holland america alaska cruise packing list

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Prepare For Your Cruise

Whether it's your first time on a Holland America Line cruise, or you're a 4-Star Mariner, this handy list ensures you don't miss a step.

Pre-Cruise Must Dos

Find answers about:  Confirm Booking    |    Arrange Travel    |    Plan Activities    |    Prepare to Board

Confirm Your Cruise Booking Details

• Verify that your name and date of birth match your travel documents.
• Provide up-to-date contact information.
• Visit  travel.state.gov  for identification, visa and vaccination requirements.

Arrange Travel To The Ship

• Get specially negotiated low airfare by booking through Holland America Line Flight Ease.  View More Details
• Booking your flight independently? Log in to your  Cruise Planner  to provide your flight details.
• Spend time before and/or after your cruise in departure and arrival cities. Arrange airport transfers to/from the cruise terminal for stress-free travel. Log in to your  Cruise Planner  to make arrangements.

Plan Out Your Days On Board And In Port

• Get the most out of your time in each port with a seamless, stress-free shore excursion. Book your shore excursions in advance for the best selection and receive our Best Price Guarantee. Log in to your  Cruise Planner  to view and book your excursions.
• Seating is limited for our specialty restaurants—especially our one-night-only pop-up restaurants. Get your preferred dates and times by making specialty dining reservations in advance. View all dining options or log in to your  Cruise Planner  to make reservations.
• Keep your cruise itinerary and all onboard activities in the palm of your hand. Download the  Holland America Line Navigator  app on Google Play or Apple's App Store. Upload your photo to the Navigator app expedite embarkation at the pier

• Celebrating a special occasion—such as a birthday, anniversary, or simply a much deserved vacation? Make your cruise experience extra special. Purchase beverage packages, spa treatments, pre-paid Internet packages, and other gifts and treats. Log in to your  Cruise Planner  to view available options.

Prepare To Board

• Cruise contract
• Download or print boarding pass
• Log in to your  Cruise Planner  to check in, get your boarding passes and print your luggage tags.
• Or, use the  Holland America Line Navigator  to get your digital boarding pass.
• Visit our  What to Pack  page for packing tips and a packing checklist.   In the event of unexpected travel delays and emergencies, please remember to bring additional prescription medication for at least two weeks beyond the length of the cruise. Also bring a list of the names, strengths and dosages of all medications in case refills are required.

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Alaskan Cruise Packing Checklist: 80+ Things To Bring (Printable)

Need a checklist in order to pack for your cruise to Alaska? We have you covered.

Sailing to Alaska is like no other vacation. In fact, even if you’ve cruised before to somewhere like the Caribbean, what you pack to visit this region of the world can be very different.

That’s because Alaska presents more different situations that you’ll encounter than just about any other trip.

Consider that in the course of a day, you might wake up in the morning, and head to a hot tub in your swimsuit to take in the stunning views of Alaska. Then you might head back to the cabin to dress for a day that’s rainy and cool while you explore a port like Juneau.

That afternoon the weather could clear out, giving you a day that’s 75 degrees and sunny, meaning short sleeves and shorts are ideal. Back on the ship, it might be formal night, where you want to get dressed up for a nice evening around the ship.

And then there are all the other items to consider bringing, from binoculars to see wildlife to magnetic hooks that help you organize the cabin.

Remember, you can’t easily run out for something you forgot to pack, so having a full checklist to serve as a reminder of what to bring on an Alaska cruise is ideal. That’s why we’ve put together a printable list to help you plan. It has everything you need to consider bringing, all put into easy sections .

Note: This article contains links to Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate we earn a portion of each sale at no extra cost to you.

Download the Printable Alaskan Cruise Packing Checklist

Our checklist of things to pack for a cruise is completely free. While we cover all the items in detail below, you can click the image (or click this link ) to download the printable PDF.

Cruise Packing Checklist: Clothes

Clothing will make up the bulk of what you’ll bring on a cruise, and rightly so. With so many different scenarios to dress for when sailing to Alaska, just know that you’re going to want a little of everything.

We’ve constructed this list with the idea in mind of a typical 7-day round trip cruise. Remember that it’s ok if you wear the same thing twice on a cruise. For a 7-day cruise, having 3-4 outfits is a good idea.

Casual Clothes

• T-Shirts (at least one for every two days of your cruise)
• Shorts (at least one pair for your cruise)
• Long pants (at least 2-3 pairs)
• Long-sleeve shirts (great for adding layers)
• Swimsuit (At least one should you decide to hit the hot tub or heated pool)
• Light jacket or hoodie (this will be worn often)
• Rain jacket/poncho (rain jackets are ideal as they can keep you dry)
• Sleep clothes
• Athletic shorts (for hitting the gym)
• Flip-flops (won’t be worn much, but ideal for heading to the pool/hot tub)

Formal Clothes for Men

• Dress shirt
• Dress pants
• Dress shoes
• Blazer (optional, if you want to be more formal)
• Tie (optional)

Formal Clothes for Women

• Evening gown or cocktail dress
• Dress blouse
• Shoes/sandals

Cruise Packing Checklist: Items For the Cabin

Think you only need to pack things to wear? The following items are ideal for a cabin to make it more comfortable during your cruise. Don’t think you have to pack all of these items, but those that catch your interest should be brought along.

• Small fan (cabins don’t have fans to circulate air)
• Nightlight (interior cabins are especially dark)
• Magnetic hooks (to hang from the ceiling to dry swimsuits)
• Outlet adapter (to provide more outlet spaces in the cabin; those with surge protectors aren’t allowed)
• Shoe organizer (hangs over the door for storage of small items)
• Alarm clock (there’s no clock in the cabin)
• “ Poopouri ” or air freshener (bathroom smells can linger)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Personal Items

In addition to clothes, you need to pack a few other items with you to make your cruise to Alaska a success.

• Boarding documents
• Luggage tags
• Passport/birth certificate
• Emergency contact numbers
• Cash ( we’ve written about how much you need here )
• Backpack ( a light backpack is perfect for taking into port)
• Prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter medicines (headache, stomachache)
• Motion sickness pills/patches
• Ziploc bags (these bags have numerous uses)

Toiletries/Personal Care

• Cotton swabs
• Feminine products
• Hair straightener/curling iron
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hair products
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Wet wipes (cabin toilet paper is thin, 1-ply product)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Kids Items

Cruises to Alaska don’t draw as many families as trips to the Caribbean but it’s certainly an awe-inspiring place for a family vacation. If you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. See our full list of ideas here .

Infants/Toddlers

• Silicone place mat
• Umbrella stroller
• A new toy (great for when kids are fussy and need a distraction)
• Bottles/water bottle
• Diapers and wipes

One thing to know is that cruise lines will provide a crib for sleeping in your cabin at no charge. Just let the staff know you need one.

• Handheld video games
• Playing cards
• Books/magazines

Cruise Packing Checklist: Other Items to Bring

While we’ve covered a number of things to pack for your cruise, there are some other miscellaneous items that are a good idea to bring when you sail to Alaska.

• Wine/champagne ( a bottle or two is allowed )
• Non-alcoholic drinks ( if allowed by your cruise line )
• Phone charger
• Lanyard (for holding your room keycard)
• Wrinkle-release spray
• Refillable bottle

Cruise Packing Checklist: Not Needed/Not Allowed

The following items may be tempting to bring, but cruise lines either take care of these for you or they aren’t allowed on the ship.

• Hair dryer (already provided in each cabin)
• Liquor/beer
• Homemade snacks (not allowed; pre-packaged snacks are ok)
• Towels (beach towels are supplied on the cruise)
• Clothes iron
• Weapons (including small knives and pepper spray)
• Marijuana (even if legal in Alaska)

Alaskan Cruise Packing Tips

Want some more tips on how to pack for a cruise to Alaska? Here are a few ideas that can better help you prepare when it comes to getting ready.

Luggage Rules Are Fairly Lenient (So Don’t Stress) We’ve talked about how you have to pack for a lot of different scenarios when sailing to Alaska on a cruise. The good news is that unlike traveling on a flight, cruise lines are very lenient on luggage. There are no fees for bringing luggage. There aren’t real limits on how much you can bring (within reason). Liquids are allowed in your bags, and there are even porters that will take your bags at the terminal and then they are delivered to your cabin.

In other words, yes, there is a lot to pack for, but it shouldn’t be a point of stress.

Remember the Flight When Packing While cruise lines are more relaxed in what you can bring, many people fly into port cities like Vancouver or Seattle to head to Alaska. Due to their location in the northwest, driving simply isn’t an option for many travelers.

In that case, you want to keep the flight in mind when packing. That means bringing less stuff to avoid baggage fees, being careful of liquid rules, and resisting the temptation to pack heavy suitcases as you’ll be carrying them around an airport.

Versatile Clothing Is Great Have a jacket that really only goes with one set of clothing? Leave it at home. Versatile clothing that can be worn in several different situations is ideal as it allows you to pack less. For example, instead of bringing one heavier coat in case it gets cold and windy, it’s a better idea to bring something lighter that can be worn with layers. This way you aren’t packing bulky items you’ll only wear once or twice. 

For more things to pack, don’t miss our 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 You’d Never Think Of) .

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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Answered: What Is a Good Price for a Cruise? (Caribbean, Alaska, & Europe)

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The Ultimate Alaskan Cruise Packing List

Layers, layers, layers — and much, much more.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist
• T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

The first time I traveled to Alaska was on a family trip. It was a two-week cruisetour with Princess Cruises , where you spend a week on land and a week on a cruise ship — and I got it completely wrong when it came to packing. Growing up in Florida, Alaska was as far away as you could get. We’d suddenly swapped sandy beaches and warm ocean water for glaciers and towering forests, pelicans for petrels, and grouper for king crab. I was out of my element.

Now, after several more trips to Alaska and just being better-traveled overall, I know where I went wrong — and I’m here to share my essential Alaskan cruise packing list with you. For good measure, I’ve also tapped experts from three of the top Alaskan cruise operators for their best packing tips and essentials to make sure you’re prepared for whatever this nature-rich state throws your way. 

Although cruises to Alaska have been taking place as far back as the 1880s, Bettyann Chun, Cruise and Travel Director for Holland America Line , admits that “packing for Alaska, in particular, can be tricky.” Most notably, she says the weather can vary from one extreme to the next, sometimes within just a few hours. Lisa Syme, Vice President of Alaska Product Management at Princess Cruises, adds that it can also be warm one day and rainy the next. 

Don’t fret — this is a list of everything you need to pack for an Alaskan cruise, from the essential clothing items and must-have shoes to the perfect accessories, luggage, and gear.

Packing Checklist for an Alaska Cruise

One of the first things Chun recommends packing is “layers, layers, and more layers.” In fact, this is the most repeated advice from all three experts and a refrain you’ll hear from almost anyone who has traveled to Alaska. Chun recommends packing thermal layers to keep comfortable in temperatures that can range from 30 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

While you can pick up many of the items on this checklist in certain parts of Alaska or even on the ship, they’ll likely be a lot more expensive. So I recommend traveling with everything you need right off the bat. This will also give you a better idea of how much suitcase space you’re taking up and how much extra space you’ll have leftover for souvenirs. 

As you read, keep in mind that this list is specific to an Alaskan cruise and goes beyond our general packing checklist for cruises. Remember, the key for Alaska is to pack smart. “The better guests pack,” says Chun, “the more guests can enjoy themselves.”

• Best Base Layer Top: Icebreaker Merino 200 Oasis Lichen Long Sleeve Crewe Top   
• Best Insulating Layer: Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket  
• Best Waterproof Jacket: Columbia Pouration Rain Jacket  
• Best Waterproof Pants: REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Pants  
• Best Beanie: Uniqlo Heattech Ribbed Beanie
• Best Gloves: ihuan Waterproof Windproof Winter Gloves
• Best Hiking Shoes : Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boot  
• Best Slides for Women: Crocs Splash Sandals
• Best Slides for Men: Adidas Men’s Adilette Comfort Adjustable Slides
• Best Shoes for Walking Tours: KLAW 528 Walking Sneaker

Accessories and Gear

• Best Binoculars: Vortex Vanquish Compact Binoculars
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Wide Mouth with Flex Cap
• Best Electrolyte Replacer: Drip Drop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packs (16-pack)
• Best Motion Sickness Solution: Bonine Motion Sickness Relief Chewable Tablets
• Best Stain Remover: Tide Rescue Laundry Stain Remover with Oxi 

Luggage and Bags

• Best Suitcase: Away The Large Flex
• Best Belt Bag: Westbronco Belt Bag with 4 Zipper Pockets
• Best Daypack: L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack
• Best Dry Bag: Osprey Ultralight 3 Dry Sack

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Clothing and outerwear.

Overall, I recommend aiming to create a capsule wardrobe that you can mix and match throughout your cruise, with the addition of these clothing items that are a must for an Alaskan cruise. Most of these Alaska-specific items have been chosen for their performance and important layering capabilities, but you’ll also want to check out the details for your sailing and cruise line regarding dining room dress codes or formal nights so you can pack accordingly. Keep in mind that any swimsuits or swim shorts aren’t likely to get much mileage anywhere besides the ship’s hot tub or pools.  A good outdoor vest would be a better option.

Best Base Layer

Icebreaker merino 200 oasis long sleeve crewe thermal top for women.

Merino wool is the perfect performance material for a trip to Alaska, where the temperatures can vary from day to day and even from place to place. The Icebreaker 200 Oasis Lichen Long Sleeve Crew gets top marks because it’s warming enough to make for an ideal base layer while being lightweight enough to be worn on its own during warmer days. Plus, merino wool has quick-dry, moisture-wicking properties that keep it breathable and cooling when you start sweating (clutch for summer days and physical excursions). Anti-microbial properties also translate into less odor and longer life between washes, so you can wear it worry-free and repeatedly on the same trip. My first Icebreaker base layer was a go-to when I backpacked around the world for three years, from European winters to Southeast Asian summers. In total, I wore it for over a decade; it never shrank and always performed. 

Best Insulating Layer

Patagonia women's nano puff jacket.

Even if you’re heading to Alaska during the hottest months, don’t skip packing an insulating layer like this Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket . This featherlight zip-up insulating jacket comes in nine color options, has eco-friendly 60-g Primaloft filler made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled polyester, and is manufactured in a fair-trade certified factory. I love it because it’s people-friendly, animal-friendly, and eco-friendly. When it’s packed down into its convenient carry pouch, it can double as a pillow. It’s great for Alaska because it’s waterproof and windproof, so it’s a no-brainer to wear on glacier hikes, during rain showers, on your balcony, and around the ship. The high collar helps to trap heat around your neck, and it’s designed to fall below your hips, keeping your core insulated for better warmth. There are also two zippered pockets where you can securely store your ship identification, lip balm, or other small items. 

Best Waterproof Jacket

Columbia pouration rain jacket.

As mentioned, bringing a quality rain jacket is a must regardless of the season. This Columbia Pouration Rain Jacket works as a lightweight outer layer or shell that you can quickly slip on and zip up for water protection against rain, splashes, or continual mist. This jacket stands out for being waterproof but breathable, and because it can pack down into its own pocket for easy portability. I like this jacket because it’s lightweight, has a detachable hood with a slight rain-blocking brimming (so no need to pack a rain hat), and has hand and chest pockets with easy zipper pulls. You’ll also get optional armpit venting and a more tapered fit that somehow ends up making this rain jacket look kind of chic. The women’s version comes in seven colors ranging from basic to bright, and the six men’s variations include solids and two tones.

Best Waterproof Pants

Rei co-op women’s trailmade pants.

Some people might skip the waterproof pants, but there’s no reason to skip the water protection for your legs after you’ve worked so hard to keep your head, body, and feet dry. That said, you only need to bring one pair of waterproof pants — as long as they actually work. We’re turning to the Trailmade Rain Pants from REI Co-op. For starters, they come from a tried and trusted brand, and are made from a reliable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof fabric that is both rip-resistant and Bluesign-approved. These pants can be worn on their own or slipped on over leggings or jeans. The elastic waist and ankle cuffs are both adjustable, and there are three zippered pockets and a hook for hanging to quickly drip dry after a wet hike. A breadth of sizes from XS to XXL and tall options are available, but the color options are pretty much limited to basic black.

Best Beanie

Uniqlo ribbed beanie.

Moylan cautions that travelers to Alaska should still pack items like gloves or beanies, even in the warmer months. “Weather conditions can swiftly shift,” he says, “and certain excursions or activities may expose you to cold or windy conditions.” My go-to beanie choice is the Uniqlo Heattech Ribbed Beanie because it is made with Heattech fabric technology that absorbs your body heat to keep you cozy. The ribbed beanie is also designed for an exceptional fit, with wide ribbing on the crown and narrower ribbing along the brim. These features come in especially handy on extra cold or windy days. I personally like that these beanies keep my head warm even when they get a little wet from snow or sprinkles and that it’s easy to adjust them to cover my ears. Plus, it comes in multiple colors and is at an accessible price point, so you can easily get more than one. 

Best Gloves

Ihuan waterproof windproof winter gloves.

Packing gloves is definitely a must. “Even if the Alaska weather is warmer than expected, it’s always a good idea to have gloves handy,” says Chun, “especially when out on the deck or off on a shore excursion like an ice walk or helicopter ride up to the top of a glacier.” She also recommends grabbing gloves that have touch tips so you can use your phone and other touchscreen devices without taking off your gloves. These five-layer ihuan Waterproof Windproof Winter Gloves are my go-to pair of gloves for keeping my hands toasty in cold weather. The interior fleece lining is soft and cozy, and the outer material is totally waterproof. I’ve worn these gloves in below-freezing temperatures and used them to pick up snow and for clearing ice without water leaking through or losing heat. The adjustable wrist cuff helps to seal in warmth and keep out snow and water, and there are tech-touch coated fingertips on your thumb and forefingers.

Multiple pairs of shoes are essential for Alaska. Different weather conditions, ground conditions, and activities will require different types of shoes. You’ll need a pair for hiking, one to support your feet during days with tons of walking, and a pair of convenient slip-ons for walking around your room, up on the pool deck, and in the spa areas. Depending on you and your cruise, you might also want to have a pair of dressy flats or comfy dress shoes and/or a pair of versatile everyday shoes or everyday sneakers that are only worn on board the ship. 

Best Hiking Shoes

Merrell waterproof hiking boots.

Chun recommends packing a pair of “durable, waterproof shoes that can handle mud”, and I’ve found these Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots prove themselves time and time again on excursions with muddy or wet conditions and on partially-groomed nature trails. I have laced my Moabs up for walks across frozen lakes, hikes on glacial moraines (leftover rock and dirt deposited by moving glaciers), shallow stream crossings, and across soggy forest floors. They’ve kept my feet dry, my gait steady, and my feet incredibly comfortable and warm. I’m suggesting the mid-height boot because I’ve got the shorts, and I think the extra ankle support of the mids is worth it since Alaska can have a lot of rocky or uneven terrain. 

Best Walking Shoes

Klaw footwear 528.

There will be no shortage of long walks on this trip, whether it’s on shore, in town, or around the ship; so it only makes sense to go for sneakers specifically designed for walking. What I like about the KLAW 528 Walking Sneakers is how they combine exceptional support in all the right spots of your foot but look like sneakers you’d actually want to wear outside the gym or trail. By that, I mean they are made from soft leather, come in seven solid colors, and have a chunky profile. This shoe has full-length arch support and a deep heel cup that can help prevent common aches and pains, like plantar fasciitis and heel pain. I find that wearing these lightweight, supportive sneakers literally adds a spring to my step and keeps my feet from feeling fatigued. As a bonus, they’re rainproof and approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association. Although there is already more room in the toes for comfort, you can also get all sizes in wide options. I recommend sizing down a half to full size. 

Best Slides for Women

Crocs splash strappy sandals.

Forget Croc’s clunky (but comfy) clogs — the Croc Splash Sandals are small, strappy, and still super comfy to wear. The slide-on, slide-off design is convenient and a versatile complement for casual outfits, swimwear, or for puttering around your room The thermoplastic straps are surprisingly soft and don’t rub against the top of your foot, and there’s no breaking-in period that can cause blisters. The entire shoe is waterproof and can be submerged, so you can also go ahead and wear these in the shower. The sole is firmer but still has that classic Croc cloud feeling, and they have patterned bottoms for traction to prevent slipping. The color options sometimes change and have a shiny strap finish that gives nostalgic jelly shoe vibes — but, again, no blistering — while the black and white versions have a muted finish. 

Best Slides for Men

Adidas men's adilette comfort adjustable slides.

These slides are an updated take on the classic striped Adidas slides that were ubiquitous in the ‘90s, and they are excellent slip-on sandals for walking around your stateroom or the ship. They come in five different color options, including two “stripe only” black and white versions. We love these because they are simple and easy to step into while also being extremely comfortable to wear and adjustable. The adjustable velcro foot strap is the secret sauce to getting the best fit for your feet, whether they be narrow, wide, or somewhere in the middle. The foam backing on the strap keeps it comfortable against the top of your foot, while the contoured footbed and patterned sole provide support and a steady base. However, while you can confidently walk on wet surfaces, the foot strap is not waterproof (so don’t submerge or use in the shower.) 

Princess’s Syme notes that guests will usually spend a lot of time out on the decks and outside ashore. Even if it’s cloudy, she says sun protection is a must. Luckily, we’ve tested the best polarized sunglasses and the best travel sunscreens . You’ll also likely want to bring some bug spray to protect yourself against Alaska’s state bird, the mosquito, especially if you’re traveling during the summer months. (I humbly urge you to pick an eco-friendly sunscreen and bug spray that will protect both you and the Alaskan ecosystem.) If you’re using your phone as a camera, it may be worth getting a good portable charging bank to take with you on long excursions. 

The Alaska-specific items you’ll want to pack will keep you hydrated, allow you to observe wildlife more closely, and keep you looking fresh and feeling steady.

Best Binoculars

Vortex optics vanquish 8x26 binocular.

One thing all three of our experts recommended bringing is a pair of binoculars. Don’t worry, you don’t have to break the bank or your neck for the perfect pair. According to Lindblad Expeditions’ Moylan, a “small, packable pair of binoculars” will do the trick for “wildlife spotting and other activities,” whether it’s from your balcony, the ship’s deck, or while out on an excursion. This pair of Vortex Vanquish Compact Binoculars packs a punch for its small size, offering many of the same features you’ll find in a full-size pair. Both the 8 x 26 or 10 x 26 models have fully-coated glass lenses for clear and sharp images, adjustable twisting eyecups, a center focus ring, and a diopter to adjust for specific user vision requirements. They’re also 100 percent waterproof and fogproof and come with a lifetime warranty. And, at just under 13 ounces, they won’t weigh down your neck and are easy to carry on long excursions off the ship. 

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Hydro flask 21 oz. standard mouth bottle.

It’s key to have your own supply of water at the ready. Do yourself and the environment a favor and bring along a reusable water bottle like the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Wide Mouth with Flex Cap for your cruise. This is a cruise staple in general since you can fill it up from water or soda stations throughout the ship during your entire sailing. It’s indispensable in Alaska where excursions will take you out of the main towns and into nature. I specifically love Hydro Flask because they can take a beating and come out unscathed save for maybe a few scratches. You don’t have to worry about the cap breaking off or the bottle cracking if you drop it. I suggest opting for the 20-ounce since it’s most likely to fit into your daypack pocket without a struggle (I personally use the 32-ounce because I am forever thirsty), and going for the wide mouth since it’s a lot easier to clean. 

Best Electrolyte Replacer

Dripdrop electrolyte powder packets.

I never travel without electrolyte packets. Even if these aren’t normally on your packing list, bring them. “It’s always important to stay hydrated when embarking on an excursion,” agrees Chun from Holland America Line. She notes that a variety of Alaska’s shore excursions, like mountain hikes, long days spent sightseeing, small boat rides, or going up to high altitudes on a glacier or helicopter, can trigger dehydration. I’ve tried several brands, but prefer DripDrop Hydration Electrolyte Powder Packs because they are formulated for fast electrolyte absorption and contain less sugar than other brands. The packet are also about half as wide as my other go-to, Liquid IV Sugar-Free , and contain a good amount of vitamin C and zinc, which is always a nice bonus for the immune system. 

Best Motion Sickness Solution

Bonine motion sickness relief chewable tablets.

Seas on an Alaskan cruise can get spicy, particularly during September or for itineraries that cross the Gulf of Alaska. If you’re prone to seasickness like me, having a personal stash of trusted motion sickness medicine is a must. Most ships will offer seasickness pills on request and/or offer them for purchase in the ship store, but these can run out quickly. These Bonine Motion Sickness Relief Chewables are widely available in U.S. drug stores since the meclizine HCL formula doesn’t require a prescription, and the raspberry-flavored chewable tablets are safe for children 12 years old and up. These are most effective when taken preventatively, aka before you get queasy, and last up to 24 hours — but they can cause some drowsiness. Because of this, I like taking them before bed, so I can wake up with the medicine in my system.

Best Stain Remover

Tide laundry stain remover with oxi, 2-pack.

If you haven’t caught on, Alaska can be muddy. I normally travel with a Tide pen , but found that the great big outdoors of Alaska has the potential to make great big marks on my clothes. While my trusty Tide pen worked great for spot removal, especially on shoes, I wish that I had brought something that could tackle larger stains and spots — like this travel spray bottle of Tide Rescue Laundry Stain Remover with Oxi. The spray nozzle makes it easy to quickly saturate a larger area and the power of Oxi helps to lift out stains you can get both off and on the ship like mud, grass, wine, soil, and coffee. Also, if you’re as clumsy as me, this can be a godsend for any colorful spills on upholstery or carpet in your stateroom. It works best when applied within 24 hours of the incident, but make sure you don’t use it on fussy fabrics like wool, silk, or leather. 

Assuming that you’ve got the regular travel bag staples on your list, like a travel toiletry bag and travel tech organizer , we’re going to focus on specific baggage that will make your Alaska cruise experience much easier to manage. Since packing smart doesn’t always mean packing light, especially when there are multiple layers involved, I recommend using a checked luggage-sized suitcase , preferably with a durable hard shell since it’ll be tossed around and handled by airline and cruise line crew. You’ll also want a daypack, dry sack, and belt bag for carrying all your necessities on the ship and during trips ashore. Ideally these will be water-repelling, but definitely lightweight and packable.

Best Suitcase

Away the large flex.

Away’s The Large Flex combines the style and superior quality that comes with Away luggage with the added flexibility of optional expansion to get a little bit of extra capacity when needed. Why is this so crucial for your Alaskan cruise? The approximate nine liters of extra space comes in very handy on the trip home when you’re searching for a spot to stash souvenirs you’ve picked up along the way. This suitcase is designed to hold enough clothes for a two-week trip, but since Alaska can call for bulkier items, this 29 x 12.5 x 20.5 piece of checked luggage is the perfect size for fitting your ship ‘fits and your excursion outfits in one place. The interior compression, 360-degree gliding wheels, and included laundry bag just sweeten the deal. (Head’s up: this suitcase is two inches over the standard 60-inch airline allowance for bags.)

Best Belt Bag

Westbronco belt bag.

This hands-free belt bag from Westbronco will serve you repeatedly throughout your Alaskan cruise trip, at the airport, on the plane, out on excursions, on the ship, and even in daily life after you get home. The ripstop fabric wears tough but looks sleek, and it’s water-repelling so it’s no big deal if the weather changes or it gets splashed. But what I love most about this bag is that there are four zippered pockets and two main compartments that make it a cinch to organize items and easily locate what you need in a snap without a bunch of sifting or accidental spillage. I usually wear it as a crossbody and find it’s at the perfect angle for accessing items, and the smooth, thick strap never cuts into my neck. I have this in green and in cream, and I will admit the cream did stain easily and doesn’t quite look as quality as the green.

Best Daypack

L.l.bean stowaway day pack.

Although you’ll have access to many pockets throughout your layers, Chun says that having a lightweight backpack is key for keeping all your necessary items together in one place when adventuring out on cruise excursions. I hate hauling heavy backpacks and I also hate flimsy daypacks, so I find the L.L.Bean Stowaway Pack is a perfect compromise. It checks all the boxes. The roughly 22-liter capacity is the perfect storage size for day tour necessities, while the lightly padded shoulder straps and breathable mesh back paneling come in handy for long or hot excursions. The hip and chest straps help keep the bag snug so it’s not hitting your back with every step, and the two stretchy water bottle pockets and internal and external organization pockets add extra value and convenience. The 75D Bluesign-approved, water-resistant ripstop polyester shell made from recycled water bottles weighs about as much as a football, and packs down into its own pocket carry case. 

Best Dry Bag

Osprey ultralight dry sack.

Moylan made sure to note that bringing a small dry bag is “invaluable” for a trip to Alaska so you can keep essential items safe and dry while you’re exploring in wet conditions. For example, on a rainy hike or glacier kayak, you’ll want to keep your camera, cell phone, and wallet rolled up in a dry bag. I’m a big fan of the Osprey Ultralight 3 Dry Sack because its waterproof ripstop fabric offers IPF5 protection for your stuff, and the no-hassle roll top creates a waterproof seal every time. The top-loading roll top and chunky plastic buckle clip release also makes it easy to access and reaccess any items, like a camera, that you may find yourself pulling in and out of the bag frequently. Plus, it packs down flat to nearly nothing and is featherlight, making it an ideal just-in-case item to toss into your daypack. I’ve chosen the 3L size because it’ll easily fit most DSLR cameras, a cell phone, a slim wallet, and a passport. I’ve chosen the lime green color because it stands out more, especially key in low light. 

All three experts agree that the best time to visit Alaska will depend on what you’re most looking to experience or see on the trip. That said, Syme notes that the Alaska cruise season runs from May through September with peak season hitting during June, July, and August. She shares that lower rates are often available during the shoulder season of May and September. However, the months of May, September, and October are known for their rainy weather and rougher seas. 

Moylan notes that each season offers unique experiences. In early-season May, cruisers are privy to stunning views as Alaska emerges from winter and showcases snow-capped mountains alongside vibrant wildflowers. For wildlife enthusiasts, he mentions that mid-summer months are ideal because the salmon runs attract bears, eagles, and other wildlife to rivers. September is Syme’s favorite time of year to visit because of the bounty of rich and bright fall colors that take over the landscape. Moylan says wildlife is also pretty plentiful during this time — it’s also the best time to see the Northern Lights, though they are most prevalent in the off-season winter months. 

For travelers concerned about temperature, coastal temperatures in May range between 40 and 55 degrees with 16 hours of sunlight. During the short summer season, Alaska temperatures vary, sometimes dropping below freezing at night and rising into the 90s during the day. The sun never fully sets, giving you a chance to experience civil twilight. Starting in August, the days become shorter, and the weather cools off to temperatures in the 40s and 60s during the day. 

Regardless of the season you choose to cruise to Alaska, you’ll want to pack a beanie, gloves, and a rain jacket. It’s also smart to pack layers that will keep you warm and cool, both on the ship and on shore excursions, such as a comfortable women's hoodie . This includes base layers, insulating layers, and windproof and waterproof layers. Performance fabrics, like merino wool, are excellent choices for base layers since they have moisture-wicking properties and can be worn several times without being washed. 

Luggage guidance and restrictions vary by cruise line and, sometimes, cruise length. A good rule of thumb is to keep your luggage to 1–2 pieces of carry-on or checked luggage up to 50 pounds each, plus two personal items such as a backpack and tote or purse. Always double-check with your cruise line before you start packing so you know how much space you have available. It’s also worth considering that most airlines have a maximum of 60 inches (the total inches of the length x width x height of your suitcase), and 50 pounds per bag before your luggage is subject to oversize fees. 

An Alaskan cruise offers wildlife viewing opportunities that are only found in a few places around the world. Alaskan cruises also make these activities much more accessible for travelers who would otherwise have to fly to the Arctic, hike for days through the wilderness, or climb mountains for similar experiences. You’ll also have the opportunity to view glaciers and possibly participate in glacier kayaking or walks, which is extremely special. Alaska also gives travelers the opportunity to meet and learn about indigenous peoples, known as Alaska Natives, through firsthand community experiences — a true highlight of many trips. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Katherine Alex Beaven is a full-time travel writer who went on her first cruise in middle school. One of the most impactful and memorable trips from her childhood was a two-week cruise to Alaska. Since then, she’s returned to Alaska several times, venturing around the state by plane, by ship, and by car. For this piece, she relied on her own experience packing for cruises, trips to Alaska, and cruises to Alaska. She also collected expert insights and tips on essential packing items for an Alaskan cruise from top Alaskan cruise operators Princess Cruises , Lindblad Expeditions , and Holland America Line . Together, these cruise operators have over 170 years of experience cruising to Alaska. 

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: Complete Packing List

What to pack for an Alaska cruise, especially for first-timers, can be a little challenging. Maybe your Alaska cruise is on a small ship adventure cruise like Alaskan Dream Cruises or UnCruise Adventures. Or maybe you prefer a larger cruise ship like Holland America’s Eurodam , or Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas .

Here is what you should pack for an Alaska cruise. It’s also what I pack for every Alaska cruise. Plus, I lived in Alaska for almost two years and own everything on this list. 

Also in this article is a printable packing list to get you on your way to the Last Frontier. 

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise 

When figuring what to pack for a cruise to Alaska, it’s all about knowing what you plan to do on your incredible adventure to the 49th state. 

Will you spend time pre- or post-cruise in Alaska, Seattle or Vancouver? What sort of shore excursions do you plan to do? 

And of course, the month you choose to cruise Alaska can be significant to determine what you’ll pack.

My point is, most likely you’ll need to pack cruise clothes and land clothes. And hopefully fit it all into one suitcase. 

Plus a carry-on and/or backpack for electronics, toiletries, documents and meds. It only took me two cruises to Alaska to figure out what I should have packed…or left at home.

I’ve cruised Alaska up and down the Inside Passage at least a dozen times plus four cross-Gulf voyages. My cruises to Alaska happened in every month of the cruise season. How to pack for an Alaska cruise in still-chilly May, in hot and buggy mid-July or possibly rainy September, all follow my basic packing guidelines. 

I hope my Alaska cruise packing list and tips help you to be prepared for one of the most incredible cruise and land experiences of a life time. 

Your Alaska Cruise Itinerary Can Determine What to Pack

Inside passage cruise .

The overwhelming majority of ships for seven-night round-trip cruises to Alaska depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, Canada. A one-week Alaska cruise spends two days northbound and the same back plus three or four Alaska cruise ports, all in the Inside Passage. 

On any seven-night round-trip Inside Passage cruise from the Lower 48, you won’t have the opportunity to spend a couple of days in Alaska before or after your cruise.

On the other hand, choose a small ship adventure cruise and your ship will probably embark and disembark in either Juneau or Sitka. In this case, you can easily spend a couple of days on land before or after your cruise.

Alaska Cross-Gulf Cruise

These Alaska cruises can also be seven nights with departures northbound from Vancouver and Seattle or southbound from Seward and Whittier, Alaska. A cross-Gulf cruise will give you the time to spend in Alaska’s interior before or after your cruise.

The clothes you’ll need can vary, too. Especially if you cruise early or late in the season in May or September.

My Alaska packing list covers everything you’ll need to pack for a 7-day Alaska cruise , like my Holland America Eurodam Inside Passage cruise. If your cruise is longer or you’ve chosen a cruise and tour, I also include how and what to pack. 

Basically, you would pack the same but plan on either sending out a load of laundry on the ship, doing a sink wash or hauling it into a town to a laundromat. But there’s more to know. 

Land Tour Plus Cruise (Cruise-Tour)

If you plan a cross-Gulf of Alaska cruise with a few days in Denali, Fairbanks or Anchorage (or all of them!) you’re probably going to need to pack a little differently than for just an Inside Passage cruise. 

For one thing, it can get fairly hot in the summer in Fairbanks and very drizzly and damp in Denali. That’s the thing about Alaska; the weather is unpredictable. 

Whatever Alaska cruise itinerary you choose, I’ve covered all of it in my Alaska packing list. I’ve also included a list of those incidental items that you might otherwise forget.

Read next: 21 Best Things to do in Sitka, Alask a

Let’s begin with the basics. What goes in your suitcase and why.

This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission.

Best clothes to pack for an alaska cruise.

It’s really important to remember that it is can be very chilly out on deck, especially at night. Then there’s the cold wind off the water and glacier visits. Brrr.

Even though your cruise ship will still have two formal nights, unless you’re on a luxury cruise, typical “formal” isn’t over the top on an Alaska cruise. Think dressy- or nice casual.

What Type of Pants Should You Pack?

Both men and women should pack at least one or two comfortable (but not torn) denim jeans. I also bring a pair of nice unfaded black jeans that can double as dress pants on formal nights. There should be enough room in your denim jean’s legs if you need to put on a pair of silk or silk-like long “underwear” underneath.

I have two pairs of these Long John’s sets , in black and beige. 

Last year, I also picked up a pair of stretchy black fleece-lined yoga/leggings pull-on pants at, of all places, Walgreens. They’re super comfortable, loose in the waist and look good enough to wear around the ship with a long tunic.

Those Walgreen’s leggings can also get you through a workout in the gym or walks around the deck. And they’re easy to wash in the sink. 

One pair of shorts is sufficient in case of a few warm days. Good and bad news about shorts. You’ll be comfortable on a warm day but a good target for those pesky Alaska mosquitoes, A.K.A the National Bird. Make sure they have pockets. Guys might want those longer cargo-type shorts. 

A pair of capri pants would still keep you cool and offer less real estate for mosquitoes to land. Just sayin’.

Formal Night Dinners on an Alaska Cruise

On formal nights in the main dining room or an upscale specialty restaurant, men can pair dark pants with a sport coat, shirt and and maybe a tie. A guy could even get away with wearing a nice pull-over sweater and maybe a collar peeking out over the neckline. Alaska cruises really are relaxed when it comes to dress-up nights. 

You’d be surprised how many people choose to eat at the Lido buffet on an Alaska cruise, especially on formal night. 

Note:  If the buffet is your preference, be prepared for a queue. Once you get the timing for when the buffet is the least crowded, it’ll be a nicer experience. 

Bring a swimsuit and cover-up, though you can use your bathrobe from your stateroom if there is one. If there isn’t a robe, your room attendant may be able to get one for you to use. 

If your ship doesn’t have a sliding glass dome over the pool, you may not need to pack a swimsuit at all. Then again, if you’re a spa person, bring one anyway. Sandals or these thin, easy to pack flip-flops are always good for the pool and don’t take up much space.

Though the sun was shining and there was a warm breeze, it was still too cold for most passengers to get into the pool. This cruise was in August.

Should I Pack a Dress for Formal Night on an Alaska Cruise?

If you’re simply more comfortable wearing a dress on formal night, by all means pack a dress. If so, you might want to bring a pair of stockings or tights for a bit of warmth on your stroll around the deck.

Again, if you’re on one of the mainstream cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean or NCL, then if past experience holds well, there were not men in tuxedos or women in formal gowns.

However, some people still love to dress up on formal night. But like I said earlier, it’s less common on Alaska cruises. Long days spent touring, abundant daylight and getting your body clock adjusted all lean towards casual. 

Bring a couple of dressy lightweight scarves to spruce up and change up your look, especially if you’re only bringing one black dress. Or buy a neutral shade pashmina if your dress is sleeveless. I use mine as an evening wrap as well as my outdoor scarf. You can roll it up, and it won’t take up much room in the suitcase.

Tops for Layering

I’m sure you’ve heard this before about packing for Alaska: It’s all about wearing layers. Here’s where I have the most fun.

Comfy T-Shirts. Definitely bring two or three. I wear them under sweaters, to sleep in and to the gym. Multi-use items for sure. 

Or, if you think you’ll buy one in Alaska, only pack one from home. Who doesn’t go all the way to Alaska and not buy a T-shirt!

If it’s a chilly, damp or drizzly day, instead of a T-shirt under my sweater or sweatshirt I wear my long-sleeve silk-like top. They’re amazingly insulating. 

Similar to the one above with the Long John’s, this is a mock turtleneck top for when I need something to keep my neck warmer. I bought one in black (and it works for dressier evenings with the pashmina) and one in purple, not expensive at all). 

They’re thin enough so I can still bend my elbows when wearing under a sweater. Both this mock turtle and the scoop neck silk tops are handy to have and won’t break your budget.

Same goes for silk leggings (Long John’s) to wear under jeans. You’ll forget you’re wearing them. They’re great to keep you warm, especially if you choose one of the helicopter tours to a glacier…in early or late season.

What I Wear in Alaska on a Shore Excursion

Here’s what I might wear on a shore excursion in the Inside Passage, especially to Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau. Up close at Mendenhall Glacier may not only be icy-chilly but there’s also spray off the water.

First, I layer a silk or silk-like top underneath a crew neck or turtleneck sweater or sweatshirt (not too heavy). Then…

Over the lightweight sweater or sweatshirt, I’ll either wear a thin, loose-fitting waterproof rain jacket or my usual water repellent puffy jacket with hood , depending on if it’s a sunny or rainy day.

Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Puffer Vest

This is almost a must-have item to pack. It comes with its own little carrying bag to squish the vest into for travel. You can also loop the little satchel around your carry-on bag handle. 

Plus, puffy vests are great to toss on in the morning to go to the Lido buffet or for a summer’s morning walk around the deck with a cup of coffee.

Make sure that it has outside zip pockets and maybe an inside pocket or two. You can put your room card in the zippered pocket and not worry about it falling out when you sit down for breakfast, too. 

These are great for a multitude of reasons. You can wear them over anything and at any time. Get tunic tops for Alaska with enough room in the arms so you can wear a layer or two underneath. That’s another reason why I love my tunic crew-neck tops – they’re great for layering. 

This is the tunic top I bought for my Alaska cruises. Actually, I bought two of them, one in navy and the other the black and white buffalo plaid. The tunic neckline isn’t stifling and has plenty of room for the mock or turtleneck top underneath without feeling constricted.

In the evening, you can dress up a dark colored tunic with a signature necklace (costume jewelry only, please) or a scarf and those nice black jeans. It’s Alaska! No need to get decked out to the nines. Unless of course you want to and your suitcase agrees.

I have two cozy turtleneck sweaters that I really love but are way too bulky so they stay home. Even putting them into plastic bags and squishing out the excess air, I won’t bring them with me.

Instead, I found and will bring two lighter-weight knit crew neck sweaters. They were on sale at Old Navy for $18. I’ll almost always wear the silky mock turtleneck underneath. When my neck gets cold, the rest of me freezes. Plus a scarf.

And I’m sure I’ll end up buying a flannel shirt or a knit sweater somewhere along the way. Pack less – buy more.

In addition to my usual one or two pashminas, I always pack a warm scarf. On days when a heavier weight scarf would be overkill, I’ll just wear a high-neck top and then if the weather suddenly gets warm, I can open my jacket and be comfortable.

So in addition to one or two thinner dressy scarves, bring that neutral colored pashmina . I’ve even used it to cover my legs on a particularly cold and windy whale watching tour.

Accessories to Pack for an Alaska cruise

You know…those extras that are sometimes forgotten…until you absolutely need them. So I’ve added these essentials to the packing list.

Don’t leave home without at least one. The easiest and most packable is a knitted ski cap (beanie) or a floppy 100% wool beret. They can scrunch up and fit into your pocket if you get too warm.

Also, for both men and women, a good ol’ baseball cap comes in handy. I usually buy this on the ship or in Alaska and have a souvenir at the same time.

Don’t worry if your hat is not waterproof. Your jacket (see below) will have a rainproof hood to pop over it.

YES! A necessity. And…so you don’t have to constantly take them on and off to take photos with your iPhone or Android, I really suggest device-enabled gloves.

When you’re out on deck or on a tour, putting your gloves on and off to take a photo is a real pain. Easy to lose a glove, too. To solve this problem, I ordered these gloves to use with my iPhone. I’ve always loved Isotoners so that’s why I went for the more expensive gloves with device-touch enabled finger tips.

Socks/Tights

Smartwool Hiking Socks

I also bought a 3-pack of black socks, once again at Walgreens. Black tights I bought at Target. I have a pair of sheer stockings/tights for dress-up to wear with the one black dress that I always bring along. I call it my cruise uniform. 

This is the toughest part of my packing dilemma. I’ve already mentioned sandals/flipflops. What about formal night? 

In an emergency last year, I found a great-fitting pair of 2″ suede-like black dress shoes at Old Navy. They’ve become a new part of my cruise uniform. They work with my black jeans or dress on formal night.

Next, you really should bring already-broken-in hiking shoes with a tread. First, I bought Merrells. They weren’t comfortable for me in the arch so back they went.

Then I bought this pair of Keen hiking shoes – with “Alaska Blue” trim! I love love love these – they’re like wearing comfy slippers. Plus, they’re waterproof leather.

KEEN Women’s Hiking Boots with Alaska Blue trim, of course.  

Also pack one pair of sneakers or super-comfortable walking shoes. If you can get by with one, pick the sneakers. Just make sure they’re broken in, have tread and not totally mesh.

Boots for Alaska

Rubber boots. Or as they’re called up north, Alaska sneakers! Actually, they’re Xtratufs. Those brown rubber boots with the light colored trim on the edges. You’ll probably see people on the airplane wearing them when returning to Alaska. 

If you don’t mind missing a couple of hours exploring Alaska, wait until your first port on your Alaska cruise to buy boots. Head straightaway to the nearest shop where XtraTufs are sold. Google it when your ship docks. 

I bought my first pair of Xtratufs (the ones above) at Murray Pacific Hardware Store on Water Street in Ketchikan – a 15 minute walk from the downtown dock.

For women, be sure to buy the Women’s Size and definitely add a wooly liner to the boot. The salesperson will know which liner to choose. 

I wear a 9 1/2 shoe. My XtraTufs are a Women’s 10 plus the liner. Or you can save time and buy your boots now before you leave home. If you wear them on Alaska Air, you’ll fit right in with the locals!

Not only will you be able to slosh through mud puddles and step through little streams and squishy bogs, you’ll get comments from the locals, who will immediately assume you’re Alaskan. Or in my case, a Laskin. Sorry. Worst pun in the world.

I take a belt. Why I don’t know. Only my jeans have belt loops.

Outerwear for Alaska’s Unpredictable Weather

Rainproof pants.

This is a biggie. Last year my daughter, who happens to love hiking and the outdoors, joined me on one of my Alaska cruises. She brought her Gore-tex rain pants.

I chuckled when I saw those baggie bottoms, not realizing how essential they’d be on a hike in the rain.

Rainproof Lined Windbreaker with Hood

This is the best and least expensive of my Alaska-wear. I have this waterproof rain jacket . It’s basic, loose-fitting with room to layer underneath. 

Not lined, it sits just below my hip and has a hood, a waist with a draw-cord and a protected zipper. And totally waterproof zip pockets, too. I can wear my silk undershirt plus a medium-weight sweater underneath. And…still bend my elbows. But on my next cruise to Alaska, I’ll pack those rain pants, too.

Down- or Synthetic-filled Hip-Length Jacket with Hood

A must. I’m on my third down-filled puffy jacket . I’m just fussy and I like this one best. It has a visible hood and two inside pockets as well as two outside with zippers. It’s super light-weight jacket and has its own little carry-sack.

My favorite puffy jacket …with plenty of pockets and a hood.

If it’s warm when I travel, I put it into a freezer ziplock bag and squish the air out of it. It takes up even less room that way. And it sits at mid-hip length. It’s also water resistant (not waterproof) and a windbreaker.

Miscellaneous Stuff to Pack for Alaska

Small folding umbrella.

Southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage is in a rainforest, did you know that? It’s the 17-million acre Tongass National Forest. The Tongass is part of the largest temperate rainforest on earth.

Repel Small Folding and Windproof Travel Umbrella

On the other hand, rain in Alaska comes with wind. Horizontal rain is common and can quickly turn your umbrella inside out. That said, when there’s a constant drizzle, a small umbrella like this one comes in handy. And pack those waterproof rain pants and jacket if it’s windy.

You don’t have to spend a fortune but a decent pair of binoculars will really enhance your chances to see wildlife. Get small ones that you can stuff into a sneaker when you pack or into a little corner of your suitcase. I travel with Nikon’s small, folding waterproof binoculars . It fits in your hand, weighs less than a pound and can easily fit into a backpack.

Nikon Trailblazer Waterproof Binoculars

For me for Alaska, a regular backpack to haul on a day trip is too heavy and bulky. I bought two of these Bago Daypacks …one in hot pink for the Caribbean and a black and grey one for Alaska. It folds up into itself for packing.

Bago Packable Backpack

Don’t Leave Home Without These

Whether or not your Alaska cruise begins or ends in San Francisco or Seattle, you’re going to need a passport if you want to leave the ship for a tour in Vancouver or Victoria, British Columbia, CA, usually a required service call when there’s not a pandemic.

Or if you or your companion become ill…you might need to fly home from Vancouver. You’ll need a passport to fly back to the USA.

Make a color copy of your passport and keep in a separate place, in case you lose the original.

Plus, if your Alaska cruise begins or ends in Vancouver, you’re going to need a passport for Vancouver.

Read More:  Why You Should Have a Passport for an Alaska Cruise

Medications.

Always bring a few days’ extra pills and keep with you in your handbag or carry-on. Do not pack any medications in your checked luggage.

Insect repellent

Not my favorite item. For the entire six-weeks I spent in Alaska last August and September, I didn’t get one mosquito bite. I was warned that they’re nicknamed the state bird, but I guess was lucky. 

I was told anything with DEET is what you need. Personally, I’d rather wear long sleeves and pants than use bug spray. But I’ll pack bug spray on my next cruise to Alaska. Actually, for a Caribbean cruise nowadays, too. Dengue fever, you know.

Sunglasses 

A must. And if you’re doing any really active excursions, think about attaching a sunglass strap so you don’t lose them.

Another product that I’m not thrilled to use, but a necessary one, especially on a glacier hike or trail walk.

Electronics to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Bring a camera.

If you don’t have a camera or the one you have is really old, this cruise is a good time to invest in a new one. An Alaska cruise is really an unforgettable experience and you will want to preserve those precious memories. 

Don’t wait until the day before you leave to buy it and learn how to use it. Allow a few weeks to play with the camera. 

Take photos in your home and outside and get used to different lighting conditions. Get a feel for your new camera. Be sure to pack the manual, too.

I’ve been using my trusty Nikon 5600 for three years and I’m really happy with the results. The 5600 came with two kit lenses, 18-55 and 70-300mm. 

I used the 70-300mm lens with this Joby Gorilla travel-size tripod for a DSLR camera, to capture the Northern Lights on an Inside Passage cruise. Here are the results.

Camera Battery Charger and a Second Battery

Plus, bring along some spare regular AA batteries. You never know.

Camera Lenses

If you already have a camera, think about bringing a zoom lens. If you don’t have one and can afford it, buy one. Why? To capture close-up images of the glaciers, wildlife foraging along the shore and on and on. 

l love my iPhone and take thousands of photos on every trip. But I grab my “real” camera with the zoom already attached, whenever someone yells, “whale/eagle/bear at 2:00 o’clock!”

When you are out and about on a shore excursion, toss a zip-lock plastic bag that can fit the camera into your day pack. You never know when you’ll get caught in the rain. 

So that you aren’t lugging a case full of lens, you could just bring an 18mm-300mm and use only that one for your entire trip. If that seems a bit too cumbersome for a walking around lens, you could bring two lenses: an 18mm-55mm and a 70mm-300mm. That’s what I do. 

Get one that can adapt to use with your smart phone and a camera. I always travel with my Joby Gorilla Pod for tabletop use that I mentioned above. 

I will also bring my lightweight Manfrotto travel tripod to set up on deck or to take on a nature walk shore excursion. Be sure to buy a smartphone adapter , too.

Memory Cards

Do not scrimp on a memory card. Get a brand name like Sandisk or Lexar. I’d suggest two or three higher grade cards. I bought two Sandisk Extreme Pro – 32 GB cards. One card might be enough for most cruisers, though. Just be sure to back up your photos at least every other night. Speaking of which…

Photo Storage

Don’t take a chance of losing those amazing Alaska memories. Whether you travel with a laptop or external drive, get in the habit of transferring and backing-up your day’s photos before you go to bed. Make sure you bring their cables, too.

LaCie 4T Rugged External Hard Drive

Emergency Charger

Extras to Bring on an Alaska Cruise

Yes, there are a lot of these out there. I’ve become a fan of Hydro Flask. Why? Their coffee mug (with the lid on) keeps hot beverages hotter longer than Yeti, and cold beverages colder for just a little longer, too. Plus, the company is wonderful to deal with if you need a replacement or have any questions.

Why pack a mug for an Alaska cruise? I love to have my morning (or afternoon) coffee on deck, breathe in the crisp Alaska air, watch the steam rise from the mug and search the shoreline for wildlife. 

Coffee or tea in a cruise ship’s coffee mug just doesn’t hold the heat and doesn’t have a lid. So I pack my trusty Hydro Flask coffee mug on every cruise.

Just do everyone onboard a favor:  when filling your mug at the coffee station, keep it away from the spigot. Or fill up a ship’s coffee cup and then transfer it to yours.

Freezer Bags

Always bring three or four zip-lock freezer bags . I bring two of the large size so, as I mentioned, I can pop my camera into one in case of rain. There’s always a use for small sandwich-sized bags, too.

Travel Alarm Clock

I know my iPhone has a clock and an alarm. But recently I started to always pack this basic, super-simple folding small travel alarm clock with me. 

All it has is an alarm and a digital clock face. There’s a disable switch so the alarm won’t accidentally ring if it gets bumped in your suitcase. Now I don’t have to double-check that my iPhone alarm is set every day or that I’ll hear it if the phone volume is off (yes you will).

I usually sleep with the stateroom bathroom light on and the door closed. Just enough light is emitted around the crack under the door. But it’s so darn bright when you walk in during the night. So I bought this little plug-in night light , one for home and one for travel. It stays on all the time and doesn’t blind you when you walk into a dark bathroom at 4am.

There you have it. Everything you need to pack for an Alaska cruise. I hope my Alaska packing tips are helpful! 

Have a wonderful time! If I’ve missed something, please leave a note in the comments below.

Here’s your Printable Alaska Cruise Packing List 

More alaska travel ideas and inspiration check out these articles…, cruise port guide:  12 best things to do in ketchikan, alaska, cruise port guide:  21 best things to do and see in sitka, alaska, take a ride on the white pass & yukon railroad in skagway, please pin and share.

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49 comments.

Hi Kathy, Thank you so much for reading on Transatlantic and repositioning articles. I’m glad they were helpful. As far as predicting rough seas etc. the only place that is familiar to me is off of Ensenada, MX. I apologize for not being more knowledgeable about Pacific Ocean currents. On previous Panama Canal cruises, going north along the Pacific Mexican coast was very pleasant. On my trip from Ft. Lauderdale to Manaus, Brazil, there are a lot of different currents and we had a couple of days of being a bit tossed.

Personally, I wouldn’t worry about the Humboldt Current. I have been told that going from Australia to Ushuaia has some pretty rough seas, but that’s the Tasmania Sea. It’s like taking an Antarctic cruise and crossing the Straits of Magellan. Some days it’s a millpond and other days, well, you’ll see videos of the trip on YouTube!

Have a wonderful 18-day cruise and try not to worry ahead of time, if possible. Thank you again for taking the time to write!

Hi Joe, I’m glad that at least some things were of use to you on your cruise! Thank you for taking the time to send your comment.

Hi Sherry, I really value your advice, read all your posts on Trans-Atlantic Repositioning cruises!

We sail Dec 1 on a Sapphire Princess Pacific Reposition Cruise from Los Angeles going South one-way to Santiago Chile, 18 days.

**Please: Are there bad high seas in the Pacific SOUTH of the Equator, if we’re sailing south against the Humboldt Current, which flows north toward the Equator along the coast of Chile and Peru?

I know from experience the Pacific current north of the Equator flowing toward the Equator is so strong it’s miserable to sail against it even on a ship the size of Ruby Princess.

BUT: is it true that Humboldt in Southern Hemisphere is a much weaker current? So we can sail South against Humbolt for 18 days without being tossed around a lot?

All that outerwear takes up space. The pack of magnetic hooks that strongly attach to most walls were invaluable. The two foldable backpacks were used on every excursion as well

Sorry for the delay…I was traveling without wifi for the most part. Yes, that is the name brand of the rain jacket. It used to or sometimes has “Amazon Essentials” as a highlight. But that’s my jacket. Thanks for confirming and using my packing list. Have a wonderful time in Alaska.

Thank you for your quick and friendly reply. Just one question, you refer to the rain jacket as an “Amazon Essentials”, but when you click on the jacket in the picture, it is an “Avoogue“…. is it the same thing? Thank you again!

Hi Lisa, Thank you so much for reading my Alaska packing article and taking the time to ask your question. I absolutely love this rain jacket (the Amazon Essentials navy rain jacket). I bought mine three years ago now (pre-pandemic) for my first trip to Alaska. The last time I wore it was just a few weeks ago during Hurricane Ian when I had to walk my dog. It positively is waterproof…even the front zipper and pocket zippers are made to not let rain get through the teeth. I bought a Medium and in Alaska I was able to layer underneath with a turtleneck cotton top and a medium-weight pullover sweater. If it’s really raining hard, I’ll wear a “baseball” cap and pull the hood up and over it. It’s absolutely my favorite go-to jacket even in light rain so I don’t need an umbrella (hard to manage with a dog, too!)

I also love that little Bago Day Pack. I have it in pink (for Caribbean cruises!) and black for Alaska.

I hope you have a wonderful cruise. Alaska is simply other-worldly and you can’t imaging it til you’re there. Thank you again for taking my advice for what to pack. Not only have I cruised there, been in the interior, I also lived there during the height of the pandemic and I own and use everything that is on the list.

Thank you again for reading my blog and taking the time to write. It’s very much appreciated. Enjoy Alaska!

Good day! My husband & I are recently retired this year and are excited to be planning our first Alaska cruise for July 23-30, 2023. In researching for the trip, I came across your site and am using your specific recommendations for what to wear & bring. My question is about the very cute lightweight windbreaker rain jacket. Some of the Amazon reviews said it wasn’t waterproof, and I am wondering about your specific experience wearing it in a light rain, as well as a heavy rain? Or would you maybe recommend something else? Thank you in advance for your reply & opinion, and for all this very helpful info!

Hi Anita, Thank you for your kind words and reading my article. You have a wonderful cruise ahead of you! Regarding what to pack for Vancouver…It’s very casual there, as in most places. The nicer restaurants are business casual but you really don’t need a separate wardrobe for those three days.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for both Alaska and Vancouver. It might actually be warm there, as it could unexpectedly be warm in S.E. Alaska, too. You never know. That’s why I stress layers of thinner clothing, just in case. It looks like it will be a little cooler next week so a light jacket could come in handy. And then you can use it in Alaska, too.

I’m really happy to know that you found my list to be helpful and for ordering the raincoat. I’ve had mine since 2018 and it’s fabulous. On really crummy weather days in Alaska, there was room for my puffy jacket or vest underneath.

Have a wonderful stay in Vancouver and a fabulous Alaska cruise! Thank you again for reading my article and taking the time for your question. Now onto your next one!

I just sent another post, but forgot to ask if you could possibly recommend a nice pair of comfortable shoes for me to purchase for the dressier nights on my cruise in Alaska? Possibly, preferably through Amazon since we have prime and I could get them in time for our trip. We are leaving on Tuesday. I appreciate any help you can give me. I have nothing currently that I can wear. Thank you so much!

Thank you so much for your article, super good advice, and links to items to purchase. The best I’ve read. I have been fretting about packing for our upcoming trip/cruise. We leave Tuesday with 3 full days in Vancouver prior to boarding on September 3rd the Holland America Koningsdam for a 7 night Alaskan inside passage cruise. I am working my way through all of your suggestions to help with my packing, but please let me know if you have any further specific advise for me. Also if you have any suggestions regarding what I should pack for the time in Vancouver? I feel like I’m having to pack for 2 separate trips. Thank you so much! I just purchased your raincoat.

Hi Sherri, WOW! Thank you SO much for your kind words and taking the time to return to my site and packing page to leave your comment! I am so happy that my suggestions were taken and actually used! Funny about the locals commenting on your xtratufs! It’s kind of funny – when I wear them and it’s really rainy or puddly, having them on give me such a sense of freedom. I want to splash in every puddle!

Sorry your excursion in Skagway was canceled but maybe next time! It’s so hard to predict the weather in Alaska. My favorite time to go is May, June and September…but this year May wasn’t like it’s been in the past…you just never know.

I’m in Florida and I still wear that windbreaker raincoat when walking my dog. It’s the only thing that works when it’s windy and rainy.

I’m so glad to know that you loved the cruise, too. It’s funny how your suitcase just made it under the 50lb limit…and wearing the heaviest shoes helped for sure. Thank you also for purchasing my recommended items. I only earn a few pennies on the dollar but everything helps and gives me the incentive to continue assessing and reviewing the right items for different travel destinations and venues.

Thank you again for coming back to leave such a nice comment and relate your successes! Much appreciated! Happy travels!

Hi Sherry, I commented here back in April. Your blog and packing list were the best that I found. It was so helpful, I did buy many of the things on your list. My husband loved his coffee mug, I used mine for tea. I love my xtratuf boots! I wore them quite a bit and did get more than a few comments from locals. They are so comfortable and I know that I will continue to wear them. Layering was the way to go! The weather was chilly but not cold. We had rain in Skagway so our excursion was canceled due to the wind. I wore my xtratuf boots and we explored the town instead. My favorite items of yours in addition to the mug and boots were: the windbreaker raincoat, puffy vest, tunic top, mock turtleneck. I wore all of these multiple times. I did buy the puffy jacket but did not need it, love that it fits into its own pouch. Packing was a challenge, my suitcase came in just under 47 pounds. I wore my keen hiking shoes on the plane. Thank you for your help, you made packing for my cruise so much easier! Loved the cruise and cannot wait to go back.

Hi Karen, Thank you for reading my article and taking the time to write your comment. My two pashminas have seen more inclement weather than formal dinners on ships! They’re great for keeping your neck warm. Also nice for sitting on deck and using as a throw if it’s a little chilly outside.

Congratulations on your upcoming 25th anniversary! Terrific milestone celebration cruise! You’re correct…late August can get chilly. But I’ve been in SE Alaska in September in shorts…so you never know!

You may want to get one more memory card and don’t forget the battery charger!! Also, I strongly recommend backing up each day’s photos either onto a flash drive via your computer or external drive and store it in the stateroom safe.

Have a wonderful cruise to Alaska! Happy Anniversary, too! Thank you again.

Thanks for a wonderful article. The idea of using a pashmina not only as a wrap for formal nights, but also us a scarf hadn’t occurred to me. Hubby and I will be celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary onboard Celebrity Eclipse in late August and from what I can gather is to expect the same unpredictable weather as we experience here in southern Ontario in April and May(35-80F or 2-30C). One thing that is certain is that no matter what the weather we will never forget this once in a lifetime trip. I don’t know if the two 128GB memory cards I am taking and three extra batteries will be enough!!

Hi Rick, Wow! Thank you so much for reading my Alaska packing article! Sitka is an absolute gem (or I wouldn’t have lived there for 1 1/2 years til the pandemic hit!). I love having my own coffee mug with lid for early morning on deck. And there will be some early mornings! I’m not sure if I mentioned it in the article, but bring a couple of chip clips or the ones you use to clamp papers together. The sun will be out til midnight and rise again around 3:30am…the chip clips will make sure that your curtains stay closed!

I just checked your Bliss itinerary. Please read my Icy Strait Point article, too. It might give you some additional ideas for your day: https://cruisemaven.com/best-things-to-do-icy-strait-point-alaska/

Have a fabulous time on your Alaska cruise next week! Thank you again for your kind comment and for reading my Alaska packing and Sitka articles! Much appreciated.

Heading to Alaska on NCL, Bliss on 6/25/22. The coffee idea is excellent. I hate tepid coffee and like the crisp air around 7:00 AM. Sitka is the first stop. We were ho-hum about that stop, but after reading your 21 places to visit we’re excited as all get-out! Hadn’t thought about rain pants but now I have a very packable lightweight pair. Pulled out my Arctic Cat beanie to keep my head warm. I even picked up a 1 GB Scandisc IXpand flash drive for my IPhone 12 Pro. It takes great pics and I’m sure I’ll probably fill up all the internal phone memory before the end of the trip. And I’ll bring my Nicon Binoculars which I hadn’t originally considered. My first trip and your tips are invaluable. Yup, now I have a solid plan to layer my clothing and just today I put my second coating of waterproofing on my North Face hiking shoes. I’m ready to go!!

Oh my gosh…Kathi! Thank you SO much for following up after your cruise. I am absolutely thrilled to bits that you had great weather in Alaska. That’s very rare for an entire cruise. And thank you so much again for your kind words that my article was helpful for your packing. I love the early season in Alaska, especially when going so far north! Everything is waking up and it’s just beautiful.

Again, I really appreciate it that you sent this after-the-cruise comment. It really made my day! I hope your next cruise is as wonderful, no matter where you sail!

I just wanted to follow up with you! I wrote you in January about your wonderful article. It was very helpful!! We were able to make a comprehensive list of things to take/wear/use for our 7 day trip on May 2nd from Vancouver to Seward. We stayed warm and dry….it did not rain 1 day of our cruise!! We had the right clothes, the right electronics, the right cameras. Your article was absolutely wonderful and I wanted you to know how much it helped make our very first cruise and first time to Alaska a complete success!!! Thank you!

Hi Dalia, Thank you so much for reading my Alaska packing article. Yes, your friend is correct; Regent cruisers do tend to dress up a bit more…but it’s also Alaska…so I would suspect more like resort-dressy than formal evening wear, if that makes sense. Yes, I think a nice pair or two of dressy evening pants is a great idea.

I looked up your itinerary and it’s a cross-Gulf cruise, right? Expect Skagway and Icy Strait to be chilly at night, especially when the ship is traveling. The wind on the Lynn Canal can feel pretty cold. During the days at sea, especially when you enter Hubbard Glacier, chances are you’ll want to be dressed warm, with hat, scarf and gloves.

If you want to bring dresses, I would suggest bringing a warm wrap…maybe a black or neutral print pashmina/shawl. This can also double as a scarf if needed. Regent passengers tend to dress well, country club elegant but not glitzy, based on my past experiences.

My experience with Skagway and Anchorage in June was warmer weather than I expected but it’s not guaranteed. I still wore my puffy jacket on the White Pass and Yukon Railroad.

Weather in Alaska is unpredictable. June can be frigid or comfortably warm. The further north you go, especially on sea days, the chillier it could feel.

Thank you again for reading my article and sending your questions. I hope my answers were helpful. Have a wonderful cruise!

Hi Saundra, thank you so much for your kind words and taking the time to comment. Keep in mind that it will be chilly in Alaska in September, with an occasional “warm” day possible. I don’t know your itinerary, but if your seven-day cruise is going cross-Gulf and not an inside passage cruise, it WILL be colder.

Your question is terrific! So you don’t roast or look “odd” leaving south Georgia dressed for polar climes, pack all your puffy clothing (vest, jacket, long Johns, gloves, hats etc) as they will weigh the lightest. For me, the heaviest items are always shoes, jeans, electronics, toiletries etc. I’d put the heaviest stuff into your carry-on bag, wear your boots or heavy hiking shoes. And pack the minimal amount you can. People on Alaska cruises tend to dress more casually…though there will always be cruisers who want to dress up, too. Is it worth the suitcase space to pack high heels or dressy shoes? That’s a personal decision. Princess is sort of in the middle…but on my several Holland America Alaska cruises (also considered a “premium” cruise line), the only time people dressed up was for the top specialty restaurants.

Thank you so much for purchasing your Alaska cruise items through my links. I have bought all of the items that I mention. On occasion, an item may be out of stock and Amazon suggests something similar, but I try to test my links periodically to be sure they are still valid.

You will have a wonderful cruise and don’t give up on seeing the Northern Lights. You can even tell someone at the Front Desk to give you a wake up call, should the Northern Lights be visible! The only problem really would be finding a dark location on the outer decks from where you can view the sky without all the glaring ship lights. But I would bet that if the Lights are visible, the ship will have a dedicated location that’s dark. Be sure to ask at the Front Desk.

I’m excited for you! Have a wonderful cruise and enjoy the experience! There’s really nothing else to compare with Alaska. Thank you again for reading my article and taking the time for your comment…it’s much appreciated! Bon Voyage!

Great article. thank you. I am going on the Regent Seven seas, Mariner cruise to Alaska on June 1. Out of Vancouver. I am still stumped on what to wear for dinner? The other couple we are traveling with said people really dress up for dinner. Do I wear dresses and if so, will I be warm enough? Or do I invest in dressy evening pants for most nights? And what to wear on ship during day when ship is at sea? The other couple we are going with said others have told her people really get dressed up for dinner?

Best article I’ve read to-date….and I’ve read many! We are sailing on Dicovery Princess in September. This will be our first Alaska trip. I am probably over-thinking everything….my husband….not so much! The northern lights are on my bucket list, but because there will be a full moon, we may have to make another trip in the future. As far as packing,, I am trying to only check one bag. Not sure if I’m going to make the 50 pounds or less. That is the challenge for me. We will be flying out of Savannah, Ga. I’m going to look pretty funny on a hot, humid September day in south Georgia wearing jeans, boots, and layers under a puff hoodie-coat…and maybe a hat. Any suggestions for a 7 day cruise on keeping the suitcase light? Thank you for sharing so many helpful tips. Going to order most of the items you shared links for because they had such great reviews! Thanks again! Saundra

Hi Heather, thank you for reading my packing article. I have purchased every one of the items mentioned (within the last couple of years or sooner). All I can do is to recommend what I have bought and are happy with the product. Reviews are also subjective. But thank you again for taking the time to read the article and comment. Have a wonderful Alaska cruise.

Hello! I am going on an Alaskan Cruise with our family of six on June 3rd and leaving from Vancouver. I was able to use your list as suggestions but wanted to let you know that all of the Amazon suggestions you made have very bad reviews once you read them. I’m all about posting links but would rather them be better quality items.

Hi Sherri! Thank you for reading my Alaska packing article. I am really happy that you found it to be helpful. You will love your Xtratufs. I suggest getting the liners for them, too. Funny, I wore them here in Florida during a really bad thunderstorm (I also wore that Amazon Basic waterproof rainjacket!) when I had to walk my dog! I probably looked ridiculous but I was nice and dry, lol.

It’s really tough to try to cram everything for an Alaska cruise into a carry on bag. But if you’re not bringing a laptop, DSLR camera, etc. and you sound like you’ve perfected the art of packing small, you might be able to do it. You’ll probably have to wear a little extra of your clothing, though.

I always bring my carry-on that has a front compartment for my laptop (it’s a Delsey) and then a matching Delsey 26″ spinner suitcase that I’ll use baggage check on Amtrak (I don’t fly!). I also put my purse into my backpack and stuff all the bits and parts that didn’t fit, into that one. I seem to overpack. I think if you stuff your hats, gloves, scarf etc into shoes, the layering clothes aren’t bulky. You can hang your puffy jacket in its own pouch onto any handle or strap. If you wear your heaviest shoes, that will help. If you’re not planning to get dressed up (there’s really only Le Bistro that’s semi-dressy on NCL, in my opinion), leave the high heels or dressy shoes at home.

Give yourself a few days of pre-packing and maybe it’s possible! If you can do it, you win a medal!

Thank you so much for your kind words about my article. I really appreciate your comments. Have a wonderful cruise to my former home! Alaska is breathtakingly gorgeous.

My husband and I are taking our first Alaskan cruise this August with Norwegian. I have enjoyed reading your article and I love all the suggestions! Thanks for all the links which are very helpful. I love the xtratuf boots! My question is how big of a suitcase do you usually bring? I usually try to only travel with my carry on size but I don’t think so this will all fit. Shoes can take up so much room 😄

Thanks again! Sherri

Hi Denise, Thank you so much for reading my article – I’m so glad it has some useful info for your cruise.

What I would suggest for a specialty restaurant on an Alaska cruise (and I don’t know what ship/cruise line you chose) is to wear one of your dark tops (or pack one dressy top) with a pretty scarf or a statement necklace. Bring a pair of black slacks (I bring a pair of “dressy” black pants – sort of looser-fitting jeggings – that can double for a shore excursion if all else fails) and you have a nice outfit.

For shoes, I’d suggest either a dressy low-ish heeled shoe that you can wear in the evenings. High heels are fine too as long as it’s not a cross-gulf cruise where the water can get a little rough for about 12-18 hours in the evening. You may not wear them as much as versatile black shoes.

I hope this makes sense. I understand that you don’t want to look like you just completed a dog sled adventure when you go to a nice specialty restaurant!. I wouldn’t either! Have a wonderful cruise to Alaska. I almost guarantee you’ll want to return!

I’m taking my first Alaskan cruise in September. What to pack for the changeable weather is a quandary. I’m a notorious over packer (per my husband). Your article will “lighten the load” so to speak. What would you suggest for this young at heart 60 year old to wear to a specialty restaurant that’s a little more dressy than everyday casual? Shoes are always a dilemma too (or maybe I worry too much). Any ideas are greatly appreciated by this Alaska cruise newbie. Thanks!

Hi Nan, Thank you for taking the time to read my long Alaska packing article. After a half-dozen Alaska cruises and living in Sitka for 18 months, I feel very confident about my packing suggestions. If space is an issue for your suitcases, just be sure to have enough thinner items to layer. May can be pretty chilly, especially up in Skagway. Then again, if you are lucky enough for a blue sky sunny day, even in the 40s the sun feels really hot.

You may not need waterproof boots like my Xtra-Tufs, but be sure to pack some kind of at least water-resistant sturdy hiking/walking shoes. The horizontal rain can really soak a pair of sneakers in a couple of minutes. Plus, if you take any glacier tours, you’ll want a sturdy shoe. If you’re flying to Alaska, or the lower 48 to board your ship, I’ll be there are others who will wear their “big” shoes too, rather than pack them.

Just be prepared for a chill and with layers, you’re always prepared. Hat and gloves too. The wind in the Lynn Canal can feel pretty icy. Pack a down or synthetic puffy jacket that fits into its own little bag and it can be attached to your carry-on luggage handle.

Have a wonderful cruise! May is absolutely a gorgeous time to visit Alaska. Everything is “waking up” just about then and there’s a good chance you’ll see some of Alaska’s Big 5 creatures! Bring binoculars and watch the shoreline. Humpbacks are beginning their return to Alaska – it’s also the beginning of herring season and whales love herring!

Thank you again for your question and reading my article. Sherry

Your article was informative and I loved it! My husband and I are going on an Alaskan cruise May 9, 2023-May 16, 2023. We’re leaving from Seattle and cruising through Skagway, Juneau, etc. Should I pack everything you mentioned in the article?

Hi Mary, Thank you for reading my packing article for Alaska. If you can find (I’ll try, too) a poly-filled jacket that’s packable (comes with its own little pouch) that also covers you when you sit down, it would come in very handy. Remember, you can always wear layers. The coat/jacket doesn’t have to be like the Michelin Man puffy. Early-mid June can still be somewhat cold if it’s not a sunny day as well as when the ship is moving. But you’re right…so many of the puffy/puffer jackets are usually 90% down-filled. I was surprised. Have a wonderful time in Alaska! Thank you again for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it! Happy Cruising!

Thank you for such a detailed packing article. I especially like the links to Amazon. I’m still uncertain as to how heavy a jacket I’ll need for a cruise tour in early-mid-June. Unfortunately, I’m allergic to feathers, so down is out.

Hi Karen, Thank you very much for reading my article and taking the time to write such a nice comment. I’m excited for you to be going on not only your first cruise but to Alaska for a first cruise! Good choice. Everything I recommended in the article is something that I have and use in Alaska. Remember…layers! Princess does an excellent job on their Alaska itineraries, too. Have a wonderful cruise and thank you again.

I am going on my first cruise ever this August. I picked Alaska, because it is where I have always wanted to go. We are cruising on the Princess cruise line, and we (hubby and myself) will be with my cousin and his wife who have taken many cruises, including Alaska. They are planning everything, which helps us, but I enjoyed reading what to take and pack. That’s what I really needed information about. I don’t like it when I travel somewhere I have never been and am not prepared for the unpredictable weather (and I live in a warm state!). Your tips and packing list are exactly what I needed!

Hi Paula, Thank you for reading the article. I checked but I don’t see a September 26 Seattle departure for Solstice. There is a Sept 2 departure that has your itinerary. The shore excursion booklet that you should receive in your stateroom or on Celebrity’s website, will show an icon as to the ease or difficulty for each shore excursion. For Skagway, I would suggest the White Pass & Yukon Rail tour. No walking involved except from your ship to the train. Then you can walk and explore the town either before or after your train ride.

Victoria, BC is an evening service call. There is usually a tour into downtown but not too much else to do at night. There’s a little shopping right at the port, nothing special. Maybe the Gardens will have evening tours, easy to walk.

For Juneau, a tour of Mendenhall Glacier is a must, and you can walk at your own pace. Maybe sign up for a whale watching tour from Auke Bay with not much walking involved. The only exception is if it’s low tide, then the walk either up or down the gangway to the whale watching ship is steep, but there are handrails and it’s a short-ish walk to board.

Juneau also offers a visit to a mushing camp across the water on Douglas Island. Not much walking involved and the buggy ride pulled by the sled dogs is fun, though pretty bouncy!

Ketchikan is also an at-your-own-pace walking. A lot of Alaska tours involve helicopters to glaciers, dog sledding and hiking. I don’t do those (except for maybe a scenic, easy hike/walk.).

Any questions that you might have about a particular shore excursion can be answered at the shore excursion desk. What’s easy for a 30-year old may be out of the question for the over-65 gang! I would hope that the shore excursion person would be honest and not try to sell you a tour that would not fit your abilities. If you don’t like the first answer, ask another person at the Tour desk. If nothing else, every town you visit is walkable, has great restaurants, quirky shops and attractions (Creek Street in Ketchikan is also a must-see) and good shopping (look for Made in Alaska). Also, look for end of the season sales in many stores…it’s a great time to pick up winter clothing items if you live where there’s cold weather or for holiday gifts. Have a wonderful cruise! Thank you again for reading my packing article.

Hi Kathi, Thank you so much for reading through this long article. I’m in the process of reviewing and updating this article but really, not much has changed…except for maybe more unpredictable weather! For a May cruise, if you’re going cross-Gulf as I did in 2019, it will be really cold on the water at night. Same for the Lynn Canal if you’re headed to Skagway and Haines. On the other hand, the animals have woken up so be sure to bring binoculars to scope out the shoreline. If you’re heading inland to say, Fairbanks, the weather should be warmer than Seward or Whittier…but then again who knows! If you’re doing an Inside Passage cruise, you’ll most likely see all sort of ‘bergs in the glacier bays and it’s pretty exciting. The store owners in Ketchikan, Juneau, Sitka and Haines/Skagway will be SO glad to see you, too. Early May you’ll have plenty of snow on the mountains and the scenery will be spectacular. If it’s within your budget, opt for the small tours in Glacier Bay or Hubbard Bay. These are the smaller boats and can get up much closer to the glacier walls. Worth every penny, in my opinion. I’m totally jealous and wish you a fabulous cruise to Alaska. Any questions, please just ask. Thank you again…your comments made my day!

Thank you so much for such a comprehensive list!! We are taking our first cruise, to Alaska, in early May. This list is really good, especially the links. Thank you so much for the tips on traveling to Alaska included in your article. It has been very helpful to us trying to plan our first trip!! I realize this article is 2 years old and wondered if you would add/subtract anything?

This is my first cruise to Alaska departing September 26 on Celebrity Solstice. Departing Seattle. Ketchikan, Endicott Arm & Dawes, Alaska Inside passage, Victoria. What are good execurisions for people in their 70’s that can’t do long walks or climbing.?

Hi Dianne, Wow! Thank you SO much for your kind words! I am really glad to know that my list was helpful. Be sure to pack enough warm clothes because it will be cold when you get to Skagway, especially going through the canal to get there. And there will be snow on the mountains by then too. I can’t ever remember a ship cruising Alaska in October so this should be something special. As far as worrying about rain and getting wet…I would suggest buying a waterproof rain jacket with a hood and even think about rain pants. You may not need them so if unused and the tags are still on, you could return the pants as they are expensive.

And who knows..maybe it’ll be sunny at times, too. It will get dark early, too, and you might even see the Northern Lights. I don’t know if you read it in one of my Alaska articles but sometimes you can let the front desk know that you’d like a wake-up call if the Northern Lights are visible.

If you have any other questions, please let me know. I’m excited for your cruise and a bit jealous…I’d love to hop on Ovation at the end of the season. Great shopping, too, with end-of-season discounts on in port and on the ship. Have a fabulous time! And thank you very much again for reading my article and taking the time to write such a nice note.

Absolutely the best travel column I’ve ever read. You answered all my questions about what to bring, what to wear, how far the ship is from town, how to get there……even though I usually draw out my wardrobe with an iPen on my iPad, to more easily visualize it…I also just printed your packing list..we are cruising on Ovation Oct 1& my biggest worry was getting wet…! I bought Scotchguard spray n sprayed my sneaker, hats, hoods etc just in case….multi use everything in similar colors but several colorful scarves ..thanks a million..from another travelbug..

Hi Laura, Thank you SO much for your kind comment. I’m really happy to know that it’s been a help for you for your Alaska cruise. Everything I listed is what I bought for my cruises to Alaska as well as my 18 months living in Sitka. Have a wonderful cruise! And thank you again for reading my Alaska packing article and taking the time (away from packing!) to write your comment. Sherry

Thank you for taking time to write this great list! It’s whet my whistle to be well-prepared for my trip! Its a week from today so I better get cracking!

Hi Becky, Thank you very much for taking the time to read through my Alaska packing article. Today in Sitka it was in the 50s and 60s which means Juneau isn’t much different. The further north you go, the chillier it gets. That said, there were September days in the 80s and full sun. You didn’t mention the cruise ship that you will be on but…I do know that sometimes (as on Holland America Eurodam) you can tell the front desk that you’d like to be awakened if the aurora borealis begins. I do hope you get to see the lights. We were very lucky for August. Have a wonderful, fabulous Alaska cruise! And thank you again for writing your note! I’m glad you found the packing list to be helpful.

I just wanted to let you know this packing information is great help for my upcoming Alaskan trip. The photos were helpful too as they gave me a better idea of how cold it will be. I hoe we gay as lucky to see a rare August aurora!

Hi Stephanie, Thank you very much for your kind comments and for reading my article about Alaska. Disney to Alaska, especially for your first time, sounds wonderful! Be sure and set aside some extra funds for shore excursions. Have a great trip and thank you again. Sherry

Great tips! Loved reading this, we just booked our first cruise to Alaska on the Disney Wonder. We have done Disney before but the Mexican Riviera and Caribbean. This will be our first venture to Alaska. And at a loss as what was essential. Love the links you posted, helpful.

Hi Rochelle, Thanks for stopping by and reading my Alaska packing guide. I have not cruised to Alaska aboard the Bliss, but I have cruised the Inside Passage on a few other cruise lines. I’ve written an article about 21 Things to do in Sitka if you happen to go there. I’m also working on what to do in several other ports as well as the interior plus more Alaska travel tips. Please check back or subscribe to my newsletter so you don’t miss anything. Thanks again! Sherry

Hi, I just found your blog and there’s a lot of good info! Wondering if you have been on the Norwegian Bliss Alaskan cruise? If so, any tips? Excursion suggestions? Thanks!

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Updated on May 30, 2023 by Wesley Edwards

Best Alaska Cruise Packing List (PDF Printable) 2022

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: August 29, 2019

An Alaskan cruise is a bucket list experience for most of us. You don’t want to be caught unprepared for your cruise by forgetting something important or being miserable if the weather changes. Read on for what to pack plus get a printable Alaska cruise packing list at the bottom of this post.

Having the chance to see glaciers from the water, and possibly spotting some whales or bears is what we all dream of from an Alaska cruise. As a Seattle girl who is used to living in the Pacific Northwest, here’s my secret formula for what to bring when you’re packing for Alaska. Affiliate links are included in this post – if you make a purchase from my link I might earn a commission.

Are you sailing to Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Lines? Read all about our experience aboard the Norwegian Bliss cruise ship !

In this article:

Clothes to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Dress in layers.

Weather in Alaska and most of the Pacific Northwest gets cool overnight and can warm up during the peak of the day. You’ll want to be ready to head out to explore in cold weather, but be able to remove layers when the sun is high and the temps warm-up.

I love wearing basic tees or long sleeve tees from prAna and Target as my base layer. I then typically layer one of my Columbia fleece jackets over the tee. Next, I’m ready to layer either a packable puffer jacket or rain jacket depending on the weather.

Rain Jacket

One of the most important things for you to pack for your cruise to Alaska is a good jacket. If you don’t get too cold, you can probably just pack a fleece jacket and pair it with a great rain jacket. When choosing a raincoat you’ll want one that’s waterproof, not just water-resistant, and one that has a hood. There are some great ones from Columbia , prAna , and even a packable rain jacket from Eddie Bauer .

Packable Coat

If the weather is expected to be cool during your cruise, you’ll want to pack a thicker coat. Remember that you’ll be on the ocean and coast for all of your trip and that means chilly breezes. I typically tell people that along the Pacific Coast temps can feel about ten degrees colder than what the actual temperature reads. You can buy a cheap option on Amazon , or invest a little more for this Eddie Bauer one.

Pants are pretty basic, but there are a few things to keep in mind. What I used the most were my favorite Columbia pants, the Anytime Outdoor pants are good but my new favorites are the Saturday Trail Pant . I also own a pair of the Just Right Straight pants , and while I love the look of those pants they are lacking pockets. These simple black leggings from Amazon also worked well for the cruise. Paired with some hiking boots and a long tee, they’re cute and easy to move around in.

If you’re doing some water activities or hiking glaciers, you might want to consider a pair of rain pants to keep your legs dry and warm. You could also pack some long underwear to layer under your clothes if the temps are cool and you’re planning a lot of outdoor activities.

Hiking Boots

Many of the activities that you’ll be doing in Alaska will involve nature. A great pair of hiking boots can really help you stay warm and comfortable while hiking around. I’ve recently fallen in love with these Forsake Patch boots . They’re super cute, aren’t too bulky like other hiking boots, and they’re waterproof. I’ve taken them to Ireland and for our Alaskan cruise and absolutely love them!

Formal Nights

It’s not uncommon for there to be formal nights on cruise ships. These evenings offer you the opportunity to dress up and enjoy an evening of dazzle. I’ll be honest in saying that these nights will have guests wearing attire from beaded gowns to jeans. It’s really up to you how dressed up you want to get.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to pack shoes and accessories to go with whatever formal dress you bring. I personally wear maxi dresses and flats, both of which are easy to pack.

You’ll also want to pack a cardigan or shawl since the dining rooms can sometimes be cool.

While Onboard

A few tips about packing for your time onboard the ship. If you’re going to go swimming or hang out in the hot tubs, don’t forget a swimsuit (or two) and a pair of flip flops. I like to pack two swimsuits so that I don’t have to put a wet suit on if I choose to take a dip twice in one day.

We also like to pack some clothespins and magnetic hooks so we can hang our suits up to dry in the bathroom.

I’m also a fan of packing some loungewear for my time onboard. A cozy pair of sweatpants and a sweatshirt can be great for running up and grabbing a coffee in the mornings, or for enjoying some time on the deck or balcony.

What Cameras to Pack

There are two features that you’ll want in a camera for your cruise, waterproof and zoom. You’ll possibly want an action camera as well, depending on what activities you have planned.

In my opinion, the best cameras to pack are your cell phone (assuming it’s a new model) and a point-and-shoot camera with great zoom. If you’re an avid photographer then you’ll probably be bringing a DSLR camera and you’ll want to pack a great lens for landscapes and another for zoom.

Your cell phone camera can be great for capturing landscape images and candid shots while touring and onboard. Be sure to bring a portable charger for your phone to keep you powered while in port.

You’ll also want to bring a camera with zoom capability so you can capture things like wildlife and glacier calving. We like the Canon Powershot long-zoom cameras , and I know many like the Lumix zoom cameras .

Bring along a waterproof pouch for your phone in case it’s raining or wet. You can also bring a GoPro for capturing adventurous activities and to use in wet weather.

Cruise Extras to Pack

Don’t miss my post about the extra things you’ll want to pack for your cruise . Some of the tips include ways we keep our cruise cabins clean and orderly. Bring your own water bottles to fill onboard and keep in the cabin or take on excursions. We also bring lanyards to use for our cabin key cards.

When traveling to Alaska you might also want to consider packing an insulated coffee cup . The cruise ship cups don’t keep your coffee very warm, especially on chilly mornings on the deck. You can pack some socks inside the mug to save suitcase space.

You’ll also want to bring along a day pack for your excursions. I like to use sling bags, but a packable water-resistant backpack would be perfect for an Alaskan cruise. This can also be used as an extra bag for bringing home souvenirs after the trip.

Printable Alaskan Cruise Packing List

Now that I’ve shared my tips for what to pack, here’s my printable checklist to help you with your own packing. And if you are planning a warmer weather cruise in the future, check out my other blog post about what to pack for a Caribbean (warm-weather) cruise.

Hopefully, this guide has helped you with deciding what to pack for your trip to Alaska. Feel free to leave a comment below and ask any questions.

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Sunday 6th of August 2023

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!! I’m so grateful to have come across your website as I’m about to embark on my first Alaskan cruise this week. I try to pack minimally but I have felt overwhelmed with thoughts of not being prepared and having too much stuff that might not be needed.

REVIEW: Our Alaska Cruise with Holland America PLUS our Excursions

Thursday 8th of December 2022

[…] have a full post about what to pack for your Alaskan cruise, including an Alaska cruise packing list. So be sure to read it! But a few things to make sure you […]

Printable Cruise Packing List (75 Best Things to Pack)

Thursday 14th of April 2022

[…] cruise. If you’re headed to cooler weather, I recommend you check out my printable Alaska cruise packing list. And if you’re heading out for a cruise with Mickey Mouse, check out my Disney Cruise packing […]

Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

Packing for an Alaska cruise does not have to be a stressful experience. Yes, you will be visiting some places where the weather might be chillier than back home, but you will not encounter truly Arctic conditions. Away from the viewing sites of magnificent glaciers and icefields that brought you to Alaska, you might even encounter weather suitable for shorts and T-shirts.

If you're used to cruising around tropical islands, you'll find an Alaska cruise packing list is different from your Caribbean one. Spend some time learning about what you should pack for an Alaska cruise so you're prepared for the changeable weather and terrain of the 49th State.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What to pack for an Alaska cruise

Alaska weather can be unpredictable and varies by elevation. In temperate Southeast Alaska, which is the main cruising area, summertime temperatures can be in the 30s (Fahrenheit) when you are close to glaciers, such as when cruising Glacier Bay National Park , Yakutat Bay (home to the gigantic Hubbard Glacier ) and College Fjord, but rise into the 60s or above in the fishing town of Ketchikan, the gold rush town of Skagway or Alaska's capital city of Juneau. Juneau can hit 80 degrees some days. Nights in these towns are cooler.

The key is to wear layers of clothes you can put on and peel off to help you deal with temperature fluctuations.

Warm and waterproof layers

Rain will likely be in the picture, particularly if you cruise during the popular months of July and August. (Want to avoid rain? Here's the best time to cruise Alaska .) Waterproof jackets and shoes or boots, umbrellas and hats will serve you well.

In April, you might encounter snow; anything goes in the fall. There is a reason you'll encounter many Alaskans throughout the year wearing waterproof Xtratuf boots, otherwise known as "the Alaskan sneaker." Warm parkas, gloves, hats and scarves will come in handy during early and late cruises, as well as when you're outside on deck watching glaciers calve.

Outdoor clothing

You should pack a variety of outdoor clothing options for an Alaska cruise. The good news is you probably have these things in your closet already: Think fleece jackets and vests, zip-off hiking pants and rugged footwear. If you're not planning any adventurous Alaska activities , you likely won't have to gear up in advance at a retailer such as REI, Dick's Sporting Goods or L.L.Bean or scour Amazon for the right gear.

Also, if you are doing a shore excursion in Alaska where you are likely to get cold or wet — such as a dog-sledding tour on top of a glacier (highly recommended) — the tour operator will provide specific, necessary gear, such as parkas, waterproof pants and boots. If you do a water activity such as kayaking, the operator will loan you waterproof gear.

Eveningwear

While casual is the order of the day on your ship, your cruise line might have specific suggestions on what to wear at night, with lines such as Princess Cruises and Holland America hosting both casual and dress-up nights.

Some lines take the always-casual approach to eveningwear in Alaska. Other cruise lines designate certain nights as informal, smart casual or "elegant chic," meaning you are expected to get slightly dressed up, such as a nice sweater or blouse for women or a sport coat for men.

Many cruisers enjoy capping dress-up at that. However, a few lines offer the opportunity for guests to gussy up even more for "formal" nights. Cunard Line , and to a lesser extent Holland America, are lines in Alaska where some passengers tend to relish dressing for dinner — even in some cases with suits and gowns. Itineraries longer than one week tend to attract more of the cocktail dress and tuxedo crowd.

If you don't want to get dressed up at all, you can dine in your ship's more casual eateries. Or, if your ship is doing a late-night stay in port, you might want to seek out the best place for king crab, wild Alaska salmon and other local delicacies on shore. Alaskans tend to dress for comfort at restaurants — even those with fancy menus.

Related: The 5 best luxury Alaska cruises you can book right now

Accessories and gear

You don't have to pack for an Alaska cruise as if you are going camping, but it's important to bring the appropriate amount of adventure and travel gear .

A camera with a zoom lens or a cellphone that takes good quality photos is probably already on your list, but make sure you have chargers and enough memory for the hundreds of photos you will likely take. A portable charger is useful for full-day trips where you might burn through your cellphone battery.

Binoculars are essential. Your ship might stock some, but you'll want your own for spotting whales, bears, eagles and other wildlife and for close-up views of glacial ice and other wilderness from the ship and on shore. If you plan to do a lot of hiking, you might want to bring a retractable walking stick for uneven surfaces.

It might sound counterintuitive, but the sun shines brightly in Alaska, so don't forget sunscreen. You will also want bug spray since Alaska has a prolific mosquito population.

You'll likely encounter rain or take a water-based shore excursion on your trip up north, so bring a dry bag or dry pack to protect your equipment. For drier days, consider a day pack to stash any extra layers you're not wearing.

Pack your bag with packaged snacks brought from home. Cruise lines don't typically provide them, and they come in handy, especially if you are traveling with kids, on long train or bus tours.

Tips for taking the stress out of Alaska cruise packing

When packing, keep in mind that your ship might feature a self-serve, complimentary or coin-operated laundry room or offer send-out laundry and dry-cleaning service for a fee. This is particularly useful if you extend your cruise with a land tour (or cruisetour) in Alaska. You don't need to pack for the entire journey if you can wash your clothes during the trip.

If you forget to pack something, you can make purchases with U.S. dollars in the Alaska towns and cities you will visit. You'll find familiar brands at stores and pharmacies.

Related: Best Alaska cruise tips to help you make the most of your time aboard and ashore

Alaska cruise packing list

With all this in mind, here is a suggested packing list for your Alaska cruise vacation:

• A lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat (not a parka or bulky winter jacket)
• Heavy sweaters, sweatshirts or fleeces (to layer under the jacket)
• A selection of T-shirts or other casual shirts (some long-sleeved)
• Two or three pairs of jeans, khakis or leggings
• A pair or two of good walking shoes that you don't mind getting wet or muddy (sneakers are OK, though if you are a big hiker, you might want to bring your waterproof hiking boots)
• A hat and gloves (for when your ship brings you close to the walls of a glacier)
• An umbrella
• Shorts (especially if you are the type of person who wears them in anything over 65 degrees)
• A swimsuit (for your ship's hot tubs, pools or waterslides; some small adventure ships might present the opportunity for a polar plunge)
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and a baseball hat or other sun hat (the long lingering midnight sun shines bright in Alaska, especially when reflected off ice)
• Bug spray (Alaska has a serious bug population that includes some 55 different kinds of mosquitos)
• An assortment of evening attire and footwear for dinner, based on your ship's suggestions (check your cruise line's website for details)
• Accessories (a belt, scarf or fun jewelry can transform a simple outfit so you can repurpose it)
• Gym clothes (if you plan to take classes or use your ship's fitness center)
• Toiletries and prescriptions (pack these in your carry-on)
• Underwear, pajamas and socks (including some thicker wool socks for hikes or treks into higher elevations)
• Your cellphone or camera, preferably with a zoom lens
• Chargers for all your electronics plus a multiplug extender so you can power up multiple devices at once
• A portable charger in case your cellphone runs low on an excursion
• A waterproof backpack or bag to protect your cellphone or camera and stash your extra layers and snacks
• An e-reader or books, games and cards, as Alaska cruises involve a few days at sea without port visits (look, too, for interesting selections at local Alaska bookstores or Alaska-themed novels, such as "The Great Alone" by Kristin Hannah, "Alaska" by James Michener or "The Snow Child" by Eowyn Ivey)
• Your own wine or Champagne (this can be a cost-saving move, but check your cruise line policy for how many bottles are allowed; corkage fees might apply)

Bottom line

Pack with a focus on versatility — and prepare for a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions — and you'll be all set for a cruise to Alaska. When in doubt, prioritize outdoor gear over formalwear. And remember: You'll be able to pick up in port most things you inadvertently forget to bring on your trip up north.

Planning an Alaska cruise? Start with these stories:

• 15 Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make
• Everything you need to know about booking a trip to Alaska on points
• 8 of the best Alaskan lodges for getting close to glaciers, Denali and more
• The 9 best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler
• 6 best Alaska cruises for families
• One-way Alaska cruises vs. round-trip: Which is best?
• What to pack for a cruise
• 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

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• Railroad Vacations
• Self Drive Vacations
• Alaska Cruise Vacations
• Guided Bus Vacations
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• Summer in Alaska
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• Alaska’s Cities
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• Alaska’s Regions
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What to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List

Published: october 13, 2023.

Home » Travel Tips » What to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List

Packing for an Alaska cruise is nearly as important as boarding the ship. If you want an unforgettable Alaska cruise, it’s essential to pack appropriately. Poor packing could lead to uncomfortable consequences, from shivering in the rain to missing out on experiences and excursions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unpack what to pack for an Alaska cruise, covering practical and personal necessities. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well-equipped, no matter if you’re cruising in the height of the summer’s Midnight Sun warmth in July and August or during the cooler days of May and September; if you’re taking a preferred 7-day Alaska cruise, or something shorter or longer.

So, let’s dive in!

Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist and Tips From the Alaska Tours Team

Alaska cruises are as popular as ever for travelers seeking out some of the state’s greatest attractions while riding in smooth-and-steady seaward style. The cruise curiosity spike isn’t surprising for regulars, who love the unique experience. However, maximizing any cruise time comes with preparation, from booking the perfect trip to filling out your Alaska cruise essentials list.

The trusted travel pros at Alaska Tours appreciate the Alaska cruise ship travel attraction. The team of experts plan and match clients with their ideal cruise, from the opulence of Holland America’s fleet , the boutique vibes of small ship cruises on yachts , or the excitement of adventure cruises . And they help you sift through many on- and off-ship excursions and destinations.

Sometimes, the journey is the destination. A trip through Southeast Alaska’s iconic Inside Passage is the most popular Alaska cruise. It’s a genuinely mind-blowing ride filled with glaciers, landscapes, wildlife and activities, as well as Alaska Native heritage and Gold Rush history in distinct port communities.

No matter the cruise, with Alaska Tours handling logistics and acting as the go-to source for cruise-related advice, passengers can quickly immerse themselves in their Alaska cruise experience. They’re prepared for their trip, and that prep starts before leaving home by creating an Alaska cruise packing checklist.

Alaska Cruise Packing List Essentials

There’s a balance between packing particulars and considering big-picture factors every passenger strikes while drawing up their Alaska packing list for a fantastic cruise. This section provides the building blocks on what to pack for your Alaska cruise for a memorable and comfortable voyage.

Key Clothing Items

Among the most unpredictable aspects of Alaska life is its varying and often quickly changing weather conditions. Anyone taking an Alaska cruise, especially longer trips with numerous stops and excursions, must pack clothing suitable for that range of conditions. Travelers could find crisp mornings and evenings fit for versatile jackets and pants, sunny afternoons that are hoodie-and-jeans worthy, and unexpected rain and wind that test the best jackets for Alaska cruises: windbreakers and waterproof gear.

Considering those conditions, below are some top things to keep in mind:

• Every clothing list should start with layers, the key to staying warm, comfortable and flexible in all Alaska cruise situations and destinations.
• Begin with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating mid-layers, and top it off with dependable outerwear, including caps, hats and gloves.
• Layering is particularly important for long cruises, where you’ll encounter an array of elements. In fact, there’s no such thing as too much packing prep when you’re thinking of how to pack for a 7-day Alaska cruise.

Alaska cruise wear lists vary depending on cruise timing. Opt for moderate summer clothing on an Alaska cruise in August and the summer months leading up to it; pack for cooler shoulder season temperatures in May and September. Remember a cap, gloves, and a versatile scarf for chilly moments, even in summer. Trust us – warm wearables are valuable in all seasons, as rain showers and persistent winds sneak up.

Alaskans are all about versatile and durable dress, so casual attire is the norm. Follow their lead and pack comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for relaxation and exploration on and off-ship. If you plan on fine dining, a nice top and pants will do for dinner. And remember that many Alaska cruise ships have pools and hot tubs – if you’re down to take a dip, pack your favorite swimsuit.

A display of colourful insulated jackets

Footwear Choices

You might be on a cruise, but you’ll find yourself on your feet more than expected. You don’t want to miss anything.

• Pack casual walking shoes or slip-resistant deck shoes – or a pair of each, if possible – for strolling around-ship and in any of the port towns along the way and dining out and relaxing in your cabin.
• If you plan on spending a lot of time outside on the boat and onshore, you won’t regret upgrading to waterproof shoes.
• For serious shore excursions like hiking and trail walking, hiking boots are best bets, especially if they are waterproof. When selecting hiking boots, prioritize ankle support and sturdy soles. Before your trip, break in new shoes and hiking boots to minimize blisters and weary feet and legs.

Outdoor Gear

Part of the lure of Alaska travel is exploring its majestic outdoors. Even on an Alaska cruise, consider reliable, versatile outdoor gear a necessity.

Ultimately, what to wear on your Alaska cruise for complete comfort at all times boils down to a high-quality rain jacket, a lightweight winter coat, wind or rain pants, baseball hats, sun hats and other sun protection gear, and an umbrella for that infamous Southeast Alaska rain. This gear is worth its weight, along with a stocking cap and winter gloves. And don’t forget the most important Alaska cruise outfits packing strategy: layers, layers and more layers!

Cruise Cabin Essentials

No matter which cruise you pick, from short and sweet to astonishing 8-day Glacier Bay National Park Cruises , and no matter how much time you plan to spend wandering around the boat and onshore, your cabin is your sanctuary. It is your place to rest and reflect from an incredible day and charge up for the next day and a place to store your gear. Here are some tips for essential cruise items that will make your cabin feel like home.

Travel Luggage

Much like clothing, luggage options vary, and appropriate cruise luggage depends on personal preferences and the nature of your trip. Some travelers favor traditional suitcases with rugged wheels for packing space and convenience. Others swear by duffel bags for quick packing and easy storage. Backpacks offer versatility in many sizes. A combination of these options provides the best coverage, blending storage and mobility. And one of the most important factors when shopping for any type of luggage is its durability.

When selecting luggage, also consider its size in relation to your cabin. Research the cabin’s dimensions and storage capacity to ensure your clothing, gear, luggage and, of course, you and your travel companion, all fit cozily.

Irrespective of luggage choice, it’s important to pack efficiently. The simple approach to rolling clothing in your luggage will reduce wrinkles and maximize space.

Cabin Comfort

You can enhance your cabin comfort, functionality, and organization with just a few items. Some cruise cabins have limited electrical outlets, so a power strip for your device cords ensures your devices are fully charged daily. Nightlights help on dark Alaska spring and fall nights.

Use packing cubes and travel organizers to keep cabins cozy and tidy, make essential items easy to find and in order, and streamline dressing for any occasion.

Adventure Cruise Essentials

While trips like the Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise takes passengers to a magical Alaska area, some of the most memorable moments of an Alaska cruise trip take place off the boat on exciting shore excursions . No matter how you decide to explore, here are some essentials to pack.

Excursion Gear

Whether you plan on kayaking or hiking, most Alaska adventures require essential gear. A durable, versatile backpack or waterproof dry bag will keep your essential head-to-toe gear and snacks dry and nearby.

• Hikers understand the importance of boots, but some also love the handiness of trekking poles on their walks and climbs. Windbreakers or breathable waterproof rain jackets are also important for most excursions.
• Kayaking is a very popular option that gets paddlers closer to wildlife, coves and glaciers most often seen from a distance on cruise ships. Kayaking requires more specialized gear: a drysuit and water shoes to stay warm and comfy, and a dry bag to protect the rest of your gear.
• Wildlife excursions don’t demand as much variety as far as clothing goes – it’s more about staying comfortable and warm (layers!) as you’ll spend periods in one place looking for wildlife and other times traveling to and from those areas on small planes, small boats or four-wheelers.

Picture of a person’s feet wearing tan hiking boots by Lisa Fotios

Wildlife Viewing Gear

Wildlife viewing is a quintessential Alaska activity; imagine seeing a bear, whale, or moose in the water or wilderness! Great guides will get you the animal access, but you can maximize these moments by packing binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. This gear lets you easily spot and capture images of your wild finds.

• Keep the binoculars and camera nearby when on deck or during shore excursions. You never know when you’ll spot a bald eagle soaring, a pod of whales breaching, a colorful puffin flapping above the water’s surface, or an otter curiously watching you while crunching on lunch. And then there are the landscapes: binoculars and cameras are indispensable for enjoying and documenting these only-in-Alaska vistas.
• Many operators offer gear rentals if concerns about luggage space and weight or costs arise. However, this means you won’t have these items at all times. Rental gear might be perfect for one-off excursions like kayaking, but avid hikers should bring their own boots. If you intend on renting, book in advance during the peak summer season.

Picture of a brown grizzly bear in Alaska by Janko Ferlic

Other Important Items to Pack for Your Alaska Cruise

There are also essential personal items that you simply can’t leave home without.

• Securely pack prescription medications in an accessible carry-on. Same with important travel documents like passports, travel insurance, and personal insurance cards.
• Small comforts can make cruise life more enjoyable. Miniature versions of favorite toiletries bring a sense of normalcy to busy days.
• Even while traveling through some of the world’s most breathtaking cruise routes, and participating in onboard offerings like birdwatching or stargazing, you’ll still have downtime. A new book or e-reader and portable gadgets will keep you entertained.

Top Tips When Packing for Your Alaska Cruise

Before you zip up your luggage after packing for your Alaska cruise, remember some essential packing tips:

• Pack light: Alaska’s unpredictable weather and extreme seasons demand smart packing, which includes getting as much gear in your luggage as possible. Try opting for lightweight versions of your layers, making room for more items like hiking boots and cabin comforts.
• Pack right: Layering is the key to comfort in changing conditions throughout each day, so make sure you’re covered twice or more from head to toe.
• Waterproof wearables: Include a waterproof jacket to keep yourself warm and dry. Waterproof hiking boots will keep your feet dry even on the wettest Southeast Alaska hike.
• Secure what’s special: Keep important items like passports, medications, and travel documents in a secure, easily accessible and waterproof bag.

Ready to Set Sail on Your Alaskan Adventure?

You’ve now made your ultimate packing list and know what to pack for your Alaska cruise. You’ve found the right luggage combos and packed all the essentials. Now it’s time to book that voyage of a lifetime. With extensive expertise in crafting unforgettable cruise experiences, Alaska Tours is committed to guiding travelers to the right trip. You can choose from a diverse range of cruise packages , such as luxury small ship cruises, the iconic Inside Passage cruises , exciting adventure cruises that pack in the excursions, grand trips like the Glacier Bay Cruise Adventure and much more. All offer the chance to explore this magnificent state in style and comfort, on and off the cruise ship.

Ready to start planning your Alaska cruise? Contact us to learn more about our cruise packages and book your trip today! We can’t wait to welcome you aboard a cruise of Alaska’s wonders.

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The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List for 2024

Posted by Guest Blogger | Updated on Jun 9, 2024 | Published on Sep 12, 2023 | Alaska , Cruising Tips , Travel Blog | 0

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Alaskan cruises are a unique blend of breathtaking glacial landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and diverse wildlife sightings. But, the state’s weather can be rather unpredictable – from sunny and warm afternoons to frigid evenings, we’ve got you covered with this ultimate Alaska cruise packing list!

The secret to packing right for an Alaskan cruise is layering. Stick with us as we delve into the specifics to ensure you’re prepared for this exciting Alaskan experience.

From the proper attire and essential gadgets to the smaller items you might not have thought of, we’ll guide you through packing for every situation you might encounter on your journey through the Last Frontier. 

Best Alaska Cruise Packing List 2024

We’ve broken down this list into a few sections including the essentials (for everyone in your group), some specifics for both men and women, as well as a few key items you may want to remember to bring along for the young ones in your group!

The lists I’ve included have been created for a 10-day trip around Alaska (the most common Alaska cruise duration), so depending on the length of your specific trip, you may need to bring more or fewer items.

You can also do a quick search before departing to see if your ship has laundry services available, which may also allow you to bring less clothing than what I’ve mentioned below.

Let’s start with the essentials!

The Essentials:

Rain Jacket Having a rain jacket at your disposal is vital when embarking on an Alaskan cruise. Alaska’s weather is notorious for its unpredictability, and sudden rain showers are not uncommon, even during the summer months. A good, waterproof rain jacket will keep you dry during those unexpected downpours, allowing you to continue your exploration comfortably. Furthermore, most rain jackets are lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around during your on-shore excursions. Opt for a versatile style that is large enough to be layered over warm clothing during colder weather, ensuring that you’re prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Rain Pants Layering is key when packing for an Alaskan cruise, and a pair of rain pants should never be overlooked. Waterproof rain pants will come in handy during hikes with low, wet brush, or if you’re keen on staying out on the deck for photos during some bigger swells. By pairing them with a thermal inner layer, your lower half will stay warm and dry.

Warm Hat To protect your head from cold and wet weather, pack a warm hat that will keep you comfortable in any condition. Choose one with a good fit to ensure you won’t have to worry about it slipping off when you’re out exploring the ship on windy days. Opt for something lightweight but still warm, such as a wool or fleece beanie . Though it may not seem like an essential item at first glance (especially if you’ll be cruising in the summer months), you’ll be thankful to have one when the chilly evenings set in.

Gloves Gloves are another must-have item for your Alaska cruise packing list. Choose a pair that is water resistant to keep your hands comfortable whether you’re heading to dinner or are opting for a fishing tour in Ketchikan . Additionally, consider packing touch-screen compatible gloves so that you can take phone photos without sacrificing chilly fingers!

Tall, Moisture-wicking Socks Moisture-wicking socks are essential for keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Select a pair that is tall enough to cover the ankle and made of breathable fabric. Wool or synthetic fibers are great choices as they will provide warmth while also wicking away sweat and moisture, ensuring you stay comfortable no matter what activity you’re taking part in.

Waterproof Hiking Boots or Shoes When creating your packing list for an Alaskan cruise, don’t forget to include a pair of waterproof hiking boots or shoes for any on-shore adventures. Opt for sturdy soles that will provide traction and stability during hikes or other outdoor activities. Additionally, look for models with waterproof fabric and insulation to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, as well as extra cushioning to ensure you won’t end up with sore feet at the end of the day. The decks onboard a cruise can also get quite slippery thanks to rain and sea mist, so they’ll also prove to be useful while roaming the ship.

Formal Wear Though Alaskan cruises are known for their casual atmosphere, it’s always a good idea to have formal wear when packing. Since most cruise lines will provide at least one black-tie dinner or evening event during the trip, having at least one option is always a good idea. Opt for timeless classics such as black trousers and a collared shirt or a simple solid color dress. In my opinion, don’t worry too much about packing those heels… your feet will be under the table anyway! A pair of flats or boat shoes will do just fine.

Bathing Suit A bathing suit is essential for any cruise, regardless of destination. Whether you’re looking to lounge on the deck or take a dip in the pool or hot tub onboard, you’ll want to be prepared and make sure it’s on your packing list for Alaska. It’s also good to have if you plan on doing any water activities such as fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding so you don’t get your everyday wear wet.

Day Bag A sturdy day bag will be essential when you’re out exploring ashore. At the very least, bring a reliable backpack that is large enough to fit your water bottle, wallet, some snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers. Look for one with multiple compartments or pockets so you can easily store all of those small items you’ll need during your excursions. One with a water-resistant rain cover is also a good option in case you find yourself caught in some unexpected rain.

Dry Bag A dry bag is a must-have item if you plan on spending lots of time out on the water. This simple yet essential piece of gear will keep your phone, camera, or other valuables safe from water damage during kayaking, fishing, or any other kind of water activity. You can also use it to store clothes, towels, and other items that you want to keep dry while onboard. Ones that float are an extra perk!

Portable Charger No matter where your Alaskan cruise takes you, a portable charger will prove to be invaluable. Select one with two USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once, and look for one with a large capacity that won’t run out of juice too quickly. I have one from Amazon and it’s lasted me over 5 years!

Reusable Water Bottle Staying hydrated is crucial when exploring the great outdoors, so including a reusable water bottle on your Alaska cruise packing list is a must. Not only will it keep you from having to spend money on water whenever you get off the ship, but it also helps reduce waste onboard. Opt for one that’s made with high-quality material such as stainless steel or BPA-free plastic, and make sure it’s large enough to hold plenty of water. Don’t forget to pack a carabiner so you can easily clip your bottle onto your bag!

Sunglasses No matter what time of year you’re cruising in Alaska, sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the bright sunshine reflecting off the sea or ice. Look for a pair with polarized lenses that will reduce glare and block out UV rays, as well as frames that are comfortable and won’t slip off your head too easily.

Hair Products While Alaska is stocked full of plenty of shops in the ports all selling hair supplies including shampoos, conditioners, oils, etc., it’s best to bring your own from home. The shops near the cruise terminals charge exorbitant prices for these basic necessities, so you can save yourself a lot of money by packing your own.

Oral Hygiene Products When packing for your Alaskan cruise, it’s important to include some essential oral hygiene products. Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste (or powder), floss, and mouthwash that will keep you feeling fresh throughout the voyage.

Deodorant Deodorant is a must-pack item when going on an Alaskan cruise. Look for a long-lasting, waterproof deodorant that won’t give up during your adventures and will keep you smelling pleasant no matter how warm it gets outside. I wouldn’t recommend trying anything new on the cruise, however, just in case it causes skin irritation. If you have a brand that you know and love, stick with that!

Cologne or Perfume Whether you’re getting dressed up for dinner or want to smell nice during the day, having a signature scent can go a long way in making you feel good. Opt for a travel-size version that’s preferably made of plastic instead of glass so it won’t take up too much space in your suitcase and is unlikely to break.

First Aid Products Cruise ships are exceedingly well stocked with medical supplies, but if you’re planning on leaving the ship to explore during your vacation, then it’s important to have some basic first aid items such as antiseptic wipes and bandages on hand. Additionally, bring any over-the-counter medications that you may need such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or motion sickness pills if you’re prone to seasickness. Don’t forget to bring any prescription medications, as well.

Snacks No matter where you’re traveling, snacks are always a good idea. Packing your own is not only cheaper than buying from the onboard gift shop or convenience stores in port, but it’s also typically healthier and faster when you find yourself onshore and several hours out from your next meal.

Important Travel Documents (& Copies!) When putting together your Alaska cruise packing list, it’s important to bring all of the necessary documents with you. This includes a valid passport or proof of citizenship, any visas you may need, as well as your ship ticket and a valid driver’s license or other forms of ID. You should also make copies of these documents to have in your luggage and to leave at home in case they are lost or stolen.

These packing lists for both men and women have been designed for a 10-day cruise without the use of laundry services while onboard. Depending on the length of your trip and whether or not you’ll be budgeting time to do laundry, you may need more or less clothing than what I’ve listed below.

10-12 Pairs of Underwear 1 Pair of Long Johns 2 Pairs of Shorts 2 Pairs of Jeans or Khakis 1 Pair of Sweatpants 2-4 Long Sleeve Shirts 2-4 Short Sleeve Shirts 1 Sleep Outfit 1 Pullover or Quarter Zip Light Jacket Accessories such as a watch, jewelry, etc.

10-12 Pairs of Underwear 1 Regular Bra 1 Strapless Bra 1-2 Sports Bras 2 Pairs of Shorts or Skirts 1-2 Pairs of Leggings 1-2 Pairs of Jeans 2-4 Long Sleeve Shirts 2-4 Short Sleeve Shirts 1 Dress or Romper 1 Sleep Outfit 1 Pullover or Quarter Zip Light Jacket Decorative Scarf Cross-body Bag Jewelry

Tablets or Coloring Books Small Backpack Their Personal Water Bottle Their Favorite Sleepy Time Ritual (i.e. a stuffed animal, favorite nightlight, etc.)

FAQ: Alaska Cruise Packing List

In this next section, I’ll be answering some essential questions for your cruise around Alaska so you have everything you need before departing.

What Should I Pack for a 7-day Cruise to Alaska?

For a 7-day cruise to Alaska, you should prioritize packing layers to adjust to the varying temperatures. Start with thermal underwear and socks, followed by a base layer of moisture-wicking t-shirts and long-sleeve shirts. Include one or two fleece jackets or wool sweaters for added warmth.

Don’t forget a waterproof outer layer, like a rain jacket or windbreaker, to protect against precipitation. Pack two pairs of durable pants, preferably one thermal and one water-resistant. In terms of footwear, waterproof boots are crucial. Don’t forget essentials such as gloves, a warm hat, and sunglasses. Alaska can have its hot days too in the summer, so be sure to leave room for a swimsuit, some shorts, and a couple of lighter outfits.

For formal dining nights, pack a semi-formal outfit. Lastly, carry all necessary toiletries, medications, and personal items in your carry-on.

How Do You Not Overpack for an Alaskan Cruise?

Avoiding overpacking for a cruise can be achieved through careful planning and prioritization. Start by checking the weather forecast for your destinations and the duration of your trip as your departure date approaches to help you determine the type and amount of clothing you need. Focus on multipurpose items that can be worn in multiple outfits and layering pieces for different weather conditions.

Invest in travel-size toiletries and consider sharing items like shampoo or toothpaste if you’re traveling with others. Instead of packing bulky items like towels or blankets, confirm beforehand if these will be provided on the ship. For clothing, opt for materials that are lightweight, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant to save space and reduce the need for laundry services.

Remember to leave some room in your suitcase for some authentic Alaskan souvenirs you might purchase during your trip. Lastly, once you’ve packed everything, review your items and ask yourself if you really need each item.

If you’re on the fence about bringing something, ask yourself “can I buy this in my destination if I absolutely need it?” and if the answer is yes, then don’t bring it. This will help you determine what’s essential and what can be left behind.

What Do I Need for a Shore Excursion on an Alaska Cruise?

For a shore excursion on an Alaskan cruise, you’ll need a variety of items to ensure that you’re prepared for any weather or activity. Start with comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for walking, hiking, or any other activities you might participate in. Having some extra layers on hand for warmth and protection from precipitation will also prove to be invaluable resources.

In terms of non-clothing items, consider packing binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera to capture the beautiful Alaskan scenery, and any medications you may need. Always carry a copy of your ID and ship information in case of emergencies. Remember that all of this including some snacks, your water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. can all fit inside that one day bag I mentioned above.

Each excursion may have specific requirements or suggestions on what to bring, so it’s always a good idea to check the details of the activity and confirm with the tour operator beforehand.

Do I Need to Pack for Formal Nights on a Cruise to Alaska?

Yes, formal nights on Alaskan cruises are a tradition and a wonderful opportunity to dress up for an elegant dining experience.

While the dress code varies by cruise line, generally, men are recommended to bring dress pants with a collared shirt and tie, and women are encouraged to pack a cocktail dress, elegant pantsuit, or formal skirt and blouse.

However, if you prefer to keep things casual, many cruises offer alternatives to formal dining where the dress code is more relaxed. It’s always a good idea to check with your specific cruise line for their dress code guidelines.

How Much Spending Money Should You Take on an Alaskan Cruise?

The amount of money you’ll need to take on your cruise depends on several factors including the package you chose, your dining plans, shopping habits, and whether you intend to participate in any shore excursions.

However, as a general guideline, it’s recommended to budget around $50 – $100 per person per day. This will cover any additional dining, drinks, gratuities, and incidental expenses onboard, as well as some shopping and activities at the various ports of call.

Keep in mind that every port will have ATMs available and many cruise lines also have ATMs onboard, so you don’t need to step on deck with tons of cash. This isn’t a safe idea anyway, so just have enough to get you through the first day or two after you have a chance to see how much spending you and your group are doing on average. 

Is it Cold on a Cruise to Alaska?

The weather on an Alaskan cruise can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the specific regions visited. Generally, summers (June to August) in Alaska are mild with temperatures ranging from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit, but it can drop lower, especially in the evenings.

During these months, Alaska can get cold particularly when you’re out on the deck of the ship. You’ll also experience cooler temperatures as you cruise through the stunning Kenai Fjords when you’ll be surrounded by icy glaciers.

This is why layering clothes is highly recommended to adapt to fluctuating temperatures. Always have a warm jacket or sweater and a rainproof layer handy.

Which Cruise Lines Sail to Alaska?

A variety of cruise lines sail to Alaska, each offering unique experiences and itineraries. Some of the most popular options include:

• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

To make sure your priorities and preferences are met, it is essential to compare these cruise lines and what they offer. Each is unique in its packages, ports, and ambiance, so do your research so you can select the one that best suits your needs.

When is the Alaska Cruise Season?

The Alaska cruise season typically runs from late April to early October, with the peak season being June, July, and August. These months provide the warmest weather, longest days, and the best chance of spotting wildlife such as bears, whales (among a variety of majestic sea life), and eagles.

However, the shoulder months of May and September can offer discounted rates and less crowded ports. So, depending on your travel style, you may want to consider traveling during the less popular months if you’re looking for more of a budget-friendly or “off-the-beaten-path” experience. 

Final Thoughts on Alaska Cruise Packing

An Alaskan cruise is a unique experience, and packing for it requires a bit more planning and consideration than a typical vacation. Remember to pack clothing that you can layer to adapt to varying temperatures, and don’t forget sturdy footwear for your shore excursions.

Consider formal wear for elegant dining nights, and budget your spending money wisely for any additional onboard expenses and port activities. Most importantly, strive for minimalism— pack only what you need and what cannot be purchased at your destination. Your Alaska cruise packing list is long enough, and you need to leave room for some fun souvenirs!

About the author: Emily Concannon is the face and storyteller behind Emily Embarks and Sea to Summit Alaska . A full-time travel blogger, she is committed to sharing her top travel advice and adventures with the world.

Check out these other related articles:

• 12 Reasons to Book an Alaska Cruise
• Packing for Your Antarctica Cruise
• Essential First Aid Travel Kit

Save this Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List for later – pin and share it!

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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise – Plus Free Packing List!

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: February 22, 2022  - Last updated: November 29, 2022

Packing for an Alaska cruise is so different from packing for most other cruises, no matter which month you’ve chosen to cruise. Here’s what to pack for a cruise to Alaska any time of year.

Alaska is one of my very favorite places to cruise. I know that packing for an Alaska cruise can present some challenges—especially if your cruise is very early or very late in the season.

Many people think that Alaska is always cold, but the temperature and weather in the state can really vary.

Whether you’re wondering what to pack for your cruise in Alaska at the beginning of the season in April, the height of summer, or at the tail end of the season in late September, here’s everything you’ll need to be comfortable and prepared for your Alaskan adventure.

As a bonus, at the end of this post I’ll give you a printable packing list for your Alaska cruise, absolutely free!

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my  Disclosure Policy .

Things to think about before packing for your cruise to Alaska

When you’re going on an Alaska cruise, there are a few things you’ll need to think about before you start packing your bags.

1. What kind of cruise are you taking?

Most first-time Alaska cruisers choose a traditional cruise line, like Holland America or Princess , both of which are well-known for their Alaska cruises.

But adventure-seekers and people who’ve already done a traditional Alaska cruise often go back and try an expedition cruise to get closer to nature on their vacation.

Taking an expedition cruise in Alaska is very different than sailing on a mainstream or luxury cruise line. Most expedition cruise lines will send you a list of recommended items, so check your email for their specific recommendations.

Alaska cruise pro tip: Read your expedition cruise literature carefully to avoid overpacking—they’ll often provide items for passengers to use, like waterproof boots, binoculars, or even parkas.

Expedition cruisers will want to pack more performance or active clothing—you’ll have an outdoor adventure to experience each day. Traditional cruisers can pack more basic outfits, depending on the types of shore excursions you’re planning.

2. What’s the weather forecast?

Checking the weather forecast before you pack is essential for any cruise, but especially when cruising to Alaska! In general, springtime is dry and cool, autumn is rainy and cool, but summer weather (when most people cruise in Alaska) can change from day to day.

So check the forecast and pack layers that work together to give yourself options. If you need to buy a few pieces once you’re in Alaska, the port cities all have plenty of downtown shops where you can pick up a warm jacket (or some shorts if it’s warmer than you expected).

But be prepared for sticker shock! Prices on just about everything in Alaska are significantly higher than in the lower 48 states or in Canada.

3. What kind of shore excursions do you have planned?

Your plans in port really dictate how you pack for your Alaska cruise. You’ll need different gear for hiking vs. shopping in the ports or taking a coach to do some easy sightseeing.

If you find you only have jeans, tennis shoes, and a sweatshirt to wear the morning of your day-long hiking trip in the rainy season, you’re going to have a miserable, soggy day.

But if your idea of the best shore excursion involves comfy coach tours, taking pictures of snow-capped peaks from afar, and enjoying some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever have, casual layers are just fine.

Take a second look at your shore excursion itinerary before you start filling your suitcase, and pack to what you’ll actually do—not just what your pre-conceived notion of “what to wear in Alaska” looks like.

4. Are you doing a cruisetour or spending time in the area before or after your cruise?

Many Alaska cruisers choose to book a cruisetour through the cruise line, where you’ll have several days or a week on land in Alaska.

Others choose to spend a week or ten days in Alaska before or after the cruise on their own. If you’ve already made this part of your plan, congrats! You’re going to have an amazing time. If not, consider adding at least a few land-based days to your vacation if you can.

But extra time might mean extra gear, especially if you’re saving your most active Alaskan adventures for your time on land. Which brings us to:

5. Can you do laundry during your cruise?

The ability to wash some of your clothes during your cruise doesn’t impact what items you pack—but it does impact how many of certain items you’ll need. For example, you might plan to wear a base layer and wool hiking socks every day, but it might not make sense to buy (and pack) seven full sets of hiking socks and base layers for your seven-day cruise!

Thankfully, some cruise ships do have self-service laundry rooms, and most at least offer wash-and-fold laundry service for a fee. Some small ships have no laundry facilities at all (except your bathroom sink, of course!)

If your goal is to pack light and not over-buy for your Alaska cruise, check with your cruise line to find out what options your ship has to wash those items you’d rather not pack too many multiples of. Or find out about laundry options in or near your hotel if you’re doing a cruisetour.

You might also like: How to Pack Light for a Cruise: 9 Essential Tips

What to pack for any Alaska cruise: the basics

Of course, there are many basics you should pack for any cruise—or any vacation for that matter.

I’m not going to waste your time telling you that you need to pack underwear, a toothbrush, or any of the absolute basics. I’m sure you know that already! (I do include all of those things in my free packing list PDF you can get at the end of this post, just so you can check those essentials off your list.)

For my Alaska cruise basics, I’m including just the items you might not realize you’ll need for an Alaska cruise at any time of year.

Let’s assume your Alaska cruise is a typical seven-day voyage. If you’re doing a longer trip you can always add on a few pieces, or just do a load of laundry or two.

You’ll want to be able to put together at least eight outfits (with layers) from the clothing pieces you pack. If you’re packing light, remember that you can re-wear some items. Aim for colors and patterns that coordinate so you can mix and match.

A backpack is a must for any cruise to Alaska. You’ll want your hands free for taking photos of all the amazing scenery and wildlife when you’re out on shore excursions!

Alaska is very casual, so don’t worry about packing cute purses to match your outfits—a sturdy backpack is much more practical as a day bag.

Plus you can use it as your personal item on the plane, as well as for your embarkation day carry on bag.

I always take my 30L backpack when I cruise in Alaska, and it’s the perfect size.

Waterproof rain jacket

No matter what time of year you cruise to Alaska, you should bring a lightweight, waterproof rain jacket with a hood. I don’t think you need a bulky parka, even if you cruise in Alaska at the coldest time of the season!

A light but fully waterproof jacket can do double-duty as a windbreaker and as a top layer over a fleece and a base layer. Don’t pack more than you need.

Be sure to choose a size that lets you wear several layers underneath. When in doubt, size up.

Each member of my family owns a version of this Eddie Bauer packable rain jacket and it’s perfect for any Alaska cruise.

Alaska cruise pro tip: Look for a lightweight rain jacket (with a hood!) that’s both waterproof and seam-sealed. Water-resistant isn’t the same as waterproof, and this detail can make or break your day if it rains.

Lightweight gloves with touch

When you’re out on the water it can get chilly on deck, even when it’s warm on land! You’ll thank yourself for packing a pair of lightweight gloves with touchscreen capability. You’ll avoid cold, chapped hands while taking pics or holding up your binoculars to spot a fluking whale off in the distance.

Rubber-soled shoes

A pair of sturdy, rubber-soled walking shoes is a must, both for walking around the ship’s slippery outdoor decks and for shore excursions.

Take along a pair that’s already broken in, so you’ll know they’ll be comfortable for long days exploring in port.

Depending on the activities you’ve planned, you could pack tennis shoes, hiking boots, or slip-on walking shoes.

At least two pairs of jeans or other long pants

If you’re usually a tropical vacation kind of cruiser, you might not consider jeans to be cruisewear. But on an Alaska cruise, the versatility of jeans makes them one of the top staple items to pack.

Choosing darker denim means you can get more wears out of them before they need to be washed, and you can always wear them to dinner with a cute top or collared shirt.

One pair of hiking pants or all-weather pants

Although jeans are versatile, once they get wet they take a long time to dry. That’s why I like to also pack at least one pair of quick-dry hiking pants for any active Alaska cruise. You can skip these if you’re not planning to hike.

Yoga pants, thick leggings, or fleece pants

Pack a pair of warm, comfy pants as a cozier alternative to jeans for lounging around the ship. I like to pack a pair of cozy fleece bottoms in a dark color that can do double-duty as sleepwear.

Or pack a pair of your fave yoga pants or thick leggings.

2 or 3 Quick-dry t-shirts

A few performance tees—short or long-sleeve depending on the season—are great as layering pieces or on their own. I prefer the quick-dry type instead of 100% cotton for travel.

They wick moisture well when you work up a sweat, and you can easily wash them in the sink and let them drip-dry, no ironing needed.

4 or 5 Casual tops or shirts

You’ll want to pack several casual tops or shirts to wear around the ship and during your less-active shore excursions. Choose the appropriate sleeve length and fabric based on the time of year you’ll be cruising.

Sweater, cardigan, or wrap

For chilly evenings on deck (and in the air-conditioned dining room) it’s a great idea to pack at least one sweater, cardigan, or wrap.

I like to pick one in a color that coordinates with several outfits as well as with my formal attire.

1 or 2 zip-up fleece jackets

A zip-up polar fleece jacket makes an excellent layering piece for your Alaska cruise. I usually pack two because I tend to wear one every day!

Swimsuit and cover up

Depending on the time of year, you might think it’s too cold to swim in your cruise ship’s pools—especially if they’re not covered. But pack a swimsuit and cover-up just in case! Even if the temps are chilly, a soak in the hot tub is the perfect way to relax after a day of adventuring.

You may also like: 20+ Cute Swim Coverups for Cruises & Beach Travel

More Alaska cruise essentials:

• lightweight binoculars

Alaska cruise pro tip: Many expedition cruise lines have a fun tradition—the Polar Plunge! Adventurous passengers can jump into the icy water together for a brisk swim. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!

What to pack for an Alaska cruise in the summer

The summer months in Alaska (June through August) are often very comfortable—average temps in Juneau in the southeast generally range from about 63°F (17°C) during the day and about 50°F (10°C) at night.

But recent heatwaves have seen skyrocketing temperatures in many parts of Alaska. If your cruise weather forecast looks to be a hot one, then pack accordingly—but remember that nighttime temperatures out on the water can be significantly cooler.

Here’s what you’ll want to pack for an Alaska cruise in the summer:

Insect repellent

During the summer in Alaska, the mosquitos can be vicious. People sometimes jokingly refer to them as Alaska’s state bird!

So it’s a smart idea to pack some insect repellent. You can choose a version with DEET , but I prefer using a formulation with Picaridin.

I first learned about Picaridin over a decade ago from our travel doctor. I was helping my daughter prepare for a month-long summertime study abroad/volunteer program in Belize, where she’d be spending lots of time in the jungle (aka prime mosquito territory).

Our travel doc recommended Sawyer insect repellent with Picaridin , and we’ve used it ever since. I love how it’s not super-stinky, comes in a non-aerosol pump bottle, and won’t damage plastics (like your synthetic activewear).

Lightweight bottoms (at least two pairs)

If it’s too warm for jeans, you might be tempted to throw on a pair of shorts. But those pesky mosquitoes love exposed skin! Instead, pack a few pairs of lightweight pants. You could pick a full-length pair, a cropped or capri style, or choose a convertible style you can roll up and button .

What to pack for an Alaska cruise in the rainy season

The rainy part of the cruise season in Alaska runs from August through September. Don’t be surprised if you get at least some rain every day!

You’ll need to pack more waterproof gear if you’re cruising during this time of year, in addition to the basics I mentioned earlier.

Here’s what to add to your list when cruising to Alaska in August or September:

Waterproof rain pants

Hands-down, the number-one most useful item that I packed for my Alaska cruise in the rainy season was waterproof pants. They kept me dry and comfy no matter how hard it was raining!

Tall waterproof boots

Before my first Alaska cruise in the rainy season, someone had mentioned to me that they preferred wearing wellie boots on their shore excursions, with the addition of a supportive insole . I’m so glad I took their advice!

I wore my wellies for just about everything on that trip—long hikes out to glaciers, whale-spotting on zodiac boats , and shopping in town. My feet stayed warm, dry, and comfortable!

Travel umbrella

Even if you have a good waterproof raincoat with a hood, it’s a good idea to also pack a travel umbrella when you cruise to Alaska in the rainy season.

I like to pack a windproof version that’s compact enough to fit in one of my backpack’s side pockets. They don’t take up much room, and can save the day when you get caught in a downpour in port.

Waterproof gloves

Although I already mentioned packing a pair of lightweight touchscreen gloves, when you cruise to Alaska in the rainy season, you’ll also want a pair of warmer, waterproof gloves.

Even at the end of the Alaska cruise season in September, the temperature won’t be super-cold. But your hands will get cold if your gloves can’t keep them dry! I like these fleecy lightweight gloves —they’re warm and waterproof, but not as bulky as heavy winter gloves.

Waterproof backpack cover

Many performance backpacks designed for hiking already come with a waterproof backpack cover (it’s often tucked away in a zipper pocket).

But if your backpack doesn’t have one, adding an inexpensive rain cover to your Alaska cruise packing list will let you keep all your gear safe and dry during your outdoor adventures.

What to pack for an Alaska cruise in the colder months

The Alaska cruise season runs from early May to late September, so if you’re cruising at the very beginning or very end of the season, it can get chilly in Alaska—especially out on the water. Average temperatures in May and September in the Southeast are in the 40s-50s F (6-12°C).

Here are some essentials to pack for an Alaska cruise in colder weather.

Puffer jacket or vest

On chilly days you’ll love that you packed a puffer jacket or vest! Remember it’ll keep you warm as long as it stays dry, so layer it up under your waterproof jacket on wet days.

To save space in your luggage, consider using a vacuum compression bag to shrink that lofty puffer into a tiny package.

Breathable hat

You won’t need a thick winter hat, even at the very beginning or end of Alaska’s cruise season. I always just pack a lightweight, breathable beanie that dries quickly.

I’ve found that not only does it keep my head warm and stop my hair from becoming a tangled mess, but it serves another important purpose, especially when it’s raining. If I don’t feel like using an umbrella, my beanie stops the rain from dripping off my hood and into my eyes.

I love this Smartwool merino beanie , and I recommend it (unless of course you have a wool allergy). It’s so soft and light, and not at all itchy.

Breathable base layer

A base layer is key to staying warm, especially on your shore excursions in Alaska. Choose a top and bottom made from synthetic material for the best moisture-wicking.

Merino or silk are good choices, too. Just stay away from cotton or cotton-blend long johns—cotton tends to hold moisture and doesn’t help keep you warm if you work up a sweat.

Be sure your base layer fits close to the skin. Baggy long underwear won’t keep you as warm!

Warm hiking socks

If you plan to do any hiking or other active outdoor adventures, warm hiking socks that keep your feet dry are super-important.

For a seven-day Alaska cruise in colder weather, plan to pack at least three pairs of warm hiking socks. I like to wash mine in the sink and hang them on the clothesline in the shower. They’re usually dry and ready to wear again in a day or two.

I personally love SmartWool hiking socks , and I own several pairs in various weights. I love that there’s no bulky seam at the toe! I’ve also had good luck with Expelit socks, which are a good quality hiking sock at a lower price point. I sometimes find them at TJ Maxx for about $10 a pair (buy them if you see them!!)

Fleece neck gaiter

In the cooler months, you’ll want something to keep your neck warm. You could pack a scarf, but a fleece gaiter is much less bulky (and won’t come undone when you’re hiking or on a whale watch).

I’ve been wearing these Turtle Fur neck gaiters since the early ’80s (my family still calls them “turtles”) for skiing, hiking, and any cold-weather activities. I love how you can pull it up to cover your face when it’s windy, and it fits easily in a pocket if you get too warm.

What to pack for formal night on an Alaska cruise

Many mainstream cruise lines have two formal nights during their seven-day Alaska cruises. Small-ship cruises, like UnCruise Adventures , won’t have any formal nights.

But unlike cruising in other parts of the world, people don’t dress up quite as fancy on formal nights in Alaska. You don’t need to pack your tux or evening gowns—think more “dressy-casual”.

You can absolutely wear a dress or suit, or even just a pair of nice pants or a skirt with a dressy top or collared shirt. Jackets and ties for men are optional on many cruise lines.

If you’re planning to dress up, make sure to pack a pair of shoes that coordinates with both of your formal night outfits.

Read more: What to Wear on Formal Night on a Cruise

Or you could skip formal nights altogether. Many Alaska cruisers instead choose to have dinner at the buffet or a quick-service venue on those evenings. You don’t need to dress up at all if you go that route, but the buffet tends to be extra-busy on formal nights!

Electronic essentials for your Alaska cruise

Camera and accessories.

Even if you usually just use your phone to take vacation pics, you might want to make room in your carry on for a DSLR camera. If you do, I highly recommend also packing a telephoto lens.

Cruise ships don’t get close enough to wildlife to take good photos from on deck without a decent long-focus lens. Unless you want all the whales and dolphins to just look like tiny specks in your photos!

Amateur photographers will want to pack:

• DSLR camera
• Telephoto lens
• Lens hood (to block the sun’s glare)
• Battery charger
• Extra camera battery
• Extra SD cards

If you love documenting your cruise adventures, a GoPro is an excellent addition to your camera bag. It comes in handy on shore excursions when you’re out on the water kayaking or spotting whales from the side of a skiff.

They’re waterproof, so you don’t need to worry about damaging your regular camera or smartphone if there’s a chance of it getting wet. Best of all, GoPro cameras can take both video and still shots for your Alaska cruise.

Check Amazon’s price on the newest GoPro here .

Power strip or block (without surge protection)

Cruise ship staterooms are notorious for not having enough power outlets. This can pose a problem when everyone in the room has multiple electronic devices to charge each day!

Savvy cruisers always pack a power strip—just be sure to choose one without surge protection. Cruise ships’ electrical systems aren’t grounded, and surge-protected power strips could cause a fire.

Cruise pro tip: If you don’t want to pack a power strip (or you forget), most stateroom TVs have a USB port in the back that you can use to charge a device. Often you’ll need to keep the TV on to charge, but it works in a pinch!

Portable charger

Especially if you plan on using your phone to take lots of pictures, a portable charger or power bank is a necessity on an Alaska cruise.

Cruisers from the US often forget that their phone plan works in Alaska’s port cities (and occasionally out on the water when you’re close to a cell tower). So you might burn through your phone’s battery much faster than you would in a foreign location where you typically stay in airplane mode.

More resources for your Alaska cruise

• Best Things to Do in Sitka Alaska on a Cruise
• UnCruise Alaska Review – Northern Passages and Glacier Bay
• What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag
• How to Have the Best Embarkation Day on a Cruise

Free packing list for your Alaska cruise

Ready to start packing for your Alaska cruise?

My free Alaska cruise packing list is complete with everything you’ll need for your cruise: what you should put in your carry on bag, essential personal care items, and of course everything I’ve detailed in this article.

There’s even room to customize your packing list with any other favorites you’d like to pack for your Alaska cruise.

Just pop your first name and email in the form below and I’ll send my printable PDF Alaska cruise packing list right over!

Are you planning a cruise to Alaska? Or have you already taken one? Which essentials do you pack for an Alaska cruise? Let me know in the comments below!

Liked this post? Pin it for later!

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Bonnie and Kelly Cable

Friday 29th of March 2024

Thank you for the Sitka tips and guide. This will be a new Ports of Call for us on our 2nd Alaska cruise.

Carrie Ann Karstunen

Saturday 6th of April 2024

Hi Bonnie and Kelly, I'm glad my tips were helpful for your next Alaska cruise! Enjoy Sitka - it's one of my favorite Alaskan ports :)

Friday 11th of March 2022

You really included a ton of valuable tips, particularly things I think people easily overlook (like bug spray). Also, I absolutely love those 30L Eddie Bauer packable backpacks! I usually take an extra one (packed/compressed) on trips, in case I end up buying extra things back.

Hi Taryn, I'm so glad you liked my Alaska cruise packing tips and suggestions! I'm also obsessed with the EB packable backpacks (and for the same reason as you). But it's actually the 30L Adventurer pack that I recommend for Alaska. The packable ones don't have padded straps or a sternum strap/waist belt so they can get uncomfortable if you're out all day carrying stuff around - even just a camera and a couple of water bottles! But they're great as a light bag to stow all your souvenirs in :D

simplyjolayne

Wednesday 9th of March 2022

Great tips. We are going on a cruise to Norway and I imagine many of the necessary items will be the same. When you are used to packing light for overseas trips, packing for a cruise, hiking, AND cooler weather adds a lot of extra things.

Thursday 10th of March 2022

Hi Jolayne, I agree that it's so tough to balance packing light with packing for a cold-weather cruise with lots of hiking! I've cruised in Norway in the summer on a Baltic sailing, but I haven't done the fjords yet - I'm assuming that's what you're doing. I'd imagine packing could be similar, especially if you're doing a lot of hiking. The one thing I think might be different is the formal nights. I don't think they're quite as casual as in Alaska. Enjoy your cruise!!

Battery packs are such an essential part of a trip and I always forget to bring mine! I hope one day to cruise to Alaska and more than anything I would love it in the colder seasons to experience some of its true wilderness. A great informative post with great tips!

Hi Missy, the ends of the shoulder season would be perfect for your Alaska cruise! Or I recommend trying a small-ship expedition cruise where you're in pristine wilderness the entire time. Thanks for stopping by!

Wow thank you for the thorough guide on packing! I went on an Alaskan cruise when I was in middle school and I definitely could have used these tips. I hope to go again one day!

Hi Lita, thanks so much for reading. I hope you can use my packing tips for your next cruise in Alaska!

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear & essentials)

Sharing is caring!

Are you going on an Alaska cruise and wondering what to pack? This Alaska cruise packing list can help.

Packing for an Alaskan cruise is very different than packing for a Caribbean cruise . After all, the weather in Alaska can be cool and rainy or sunny and warm, all in one cruise!

This can make it a challenge, even for experienced cruisers. Whether you’re doing an Inside Passage, North or Southbound Alaska cruise, you’ll want to prepared for the weather with the right clothing and gear.

What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

Here’s a comprehensive Alaskan cruise packing list, including clothing, gear and cruise essentials to bring on your cruise.

I’ve also included some things you don’t want to forget to pack , as you may need them for shore excursions, days and evenings during your Alaskan cruise.

In this post we go over:

• Alaska weather by month (as a packing guide)
• What clothing to pack for an Alaska cruise (men & women)
• What items to pack for an Alaska cruise (gear & cruise essentials)

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Packing for the Weather on an Alaska Cruise by Month

Depending on the month you sail to Alaska, the temperatures and rainfall can vary, which will affect what clothing you should bring. However, since Alaska weather is unpredictable, you should always pack rain gear and warm clothing to layer.

April & May

If you cruise to Alaska early in the season at the end of April or May, be prepared for the weather to be cooler than the summer months.

Alaska temperatures in May typically range from lows in the mid 30’s to highs in the mid 50’s F. You’ll get about 16-17 hours of daylight in Alaska during the month of May.

April and May are the driest months of the cruise season, with less chance of rain. However, you’ll want to be prepared with raingear and clothing for all weather conditions.

June & July

Typically, June and July are the warmest months of the Alaska cruise season, with lows in the 40’s to highs in mid 60’s F.

Many people find these months to be the best time of year to cruise to Alaska, in terms of weather and wildlife.

The weather is unpredictable, so it can be warm and sunny or you can have heavy rains, even in the same day! Be prepared for rain, with the proper outdoor clothing and gear. 

August & September

The chance of rain increases quite a lot by August and September. Temperatures range from the low 40’s to mid 50’s F.

Layers and raingear are essential.

October weather is usually more chilly and rainy than the other months of the Alaska cruise season. Temperatures typically range from lows in the 30’s to highs in the low 50’s F.

Daylight decreases to just 11 hours of daylight each day.

Alaska Cruise Packing List

When planning what to wear on an Alaska cruise , there are a few things to consider. For an Alaska cruise , you’ll need to pack clothes for your days and evenings on the cruise ship (including formal night ), as well as activities on land.

For excursions in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and other Alaska port days, it’s a good idea to plan on wearing layers of clothing, with a warm jacket and/or rain-gear as the top layer.

Something to note is that Alaska cruises tend be more casual than Caribbean and Mediterranean cruises . When making your own Alaska cruise packing list, you may want skip dressy evening wear and stick to casual and smart casual outfits .

Alaska Cruise Packing List for Women

Here’s a list of clothing to bring on a 7 day Alaska cruise. You may decide to bring more of some items and less of others depending on your preference and month of your cruise.

• short sleeve shirts
• long sleeve shirts
• sweatshirts or fleece sweaters
• comfortable pants
• fleece lined leggings
• undergarments
• thermal undergarments
• lightweight lined jacket or puffer coat
• hooded waterproof rain jacket or windbreaker
• thin gloves
• active wear (gym)
• casual or smart casual dresses
• pants or nice jeans
• blouse or sweaters
• cocktail or formal dresses
• bathing suits
• swimsuit cover ups
• shawl or pashmina
• evening bag
• jewelry (optional)
• dress shoes
• flip flops (for indoor pool or hot tub)
• Hiking boots or waterproof shoes
• comfortable shoes
• polarized sunglasses

Related:   25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Cruise

Alaska Cruise Packing List for Men

• long sleeve or flannel shirts
• shorts or cargo pants/convertible pants
• gym clothes
• bathing suit (for indoor pool or hot tub)
• smart casual wear (evening)
• khakis or nice jeans
• Nice shirts or sweaters
• Suit or tuxedo
• dress shirts
• hiking boots or waterproof shoes
• baseball cap

Related:   Cruise Wear for Men: Men’s Packing List for a Cruise

Things to Bring on an Alaska Cruise (essentials & gear)

Beyond clothing, there are many things you’ll want to pack for your Alaskan cruise vacation.

Consider the activities you’ll be doing in the ports of call in Alaska. Perhaps you’re going whale watching in Juneau , dog-sledding on Mendenhall Glacier or walking around the town in Skagway.

These are the must-haves to pack for shore excursions and day trips in Alaska.

Bringing your own pair of compact travel binoculars is an Alaska cruise must-have! Whether you’re on an excursion or looking out at the incredible scenery and wildlife from your balcony on the cruise ship, make sure to have one per person.

Recommended: Folding travel binoculars (check price & see over 8000 Amazon reviews here)

Thermal Undergarments

When people say to dress in layers for Alaska, it starts with thermal undergarments . If you plan on visiting the glaciers, you can expect if to be cold and chilly. If you wear a base layer, you’ll keep warm and comfortable.

Base layer for women

Recommended: Base layer thermal wear (receives excellent reviews)

Base layer for men

This base layer for men is a best-seller that really should be on your Alaska cruise packing list.

Recommended: Thermal base layer for men

Puffer Coat

While you won’t need a jacket every day in Alaska, if you are cruising during the colder months, there will be times you’ll be happy to have a thin warm puffer coat. 

Puffer jacket for women

This puffer jacket is lightweight, but is made with thin insulation and heat reflective lining. 

Recommended: Puffer jacket for women (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Men’s puffer jacket

This men’s puffer jacket is very lightweight and packs up small and tight, while still being insulated and warm.

Recommended: Lightweight men’s puffer jacket (see details & price on Amazon here)

Waterproof Jacket

Wear a waterproof jacket (not water resistant) with a fleece or warm sweater underneath on rainy days!

Recommended: Men’s Columbia waterproof jacket (well made – excellent reviews)

Thin Gloves

The best gloves you can bring on your Alaska cruise are one touch gloves . These thin gloves will keep your hands warm, but also allow you to use your smart phone and take photos and videos.

Recommended: One touch gloves (for men & women)

A warm hat is an Alaska must-have! Consider a Carhartt knit hat , literally everyone’s favorite hat! It’s warm, comfortable and actually looks good on both men and women!

Recommended: Carhartt Warm hat (see colors & over 100,000 5* Amazon reviews)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

Convertible Pants

Consider packing a pair of convertible pants (cargo style pants) . These versatile pants are great for the outdoors, especially if you’re cruising to Alaska in June or July when you just may want a pair of shorts.

Recommended: Convertible pants (see colors & reviews on Amazon)

Rain Poncho

Some rain is common in Alaska. Even on milder days, packing a light rain poncho in your backpack just in case, is a smart idea.

Recommended: Unisex rain poncho (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Insect Repellant

Bring insect repellant on your Alaska cruise. You’ll definitely need it for any hiking tours and excursions, as well as other times.

Recommended: Insect repellant (protects for 10 hours)

Polarized Sunglasses

Sunglasses aren’t only for Caribbean cruises. When the sun reflects off the glaciers, polarized sunglasses will be essential. Even on sunny sea days on a cruise, these will come in handy.

Recommended: Polarized sunglasses (durable with protection rope)

Waterproof Dry Bag

A waterproof dry bag is great for all cruises where you may have water based or active excursions. If you get one for your Alaska cruise, you can keep it on your Caribbean, Bahamas or Bermuda cruise packing list as well!

Recommended: Waterproof dry bag (check price and 5* Amazon reviews)

Waterproof Backpack

A lightweight waterproof backpack is a must for excursions and day trips in Alaska, but also makes a handy embarkation day carry on bag for your first cruise day. Due to the potential for heavy rain in any of the Alaska cruise ports, make sure your backpack is waterproof and not water-resistant.

Recommended: Waterproof backpack (see price details & color options here)

Waterproof Shoes

An Alaska cruise packing list wouldn’t be complete without waterproof shoes. Make sure your waterproof hiking shoes are comfortable, breathable and have support for your feet.

Ladies waterproof shoes

Recommended: Columbia waterproof hiking shoes (womens)

Men’s waterproof shoes

Recommended: Columbia waterproof hiking shoes (men)

Hiking Socks

During any month, it can rain in Alaska, which means the potential for wet feet. Make sure to pack some moisture control socks (hiking or wicking socks). These are perfect for keeping your feet drier and supported.

Recommended: Moisture control socks (highly rated 150,000+ reviews)

Don’t forget to bring sunscreen. These travel size sunscreens are easy to pack for your Alaska cruise, and can be used on future cruises as well.

Recommended: Sunscreen

Make sure to bring along some chap stick or lip balm for warm sunny days in Alaska, as well as the windy ones.

Recommended: Lip balm

Waterproof Phone Case

A waterproof phone case dry bag is an Alaska cruise essential. You’ll be able to take photos and use your touch screen, while your phone stays clean and dry.

Recommended: Waterproof phone case dry bag (compatible with most cell phones)

Portable Charger

Make sure to bring a fast charging portable phone charger on your Alaskan cruise. This will come in handy before, during and after your cruise as well.

Recommended: Portable phone charger (for newest phones)

Reusable Water Bottle

Consider bringing collapsible refillable water bottles , to save space in your backpack.

Recommended: Collapsible water bottles (leakproof)

Collapsible Hiking Polls

If you’re planning on hiking in Alaska, packing a lightweight walking stick or collapsible hiking polls will be very useful.

Recommended: Ultralight collapsible hiking poll (check price & 1500+ Amazon reviews)

Camera Equipment

There’s no question, you’ll be able to take some amazing photos in Alaska. Nature and wildlife is at it’s best!

Consider bringing along a good camera and lense to capture whales, bald eagles and bears.

Recommended: Lumix long zoom camera (great value for price – see reviews)

Compact Travel Umbrella

A small foldable umbrella is a useful accessory to have for your Alaska cruise. This compact umbrella is durable and windproof, which is what you need.

Recommended: Compact umbrella (windproof – see details)

Seasickness Medication & Prevention

Motion sickness is a possibility on all cruises, including cruises in Alaska. However, there are effective ways to prevent seasickness, hopefully before it starts.

These items are recommended:

Motion sickness patches

Tummydrops (ginger candies)

First Aid Kit

A cruise first aid kit with over the counter medications, bandages and other important items should be brought on every cruise. You can make your own, or purchase a first aid kit sold on Amazon.

Recommended: First aid kit

Video: 10 Things Cruisers Forget to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (& regret)

A insulated coffee mug is a great item to bring on your Alaska cruise. Just imagine enjoying a cup of coffee or hot chocolate as you sail through Glacier Bay.

Recommended: Insulated coffee mug (check price & reviews)

Cruise Essentials to Bring on an Alaska Cruise

These cruise items and travel gadgets will help to make your cabin more organized and comfortable during your Alaska cruise.

Over the door organizer

Hanging toiletry bag.

Save space in your cruise cabin bathroom by bringing a hanging toiletry bag .

Recommended: Hanging toiletry bag (over 25,000 5* reviews)

Magnet Hooks

Magnet hooks are a favorite cruise hack ! Add extra storage space to your cabin by using super strong magnet hooks on your cabin walls (they’re usually metal).

Recommended: Strong magnet hooks

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized, for before and during your cruise.

Recommended: Packing cubes (check price, colors & Amazon reviews here)

Luggage Tag Holders

Reusable luggage tag holders will save your time and aggravation.

Take a look for your specific cruise line here:

Princess 

Royal Caribbean

Celebrity 

Norwegian 

Carnival 

Holland America

Non-Surge Protected Power Strip

Cruise cabins are small, and often have only one or two electric outlets. It’s a good idea to bring along a non-surge protected power strip with USB outlets to charge all your devices. Note – you cannot bring a regular power strip from home as these are prohibited and will be confiscated.

Recommended: Non-surge protected power bar (cruise compliant)

Related:   Why Can’t You Bring a Surge Protected Power Strip on a Cruise?

Pou-Pourri is a unique product that cruisers swear by! Cruise ship cabins are small, and so are the bathrooms. Pou-Pourri is a “before you go spray” that works better than regular air freshener.

Recommended: Pou-Pourri

Travel Alarm Clock

Many cruisers like having a simple and reliable travel alarm clock that can sit on the bedside table. There’s nothing worse than being late for an excursion!

Recommended: Travel alarm clock (cruiser favorite 10,000+ reviews)

Electronic Organizer Case

These days, everyone needs a bag to organize cables, chargers, SD cards and more. This electronics organizer bag is a popular cruise item that’s very useful!

Recommended: Electronics organizer case (check price & over 5000 Amazon reviews here)

Alaska Cruise Packing FAQ’s

How to layer clothing for an alaska cruise.

Since the weather in Alaska is unpredictable and can vary, the best way to dress for days on land is by layering your clothing. In this way, as the day warms up and you become more active, you can remove layers and be comfortable. 

Wear a base layer of thermal undergarments for colder days. On top of this, add a thick long sleeve shirt, fleece or sweater. A waterproof lined jacket or puffer coat can be worn on top as well.

On milder days in Alaska, you may be able to wear and t-shirt or long sleeve shirt. However, you’ll still want to dress in layers so you can put on a fleece sweatshirt or warm sweater as needed. A rain poncho should always be in your backpack for Alaska excursions and day trips.

What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise Formal Night

Although Alaska cruises tend to be less dressy than Caribbean cruises, most Alaska cruises have formal nights , elegant or chic nights. For ladies, a longer sleeve cocktail dress, gown or pantsuit is perfect. You can also wear a pashmina or shawl on your shoulders.

Men can wear suits, dress pants and a dress shirt or a tuxedo. Don’t forget to pack your dress shoes, socks, belt and tie.

Do You Need a Bathing Suit for an Alaskan Cruise?

Even though it’s fairly cold in Alaska, you should definitely pack a bathing suit. You’ll likely want to use the hot tub or perhaps even an indoor pool during your Alaskan cruise.

Video: Alaska Cruise Essentials

Related & Popular Posts

• What to Wear for an Alaska Cruise (day, evening, formal night)
• 5 Practical Alaska Whale Watching Tips You Need to Know
• 17 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
• The Ultimate Guide to Cruise Gratuities
• 17 Rookie Mistakes First Time Cruisers Should Avoid
• 50 Must-have Cruise Essentials – Amazon List
• Best Travel Gadgets to Bring on a Cruise (tech items & electronics)

Final Thoughts on What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Getting ready and packing for an Alaskan cruise can be challenging, but well worth it!.

In this post we went over what to pack for an Alaska cruise, which includes an Alaska cruise packing list for men and women and useful cruise accessories.

Have you been or are you planning to go on a cruise to Alaska? What are some items that you’ll be packing?

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

15 Comments

My husband and I enjoy your YouTube videos so much. We have learned so much about cruising from you. Keep up the good work.

Thanks Ann! I really appreciate that and I’m so glad they’ve been helpful!

Thanks, I find your information VERY helpful.

Thanks Dave, I’m so glad the info is useful.

Have a wonderful cruise!

Hi Llana – I really enjoy your videos. Very informative. I just completed a one week cruise to Alaska on NCL Bliss (April 15-22, 2023). I went solo in a balcony cabin. I was pleasantly surprised at the storage in the cabin. The bed was also super comfy. I had great weather. Brought a puffy coat, a puffy vest, fleece pullover and tee shirts. Instead of packing thermal layers I packed lightweight merino sweaters that could be worn during the day with jeans but nice enough to wear for dinner as well that eliminated the need for a thermal layer. I was plenty warm with my merino sweater and puffy jacket. Merino socks were also the way to go. I didn’t need a separate pair for every day because merino doesn’t absorb odors and dries out very quickly. I wore my merino socks 3 times and could have left the rest of the socks at home. Loved the Columbia waterproof shoes you recommended. They were my go to and were so comfortable to wear on my excursions. I could have left my hair tools at home. I went to the salon and had my hair done every 2-3 days. It was an expense (about $60 each time) but the style lasted really well and was such a time saver. I could never style my hair the way a stylist can. It was a special treat. I have more insights specifically on NCL Bliss and what was worth spending money on and what I wouldn’t do again. Happy to share if anyone is interested.

Thanks so much for sharing!

$60 for getting your hair done doesn’t sound so bad at all! I think I’ll get that done after my snorkeling excursion!

FUTURE CRUISE: Navigator of the Seas October 2023 PRIOR CRUISES: Cruise 1 Monarch of the Seas 01/30/06 Cruise 2 Monarch of the Seas 01/22/07 Cruise 3 Monarch of the Seas 01/28/08 Cruise 4 Carnival Paradise 02-08-10

Sounds great!

I will be cruising to Alaska on NCL Biss in September. I would appreciate any other insights tailored to NCL Bliss.

Hi Ilana My compliments on a useful, well written packing guide for my Alaska Cruise. My question is: How do I determine the size of dry bag I need? (I find it difficult to relate the size in “liters” posted on Amazon with what the bag will hold). Thank you for your help.

I’m glad this was helpful. If you don’t have a water excursion planned, a waterproof backpack should be fine. 30 L is usually a small-medium bag, 40 L is a larger bag (based on my experience). Enjoy your cruise!

A lot of the clothing items are great for my October-November 2023 cruise in case the weather changes. I’m going to pull things from your list because we have a forward-facing balcony cabin. It does have a plexiglass-type windbreak attached to the rail, but still want to be prepared for early-early mornings!

You are a role model for an Alaska cruise, living in Canada!

Thanks for sharing! Have an amazing cruise 🙂

Love your videos. They’re given me a lot of insite on how to pack for Alaska. Going in September on Celebrity Eclipse. Can’t wait. Feel more prepared now due to your videos. Thanks.

I’m so glad they’ve been helpful! Enjoy your Alaska cruise!

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• Alaska / Cruise Tips / Cruising / Glaciers and Scenic Cruising / Packing Lists and Shopping Guides

What Should I Pack For My Cruise To Alaska?

by Prof. Cruise · Published June 14, 2021 · Updated February 6, 2024

Even experienced cruisers find themselves asking this question prior to their first sailing to Alaska: “What the heck do I pack?” Because if you just followed your typical cruise packing list, you’d end up looking something like this:

I mean, you should still pack a swimsuit for heated pools and hot tubs, but you’re not going to spend a lot of time showing off your wax job and tan. Instead, you’ll find people relaxing on deck looking more like this:

Maybe I like cruising to Alaska so much because I get first degree burns just contemplating stepping into the sun from under the full shade of a tree and because I got my first (and last) bikini wax five years ago just prior to a big extended family cruise to Bermuda . I’m still in therapy and applying a nightly ointment.

In any case, I’m fortunate enough to get to cruise to Alaska frequently (I live in downtown Seattle within walking distance of the cruise piers, so I shop for bargains and hop on multiple sailings each season) and after some significant trial and error, think I finally have packing for an Alaska cruise mastered.

I’ll be focusing here on packing items unique to Alaska. That’s to say you shouldn’t interpret this as permission to leave general cruising essentials like prescription meds and Poo-Pourri at home!

What Clothes Should I Bring On My Cruise To Alaska?

Let’s begin with clothes, because they ain’t letting you onto the ship without clothes, and then we’ll move onto other items you’ll need to avoid being attacked by a bear and such. Note that I’ve focused most on cold and wet weather clothing. The amount of cold and wet weather clothing you’ll need will vary depending on the specific weather conditions you experience on your sailing. Check the forecast for each port a few days before your cruise and adjust your clothing as necessary. But these are items I ALWAYS have on hand prior to an Alaska cruise (and more times than not, I’ve needed them all):

Women’s Clothing For An Alaskan Cruise

I’ve included some specific styles and brands that I like and recommend (affiliate links below), but any similar item that you may already have or prefer will, of course, work too. It would be fun if we all showed up to the ship in the same outfit though. Or awkward? No, fun – let’s do it!

1- A waterproof rain coat . Ketchikan gets precipitation, on average, 234 days per year. Expect rain and hit the casino that night if you don’t have it (luck is on your side, friend!).

2- Waterproof hiking pants . So your bottom half isn’t resentful of your dry top half.

3- Wool hiking socks . I remember having extremely cold feet on my honeymoon cruise (my first to Alaska). Don’t worry, I was already happily married. I just forgot warm socks.

4- A fleece for layering . There can be fairly dramatic temperature shifts in Alaska, with morning and evening being very chilly and afternoons during the summer getting very warm. Pack items you can layer and shed as needed depending on the weather or for a little strip tease in your cabin later. Be sure to get your partner/spouse one of the books I’ll be recommending though, because with all those layers it might take a while to get to the good part.

5- A warm hat . To keep your head warm, but also to avoid this:

6- Waterproof hiking boots . Break them in in advance though, unless you’re prepared to tip extra for your tour guide to “sack of potatoes” you over his shoulder back to the ship.

7- A packable puffer coat . Even if you’re cruising to Alaska during the summer, you’ll want to pack a warm coat for out on deck and especially for your scenic cruising days. It can get cold. And I mean COLD. I used to lived in Michigan where my eyebrows didn’t unthaw from November to March and I STILL froze on my first cruise to Alaska. Trust me, pack a coat just in case. I recommend a puffer coat that can be jammed into a little bag and then stuffed inside a shoe to save suitcase space. I really like this one for women (it’s a great value!).

8- Waterproof, touch screen gloves . So your hands stay warm while you’re snapping glacier selfies. While I look hot (as in warm, but also sexy AF) in this coat, hat, glasses getup, my hands were freezing.

Men’s Clothing For An Alaskan Cruise

Here are the men’s versions minus the witty commentary, because it really wasn’t that funny the first time around.

1- A waterproof rain coat .

2- Waterproof hiking pants .

3- Wool hiking socks .

4- A fleece for layering .

5- A warm hat.

6- Waterproof hiking boots .

7- A packable puffer coat .

8- Waterproof, touch screen gloves .

Other Clothes To Pack For A Cruise To Alaska

I’d also throw in a few slightly offensive graphic tees and a pair of versatile shorts for formal night. Just kidding. Although formal nights (and all nights) tend to be much more casual on cruises to Alaska (think about what you’d wear to TGI Friday’s on a Saturday night and pack that). But do bring the tees and shorts because sometimes you’ll get a really warm day in port or sometimes you don’t feel like chit chatting at the bar:

What Else Should I Pack For My Cruise To Alaska?

1- Insulated travel mug . Pack two of these. One for coffee to keep you warm and alert on deck while you obsessively look for wildlife for days on end. And one to pee in so you don’t lose your prime spot. Best to buy two different colors so you don’t mix them up. Maybe one in black and one in yellow.

2- Sport sunglasses . Glare from the water and ice can be quite strong. Also glare from my pasty legs in the hot tub can be quite strong. Pack a pair of lightweight sport sunglasses.

3- Sunscreen . So white that medical schools use me to train their students because you can see right through my skin to examine how live organs work, I’ve become a bit of a sunscreen sommelier. I use this Thrive sunscreen because it’s natural, reef safe, plant-based with a hint of antioxidants, and works great. Bring whatever you like though. Just remember to BRING it, because it will be expensive to buy onboard.

4- Trekking poles . For balance and stability on walks and hikes on uneven surfaces and for fighting off bears if you forget item #7.

5- Bug repellent wipes . For repelling bugs and getting all your drinks paid for by fellow cruisers getting eaten alive by mosquitoes on your excursions, “an Off! wipe in exchange for a drink at the bar later?”

6- A good camera (or smartphone with a very good camera). I’ve gone full Goldilocks and the Three Bears on this one. I brought my giant, expensive DSLR camera with 40 pounds of accessories on my first few cruises to Alaska and got some great shots of the ship pulling away from Skagway without me because I couldn’t run fast enough with all my equipment as they were pulling up the gangway. So then I decided to leave my camera at home and just use my phone. But when I shared my photos with people back home, they kept trying to wipe dust off the screen while I grew increasingly frustrated, “no, that’s a breaching 66,000 pound humpback whale!” So finally I settled on this premium quality but compact point and shoot camera . I get great wildlife shots, but I don’t need a post-cruise visit to the chiropractor.

7- Bear bells . My husband Mr. Cruise spent a LOT of time together working from home during the pandemic. And he seemed to walk into the room EVERY TIME I was about to eat directly out of a giant tub of ice cream. So I made him start wearing these bells so I could hear him coming and wouldn’t get startled and accidentally attack him in defense of my Cherry Garcia. But these are also great for excursions into bear country. And pretty much everywhere in Alaska is bear country. They will alert bears to your presence so you don’t startle them (that’s when aggressive bear behavior, while rare, is most likely to happen).

8- Binoculars . A high quality pair of binoculars is a must so you can pretend to see the wildlife pointed out to you by the onboard naturalist. Be sure to practice your “wows!” in advance so you sound convincing (you don’t want to hurt her feelings or admit you have no idea where 2 o’clock is). If you’re looking for an inexpensive, but excellent pair, I have these and love them.

9- Reading material. I’m of the opinion that everyone who cruises to Alaska should read John Muir’s Travels in Alaska . The book contains Muir’s lyrical observations from three explorations between 1879 and 1890 on foot and via canoe through the mountains and fjords of Southeastern Alaska. But if you just want a harrowing, page-turning novel set in Alaska to read on deck, I highly recommend The Great Alone , by Kristin Hannah. If you have any other Alaska-related books you’d suggest, please mention them in the comments.

10- Hiking backpack . The only way I can get my 11 year-old to hike with me is to pack a backpack full of snacks to bribe him with, “I’ll trade you this bag of chips for 10 more steps.” This also works for wives who hate fishing. Throw in some wine and a giant bag of chocolate covered almonds and frame it as a romantic picnic on an intimate vessel with a local guide to point out wildlife. But be sure to also pack her waterproof pants for large swells and fish guts. But seriously, a hiking backpack that folds up small in your luggage, to carry your port essentials and to stuff full of your shedded layers as the temp rises making it impossible to find your tiny tube of sunscreen all the way at the bottom, is essential. I like this one , but anything durable, but compact will do.

The Number One Most Important Thing To Pack For Your Cruise To Alaska

Me! Prof. Cruise! I’m compact enough to fit in a medium-sized roller bag, don’t snore (I mean a lot of other sounds come out of me at night, especially if I dinner at the buffet, but we won’t get into that) and will happily serve as your right-hand [wo]man, the Robin to your Batman, the Sam to your Frodo. Whadaya say? I’ll interpret your wide eyes and dramatic shake of the head from side to side as an enthusiastic yes and declare…

Class Dismissed. I’ve got a cruise to catch!

Don’t forget to PIN so you can refer back to these packing tips later!

Homework (10 points): Check out my Guide to Cruising from Seattle , First Time Cruisers to Alaska: Answers to 10 Common Questions , and all my previous Alaska port posts:

Glaciers and Scenic Cruising

Glacier Bay

Icy Strait Point

And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog (scroll up to the top right if on a computer or keep scrolling down if on a mobile device) and follow Prof. Cruise on social media:

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7 Responses

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SQUEE! I subbed! Isn’t this the part where we hop around and hug and squeal? I thought so! I’m denainwyo on cruise critic, the one who asked you about doing this thing solo.

Read the first sentence of your post about pineapples and snorted peach fresca out my nose. Girl, how have you been around cruising this long and not known about that????

Deana! Giiiiiiiiiirl!

The better question is, why didn’t anyone tell me?!?! So much for my cruise “friends!” I think they were all hiding in the hallway laughing as they sent their husbands to pretend to proposition me. Live and learn and cruise (but NOT that kind of cruise!) on!

You would have told me though, right? Right?!?!

Heck NO! I’d have set up a hidden camera and enjoyed the show! Way better than whatever they’re doing in the theater!

Seriously though, thank you for this blog. I’m soaking up the lessons.

[…] Homework (5 points): Review my other Alaska port posts here. And check out my Packing Guide For Alaska. […]

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Must-Have Items for Your Alaska Cruise Packing List

While fantasizing about the taste of fresh-caught Alaska halibut or daydreaming about the glory of the great glaciers, many travelers wonder what to pack for an Alaska cruise . The items you choose to bring can make your dreams an even better reality. You should include everything from clothing and weather coverage — like a raincoat and sunscreen —­­ to accessories and equipment that will complement your every adventure. Here’s what to pack for a cruise to Alaska.

Whether you choose to zipline through forests or kayak through a crystalline fjord, the best attire for your daily affairs is casual, active sportswear. Princess travels to Alaska from late spring to early fall. Temperatures can range anywhere from 30-80 degrees Fahrenheit depending on the port of call and time of year. To make sure you’re prepared for the warmth of the afternoon sun and the gentle touch of the evening sea breeze, pack items that can be layered, including:

• Long-sleeve shirts
• A warm, water-repellent jacket
• A lightweight windbreaker
• Walking shoes or sneakers
• Touchscreen gloves

While your daytime attire may be more relaxed, there are several opportunities to dress up while on board. Formal dinner nights call for cocktail dresses or gowns for women and tuxedos or suits for men. The number of formal evenings will depend on the length of your cruise. To help determine what to pack for dinner wear, visit our FAQ packing page .

Medicine and More

All Princess cruises come equipped with 24-hour medical service. You may still want to include the following items on your Alaska cruise packing list to bring on shore excursions:

• Insect repellent
• Nausea-relief medicine
• Daily medication

Whether admiring monumental glaciers from your stateroom balcony or coming face-to-face with exquisite wildlife, an Alaska cruise offers endless picture-worthy moments. Consider packing the following devices so that you can capture each untouched landscape and every snow-capped summit:

• Waterproof camera
• USB converter
• Portable charger
• Protective phone case
• Memory cards
• Extra batteries

Princess has more balconies and suites than any other cruise line in Alaska, allowing you to maximize your glacier-viewing experience at every turn. You may also want to pack binoculars for an even closer look at all the splendor the Great Land has to offer.

Some of the most awe-inspiring Alaska shore excursions are the scenic hikes that lead you through lush rainforests to snow-capped peaks or scenic, sandy beaches. Since most of these expeditions can last several hours, make sure you have the right gear to keep you moving through Alaska’s unparalleled habitats. Popular items include:

• Packaged snacks from onboard cafes
• Collapsible hiking poles
• An umbrella and/or rain cover

Knowing what to pack for an Alaska cruise can make your journey to new lands even more seamless, allowing you to make the most of your vacation. As you begin crafting your Alaska cruise packing list, allow every item to stir your imagination and spark a sense of excitement for the extraordinary experiences that lie ahead.

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9 bucket list cruises for seniors and retirees.

These cruise lines appeal to older travelers with adults-only sailings, accessible staterooms and more.

Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Make the memories of a lifetime on a cruise for seniors and retirees.

Cruises are an often dreamt-about retirement goal, especially for long-time cruise lovers who have always been short on time. Retirement can be the ideal season of life to sail off into the sunset for several weeks, whether to far-off lands like Antarctica or a peaceful journey down the Danube. In some cases, seniors embrace their golden years by booking epic, monthslong voyages around the world.

Many small- and medium-sized ships cater to the over-60 crowd, but that doesn't mean guests will be relegated to shuffleboard and bingo games. Today's seniors still have plenty of adventures to experience and memories to make, both on board and on shore. The following cruise lines offer the top bucket list sailings for seniors and retirees.

Windstar Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, oceania cruises, holland america line, cunard line, aurora expeditions.

Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

Anyone who has ever fancied a near-private yacht-style cruise experience will love the vibe of Windstar Cruises. Each of its yachts holds between 148 and 342 guests, with a 1-to-1.5 crew-to-guest ratio. This makes for more intimate sailings – not only because there's simply less ship to maneuver on foot, but also because Windstar ships have access to ports that megaships aren't permitted to enter. The end result is the unique ability to explore lesser-known destinations and smaller cities. While Windstar is not a strictly adults-only cruise line , you won't see any little ones on board, either. Children must be at least 8 years old to sail on the line, which further adds to the high-end ambiance.

In 2021 and 2022, Windstar's Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend ships received a refresh. The three all-suite yachts were cut in half and enhanced with new suites and amenities, bringing the capacity to 312 passengers on each vessel. These Star Plus Class ships also boast new restaurants, a reimagined spa and fitness center, and more efficient engines, among other improvements. Elevators help make the Star Plus Class ships more accessible for anyone with limited mobility (note that Wind Class ships Wind Star and Wind Spirit do not have elevators). Additionally, Star Breeze, Star Pride and Star Legend each have four wheelchair-accessible suites, which feature a smaller queen bed and reduced "wheel around" space.

On board, passengers can drop by the Open Bridge anytime for an impromptu lesson in chart reading, listen to live music in the Lounge or jump directly into the water from the Watersports Platform. Culinary highlights include restaurant Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso, which serves a twist on modern Spanish cuisine by the 10-time Michelin-starred chef, as well as culinary shore excursions with hands-on cooking classes and chef-led market tours to explore fresh local ingredients.

The cruise industry is abuzz with interest in one of Windstar's newest itineraries, which introduces passengers to the Middle East. The Inaugural Sparkling Sands & Cities itinerary sets sail in November 2023, visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Doha, Qatar; and Muscat, Oman, among others. Foodies will be especially interested in the James Beard Foundation's Sparkling Sands & Cities of the Persian Gulf itinerary, scheduled to embark in February 2024. Windstar's other destinations include Asia, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the South Pacific and more.

Read: How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance

Adam Hillier | Courtesy of Viking

Spanning seven continents via river, ocean and expedition vessels, Viking is considered a quintessential high-end cruise experience. For more than 25 years, it has provided destination-focused sailings designed to allow its guests to explore the world in supreme comfort. Its voyages particularly appeal to travelers older than 50 who are interested in science, history, culture and cuisine.

Every Viking cruise fare includes a complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, onboard meals, beer and wine (with lunch and dinner service), Wi-Fi access, and all port charges and government taxes. On Viking's ocean and expedition vessels, guests also enjoy complimentary self-service laundry, access to the Thermal Suite in The Spa, high tea service, alternative restaurant dining and 24-hour room service. But the best part for older cruisers may be what's not included on Viking sailings: kids. This adults-only cruise line is dedicated to guests 18 and older.

Viking's fleet – with capacities ranging from 80 to 998 passengers (on river and ocean cruises, respectively) – feature elegant Scandinavian-style decor. The small ship cruises get closer to their destinations, spend more time in port and include more overnight stays, too.

One of Viking's newest ocean vessels, the all-veranda Viking Saturn, debuted in 2023 and focuses on European sailings. Its 10-day Empires of the Mediterranean route from Venice to Athens is particular popular, with stops in Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Greece. Another in-demand route is the Danube Christmas Delights itinerary on the Viking Longships, which visits enchanting villages, cultural capitals and iconic Christmas markets for a festive holiday cruise .

To suit their needs, guests can choose between different activity levels for walking tour-focused shore excursions. For bibliophiles, The Library on each ship is curated by acclaimed London bookshop Heywood Hill, as well as Cambridge University's Scott Polar Research Institute on the expedition vessels. Viking also holds exclusive partnerships with prestigious scientific institutions, which makes it possible for at least 36 experts – including field research scientists, mountain guides, submarine pilots and other specialists – to accompany passengers on each expedition journey.

Book a  Viking cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Billed as one of the world's most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines , Uniworld Boutique River Cruises features small ships with an average capacity of 120 guests and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the rivers of 1-to-2.4. Part of the allure of the small ship size is a more personalized travel experience that delivers passengers to destinations ocean liners aren't able to visit (such as the Venetian Lagoon, where large ships have been banned from entry).

Uniworld ships are akin to floating boutique hotels, designed to reflect the destinations in which they sail – a vast list that includes ports in Europe, Africa, Asia and South America. Guests will appreciate the exquisite details on board, including unique artwork from some of the most famous artists in the world (think: Pablo Picasso and David Hockney), handmade fabrics from local artisans and handcarved furnishings.

Additionally, Uniworld's all-inclusive cruise experience includes all onboard meals, which are made with fresh farm-to-table ingredients, as well as unlimited premium spirits and fine wines. In the base fare, voyages also include a selection of shore excursions, daily entertainment, fitness centers, wellness classes, airport transfers, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi access and more.

Uniworld makes it particularly easy to visit many of Europe's most enchanting Christmas towns on a single cruise, where passengers can visit the festive holiday markets and get all their seasonal shopping done. For seniors with more time to spare, the Rivers of the World Cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. This 55-day itinerary departs from Lima, Peru , in October 2024 and takes 40 guests across three continents via four ships to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Find  Uniworld Boutique River Cruises  on GoToSea.

This upscale brand recently relaunched under A&K Travel Group with a reimagined vision. Crystal Serenity (which holds up to 740 guests) and Crystal Symphony (carrying up to 606 passengers) underwent a combined $150 million dollar refurbishment that includes updated suites and new wellness offerings at the Aurōra spa. While sailing the high seas with Crystal, passengers' needs are met at every step of the way – a perk made possible by the nearly 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. A dedicated butler in every stateroom and suite will help with packing and unpacking, stocking your fridge, making restaurant reservations, booking excursions and more.

Crystal offers impressive enrichment programming, hosting high-profile lecturers with backgrounds in sports, entertainment and science. Spend some time refining your technology skills at Computer University@Sea and perfecting your ballroom dance moves, photography abilities, golf swing or bridge game. There's also a well-stocked library containing books on a range of subjects, along with board games and a pickleball court.

Dining options on board include Umi Uma, a Japanese-Peruvian dining venue developed by Michelin-starred chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. Unlike some other cruise lines that charge a fee for each specialty dining reservation, Crystal allows guests to enjoy one complimentary reservation per person for sailings of 11 days or less. After dinner, nightly entertainment can be found in several venues, such as live music in the Galaxy Lounge.

Crystal sails on itineraries of varying length to the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Alaska, the Caribbean, Canada, Africa and the Indian Ocean, the South Pacific, and Asia. If you're planning a bucket list trip, consider the line's 123-night 2025 World Cruise, which travels to 62 destinations across 31 countries between Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Barcelona, Spain .

Read: Crystal Symphony Review: First Impressions of Crystal's Revamped Ship

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Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Seniors with a penchant for epicurean delights tend to gravitate toward Oceania Cruises for their cruise vacations – it's known for having one of the finest culinary programs at sea. This cruise line focuses on small ship luxury, with seven ships currently in service carrying between 670 and 1,250 passengers each. An eighth ship, Allura, is set to debut in 2025.

Newer ships like the Vista – the first of the Allura class vessels, which joined the fleet in May 2023 – have wheelchair-accessible rooms and a plethora of onboard culinary venues. A few highlights include Aquamar Kitchen, offering an array of wellness-inspired dishes; The Bakery at Baristas, serving freshly baked pastries; and new signature restaurant Ember, an upscale American eatery. Don't miss the Cellar Master's Wine Luncheon: a two-hour, hand-selected tasting led by the head sommelier that features a five-course menu paired with premium wines for each dish.

Senior cruisers will enjoy the Aquamar Spa's signature massage therapies, which use natural ingredients and modern techniques to release stress and tension. The Vitality Center offers a steam room, a thalassotherapy pool and heated lounge beds for extra relief. Onboard entertainment on Oceania, meanwhile, includes musical performances and immersive shows with dance numbers led by "Dancing With the Stars" choreographer Britt Stewart. The Culinary Center is a fan favorite for seniors, offering the opportunity to practice cooking techniques and learn about the unique flavor profiles of regional dishes.

You'll be hard-pressed to find a location Oceania doesn't sail to, with cruises to Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, Antarctica and more, as well as transoceanic voyages and 180-day world cruises. Oceania also provides a good overall value, thanks to its included specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions, round-trip airfare and transfers, and in-port shuttle service.

Explore  Oceania Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

As a premium, midsize cruise line, Holland America Line offers plenty of destinations, excursions and activities aligned to an older audience. The smaller ship size, which averages around 2,000 passengers per sailing, allows for many of the ships to dock in ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, getting passengers even closer to the destinations they're visiting. For older passengers who may have limited mobility, the option to simply disembark the ship without waiting for a tender or other means of transportation can make or break a trip.

Holland America Line, though family-friendly, offers myriad excursions that are primarily adult-oriented and open to all types of adventurers. Shore excursions are clearly marked with an activity level ranging from easy to strenuous, from leisurely wine tastings and relaxing strolls through ancient towns to ATV rides through the jungle and dog-sledding on a glacier only accessible via helicopter.

Onboard entertainment and activities are plentiful; guests often enjoy the multiple music lounges and venues on each ship, along with hosted programs such as bingo and trivia. For seniors who can't get enough of the pickleball trend, Holland America Line has partnered with the Professional Pickleball Association to bring branded courts and equipment on board. After all that action on the court, unwind in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon with a rejuvenating treatment. (Pro tip: Add on the Thermal Suite for access to the healing hydrotherapy circuit and heated, tiled loungers that will melt all your cares away.)

The numerous onboard dining options bring together cuisines and flavors from all over the world, with specialty restaurants featuring menus developed by a team of master chefs known as Holland America's Culinary Council. In addition to casual dining in the Lido Market and multicourse affairs in The Dining Room, each ship also features the Pinnacle Grill, an onboard steakhouse offering high-end meats and seafood. Other specialty restaurants vary by ship and may include Italian eatery Canaletto and the French-inspired Rudi's Sel de Mer.

Holland America Line sails all over the world. It does an especially nice job with its Greek island cruises and Adriatic Sea adventures. One of the line's newest ships, Rotterdam , is a crowd-pleaser with its sleek design details and an onboard art collection valued at more than $4.1 million. Still, longtime favorites like the refurbished Oosterdam and Eurodam host plenty of happy guests.

Compare  Holland America Line  cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Azamara

Another all-inclusive, senior-friendly brand is Azamara, which boasts a long list of perks covered in the base fare. Your one-time payment covers meals and beverages, including standard spirits, international beers and a limited amount of wine by the glass; you can upgrade to a beverage package if you'd like access to premium brands. Other included amenities range from self-service laundry to gratuities to special cultural evenings featuring onboard or onshore performances by locals.

There are four ships in Azamara's fleet. Each carries up to 702 passengers, so they still fit comfortably into the small ship category and can access less-visited ports than larger vessels. Destinations on Azamara include ports throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, the Americas, and the Caribbean; there are also transoceanic itineraries. If spending roughly half a year on a cruise ship sounds like your ideal retirement plan, consider the Azamara World Voyage in 2025. Over 155 nights, you'll visit 37 countries.

Each of the line's ships has staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, and Azamara has created customized shore excursion tours for guests with disabilities as well. Accessible tours are designed for full-time wheelchair users or guests unable to navigate motor-coach steps.

There are plenty of entertainment options on board, including Club Crooner's hits from current and classic songbirds, as well as ship-specific venues with various song and dance performances. Plus, every cruise hosts a White Night signature dinner and entertainment event on the pool deck (so be sure to pack your favorite white attire). Unwind with darts, arts and crafts, pingpong, shuffleboard, trivia contests, bingo and dance lessons. Don't miss opportunities to attend lectures through the enrichment program.

Find an  Azamara  cruise on GoToSea.

Christopher Ison | Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line's ocean liners have sailed between the U.K. and New York since 1840 – and the brand's relationship with the British monarchy is integral to its heritage. As such, each ship is named after a British queen. The newest ship, Queen Anne, joins the fleet in 2024.

In keeping with its history, Cunard Line has several signature experiences that help set the brand apart. Afternoon tea is a Cunard tradition observed daily in the Queen's Room; expect white-gloved waiters serving scones and finger sandwiches alongside infused teas in silver teapots (add Champagne for an additional fee). During gala evenings, guests don tuxedos and ballgowns for a sophisticated celebration you won't soon forget. Themes range from Masquerade to Roaring 20s; you'll get a heads-up before you pack your cruise attire .

Each of the four stateroom grades has its own dedicated fine dining restaurant with excellent service and indulgent menus, though there are several casual dining options as well – not to mention specialty dining venues for an additional fee. A host of activities will keep you busy day and night, including a library, open-air pools, fitness facilities, live music, theater performances, guest speaker events, board games, film screenings, art classes, planetarium shows (on Queen Mary 2) and group dance classes.

Accessible shore experiences are available in many ports, ranging from lower activity-level tours to adaptations for wheelchair users. Accessible staterooms are available on Queen Victoria , Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 ; these come with modifications like wider entryways, nonslip bathroom floors and shower seats.

Explore  Cunard Line  deals on GoToSea.

Scott Portelli | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Nothing says "once-in-a-lifetime" quite like embarking on an expedition to the world's most remote destinations – and, specifically, to Antarctica. For cruisers looking to explore this far-off land, Aurora Expeditions is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Founded by legendary adventurer Greg Mortimer, the brand sends an education-focused expedition team on each voyage, with a ratio of about one team member per every eight passengers. With an average of just 132 cruisers on these sailings, you'll get more one-on-one time with your expedition team.

Seniors can climb aboard Aurora Expeditions' Greg Mortimer or Sylvia Earle ship for innovative itineraries to the Great White Continent. When the ship isn't pausing to watch breaching whales, passengers can kayak between icebergs, visit penguin colonies or take guided hikes across the tundra. Aurora describes its cruises as "100% climate neutral," with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

All of Aurora Expeditions' voyages let travelers explore at their own pace, making it a great option for all ages. There are many included activities on each expedition, such as bird-watching, photography, lectures on wildlife, Zodiac cruises and near-shore excursions. The line will even outfit you with Muck boots and waterproof polar jackets. The entire voyage is laid-back, with an informal dress code.

On board, all cabins have a view of the ocean, and most have their own balcony. Tips are included in the cost of your cruise, and guests can enjoy a complimentary house wine or beer with dinner. Look forward to hearty dishes to help fuel your activities, with some buffet-style meals, a la carte options and a reservations-required restaurant on each ship.

Read: The Top Antarctica Cruises

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Jill Schildhouse has been an avid cruiser since the mid-'90s and has since visited dozens of destinations around the globe. Whether she's on the newest megaship, an older small ship or a luxury yacht, she loves life at sea. She used extensive research and her decades of experience as a cruiser to write this article (she has taken two cruises with her 70-year-old dad just this year). Schildhouse covers the travel industry for myriad top-tier outlets, including U.S. News & World Report, Travel + Leisure, AARP, Fodor's, Reader's Digest and Insider.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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You can spend two months exploring Japan, more for $8K on this cruise

If Japan is on your travel bucket list, why not take the scenic route?

Holland America Line’s new Majestic Japan cruise will take guests there and back over nearly two months in 2024. During the 53-day cruise, one of the cruise line’s Legendary Voyages , passengers will also visit Alaska and Hawaii and Canada, and feature multiple overnight stays.

“This cruise allows us to offer Japan ‘from your doorstep’ with no more than a domestic air flight to Seattle,” Paul Grigsby, the line’s Vice President of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, said in a statement.

Here’s what travelers can expect.

When is Holland America Line’s Majestic Japan cruise?

The Majestic Japan cruise will sail round-trip from Seattle on Sept. 1, 2024, on the line’s 1,964-passenger Westerdam ship.

Where will the cruise sail?

The cruise will make its first stop in Vancouver. Passengers can then take in views of glaciers in Alaska’s Inside Passage and Stephens Passage, before visiting ports including Juneau and Sitka.

“Because we can linger on our way, we have chosen to visit some of the best ports in Alaska, including Kodiak and Dutch Harbor, before landing at Kushiro, Hokkaido as (the) first port of call in Japan,” Grigsby said. Other ports include Yokohama and Kobe, where the ship will stay overnight, Kochi and Hiroshima.

Bring the bikini, leave the kids: 4 things to know about sailing with Virgin Voyages

Guests can visit sites like the Hiroshima Peace Memorial , and Grigsby said travelers may also see leaves turning in the high country around Mount Tateyama.

The rest of the itinerary will include stops in Kanazawa and Nagasaki, views of Iwo Jima, an overnight stay in Honolulu and more.

How much does the cruise cost?

The sailing currently starts at $8,084 per person based on double occupancy, according to Holland America’s website .

The fares include the majority of food on board, drinks like regular coffee and tea and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].