise dave and deb

On land, it may be simply as unpredictable. When stopping at completely different Alaska cruise ports, you’ll encounter utterly completely different climate and shore excursions.

The climate can change shortly all through the Alaska cruise season and it may be surprisingly moist within the summertime. Juneau could also be sizzling and balmy whereas Ketchikan may very well be wet and chilly. In reality, Ketchikan is without doubt one of the wettest locations in North America. So, you’ll need to have an outer layer that’s each windproof and waterproof, you’ll need a mid-layer to maintain you heat on chilly days, however you’ll additionally need summer time garments for the odd stunning, and balmy day.

Alaska Cruise Packing Guidelines

Best Alaska Cruise Packing List

So, now that we perceive the unpredictability of the climate in Alaska, here’s a record of prompt gadgets you could need to pack in your Alaska cruise.

When packing for Alaska, remember that you will have layered clothes, waterproof outerwear, heat clothes, formal apparel, and informal apparel and most significantly don’t overlook snug footwear. Plus, simply since you are in Alaska, doesn’t imply you gained’t be swimming or having fun with the new tub, so be sure to pack a washing go well with!

Waterproof Jacket

what to pack for Alaska cruise vacation waterproof layer

An outer waterproof layer is crucial if you wish to take pleasure in your Alaskan cruise to the fullest. We’ve grow to be massive followers of Fjällräven and this Fjallraven Excessive Coast Jacket isn’t solely wind and waterproof, it appears sensible as effectively. So whether or not you’re going on a forest hike or sitting in a historic saloon, you’ll look nice.

Fleece Midlayer

what to pack for alaska fleece mid layer

Even in the course of summer time, it may be cool, so having a sensible mid-layer is a good suggestion. I discovered that I wore my mid fleece layer on a regular basis, so having one which doubles as mid-layer however can be fashionable sufficient to put on by itself is a superb thought and Fjällräven has selections for males and Ladies’s Fleece.

Puffy Jacket

what to pack for alaska cruise clothes puffy coat

On the water, you could need to go for one thing a bit hotter than a fleece mid-layer. We love our Canada Goose Hybridge puffy coat, however it’s costly. Dave additionally has this Marmot puffer jacket and it really works nice. Put on it beneath your windproof and water resistant jacket or into city, both method, it appears traditional. Purchase it on Amazon right here.

Trekking Pants

cruise clothes to pack for alaska trekking pants

Whether or not you take a whale-watching tour, mountain climbing to a glacier, or strolling by way of city, trekking pants are nice for an Alaska cruise. We like these Fjällräven Pants as a result of they appear like 1,000,000 bucks whereas nonetheless having sturdiness, breathability, and fast dry of efficiency put on. See it on Amazon right here.

When you don’t have waterproof pants no less than plan to have water resistant ones as a result of there may be nothing worse than being damp and moist. When you don’t have waterproof pants, these mountain climbing trousers are light-weight and quick-dry.

Trekking Shirts

alaska cruise clothes for alaska trekking shirt

A great trekking shirt can double as sensible informal eveningwear. This trekking shirt by Fjällräven is breathable and wicks away moisture for extra adventurous excursions and actions whereas wanting ok to put on to the restaurant at night time. You should purchase it right here.

Climbing Boots

cruise alaska packing tips waterproof boots

When you plan to do numerous glacier excursions, canine sledding, mountain climbing within the Tongass Forest, or heading out on zodiacs, we extremely advocate waterproof mountain climbing boots. We’ve got additionally used waterproof sneakers in Alaska. These waterproof boots are our go-to. Carrying mountain climbing boots provides you correct ankle assist for uneven terrain, and when touchdown on a glacier or going canine sledding, you’ll be able to placed on some wool socks and keep toasty heat.

Waterproof Footwear

what to pack for alaska cruise waterproof shoes

You don’t must pack heavy mountain climbing boots. If you’re strolling round city or on the ship, these work positive as effectively. We’ve even worn simply waterproof sneakers on excursions like whale watching since we aren’t going into any muddy areas, but it surely nonetheless could also be moist on the boat. When you aren’t doing main actions, water resistant sneakers will likely be sufficient.

We like Merrill model and Moab 3 waterproof mountain climbing shoe is what we put on and it’s a great all-around shoe that may preserve your ft heat and dry.

Devices and Gear for Your Alaska Cruise

Alaska Cruise packing List Gadgets

Binoculars

what to pack for an alaska cruise binoculars

You’ll seemingly see wildlife like eagles, whales, and bears, and binoculars may also help you get a better look. Even if in case you have a zoom lens, binoculars will actually assist profit from recognizing wildlife and taking in the fantastic thing about glaciers and icebergs up shut. We like these Tasco binoculars.

Digicam There will likely be loads of stunning landscapes to {photograph}. We go into digicam gear additional under, however keep in mind it would be best to have greater than your smartphone in Alaska. You’ll need a zoom lens to seize wildlife and a large angle lens to seize the large glaciers and landscapes.

Lanyard for Cruise Ship Card

what to pack for an alaskan cruise lanyard

When happening a cruise, you’ll have a cruise card that you simply use to buy every little thing. Even if in case you have an all-inclusive package deal, you’ll need to swipe your cruise card. We discovered {that a} lanyard works nice to carry our playing cards so we don’t have to hold round a again whereas on board. This package deal provides 4 waterproof lanyards and baggage tags.

Magnet Hooks

pack for a cruise to alaska

There are by no means sufficient hooks in cruise cabins and when cruising in Alaska, you’ll have extra sweaters, jackets, and layers hanging round. Magnetic Hooks are an excellent thought as cruise ship partitions are made from metallic. You’ll be able to put them on a wall and hold your garments out of the way in which with ease.

Espresso Mug

what to pack for a cruise coffee mug

A refillable mug is a should when on a cruise. Until you might be ordering a specialty espresso (or have a package deal) you’ll be utilizing the small mugs at eating places. With a mug, you’ll be able to refill your espresso and carry it across the ship with you. We’ve got discovered this to be invaluable for espresso or tea drinkers. This customized insulated espresso mug is nice for carrying on the ship because it captures the journey.

Hanging Organizer

packing for a cruise to alaska toiletry bag

Bogs will be small on a cruise ship and we love this hanging toiletry bag. We put every little thing in it and it retains our toiletries clear and out of the way in which. We merely hold it on the again of the door or on the magnifying mirror when in use. When completed we are able to zip it up and retailer it away. See extra particulars.

Lanyard for Cellular Cellphone

cruise gadgets waterproof phone case

When on a ship, I actually love having a security hook on my cellphone or digicam. This waterproof floating case is common and can preserve your cellphone dry whereas having it safely connected to your neck or wrist.

For extra packing suggestions, learn our articles

Refillable Water Bottle

what to pack for an alaska cruise water bottle

Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is vital, particularly once you’re lively and it’s an effective way to have water available whereas on a cruise as an alternative of continually needing to buy water.

Backpack or Daypack

what to pack for an alaska cruise backpack

A small day pack could be very helpful for carrying gadgets throughout shore excursions. We advocate a water-proof pack as it might probably rain lots and if you’ll do whale watching or different excursions on the water, it will preserve your valuables secure from splashing. Buy it right here.

Sun shades

what to pack for alaska cruise aviator sunglasses by rayban

Sun shades and Sunscreen: The solar will be surprisingly robust in Alaska, particularly when mirrored off of snow and water. We love the traditional Aviators by Rayban. However the fact is, I simply put these in as a result of they’re what I put on, any sun shades with correct UV safety will work.

Chapstick and Hand Moisturizer

The fixed change in Alaska climate will be powerful in your pores and skin and lips. We love this travel-size Burt’s Bees necessities package that

Jewellery Organizer

cruise packing list jewelry organizers

As we talked about above, Alaska cruises aren’t as formal as Caribbean Cruises or different cruises all over the world, however there are nonetheless formal nights and you’ll gown up as a lot as you want. To spruce up cocktail attire or formal apparel, I like having a selection of knickknack, and conserving it organized is vital, particularly when staying in small cabins. Having storage and group is vital. See it right here.

Beauty bag

what to pack for alaska cruise makeup organizer

Identical to my jewellery case, I like having my make-up and lotions organized. Having all of it in an organized place makes preparing simple. Test it out on Amazon.

Packing Cubes

how to pack for alaska cruise packing cubes

Packing Cubes have grow to be a staple for all our travels. They preserve clothes and equipment organized and we use them for storing laundry as effectively. When you’ve traveled with packing cubes, you’ll by no means return. Buy them right here.

Hygiene and Disinfectant

what to pack for an alaskan cruise lavender spray

In immediately’s world of cruising, everybody could be very conscious of cleanliness. Holland America Line (and different cruises similar to Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean for that matter) are very conscious of hygiene and conserving passengers secure with servers handing out meals and plastic boundaries masking the buffet.

However it’s nonetheless a good suggestion to pack a couple of journey necessities for hygiene and cleansing. We like having this Antibacterial Spray – Lavender Scent available and Journey Dimension Lysol Disinfectant Wipes all the time come in useful.

See extra Tavel Gear and Gadget Concepts at

Electronics packing record for Alaska Cruise

Alaskan Cruise packing list Electronics

We stock numerous electronics. However we’ve outlined what we expect most individuals ought to carry and can really feel snug with to seize these wonderful moments and keep related. We’ve rounded up sure issues which are particular for an Alaska cruise. 

Belkin Mini Surge 

what to pack for a cruise to Alaska belkin

It would be best to have your individual a number of retailers to plug your electronics in as charging is restricted in cabins. This Belkin has two USB ports and three plugs, so you’ll be able to cost a number of electronics whereas solely taking on one plug within the room.

Moveable Exhausting Drive

what to pack for a cruise to alaska hard drive

It would be best to retailer your photographs nightly. I’ve seen folks lose their cameras on an Alaska cruise and all of their recollections went proper into the water. This Samsung moveable onerous drive is so tiny, you’ll barely discover it in your carry-on and it holds 1 terabyte of reminiscence.

iPhone

what to pack for an alaska cruise iphone

We’re iPhone customers and the iPhone 14 Professional does an excellent job getting pictures and video on the fly. It has a great zoom to seize wildlife and a 6.1-inch Tremendous Retina XDR show that includes At all times-On and ProMotion plus a 48MP Primary digicam for as much as 4x higher decision.

Moveable Energy Financial institution and USB Moveable charger

what to pack for an alaska cruise portable charger

A transportable charger is a staple in our journey gear regardless of the place we go. I preserve this in my bag always so I can cost my iPhone, cameras, and GoPros. Think about working out of battery whereas on an tour and also you see one thing wonderful like a bear feeding on salmon. I by no means have to fret when I’ve a conveyable charger with me. Purchase it right here now.

Learn extra that will help you with Electronics and Digicam Gear

Digicam Gear for Alaska Cruise

Camera Gear Packing List for an alaskan Cruise

An Alaska cruise is a visit of a lifetime and a spot that you could be solely go to as soon as. You want greater than an iPhone in your digicam gear for an Alaska cruise. You want no less than a zoom lens for wildlife and a wide-angle lens for landscapes. I’m a Sony man, so I’ve a full record of digicam gear that I take with me on my travels, however listed below are some fundamentals you will have for an Alaska cruise.

Digicam Physique

alaska cruise photography list sony camera

We use a whole Sony System for journey and like it. I take advantage of a Sony A1 however that’s ridiculously costly and never wanted if photographing isn’t your job (or if in case you have cash to burn). A great possibility for a extra reasonably priced Mirrorless digicam is the Sony A7R IV. The dynamic vary and the decision of this digicam will seize Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes superbly.

Listed below are some beneficial gadgets to enrich your digicam for this journey:

Lenses

what to pack for an alaskan cruise lenses

Vast-angle Lens: For capturing sweeping landscapes and expansive views from the deck of the ship. One thing just like the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM or the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM can be perfect.

Telephoto Lens

what to pack for an alaskan cruise zoom lens

Telephoto Lens: To seize wildlife at a distance, think about a lens just like the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS. When you want much more attain, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS may be a sensible choice.

To see extra about journey images gear and my full digicam gear record, see these articles under.

GoPro Hero 11 Black

cruise packing list gopro

We by no means journey with no GoPro and the GoPro Hero 11 Black is the newest mannequin. GoPros are good for capturing photographs and movies when on the water or when doing any adventures. If you’re going dogsledding, doing a glacier touchdown, or kayaking, you will have a GoPro. Nevertheless, I take advantage of my GoPro lots when filming, even strolling round city.

GoPro Hero 11: A water-proof digicam is extremely beneficial. Chances are high you’ll be out whale watching, zipping round Fjords, or just out on the deck within the rain and we by no means journey with no GoPro.

Dave’s Alaska Cruise Garments

Alaska Cruise Packing List Male

Now that you’ve got an outline of the necessities for packing for Alaska cruises, we need to break down precisely what we introduced with us. You don’t want to decorate up at night time for those who aren’t planning on reserving specialty eating places or becoming a member of the formal nights, however we are saying, “You might be on a cruise, why wouldn’t you get your fancy on for a night?” So we’re going to incorporate formal gown and dressing for land excursions for each women and men.

For Evenings

Alaska Cruise Packing List Formal Dress Men
  • 1 darkish go well with
  • 1 Dinner Jacket or Vest
  • 2 gown shirts to combine and match with fits.
  • 2 ties
  • 2 informal/gown pants
  • 3 sensible shirts for dinners
  • 1 pair of gown sneakers

For OnBoard

Alaska cruise packing list onboard men
  • 1 pair of denims
  • 3 shirts
  • swimsuit
  • 1 set of exercise garments
  • 2 pair shorts
  • 2 t-shirts
  • 1 pair flipflops
  • 1 pair of informal sneakers or sneakers

For On Land

Alaska Cruise packing list on Shore Men
  • 2 pairs of water resistant or waterproof trekking pants
  • 1 pair of mountain climbing sneakers or mountain climbing boots (Waterproof or no less than water-resistant)
  • 2 trekking shirts

Outer Layers

  • Wool Hat
  • Waterproof jacket
  • gentle pair of gloves
  • Buff

Deb’s Alaska Cruise Garments

what to pack for an alaska cruise female cruise clothes

For Evenings

Alaska Cruise Packing List for Evenings Women

Alaska cruises are typically extra relaxed (formal attire-wise) than different cruises. They aren’t strict on gown code and also you don’t want to decorate up lots. However there are formal nights and for those who splurge on one of many specialty eating places you could need to gown up. For me, a part of the enjoyable of happening a cruise is with the ability to gown up so I packed cocktail attire and excessive heels besides!

  • 2 cocktail attire
  • 2 informal attire
  • 2 pairs of gown pants
  • 2 blouses
  • 2 pairs of gown sneakers

On Board

alaska cruise packing list on board Women
  • 2 informal shirts
  • swimsuit
  • flip flops
  • 2 sarongs
  • 1 set of exercise garments
  • 1 pair of yoga pants

On Land

pack for Alaska cruise woman on Land
  • Fleece jacket
  • 1 pairs shorts
  • 2 T-shirts
  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Gloves
  • Wool Hat
  • 1 pair denims

Extra Packing Ideas for an Alaska Cruise

pack for Alaska cruise adventure clothing

The Above record of packing for an Alaska cruise is particularly for a cruise portion down southeast Alaska. That is the principle route most cruise strains take and the route we took on all three of our Alaskan cruises.

It appears virtually unattainable to pack gentle for such a visit. It was a troublesome job cutting down our baggage to incorporate 1 suitcase every.

However general we had been fairly pleased with our packing selections. With only a few changes, you’ll have the proper packing record for Alaska by studying from our expertise.

Closing Ideas

what to pack for an Alaska cruise shore excurions

An Alaska cruise requires a bit extra planning than a Caribbean Cruise or perhaps a European River Cruise in relation to packing. You want many extra layers and you actually need to consider waterproof and water resistant clothes.

You additionally need to be snug figuring out within the fitness center, hanging across the indoor swimming pool, sitting within the lounge having fun with espresso or a glass of wine, and searching good when going to see a Vegas-style present.

Packing for our Alaska cruises was positively a studying expertise for us. However the one notice we now have is you don’t have to fret about overpacking. That is the one time we are saying, it’s okay to carry an excessive amount of.  All of your baggage is taken care of for you so you’ll be able to carry extra baggage.

When you get off the airplane, you by no means have to fret about carrying it once more after which you might be in a single cabin at some stage in your cruise, so you’ll be able to unpack and luxuriate in. So carry what you need and have a selection of clothes. Half the enjoyable of happening a cruise is dressing up. Notice: Simply be sure you test together with your airline for baggage limits. The one factor you will have to fret about is having to pay for extra baggage.

Plan Your Subsequent Journey to Alaska With These Assets



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