13 Essentials for Alaskan Cruise Packing List

Cruise Smarter- 13 Things for Alaska Cruise Packing List

If you are planning a cruise vacation, packing bags should be a big question for you. Packing for cruise holidays is always tricky as a cruise ship traverses ocean waters with different temperatures as it crosses regions. But what if you are planning a cruise to Alaska? Most cruise lines suggest you bring clothes for a convenient temperature throughout your trip. But what to pack for an Alaska cruise is still a major challenge.

Well, you encounter variable climates when cruising to Alaska as it is a trip filled with adventures to stunning landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and many more unique experiences. So, if you do not want to be inconvenienced by something that you should have kept inside your bag, we have got you covered. 

Read below and find out 13 essential for alaska cruise packing list and make your journey smoother. Do not let the diverse weather conditions hinder your fun. Keep these things in your bag and cruise without a hassle.

13 Essential For Your Alaska Cruise Packing List

If you already booked your Alaskan cruise adventure and are making a list of what to pack for the trip, take note of these important items. Do not forget to bring these mentioned essentials aboard your cruise ship and sail Alaskan waters with a free mind. Let’s have a look:

1. Short & Long Sleeved T-Shirt/Shirts

You can bring both short—and long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts on the cruise for a comfortable journey. Alaskan weather can change drastically from cold to hot or hot to cold on the same day, especially during a summer cruise to Alaska. If you have both long—and short-sleeved T-shirts with you, it will be easy to adjust to the constantly changing weather. Remember for shoulder season months, May and September, carry more long-sleeved tees over short-sleeved ones.

2. A Small Vest

To keep yourself warm and cozy during your cruise to Alaska, you can keep a puffer or fleece vest with you in your bag. This small piece of clothing can make you relax. Layer it with your long-sleeve Tees when days are sunnier, and you do not wish to put on a big jacket. You can also wear it underneath your coat if the weather is suddenly cooler than usual and you need more warmth.

3. Lightweghted Jacket

Alaskan temperatures change dramatically from as cold as ice to a hot flash without any prior warning. Carrying a lightweight puffer or other jacket can help you keep warm. Many cruise lines recommend you bring an insulated one. The light weight of the jacket can act as a double duty as you won’t have to sweat it out if it's summer, and it will definitely keep you warm during chilly days.

4. Waterproof Jacket or Windbreaker

Summers in Alaska are always followed by a significant amount of rain. If you come unprepared, it means you’ll have three to four sets of wet clothes because of being rained upon. So, make sure you bring a windbreaker or a waterproof jacket in your luggage. Find rain jackets that do not take up too much space and toss them in a backpack for all shore excursions in Alaska.

5. Waterproof Shoes or Boots

Not only jackets, but waterproof shoes or boots also hold the same importance for an Alaska cruise. Make sure you keep a set of shoes or boots which are waterproof. These come in handy when you stroll around your cruise ship or want to visit a Sauna. These shoes keep your feet dry on deck during wet days, and you won’t get cold during shore excursions, which include kayaking or waterfall hikes

6. Base Layers

Yes, sweaters and jackets are important, but it's also important to take a few base layers along that you can wear underneath your clothes. There are some thin tops and bottoms made from a special insulating fabric that keeps you warm as well as manages moisture. So you won’t have to worry about sweat underneath those layers.

7. Swim Wear

Yup. Swimwear is also necessary for your cruise to Alaska. Well, not because Alaskan waters are an ideal swimming haven, but because the ships you’ll be sailing on have saunas, spas, heated pools, and hot tubs for a full-fledged travel experience. So, take at least one swimsuit with you because who knows? You may feel like taking a dip during the sail.

8. Scarf

It may seem like a small thing to bring, but a scarf’s utility is much more than just being a mere accessory. A woolen scarf won’t take up much space in your suitcase and will be a perfect companion for you on the cooler days of your cruise vacation.

9. Comfortable Clothing

As much as you must bring clothing adjustable according to warm and hot weather, being comfortable is key. If you are exploring Alaskan outdoors, you must have at least one pair of pants and a t-shirt that is water resistant as well as comfortable.

10. Warm Accessories & Sunny Days Accessories

Do not forget to pack items like a warm hat, waterproof and warm gloves, a pair of socks, or a neck gaiter to keep yourself warm. These tiny things can help you beat the colder days at sea in the best way. Do not forget to pack a good sunhat and sunscreen for those sunny days.

11. Anti-Reflective Sun Glasses

Aside from warm and sunny days accessories, make sure you pack some anti-reflective sun glasses, which can keep your eyes safe from the extreme sun rays on the cruise. You can buy polarized sunglasses or bring your best pair of shades to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare.

12. Some Smart Casual Clothes

Comfort clothes are necessary, but smart casual clothes are also important. These can help you blend in with the crowd while dining in the main restaurant of your cruise ship or others. Some cruise lines have dress codes that you must follow when dining in the area.

13. Evening Attire

Some lengthy cruises have parties and events that require you to wear evening chic clothes where you may have some cocktail dresses for women, a pair of pantsuits for men, and more such clothing. Make sure you keep at least one evening attire so as not to feel left out attending a formal dinner or event.

8 Non-Clothing Essentials for An Alaska Cruise

Apart from managing the closet with these 13 essentials and keeping up your wardrobe scene, you should also consider what you need to bring other than your clothes and accessories. Here are some of the items which may come in handy

1. Camera with Extra batteries

You must capture every moment of your Alaska cruise and a camera with a few extra batteries to make sure it does not stop working while you need it the most.

2. Sun Protection

There are several days of sun at sea, and you need sun protection to avoid that. Pack sunscreen with you and other sun protection gear to make sure you do not get tanned too much.

3. Portable Chargers

Portable chargers for phones and other devices can help you keep your electronics up and working without any unwanted delays, so keep them in your bags for your next cruise.

4. Water Bottle

Carrying a water bottle with you can also be a good option. If you are on a shore excursion that includes a hike, having a reusable water bottle can help you stay hydrated throughout.

5. Waterproof Small Backpack

Carry a small backpack with you, which is waterproof and can help you bring essentials such as sun protection, a water bottle, and even your cell phone when necessary.

6. Cellphone Dry Bag

A cellphone dry bag comes in handy when you want the whole day by the pool or explore the waters up close. This bag keeps your phone dry and safe from water.

7. Insect Repellant

Insect repellent can be your best friend when exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Apply it to your clothes and roam around the wild without worrying about any unwanted insect bites.

8. Binoculars

The most exceptional thing about Alaska cruises is that you can experience the animals in its wilderness right from your cruise ship’s balcony. So, packing binoculars can help you get the best view of what’s going on, especially when you are going there for whale-watching.

Likewise, you can easily buy workout clothes and other small accessories for your cruise to Alaska. This concludes our list of essentials for the Alaska cruise packing list. If you need more information, connect with the lowfarescanners team and Book cruise vacations online. Make sure you understand the prohibited items on a cruise holiday as well before you finally pack up your bags,