This article may contain affiliate links. Read my DISCLAIMER page for more disclosure information.
This detailed Alaska cruise packing guide will walk you through everything you need, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your journey. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first cruise, this packing list for an Alaskan cruise ensures you’re equipped for comfort, style, and lots of adventure.
An Alaskan cruise is a unique adventure that calls for careful planning, particularly when it comes to what you pack. With weather that can shift dramatically from sunshine to drizzle in a matter of hours, and excursions that take you from icy glaciers to temperate rainforests, having the right gear can make or break your experience.
What will the weather be like on my Alaska Cruise?
First up, like the typical Brit I am, let’s talk about the weather. Alaska’s cruise season typically runs from May to September. During these months, temperatures in coastal regions such as Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway range between 10°C and 20°C.
Rain is frequent, and conditions can vary from warm and sunny to chilly and wet (much like British weather). As a general rule for Alaska, Spring can be on the chilly side, Summer is drier and hotter (temperatures rise to 21°C and 26°C father to the north), and Autumn is rainy.
Just like a Norwegian Fjords Cruise (if you’ve already sailed on one of those), layering is essential so you can leave that bulky winter coat behind. When putting together your Alaska cruise pack list, just keep in mind that you need versatile clothing suitable for both on the ship and the weather conditions outdoors.
Your Ultimate Cruise Packing List for Alaska
This comprehensive Alaska cruise packing list ensures you’re covered for every situation, from formal dinners to wildlife excursions. This Alaska cruise packing list also applies well to families; just adjust based on the number of days and planned excursions.
Prefer this list in a handy printable instead?
(it’s completely free and I’m not going to ask you to sign up to my email list first).
Download my free Alaska cruise packing list PDF to make things easier and stress-free and allows you to tick off items as you prepare for your epic cruise.
➡️ Alaska Cruise Packing Guide Free Printable PDF ⬅️
Clothing
Base Layers:
- Thermal underwear (tops and bottoms)
- Moisture-wicking t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts
Mid Layers:
- Fleece or wool jumpers
- Lightweight insulated jackets
Outer Layers:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers for shore excursions
Casual Clothing:
- Comfortable trousers or jeans
- T-shirts and casual tops
- Cardigans or light jumpers for onboard comfort
Smart Attire:
- Outfits for formal nights (e.g., a cocktail dress, suit, or smart separates)
- Smart-casual attire for evenings (chinos, blouses, collared shirts)
Footwear:
- Waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots
- Comfortable shoes for onboard use
- Flip-flops or sandals (for the pool or spa areas)
Accessories:
- Wool hat or beanie
- Waterproof gloves
- Scarf or neck gaiter
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Swimwear (yes, for hot tubs and spa facilities)
Onboard Life and Formal Nights
Cruise ships often have themed evenings or formal dinners. Be sure to check with your cruise line beforehand for dress codes. A packing list for an Alaskan cruise isn’t complete without accounting for at least one formal outfit. You won’t need black tie unless specified, but smart attire is expected. While packing light is important, don’t sacrifice appropriate attire for shipboard events.
- Dress shoes
- Evening bag or clutch
- Jewellery or accessories to elevate your look
- Anything for theme nights on board
Gear and Essentials
Adding these to your Alaska cruise list packing ensures you’re well-prepared. This part of the list includes essential travel items that will serve you both onboard and during shore excursions.
- Daypack or small rucksack: Useful for hikes or city tours
- Refillable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, even in cooler climates
- Binoculars: Essential for spotting wildlife and taking in distant landscapes
- Camera or smartphone: Don’t forget extra memory cards and charging cables
- Travel documents: Passport, cruise tickets, insurance papers, and any visas
- Travel adaptor: Most cruise ships use US-style plug sockets (Type A/B, 110V)
- Sunscreen and lip balm: Even in cold weather, UV protection is necessary
- Insect repellent: Alaska’s mosquitoes can be relentless!
Toiletries and Health Items
Including these items on your cruise packing list Alaska edition will help you manage health and comfort throughout the journey.
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, etc.)
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Lip balm with SPF
- Seasickness remedies (wristbands, tablets, ginger chews)
- Personal medications in their original containers
- First aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, painkillers)
Useful Extras to Consider
There are a few extra items that may not be essential but can definitely enhance your cruise experience if you have room in your case and ensure you can adapt to a variety of situations.
- Notebook or journal: A great way to document your adventures
- Zip-lock bags: Useful for organising or storing wet/dirty items
- Laundry bag and detergent: Some ships have self-service laundry – more top cruise laundry tips here
- Small umbrella or compact rain poncho: For sudden downpours
- Dry bags: To protect electronics and valuables during wet excursions
- Collapsible walking stick: If you plan to hike and prefer extra stability
Alaska Cruise Packing Tips
Here are some of my top tips for packing for your Alaska cruise – regardless of whether you are on an Alaska cruise in May or an Alaska Cruise in July:
✅ Layer Smartly: The key to managing Alaskan weather is layering. Avoid bulky items in favour of items that can be worn together for warmth.
✅ Pack versatile clothing: Items that can be dressed up or down reduce what you need to bring.
✅ Leave room for souvenirs: Alaska offers unique crafts, smoked salmon, and art you may want to take home.
✅ Keep essentials in a carry-on: Always carry your documents, medications, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage.
By following this Alaska cruise packing list, you’ll be ready for every part of your trip, whether you’re marvelling at calving glaciers or enjoying a gourmet meal at sea. Be sure to download your Alaska cruise packing list PDF to have it handy as you prepare.
Safe travels!
Videos you may enjoy:
Follow me on Instagram, X and Facebook and my other social media channels, and subscribe to my YouTube Channel to keep up to date with more cruise content and cruise tips.
