What do I pack for Alaska?

Alaska cruise season is quickly approaching.  Many people are wondering “WHAT DO I PACK!“.  After cruising to Alaska for over 10 years, 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!  There have been visits to Juneau when the temperature climbed into the 80’s! It was so hot!

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 Nanook 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 is all about the scenery. Most cruise ships provide binoculars in your cabin but they aren’t very good. We like to bring a small, travel size pair.

2 pair jeans or other long pants (in case one gets wet) Leggings are very popular now and are perfect for Alaska.

3-4 shirts to wear with jeans

one pair capris wear onboard.

1 nice dress for formal nights

1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them – choose colors that work well together to create more outfits.

1 hooded sweatshirt

1 or 2 zip up sweatshirt-like jackets or sweaters

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

Another cruiser recommended this jacket also. She sized up to fit layers underneath.

scarf, hat and gloves (for sailing into the glaciers)

Alaska can be rainy. Most ships provide umbrellas but they tend to be large and difficult to carry. We always pack a compact umbrella, no matter where we are traveling.

1 or 2 pair dress shoes/sandals

1 pair sandals for pool deck

swimsuit and coverup (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!)

2 pair good walking shoes (waterproofed is a good idea) I use this waterproof spray on my shoes.

Hint…wet shoes can be smelly. I use these to odor eliminators, you get enough for 3 pairs of shoes. They also work really well in your suitcase to remove odors.

It’s also smart to protect your clothes from dirty shoes with shoe bags.

good sunglasses – the glare off the deck will be very strong

socks and underwear (duh)

workout clothes – if you plan to hit the gym

Backpack purse….I love this one, stylish yet functional

More and more passengers are using a this type of bag. It is easy to wear around your waist or as a crossbody.

sunscreen The glare off boat can be strong and if your lucky enough to have sunny days, you will be glad you have it!

If you are heading into the interior or plan to do any hiking, these mosquito repellent patches are amazing. Just place on your clothing…bugs stay away!

Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work.

Stonger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Keep the cabin organized!

I have found packing cubes to be really helpful….they keep items organized in your luggage and you can easily transfer them to drawers when unpacking onboard.

Compression packing cubes are also really helpful.

After sailing many times and finally having our luggage go missing due to luggage tags being torn off, we now use these reusable luggage tag holders. Amazon has holders for all cruise lines. These are for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. I take reusable grocery bags. Useful at home too.

Of course, this is a female list…just make the necessary adjustments for males.

I hope this list helps with your packing questions.  Check back and let me know if this was useful for you.  Or if you have any suggestions!

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