How do you pack for an Alaskan cruise? That is the query. When packing for our first Alaska cruise we had to do some severe considering. Since then, we’ve taken two different Alaskan cruises plus a cruise to Antarctica and Greenland, so we’ve discovered quite a bit about packing for polar areas. When touring to Alaska you could have to be ready for each sort 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 adjustments shortly, so you’ll need layers to tackle and off as wanted.
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’re good to go. When cruising to Alaska, you’ll have a mixture of scorching climate and chilly climate, so that you want to pack layers.
Weather in Alaska might be unpredictable, starting from heat and sunny to chilly and wet, typically inside the similar day. Also, onboard the ship, you’ll have a mixture of informal and formal occasions, and it’s possible you’ll be taking part in shore excursions that transcend strolling excursions. You would possibly end up on a zodiac or kayak in the midst of a Fjord.
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 right mixture of luxurious with journey, but it surely makes packing a bit of extra concerned since you’ll need journey and activewear, but additionally some formal and sensible informal clothes. Don’t fear, we’ve created the last word Alaska Cruise Packing record so you may be comfy and look good.
We have additionally taken a cruise to Alaska with Princess Cruises and UnCruise. Princess Cruises may be very comparable to Holland America Cruise Line, however if you need extra of an expedition cruise on a small ship to Alaska, take a look at our expertise with UnCruise.
Alaska Cruise Packing Tips – Layering
When packing for an Alaska cruise, it’s important to take into consideration layering. Southeast Alaska might be very heat throughout the cruise season, however you’re nonetheless going to be cruising Arctic waters shut to 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 permit you to adapt to various situations. Consider packing T-shirts, lengthy-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and jackets. Waterproof Pants that convert to shorts are an incredible possibility for Alaska as you possibly can change shortly.
Also keep in mind, in case you are cruising early or later within the Alaska cruise season, the climate will probably be cooler, so pack some heat wool socks and a heavier sweater for your mid-layer.
On Deck
Even if the solar is shining, there will probably be a really cool breeze. Standing on the deck you will have to have windproof and waterproof layers with a hat and gloves.
You’ll need to be comfy so you possibly can actually soak up the fantastic thing about this as soon as-in-a-lifetime scene. (don’t be that man in shorts coming out for solely 5 minutes as a result of he was too chilly)
On Shore
On land, it may be simply as unpredictable. When stopping at completely different Alaska cruise ports, you’ll encounter fully 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 scorching and balmy whereas Ketchikan could possibly be wet and chilly. In reality, Ketchikan is likely 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 Checklist
So, now that we perceive the unpredictability of the climate in Alaska, here’s a record of steered objects it’s your decision to pack for your Alaska cruise.
When packing for Alaska, needless to say you will have layered clothes, waterproof outerwear, heat clothes, formal apparel, and informal apparel and most significantly don’t overlook comfy footwear. Plus, simply since you are in Alaska, doesn’t imply you received’t be swimming or having fun with the new tub, so make certain to pack a washing swimsuit!
Waterproof Jacket
An outer waterproof layer is crucial if you need to get pleasure from your Alaskan cruise to the fullest. We’ve turn into massive followers of Fjällräven and this Fjallraven High Coast Jacket will not be 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
Even in the midst 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 trendy sufficient to put on by itself is a superb thought and Fjällräven has decisions for males and Women’s Fleece.
Puffy Jacket
On the water, it’s your decision to go for one thing a bit of 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. Wear it underneath your windproof and water-resistant jacket or into city, both means, it appears traditional. Buy it on Amazon right here.
Trekking Pants
Whether you take a whale-watching tour, climbing to a glacier, or strolling via city, trekking pants are nice for an Alaska cruise. We like these Fjällräven Pants as a result of they appear like one million bucks whereas nonetheless having sturdiness, breathability, and fast dry of efficiency put on. See it on Amazon right here.
If you don’t have waterproof pants at the very least plan to have water-resistant ones as a result of there’s nothing worse than being damp and moist. If you don’t have waterproof pants, these climbing trousers are light-weight and fast-dry.
Trekking Shirts
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 buy it right here.
Hiking Boots
If you propose to do a whole lot of glacier excursions, canine sledding, climbing within the Tongass Forest, or heading out on zodiacs, we extremely suggest waterproof climbing boots. We have additionally used waterproof sneakers in Alaska. These waterproof boots are our go-to. Wearing climbing boots provides you correct ankle assist for uneven terrain, and when touchdown on a glacier or going canine sledding, you possibly can placed on some wool socks and keep toasty heat.
Waterproof Shoes
You don’t want to pack heavy climbing boots. If you’re strolling round city or on the ship, these work effective 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. If you aren’t doing main actions, water-resistant sneakers will probably be sufficient.
We like Merrill model and Moab 3 waterproof climbing shoe is what we put on and it’s a great all-round shoe that can maintain your ft heat and dry.
Gadgets and Gear for Your Alaska Cruise
Binoculars
You’ll probably see wildlife like eagles, whales, and bears, and binoculars might help you get a more in-depth look. Even when you’ve got a zoom lens, binoculars will actually assist benefit from recognizing wildlife and taking in the fantastic thing about glaciers and icebergs up shut. We like these Tasco binoculars.
Camera There will probably be loads of stunning landscapes to {photograph}. We go into digital camera gear additional under, however keep in mind you will have 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 huge glaciers and landscapes.
Lanyard for Cruise Ship Card
When occurring a cruise, you’ll have a cruise card that you simply use to buy the whole lot. Even when you’ve got an all-inclusive package deal, you’ll need to swipe your cruise card. We discovered {that a} lanyard works nice to maintain our playing cards so we don’t have to carry round a again whereas on board. This package deal affords 4 waterproof lanyards and baggage tags.
Magnet Hooks
There are by no means sufficient hooks in cruise cabins and when cruising in Alaska, you’re going to have extra sweaters, jackets, and layers hanging round. Magnetic Hooks are an incredible thought as cruise ship partitions are manufactured from steel. You can put them on a wall and hold your garments out of the way in which with ease.
Coffee Mug
A refillable mug is a should when on a cruise. Unless you’re ordering a specialty espresso (or have a package deal) you’ll be utilizing the small mugs at eating places. With a mug, you possibly can refill your espresso and carry it across the ship with you. We have 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
Bathrooms might be small on a cruise ship and we love this hanging toiletry bag. We put the whole lot 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 Mobile Phone
When on a ship, I actually love having a security hook on my cellphone or digital camera. This waterproof floating case is common and can maintain your cellphone dry whereas having it safely connected to your neck or wrist.
For extra packing ideas, learn our articles
Refillable Water Bottle
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is necessary, particularly while you’re lively and it’s a good way to have water readily available whereas on a cruise as a substitute of regularly needing to buy water.
Backpack or Daypack
A small day pack may be very helpful for carrying objects throughout shore excursions. We suggest a water-resistant pack as it may possibly rain quite a bit and in case you are going to do whale watching or different excursions on the water, this may maintain your valuables secure from splashing. Purchase it right here.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The solar might be surprisingly sturdy in Alaska, particularly when mirrored off of snow and water. We love the traditional Aviators by Rayban. But the reality 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 might be powerful in your pores and skin and lips. We love this journey-measurement Burt’s Bees necessities equipment that
Jewelry Organizer
As we talked about above, Alaska cruises aren’t as formal as Caribbean Cruises or different cruises around the globe, however there are nonetheless formal nights and you’ll gown up as a lot as you want. To spruce up cocktail clothes or formal apparel, I like having a alternative of jewellery, and holding it organized is essential, particularly when staying in small cabins. Having storage and group is essential. See it right here.
Cosmetic bag
Just like my jewellery case, I like having my make-up and lotions organized. Having all of it in an organized place makes preparing simple. Check it out on Amazon.
Packing Cubes
Packing Cubes have turn into a staple for all our travels. They maintain clothes and equipment organized and we use them for storing laundry as effectively. Once you’ve traveled with packing cubes, you’ll by no means return. Purchase them right here.
Hygiene and Disinfectant
In at the moment’s world of cruising, everybody may be very conscious of cleanliness. Holland America Line (and different cruises comparable to Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean for that matter) are very conscious of hygiene and holding passengers secure with servers handing out meals and plastic obstacles overlaying the buffet.
But it’s nonetheless a good suggestion to pack just a few journey necessities for hygiene and cleansing. We like having this Antibacterial Spray – Lavender Scent readily available and Travel Size Lysol Disinfectant Wipes all the time turn out to be useful.
See extra Tavel Gear and Gadget Ideas at
Electronics packing record for Alaska Cruise
We carry a whole lot of electronics. But we’ve outlined what we expect most individuals ought to deliver and can really feel comfy 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
You will need 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 possibly can cost a number of electronics whereas solely taking on one plug within the room.
Portable Hard Drive
You will need to retailer your images nightly. I’ve seen individuals lose their cameras on an Alaska cruise and all of their reminiscences went proper into the water. This Samsung moveable arduous drive is so tiny, you’ll barely discover it in your carry-on and it holds 1 terabyte of reminiscence.
iPhone
We are iPhone customers and the iPhone 14 Pro does an incredible job getting pictures and video on the fly. It has a great zoom to seize wildlife and a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR show that includes Always-On and ProMovement plus a 48MP Main digital camera for up to 4x larger decision.
Portable Power Bank and USB Portable charger
A conveyable charger is a staple in our journey gear irrespective of the place we go. I maintain this in my bag always so I can cost my iPhone, cameras, and GoPros. Imagine 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 fear when I’ve a conveyable charger with me. Buy it right here now.
Read extra to allow you to with Electronics and Camera Gear
Camera Gear for Alaska Cruise
An Alaska cruise is a visit of a lifetime and a spot that you could be solely go to as soon as. You will need greater than an iPhone for your digital camera gear for an Alaska cruise. You will need at the very least a zoom lens for wildlife and a large-angle lens for landscapes. I’m a Sony man, so I’ve a full record of digital camera gear that I take with me on my travels, however listed here are some fundamentals you will have for an Alaska cruise.
Camera Body
We use an entire Sony System for journey and like it. I exploit a Sony A1 however that’s ridiculously costly and never wanted if photographing isn’t your job (or when you’ve got cash to burn). A great possibility for a extra reasonably priced Mirrorless digital camera is the Sony A7R IV. The dynamic vary and the decision of this digital camera will seize Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes superbly.
Here are some really helpful objects to complement your digital camera for this journey:
Lenses
Wide-angle Lens: For capturing sweeping landscapes and expansive views from the deck of the ship. Something just like the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM or the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM could be very best.
Telephoto Lens
Telephoto Lens: To seize wildlife at a distance, take into account a lens just like the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS. If you want much more attain, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS is perhaps a sensible choice.
To see extra about journey images gear and my full digital camera gear record, see these articles under.
GoPro Hero 11 Black
We by no means journey with no GoPro and the GoPro Hero 11 Black is the newest mannequin. GoPros are good for capturing images 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. However, I exploit my GoPro quite a bit when filming, even strolling round city.
GoPro Hero 11: A water-proof digital camera is very really helpful. Chances are you may 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 Clothes
Now that you’ve got an overview of the necessities for packing for Alaska cruises, we would like to break down precisely what we introduced with us. You don’t want to gown up at night time in case you aren’t planning on reserving specialty eating places or becoming a member of the formal nights, however we are saying, “You are on a cruise, why wouldn’t you get your fancy on for an evening?” So we’re going to embody formal gown and dressing for land excursions for each women and men.
For Evenings
1 darkish swimsuit 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
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
2 pairs of water-resistant or waterproof trekking pants 1 pair of climbing sneakers or climbing boots (Waterproof or at the very least water-proof) 2 trekking shirts
Outer Layers
Wool Hat Waterproof jacket gentle pair of gloves Buff
Deb’s Alaska Cruise Clothes
For Evenings
Alaska cruises have a tendency to be extra relaxed (formal apparel-sensible) than different cruises. They aren’t strict on gown code and also you don’t want to gown up quite a bit. But there are formal nights and in case you splurge on one of many specialty eating places it’s your decision to gown up. For me, a part of the enjoyable of occurring a cruise is having the ability to gown up so I packed cocktail clothes and excessive heels to boot!
2 cocktail clothes 2 informal clothes 2 pairs of gown pants 2 blouses 2 pairs of gown sneakers
On Board
2 informal shirts swimsuit flip flops 2 sarongs 1 set of exercise garments 1 pair of yoga pants
On Land
Fleece jacket 1 pairs shorts 2 T-shirts Waterproof Jacket Gloves Wool Hat 1 pair denims
More Packing Tips for an Alaska Cruise
The Above record of packing for an Alaska cruise is particularly for a cruise portion down southeast Alaska. This is the primary route most cruise traces take and the route we took on all three of our Alaskan cruises.
It appears nearly unattainable to pack gentle for such a visit. It was a tough activity cutting down our baggage to embody 1 suitcase every.
But general we have been fairly proud of our packing decisions. With only a few changes, you’ll have the right packing record for Alaska by studying from our expertise.
Final Thoughts
An Alaska cruise requires a bit of extra planning than a Caribbean Cruise or perhaps a European River Cruise when it comes to packing. You want many extra layers and you actually need to take into consideration waterproof and water-resistant clothes.
You additionally need to be comfy figuring out within the gymnasium, 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 undoubtedly a studying expertise for us. But the one be aware we’ve is you don’t have to fear about overpacking. This is the one time we are saying, it’s okay to deliver an excessive amount of. All your baggage is taken care of for you so you possibly can deliver extra baggage.
Once you get off the airplane, you by no means have to fear about carrying it once more after which you’re in a single cabin for the length of your cruise, so you possibly can unpack and revel in. So deliver what you need and have a alternative of clothes. Half the enjoyable of occurring a cruise is dressing up. Note: Just ensure to test together with your airline for baggage limits. The solely factor you will have to fear about is having to pay for extra baggage.