How do you pack for an Alaskan cruise? That is the query. When packing for our first Alaska cruise we had to do some severe pondering. Since then, we’ve taken two different Alaskan cruises plus a cruise to Antarctica and Greenland, so we now have realized loads about packing for polar areas. When touring to Alaska you could have to be ready for each kind of climate. Like different cruises, there are formal nights and cocktail evenings, however in Alaska, days are extra informal and the dinner apparel is extra relaxed. Alaska climate modifications rapidly, so you have to layers to tackle and off as wanted.
What To Pack For An Alaska Cruise
Packing for a cruise trip to Alaska is totally totally different than a Caribbean cruise. Caribbean cruises are straightforward to pack for. Throw in swimwear, beachwear flip-flops, and some good outfits for evenings and you’re good to go. When cruising to Alaska, you’ll have a mixture of scorching climate and chilly climate, so that you want to pack layers.
Weather in Alaska may be unpredictable, starting from heat and sunny to chilly and wet, usually inside the identical day. Also, onboard the ship, you’ll have a mixture of informal and formal occasions, and it’s possible you’ll be collaborating in shore excursions that transcend strolling excursions. You would possibly end up on a zodiac or kayak in the midst of a Fjord.
To see precisely what we packed for our Alaska Cruise skip to:
We’ve taken three totally different Alaska cruises and our newest took us down the Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska and British Columbia on the Nieuw Amsterdam ship by Holland America Cruise Line. This ship supplied the proper mixture of luxurious with journey, however it makes packing a little bit extra concerned since you’ll need journey and activewear, but additionally some formal and good informal clothes. Don’t fear, we’ve created the last word Alaska Cruise Packing listing so you’ll be snug and look good.
We have additionally taken a cruise to Alaska with Princess Cruises and UnCruise. Princess Cruises could be very related to Holland America Cruise Line, however if you need extra of an expedition cruise on a small ship to Alaska, try our expertise with UnCruise.
Alaska Cruise Packing Tips – Layering
When packing for an Alaska cruise, it’s important to take into consideration layering. Southeast Alaska may be very heat throughout the cruise season, however you’re nonetheless going to be cruising Arctic waters shut to glaciers and icebergs so that you’ll need each shorts and t-shirts with a mixture of thermal layers and water-resistant clothes.
Layered clothes: The climate in Alaska can change quickly, and layering will enable you to adapt to various circumstances. Consider packing T-shirts, lengthy-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and jackets. Waterproof Pants that convert to shorts are an amazing possibility for Alaska as you’ll be able to change rapidly.
Also bear in mind, in case you are cruising early or later within the Alaska cruise season, the climate will probably be cooler, so pack some heat wool socks and a heavier sweater for your mid-layer.
On Deck
Even if the solar is shining, there will probably be a really cool breeze. Standing on the deck you will have to have windproof and waterproof layers with a hat and gloves.
You’ll need to be snug so you’ll be able to actually soak up the great thing about this as soon as-in-a-lifetime scene. (don’t be that man in shorts coming out for solely 5 minutes as a result of he was too chilly)
On Shore
On land, it may be simply as unpredictable. When stopping at totally different Alaska cruise ports, you’ll encounter fully totally different climate and shore excursions.
The climate can change rapidly all through the Alaska cruise season and it may be surprisingly moist within the summertime. Juneau could also be scorching and balmy whereas Ketchikan might be wet and chilly. In truth, Ketchikan is among the wettest locations in North America. So, you’ll need to have an outer layer that’s each windproof and waterproof, you’ll need a mid-layer to maintain you heat on chilly days, however you’ll additionally need summer season garments for the odd stunning, and balmy day.
Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist
So, now that we perceive the unpredictability of the climate in Alaska, here’s a listing of advised gadgets you might have considered trying to pack for your Alaska cruise.
When packing for Alaska, understand that you will have layered clothes, waterproof outerwear, heat clothes, formal apparel, and informal apparel and most significantly don’t neglect snug footwear. Plus, simply since you are in Alaska, doesn’t imply you gained’t be swimming or having fun with the new tub, so make sure that to pack a showering go well with!
Waterproof Jacket
An outer waterproof layer is important if you need to get pleasure from your Alaskan cruise to the fullest. We’ve develop into large followers of Fjällräven and this Fjallraven High Coast Jacket isn’t solely wind and waterproof, it appears to be like good as properly. So whether or not you’re going on a forest hike or sitting in a historic saloon, you’ll look nice.
Fleece Midlayer
Even in the midst of summer season, it may be cool, so having a sensible mid-layer is a good suggestion. I discovered that I wore my mid fleece layer on a regular basis, so having one which doubles as mid-layer however can be fashionable sufficient to put on by itself is a good thought and Fjällräven has selections for males and Women’s Fleece.
Puffy Jacket
On the water, you might have considered trying to go for one thing a little bit hotter than a fleece mid-layer. We love our Canada Goose Hybridge puffy coat, however it’s costly. Dave additionally has this Marmot puffer jacket and it really works nice. Wear it beneath your windproof and water-resistant jacket or into city, both method, it appears to be like basic. Buy it on Amazon right here.
Trekking Pants
Whether you take a whale-watching tour, climbing to a glacier, or strolling by way of city, trekking pants are nice for an Alaska cruise. We like these Fjällräven Pants as a result of they appear to be 1,000,000 bucks whereas nonetheless having sturdiness, breathability, and fast dry of efficiency put on. See it on Amazon right here.
If you don’t have waterproof pants not less than plan to have water-resistant ones as a result of there may be nothing worse than being damp and moist. If you don’t have waterproof pants, these climbing trousers are light-weight and fast-dry.
Trekking Shirts
trekking shirt can double as good informal eveningwear. This trekking shirt by Fjällräven is breathable and wicks away moisture for extra adventurous excursions and actions whereas wanting adequate to put on to the restaurant at night time. You can purchase it right here.
Hiking Boots
If you intend to do numerous glacier excursions, canine sledding, climbing within the Tongass Forest, or heading out on zodiacs, we extremely suggest waterproof climbing boots. We have additionally used waterproof sneakers in Alaska. These waterproof boots are our go-to. Wearing climbing boots offers you correct ankle assist for uneven terrain, and when touchdown on a glacier or going canine sledding, you’ll be able to placed on some wool socks and keep toasty heat.
Waterproof Shoes
You don’t want to pack heavy climbing boots. If you’re strolling round city or on the ship, these work wonderful as properly. We’ve even worn simply waterproof sneakers on excursions like whale watching since we aren’t going into any muddy areas, however it nonetheless could also be moist on the boat. If you aren’t doing main actions, water-resistant sneakers will probably be sufficient.
We like Merrill model and Moab 3 waterproof climbing shoe is what we put on and it’s a very good all-round shoe that can maintain your ft heat and dry.
Gadgets and Gear for Your Alaska Cruise
Binoculars
You’ll doubtless see wildlife like eagles, whales, and bears, and binoculars will help you get a better look. Even if in case you have a zoom lens, binoculars will actually assist profit from recognizing wildlife and taking in the great thing about glaciers and icebergs up shut. We like these Tasco binoculars.
Camera There will probably be loads of stunning landscapes to {photograph}. We go into digicam gear additional beneath, however bear in mind you will have to have greater than your smartphone in Alaska. You’ll need a zoom lens to seize wildlife and a large angle lens to seize the huge glaciers and landscapes.
Lanyard for Cruise Ship Card
When occurring a cruise, you’ll have a cruise card that you just use to buy every thing. Even if in case you have an all-inclusive package deal, you have to to swipe your cruise card. We discovered {that a} lanyard works nice to maintain our playing cards so we don’t have to carry round a again whereas on board. This package deal affords 4 waterproof lanyards and baggage tags.
Magnet Hooks
There are by no means sufficient hooks in cruise cabins and when cruising in Alaska, you’re going to have extra sweaters, jackets, and layers hanging round. Magnetic Hooks are an amazing thought as cruise ship partitions are manufactured from steel. You can put them on a wall and cling your garments out of the way in which with ease.
Coffee Mug
A refillable mug is a should when on a cruise. Unless you’re ordering a specialty espresso (or have a package deal) you’ll be utilizing the small mugs at eating places. With a mug, you’ll be able to replenish your espresso and carry it across the ship with you. We have discovered this to be invaluable for espresso or tea drinkers. This personalised insulated espresso mug is nice for carrying on the ship because it captures the journey.
Hanging Organizer
Bathrooms may be small on a cruise ship and we love this hanging toiletry bag. We put every thing in it and it retains our toiletries clear and out of the way in which. We merely cling it on the again of the door or on the magnifying mirror when in use. When completed we will zip it up and retailer it away. See extra particulars.
Lanyard for Mobile Phone
When on a ship, I actually love having a security hook on my telephone or digicam. This waterproof floating case is common and can maintain your telephone dry whereas having it safely connected to your neck or wrist.
For extra packing ideas, learn our articles
Refillable Water Bottle
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is vital, particularly while you’re energetic and it’s an effective way to have water available whereas on a cruise as a substitute of regularly needing to buy water.
Backpack or Daypack
A small day pack could be very helpful for carrying gadgets throughout shore excursions. We suggest a water-proof pack as it could actually rain loads and in case you are going to do whale watching or different excursions on the water, this may maintain your valuables secure from splashing. Purchase it right here.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The solar may be surprisingly sturdy in Alaska, particularly when mirrored off of snow and water. We love the basic Aviators by Rayban. But the reality is, I simply put these in as a result of they’re what I put on, any sun shades with correct UV safety will work.
Chapstick and Hand Moisturizer
The fixed change in Alaska climate may be robust in your pores and skin and lips. We love this journey-dimension Burt’s Bees necessities equipment that
Jewelry Organizer
As we talked about above, Alaska cruises aren’t as formal as Caribbean Cruises or different cruises all over the world, however there are nonetheless formal nights and you may gown up as a lot as you want. To spruce up cocktail attire or formal apparel, I really like having a selection of knickknack, and holding it organized is essential, particularly when staying in small cabins. Having storage and group is essential. See it right here.
Cosmetic bag
Just like my jewellery case, I like having my make-up and lotions organized. Having all of it in an organized place makes preparing straightforward. Check it out on Amazon.
Packing Cubes
Packing Cubes have develop into a staple for all our travels. They maintain clothes and kit organized and we use them for storing laundry as properly. Once you’ve traveled with packing cubes, you’ll by no means return. Purchase them right here.
Hygiene and Disinfectant
In right this moment’s world of cruising, everybody could be very conscious of cleanliness. Holland America Line (and different cruises corresponding to Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean for that matter) are very conscious of hygiene and holding passengers secure with servers handing out meals and plastic boundaries protecting the buffet.
But it’s nonetheless a good suggestion to pack just a few journey necessities for hygiene and cleansing. We like having this Antibacterial Spray – Lavender Scent available and Travel Size Lysol Disinfectant Wipes at all times come in useful.
See extra Tavel Gear and Gadget Ideas at
Electronics packing listing for Alaska Cruise
We carry numerous electronics. But we’ve outlined what we expect most individuals ought to convey and can really feel snug with to seize these wonderful moments and keep linked. We’ve rounded up sure issues which are particular for an Alaska cruise.
Belkin Mini Surge
You will need to have your personal a number of shops to plug your electronics in as charging is proscribed in cabins. This Belkin has two USB ports and three plugs, so you’ll be able to cost a number of electronics whereas solely taking over one plug within the room.
Portable Hard Drive
You will need to retailer your photographs nightly. I’ve seen folks lose their cameras on an Alaska cruise and all of their reminiscences went proper into the water. This Samsung transportable exhausting drive is so tiny, you’ll barely discover it in your carry-on and it holds 1 terabyte of reminiscence.
iPhone
We are iPhone customers and the iPhone 14 Pro does an amazing job getting images and video on the fly. It has a very good zoom to seize wildlife and a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR show that includes Always-On and ProMovement plus a 48MP Main digicam for up to 4x higher decision.
Portable Power Bank and USB Portable charger
A transportable charger is a staple in our journey gear regardless of the place we go. I maintain this in my bag always so I can cost my iPhone, cameras, and GoPros. Imagine working out of battery whereas on an tour and also you see one thing wonderful like a bear feeding on salmon. I by no means have to fear when I’ve a transportable charger with me. Buy it right here now.
Read extra to enable you with Electronics and Camera Gear
Camera Gear for Alaska Cruise
An Alaska cruise is a visit of a lifetime and a spot that you could be solely go to as soon as. You will need greater than an iPhone for your digicam gear for an Alaska cruise. You will need not less than a zoom lens for wildlife and a large-angle lens for landscapes. I’m a Sony man, so I’ve a full listing of digicam gear that I take with me on my travels, however listed here are some fundamentals you will have for an Alaska cruise.
Camera Body
We use a whole Sony System for journey and like it. I take advantage of a Sony A1 however that’s ridiculously costly and never wanted if photographing isn’t your job (or if in case you have cash to burn). possibility for a extra reasonably priced Mirrorless digicam is the Sony A7R IV. The dynamic vary and the decision of this digicam will seize Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes superbly.
Here are some really useful gadgets to complement your digicam for this journey:
Lenses
Wide-angle Lens: For capturing sweeping landscapes and expansive views from the deck of the ship. Something just like the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM or the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM could be ideally suited.
Telephoto Lens
Telephoto Lens: To seize wildlife at a distance, take into account a lens just like the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS. If you want much more attain, the Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS could be a sensible choice.
To see extra about journey images gear and my full digicam gear listing, see these articles beneath.
GoPro Hero 11 Black
We by no means journey with out a GoPro and the GoPro Hero 11 Black is the most recent mannequin. GoPros are excellent for capturing photographs and movies when on the water or when doing any adventures. If you’re going dogsledding, doing a glacier touchdown, or kayaking, you will have a GoPro. However, I take advantage of my GoPro loads when filming, even strolling round city.
GoPro Hero 11: A water-proof digicam is extremely really useful. Chances are you’ll be out whale watching, zipping round Fjords, or just out on the deck within the rain and we by no means journey with out a GoPro.
Dave’s Alaska Cruise Clothes
Now that you’ve got an overview of the necessities for packing for Alaska cruises, we wish to break down precisely what we introduced with us. You don’t want to gown up at night time for those who aren’t planning on reserving specialty eating places or becoming a member of the formal nights, however we are saying, “You are on a cruise, why wouldn’t you get your fancy on for an evening?” So we’re going to embody formal gown and dressing for land excursions for each women and men.
For Evenings
1 darkish go well with 1 Dinner Jacket or Vest 2 gown shirts to combine and match with fits. 2 ties 2 informal/gown pants 3 good shirts for dinners 1 pair of gown sneakers
For OnBoard
1 pair of denims 3 shirts swimsuit 1 set of exercise garments 2 pair shorts 2 t-shirts 1 pair flipflops 1 pair of informal sneakers or sneakers
For On Land
2 pairs of water-resistant or waterproof trekking pants 1 pair of climbing sneakers or climbing boots (Waterproof or not less than water-resistant) 2 trekking shirts
Outer Layers
Wool Hat Waterproof jacket gentle pair of gloves Buff
Deb’s Alaska Cruise Clothes
For Evenings
Alaska cruises have a tendency to be extra relaxed (formal apparel-clever) than different cruises. They aren’t strict on gown code and also you don’t want to gown up loads. But there are formal nights and for those who splurge on one of many specialty eating places you might have considered trying to gown up. For me, a part of the enjoyable of occurring a cruise is having the ability to gown up so I packed cocktail attire and excessive heels to boot!
2 cocktail attire 2 informal attire 2 pairs of gown pants 2 blouses 2 pairs of gown sneakers
On Board
2 informal shirts swimsuit flip flops 2 sarongs 1 set of exercise garments 1 pair of yoga pants
On Land
Fleece jacket 1 pairs shorts 2 T-shirts Waterproof Jacket Gloves Wool Hat 1 pair denims
More Packing Tips for an Alaska Cruise
The Above listing of packing for an Alaska cruise is particularly for a cruise portion down southeast Alaska. This is the principle route most cruise traces take and the route we took on all three of our Alaskan cruises.
It appears virtually not possible to pack gentle for such a visit. It was a tough process cutting down our luggage to embody 1 suitcase every.
But general we have been fairly proud of our packing selections. With just some changes, you’ll have the proper packing listing for Alaska by studying from our expertise.
Final Thoughts
An Alaska cruise requires a little bit extra planning than a Caribbean Cruise or perhaps a European River Cruise when it comes to packing. You want many extra layers and you actually need to take into consideration waterproof and water-resistant clothes.
You additionally need to be snug figuring out within the health club, hanging across the indoor swimming pool, sitting within the lounge having fun with espresso or a glass of wine, and looking out good when going to see a Vegas-style present.
Packing for our Alaska cruises was positively a studying expertise for us. But the one notice we now have is you don’t have to fear about overpacking. This is the one time we are saying, it’s okay to convey an excessive amount of. All your baggage is taken care of for you so you’ll be able to convey extra baggage.
Once you get off the aircraft, you by no means have to fear about carrying it once more after which you’re in a single cabin for the length of your cruise, so you’ll be able to unpack and revel in. So convey what you need and have a selection of clothes. Half the enjoyable of occurring a cruise is dressing up. Note: Just ensure to test along with your airline for baggage limits. The solely factor you might have to fear about is having to pay for extra baggage.