Packing for Alaska…What To Bring

Alaska cruise season is right around the corner, and one of the biggest questions travelers ask is: “What do I pack?” After more than 10 years of cruising to Alaska, I’ve finally nailed down what really works.

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First, keep this in mind—it’s summer. Just because you’re heading north doesn’t mean you’ll be surrounded by snow and freezing temperatures. Yes, rain is common (and that can bring a chill), and it can feel cooler when you’re sailing near glaciers. But once the ship docks, if the sun is out, it can get surprisingly warm. I’ve visited Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay and ended up with a sunburn! Other times—like in Tracy Arm Fjord—I’ve needed rain gear. And in Juneau, I’ve even experienced temperatures climbing into the 80s. It can get hot.

If there’s one tip that makes all the difference, it’s this: layers, layers, layers. A lightweight, waterproof jacket is essential—leave the heavy winter coats at home. The same goes for bulky boots like UGGs. You’ll see plenty of people stepping off the ship dressed for the Arctic, only to be carrying those extra layers back later while sweating. Stick with light, versatile layers—you’ll be much more comfortable.

The photos above were taken in Glacier Bay—slightly overcast, but surprisingly warm! The sail-in felt a bit chilly, but that’s to be expected with the ship moving and creating a breeze.

If you’re planning any strenuous activities like hiking, make sure you pack accordingly. Waterproof shoes are always a smart choice. I usually invest in a good pair of walking shoes and add waterproofing myself—it makes a huge difference.

Here’s what I’ve put together after years of cruising to Alaska:

Alaska is all about the scenery, and you won’t want to miss a thing. While most cruise ships provide binoculars in your cabin, they’re usually pretty basic. We prefer to bring our own compact, high-powered pair—they’re easy to pack and make a big difference when it comes to spotting wildlife and taking in those incredible views.

Pack 2 pairs of jeans or other long pants—just in case one gets wet. Leggings are also a popular choice and work perfectly for Alaska. If you’re considering fleece-lined leggings, they’re an option for extra warmth, but in my opinion, they’re not really necessary unless you tend to get cold easily. Fleece lined

Not a fan of leggings but still want something comfortable and easy to wear? These casual pants are a great alternative. Made from soft, four-way stretch, breathable fabric, they offer excellent mobility and freedom of movement—perfect for everything from exploring ports to relaxing on deck. Plus, they come in a variety of lengths, so you can find the right fit for you.

3–4 shirts to wear with jeans or casual pants

1 pair of capris or comfortable pants for onboard wear

1 nice dress for formal nights

1–2 skirts and/or a few nice pants and tops or sweaters that can mix and match—choosing coordinating colors helps create more outfit options without overpacking

1 hooded sweatshirt or fleece jacket. You can also pick up a nice one in port at reasonable prices if you prefer

1–2 sweaters for layering when needed

1 waterproof jacket or warm vest… or poncho This is jacket is waterproof, lightweight and good for hiking and travel. It keeps you dry and packs down small.

A waterproof poncho is also very useful to have on an Alaska cruise. This one folds up into a compact pouch, making it easy to pack and carry. It’s lightweight, features a front zipper and pockets, and comes in several different colors—perfect for staying dry without adding bulk to your luggage.

I always bring a warm, lightweight, water-resistant packable puffer vest. It’s incredibly easy to layer under a raincoat or poncho, or simply wear on its own over a sweater or long-sleeve top. It adds just the right amount of warmth without the bulk, making it one of the most versatile pieces for an Alaska cruise.

My husband loves his water-resistant packable puffer vest.

A scarf, hat, and gloves are also a must for sailing into the glaciers—it can get noticeably cooler out on deck, especially with the wind.

I also love a good sweatsuit set for this kind of trip. It’s perfect for lounging onboard, strolling around the ports, and even for long flights. Comfortable, easy to wear, and available in a variety of colors, it’s one of those versatile pieces you’ll be glad you packed.

Good walking shoes are an absolute MUST for an Alaska cruise. I really like these waterproof hiking shoes by Columbia—they’re comfortable for long days of exploring and do a great job of keeping your feet dry, even in wet or unpredictable conditions.

Hand warmers  are a perfect little essential for cruising to the glaciers. The wind while sailing in can feel surprisingly cold, and if it’s raining at the same time—brrr! They’re an easy way to keep your hands warm so you can stay outside longer and enjoy the scenery comfortably.

Alaska can definitely be rainy at times. While most ships do provide umbrellas, they’re often large and not very easy to carry around. We always pack a compact umbrella, no matter where we’re traveling—it’s lightweight, easy to stash in a day bag, and much more convenient for exploring in port.

1–2 pairs of dress shoes or sandals for evenings and formal nights

1 pair of sandals for the pool deck

Swimsuit and cover-up. You might be thinking, “Seriously… a bathing suit?” Yes! The ship’s pools are open and the hot tubs are running—so definitely take advantage of them.

2 pairs of good walking shoes (waterproofing is a smart idea). I personally use a waterproof spray on my shoes to help keep them protected and dry during excursions.

Here’s a helpful hint—wet shoes can get smelly pretty quickly. I like to use odor eliminators to help control that. One set is usually enough for up to three pairs of shoes, and they also work great inside your suitcase to help keep everything smelling fresh. There are several different designs available, so you can choose what works best for you.

It’s also a smart idea to protect your clothes from dirty shoes by using shoe bags. They help keep everything in your suitcase clean and organized, especially after excursions where your shoes might be wet, sandy, or muddy.

Most cruise ship cabins have limited electrical outlets, so it’s a good idea to bring something to expand your charging options for phones, tablets, laptops, Kindles, and other devices. USB ports can also be very helpful. VERY IMPORTANT: Cruise lines do not allow traditional surge-protected power strips from home, and they will confiscate them. Instead, look for a multi-port adapter that plugs directly into the outlet without a cord. Corded versions are being taken as embarkation….they’re considered extension cords, so a compact, plug-in style is the safest choice. There are also different models available depending on the types of plugs you need.

I love these adapters by Hero. They come in versions for several different countries, making them really versatile for travel. They’re also made in the U.S., backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, and include a lifetime warranty—so they’re a reliable choice for cruising and international trips.

The glare off the deck can be very strong, especially on sunny days at sea. A good pair of sunglasses is a necessity to protect your eyes and make it more comfortable to enjoy the views, whether you’re on deck or out in port.

Socks and underwear (of course!)

Workout clothes, if you plan to use the ship’s gym or stay active onboard

When going ashore, it’s also helpful to have a good day bag. I personally like using a backpack purse—it’s stylish yet functional, making it easy to carry your essentials while exploring ports comfortably and hands-free.

More and more passengers are using this type of bag. It’s lightweight, secure, and very convenient—you can wear it around your waist or as a crossbody. It keeps your essentials close while leaving your hands free, which is perfect for excursions and exploring ports.

The glare off the boat can be very strong, and if you’re lucky enough to get sunny days, you’ll definitely be glad you packed sunscreen! Some of the worst sunburns can happen surprisingly fast on the water. I still remember getting badly burned while lying on our family boat on a bright day—just from the reflection off the white deck without sunscreen.

If you’re heading into the interior or planning any hiking, mosquito repellent patches are incredibly useful. You simply stick them onto your clothing, and they help keep bugs at bay so you can enjoy the outdoors more comfortably without constant bites.

Another great option is mosquito repellent bracelets. They’re easy to wear, lightweight, and a convenient choice for both kids and adults. Just slip one on your wrist, and they help provide added protection while you’re out exploring.

A travel first-aid kit is an absolute necessity. Having basics like pain relievers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandages on hand can save you time and money—and is much easier than visiting the ship’s doctor for minor issues. This is a great all-in-one first aid kit to keep in your luggage when traveling.

Magnetic chip clips are also surprisingly useful for cruising. Since most cabin walls are metal, magnets stick easily, making them a great way to keep papers, tickets, daily schedules, or excursion info organized and visible. It’s a simple trick that helps keep everything in one place while you’re onboard.

Stonger magnetic hooks are also incredibly useful on a cruise. They can easily hold coats, hats, bags, and other items, helping keep your space organized and clutter-free. It’s a simple way to add extra storage and keep everything within easy reach during your trip.

I’ve found packing cubes to be incredibly helpful. They keep everything organized in your luggage, make it easy to separate outfits or categories, and simplify unpacking once you’re onboard—you can just transfer them straight into the drawers. Honestly, they’ve been a game changer for us when traveling.

Compression packing cubes are also really helpful especially when you’re packing bulkier items like jackets and sweaters. They help reduce the amount of space your clothing takes up, making it easier to fit everything into your suitcase while still staying organized.

After sailing many times—and finally experiencing our luggage going missing because the tags got torn off—we now always use reusable luggage tag holders. Amazon carries versions for all major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity.

These holders keep your printed cruise tags protected and securely attached to your bags, which adds an extra layer of peace of mind when checking luggage. Highly recommend!

Many stores no longer provide free bags with purchases as part of efforts to reduce waste. I always pack a few reusable bags when traveling—they’re lightweight, easy to fold, and come in handy for shopping in port or carrying items back to the ship. They’re also just as useful at home, so they end up being a practical everyday item.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, sea sick patches can really help make your cruise more enjoyable. They’re a simple, discreet option that many travelers rely on when the seas get a bit rough.

And fun fact—these are Captain Kate approved! They’re the same ones she uses onboard, as well as when flying or even in the car, which says a lot about how effective they can be for travel.

Door magnets are a fun way to celebrate your cruise. and add a bit of personality to your cabin door. I especially love themed ones for an Alaska cruise—they make your stateroom easy to spot and add a festive touch to your trip experience.

Final thoughts:

I hope this list helps make your packing a little easier. Remember—it isn’t always frigid and snowing in Alaska! The weather can vary a lot, from chilly glacier sail-ins to surprisingly warm, sunny days in port.

Check back and let me know if this was helpful… or if you have any suggestions to add to the list!

Visit my Amazon Storefront to see the full list of Alaska packing essentials—it’s an easy way to find everything in one place and get ready for your cruise without the stress of searching for each item individually. Alaska Packing Essentials

The dress code onboard is generally “smart casual” during the day and for most evenings, making it comfortable and relaxed. On select nights, you may see “Evening Chic” dress suggested, where guests have the option to dress up a bit more. However, formal wear is not required, so you can decide how dressed up you want to be. Ultimate Guide to Celebrity Cruise Dress Code

Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers.

Have you booked your excursions yet? If not, it’s a good idea to start looking early—popular tours can fill up quickly. You can also check out my recommended excursion provider to find options that fit your itinerary and interests.

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