Alaska cruise season is quickly approaching. Many people are wondering “WHAT DO I PACK!”. After cruising to Alaska 10 times, I think I may have figured this out. 🙂
First off remember….it’s summer! Just because you are heading to the great northern region of Alaska, that does not mean it will be snowing and cold. Sure, it will most likely rain (and therefore be a tad chilly) and you may get chilled while sailing into the glaciers. BUT….once the ship stops, if the sun is shining, it can be very warm. I have been to both Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay and gotten sunburned. I’ve also been there, and Tracy Arm Fjord, with rain….so be prepared! I’ve also been to Juneau with temperatures in the 80’s!
The most useful suggestion I have is layers, layers, layers! Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket….heavy down coats are NOT required! Neither are UGGS! I can’t tell you the number of times I have watched people walk off the ships looking like Nano of the north, only to be lugging all that gear back to the ships later…sweating! Seriously, light weight layers is the answer.
The above photos are from Glacier Bay….a little overcast, but VERY warm! The trip into Glacier Bay was a tad chilly…but hey!…the ship was moving, creating a slight wind. 🙂
If you plan to do any type of strenuous activity, bring the proper gear. Waterproof shoes are always a good idea.
Here is what I have compiled after my years of Alaska sailing:
Alaska Packing List
2 pair jeans or other long pants (in case one gets wet)
3-4 shirts to wear with jeans
one pair capris to wear onboard (sea days)
1 nice dress for formal nights
1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them
1 hooded sweatshirt
1 or 2 zip up sweatshirt-like jackets or sweaters
1 waterproof jacket or warm vest… or poncho
scarf, hat and gloves
1 or 2 pair dress shoes/sandals
1 pair sandals for pool deck
swimsuit and coverup
2 pair good walking shoes (waterproofed is a good idea)
good sunglasses
socks and underwear
workout clothes
small backpack (easier than carrying a purse)
sunscreen (glare off boat can be strong)
Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work.
Highlighters to use on daily planner…..helps me remember what is happening on the ship that I want to do.
I have lots of other helpful cruise and travel items in my Amazon store. https://amzn.to/3EKalLq
Of course, this is a female list…just make the necessary adjustments for males.
Many are probably thinking…seriously? a bathing suit? Yes! The ship’s pools will be open and the hot tubs will be running….enjoy them!
Hope this list helps. Check back and let me know if this was useful for you. Or if you have any suggestions! And please share this list with others. I love to share my passion for travel!
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Zest4Travel 
That is a wonderful list and very helpful! You Rock!! Thank you!
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Thank You! Leaving for our first Alaska cruise next week. This was very helpful.
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So glad it was helpful. Have a wonderful time. Alaska is our favorite cruise! 🚢
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Thank you for the helpful list. We’ve been on many Caribbean cruises but our first Alaska cruise is in 4 weeks. I figure that anyone wearing BSU apparel must know what they are talking about (we live in Boise). Go Broncos! 🙂
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Thank you Brenda! We also live in Boise and love our Broncos!! Glad the list was helpful…have a wonderful cruise.
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thank you for a great list..Its’ our first Alaska trip…leave July 29th…can’t wait
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Would you change anything for a 14 day Alaskan cruise?
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Not really. Plan on doing laundry once onboard. I find it easier to lighter. If you find you need another outer layer, there are inexpensive jackets and sweatshirts in every port. Plus they make a great souvenir. Have a great cruise 🚢
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“Nice image :)”
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Howdy. Same for end of May cruise? Will over-the-shoe boots work? Thx.
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Yes. Those will help if it rains and will save on packing Nothing worse than wet feet 😀
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We leave May 19th, looking at general weather says it will be cold! Are they correct?
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I would expect cooler temps but not cold. Layers are the most important thing and waterproof. May tends to be the driest month but best to be prepared. There will still be snow in the mountains but not likely in town unless they have a freak late storm
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The soles of the water shoe need to be thick and flexible to allow for easy portage if needed. This usually involves crossing rocky surfaces so a sole with traction and one that protects your feet is important.
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Thanks my first cruise . So excited!
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Thank you! I expect that list to be very helpful. How many days is that for, and is it land and sea or just sea?
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I’ve used it for 7 day cruises and 14. Has been sufficient in both. We’ve done both cruise only and spending a few days exploring prior to boarding.
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So happy that it will be useful for you! Have a great time….Alaska is amazing. 🙂
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