Embarking on an Alaska cruise promises an unparalleled adventure, a journey through majestic landscapes, and encounters with incredible wildlife. However, the unique climate of Alaska demands a packing strategy unlike any other cruise destination. My first Alaska cruise was a spur-of-the-moment decision, leaving little time for meticulous planning. My focus was squarely on camera equipment, overlooking the crucial need for proper attire. The result? A surprisingly cold and somewhat uncomfortable trip. To spare you from similar chilly experiences, I’ve compiled this comprehensive and ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List, meticulously crafted from multiple voyages to the Last Frontier. Consider this your essential guide to ensuring warmth, comfort, and readiness for every breathtaking moment of your Alaskan adventure.

Your Essential Alaska Cruise Packing List: What to Bring for an Unforgettable Journey

Preparing for an Alaskan cruise means embracing versatility. The Alaskan wilderness, even during the summer months, is famous for its “four seasons in one day” weather. This means you need to be prepared for everything from crisp, sunny mornings to rainy, windy afternoons, and even unexpectedly chilly evenings. The key to a comfortable Alaska cruise experience lies in smart layering and bringing a diverse range of clothing and gear.

One of the most critical lessons I learned was the importance of warm clothing – items I somehow neglected to pack sufficiently. I cannot stress enough the value of packing at least two sets of gloves, scarves, and hats. There’s a high probability that your outer layers will become damp or wet while you’re out exploring glaciers, watching whales, or trekking through port towns. Having a second, dry set allows you to rotate them, ensuring you always have warm, comfortable gear to put on. Trust me, pulling on a cold, wet hat while gazing at the magnificent Glacier Bay when the wind picks up is far from enjoyable – I once felt like my hair was literally freezing!

My overarching packing philosophy for any trip to Alaska, especially a cruise, is to plan on dressing in layers. This strategy allows you to easily adapt to fluctuating temperatures and weather conditions throughout the day. Start with a moisture-wicking base, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. This flexible approach will keep you comfortable in varying conditions, whether you’re on deck, exploring a port, or simply enjoying the ship’s amenities.

Additionally, I highly recommend keeping a separate carry-on bag with essential items that you can bring directly onto the ship. This ensures that important documents, necessary medications, valuable camera gear, and a change of clothes are always with you, especially if your checked luggage is delayed or lost. Our multi-cruise experiences to Alaska have provided invaluable insights, and I genuinely hope this updated Alaska Cruise Packing List makes your journey much warmer, smoother, and more enjoyable than our initial attempt.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. These commissions help support our travel adventures and content creation.

Alaska Cruise Packing List: Essential Clothing & Outerwear

When it comes to clothing for an Alaska cruise, you’ll find the atmosphere generally more casual than a Caribbean or European sailing. While guests still dress up for dinner, it’s typically less formal than on other routes. The specific dress code can vary between cruise lines and ships, so it’s always wise to check your cruise line’s guidelines. For instance, on a Princess Cruise to Alaska, I observed a wide selection of cold-weather gear available for purchase onboard, albeit at premium prices, indicating how many guests underestimate the Alaskan chill. If you’re looking for an excuse to buy new winter wear, this could be it, but expect to pay a premium.

A crucial factor in planning your personal Alaska cruise packing list is the time of year you’re traveling. Cruises in April, May, and September tend to experience cooler temperatures, while June, July, and August often bring milder weather. Even in mid-summer, while you might enjoy beautiful, sunny days perfect for a t-shirt and light jacket, you should still anticipate the possibility of rain, wind, and near-freezing temperatures. Versatility is paramount!

• Warm Hats (Two Recommended): Essential for protecting your head and ears from biting winds and cold. Choose fleece, wool, or insulated options. Having two allows one to dry completely if it gets wet from rain or mist, ensuring you always have a warm, dry replacement.
• Gloves or Mittens: Protect your hands from the cold. Look for waterproof or water-resistant options that still allow for dexterity if you plan to use your camera or phone. Fleece-lined, insulated gloves are ideal for keeping hands warm while watching wildlife or exploring.
• Scarves: A versatile accessory that can provide significant warmth. Opt for a thicker scarf that can wrap snugly around your neck and even cover part of your face when winds are strong, offering crucial protection against the elements.
• Layering Jackets (Multi-Purpose):
  • Water-Resistant Outer Shell: A comfortable, waterproof, and windproof jacket is non-negotiable. This is your primary defense against rain, snow, and strong winds, which are common in Alaska. Look for breathable materials that still provide excellent protection.
  • Insulated Mid-Layer (Fleece or Puffer): Worn under your outer shell, a good quality fleece jacket or a packable down/synthetic puffer jacket provides essential warmth. This layer can also be worn on its own during milder days or indoors.
  • Rain Jacket/Poncho: Despite your main jacket being water-resistant, it’s wise to pack a dedicated lightweight rain jacket or a cute travel rain poncho. Alaska is known for its precipitation, and staying dry is key to staying warm. These are easily packable and offer an extra layer of defense against unexpected downpours.
• Base Layers (Thermal Underwear): For cruises during the cooler shoulder seasons (April, May, September) or if you plan on extended outdoor excursions, thermal base layers (tops and bottoms) made from merino wool or synthetic materials are excellent for retaining body heat and wicking away moisture.
• Warm Socks: Wool or synthetic blend socks are superior to cotton, especially for keeping your feet warm even if they get damp. Pack several pairs to ensure you always have dry ones.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, both on the ship and during port excursions. Pack comfortable, broken-in walking shoes with good support.
  • Waterproof Hiking Shoes/Boots: For excursions that might involve trails, wet terrain, or simply navigating rainy port towns, waterproof footwear is highly recommended. These will keep your feet dry and warm.
  • Deck Shoes/Casual Footwear: A comfortable pair of sneakers or casual shoes for relaxing onboard or for drier port days.
• Sweaters/Fleece: Multiple sweaters or fleece pullovers are perfect for layering. They offer warmth and comfort while lounging on the ship or strolling between activities.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget your swimwear! There’s nothing quite as magical as relaxing in a hot tub on deck, watching whales breach or glaciers calve, while surrounded by crisp Alaskan air. Just remember to bring a warm robe or extra towels for when you exit the hot tub – the air can be quite chilly!
• Dinner Outfits: While generally more casual, many cruise lines still have designated dining rooms where guests appreciate dressing up a bit. Pack a few versatile “nice casual” outfits. A black skirt or tailored trousers paired with various cute tops can create multiple looks. Check your specific cruise line’s dress code for guidance.
• Formal Night Attire: If your cruise has a “formal night” or “dress up or not” option, you might consider packing a cocktail dress, a suit, or smart dress clothes. Research your cruise line or even browse social media (e.g., Instagram hashtags for your specific ship) to gauge how past guests typically dress for these occasions.
• Comfortable Loungewear/Casual Clothes: You’ll spend a fair amount of time at sea, often lounging in comfortable chairs, gazing at the breathtaking scenery. Pack plenty of comfortable jeans, leggings, sweatpants, and soft tops. Avoid overly restrictive clothing that will become uncomfortable after hours of sitting – trust me, I’ve made the mistake of wearing cute but painful jeans for an 8-hour scenic cruising day, and it was not enjoyable!
• Waterproof Pants: For active excursions like kayaking, zodiac tours, or even just extended periods in rainy port weather, waterproof pants can be a game-changer, keeping your lower half completely dry.

For more detailed insights on specific clothing choices, consider exploring resources on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise.

Alaska Cruise Packing List: Camera & Tech Gear Essentials

Alaska is a photographer’s paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. When it comes to your camera and tech gear for an Alaska cruise, my strongest advice is to bring the best equipment you have. While smartphone cameras are convenient for general snapshots, a dedicated camera will truly allow you to do justice to the magnificent scenery and distant wildlife. Tech choices beyond photography are more personal, but a laptop can be invaluable for reviewing photos, backing up memories, checking emails, and sharing your adventures online.

• High-Quality Camera: While phone cameras have improved dramatically, a digital camera (DSLR or mirrorless) offers superior image quality, especially in varying light conditions and for zooming in on distant subjects. We personally use a Canon 5D Mark IV, a full-frame DSLR, and supplement it with a smaller mirrorless camera and our phones for casual shots around the ship.
• Telephoto Lenses (Crucial!): If you own a telephoto lens for your camera, bring it – it is an absolute must! You will undoubtedly want to zoom in on humpback whales breaching, seals basking on ice floes, majestic Bald Eagles soaring, and other incredible wildlife that often keeps a respectful distance. We always travel with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens on our cruises. While it’s a substantial lens to handhold, the incredible wildlife photos it allows us to capture more than compensate for its weight.
• Binoculars: Even with a powerful telephoto lens, a good pair of binoculars is indispensable for wildlife viewing. We actually ended up purchasing a pair on our last cruise because we’d forgotten ours at home – a mistake we won’t repeat! They are perfect for spotting distant wildlife, observing glaciers up close, and enhancing the overall scenic cruising experience.
• Backup Phone Charger/Power Bank: This is an Alaska cruise tip I wish I had known on our first trip! Cold weather can drain phone batteries quickly, and you’ll be using your phone frequently for photos, navigation, and keeping in touch. A portable backup phone charger ensures your device stays powered throughout your explorations.
• Extra Camera Batteries and SD Cards: Between capturing stunning vistas, wildlife, and candid moments, you’ll go through battery life and storage space faster than you think. Always pack several spare camera batteries and ample SD cards to avoid missing any photo opportunities.
• Cruise-Approved Outlet Adapter/Power Strip: Cruise ship cabins are notoriously short on electrical outlets. A compact, cruise-approved outlet adapter is a lifesaver for charging multiple devices simultaneously. Ensure it’s specifically designed for travel and does *not* have a surge protector, as many cruise lines prohibit them due to safety concerns. We’ve found the Belkin Outlet Adapter with a rotating plug to be consistently useful on all our cruises.
• Waterproof Phone Case: For extra protection against rain, mist, or accidental splashes, especially during excursions on small boats, a waterproof phone case can provide peace of mind.

Alaska Cruise Packing List: Miscellaneous Essentials for Comfort & Convenience

Beyond clothes and tech, a few miscellaneous items can significantly enhance your Alaska cruise experience, adding layers of comfort and convenience that you might not initially consider.

• Alaska Wildlife Guide: To truly appreciate the incredible biodiversity of Alaska, an Alaska Inside Passage Wildlife Guide is invaluable. These guidebooks help you identify the various whales, marine mammals, birds, and land animals you’ll spot, enriching your wildlife viewing experiences.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste by bringing your own reusable water bottle. You can easily refill it at water stations around the ship, especially after active excursions.
• Insulated Coffee Mug: If you enjoy hot beverages, a sturdy travel coffee mug is a fantastic addition. It allows you to grab a large coffee or tea and enjoy it in your cabin or on deck without needing frequent trips to the buffet. Most ships offer coffee 24/7, but quality can vary.
• Instant Coffee/Tea Bags: For coffee aficionados, packing your favorite instant coffee like Starbucks VIA packs or your preferred tea bags (like Oregon Chai single packets) can significantly upgrade your morning ritual, as onboard coffee might not always meet your standards.
• Travel Laundry Detergent: Save money and space by doing a quick load of laundry onboard. Travel laundry sheets are particularly convenient as they’re flat, lightweight, and mess-free – no liquids to worry about leaking in your suitcase.
• Wrinkle Release Spray: Cruise cabins typically prohibit irons and steamers for safety reasons. While laundry rooms often have irons, they might be in high demand. A small bottle of wrinkle release spray can quickly freshen up clothes and save you time and hassle.
• Cruise Lanyard: Keep your essential cruise card handy and secure around your neck with a cruise lanyard. This prevents misplacing it and offers easy access for purchases or cabin entry.
• Water-Resistant Day Pack/Backpack: For shore excursions, a compact, water-resistant day pack is ideal. These often fold into a small pouch for easy packing and are perfect for carrying extra layers, water bottles, snacks, and souvenirs while keeping your belongings dry from unexpected rain.
• Small Denominations of Bills ($1-$5): While onboard tipping is often handled automatically or via your cruise card, small bills are incredibly useful for tipping tour guides, shuttle drivers, and local vendors when you’re in port.
• Travel Alarm Clock: Most cruise staterooms lack clocks. Given that Alaskan summers feature extended daylight hours, a small travel alarm clock can be helpful for keeping track of time, especially for early morning excursions.
• Ziploc Bags: These are incredibly versatile. Pack a few gallon-sized Ziploc bags for impromptu dry bags, storing wet swimsuits, organizing small items, or even collecting seashells.
• Wine Diapers/Bottle Protectors: If you plan to purchase wine or other spirits from duty-free shops in port or on the ship, wine diapers or similar bottle protectors are invaluable for safely transporting them home in your luggage without leaks or breakages. Reusable sets are a smart investment.
• Foldable Backup Duffel Bag: Alaska’s charming port towns often tempt travelers with unique souvenirs and local crafts. A foldable duffel bag takes up minimal space when empty but can be a lifesaver for carrying home extra purchases, preventing overweight luggage fees on your flight home.
• Portable Luggage Scale: To avoid last-minute stress and potential overweight baggage fees at the airport, a compact digital luggage scale allows you to check your bag’s weight before heading to the airport.
• Travel Jewelry Organizer: A travel jewelry organizer keeps your accessories neatly stored and untangled. Many designs even hang in the closet for easy access.
• Travel Umbrella: As mentioned, rain is a possibility in Alaska. A compact travel umbrella is a practical addition to your day pack for quick shelter during unexpected showers.
• Eye Mask and Earplugs: Given the long daylight hours in Alaskan summers, an eye mask can help ensure a good night’s sleep. Earplugs can also be useful for light sleepers, blocking out any ambient ship noise.

Alaska Cruise Packing List: Toiletries & Personal Care

When it comes to toiletries and personal care items, I always recommend erring on the side of overpacking a bit, especially for medications. While most cruise ships have stores that carry essentials, they are rarely cheap. Being prepared means you won’t have to pay exorbitant prices or, more importantly, waste precious vacation time seeking out basic necessities.

• Personal Medications: Bring all prescription medications in their original containers, along with any over-the-counter essentials you might need, such as cold and flu remedies, pain relievers, stomach aids, allergy pills, and band-aids. The last thing you want is to visit the ship’s medical center for items you could have easily brought. (Though, I will say, cruise ship medical centers, like the one I experienced on a Carnival Cruise when I had pneumonia, can be truly amazing. You can read about my cruise ship medical center experience.)
• Antacids: If you’re anything like us, you probably don’t eat out three meals a day at home. The rich and varied food on a cruise can sometimes upset your stomach, so having antacids on hand can make your cruise much more comfortable.
• Feminine Hygiene Products: If there’s even a slight chance you’ll need them, pack enough feminine products to last your entire cruise, or at least until a major port day. Avoid the mistake I made of paying $7.99 for a small pack of tampons onboard!
• Motion Sickness Remedies: Even if you don’t typically get seasick, Alaska’s waters can occasionally be choppy. Being prepared with Dramamine (non-drowsy options available, and Dramamine for Kids), anti-nausea bands, or patches can save your vacation.
• Poo-Pourri: Let’s be candid – cruise ship cabins are compact. If you’re concerned about odors lingering, a travel-sized bottle of Poo-Pourri can maintain a fresh atmosphere in your small living space.
• Hair Accessories: Hairbands, headbands, or scrunchies are practical for keeping hair contained, especially on windy decks or during active excursions.
• Travel First Aid Kit: A small, pre-assembled travel first aid kit with essentials like antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and various sizes of band-aids will save you money and a trip to the ship’s medical store for minor scrapes or ailments.
• Lip Balm with SPF: The combination of cold, wind, and reflective surfaces (like glaciers) can be harsh on your lips. Keep them protected and moisturized.
• Sunscreen: Even in cooler climates, the sun’s UV rays can be strong, especially when reflected off snow and water. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin, particularly on deck or during sunny excursions.
• Deodorant: A personal essential for daily comfort.
• Hairbrush/Comb: Don’t overlook these basic grooming items.
• Makeup and Makeup Remover Wipes: Pack your preferred makeup, and consider makeup remover wipes for convenience, especially after long days of exploring.
• Insect Repellent: While less of an issue on the open sea, when in port, especially near forested areas or calm waters, mosquitoes and other biting insects can be present. Consider pre-treating your clothes with permethrin spray for added protection, and carry a small personal repellent.
• Personal Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash: Most cruise ships provide basic shampoo and body wash in the shower, but the quality varies. If you have specific preferences or sensitive skin, pack travel containers of your favorite products.
• Moisturizer/Lotion: The dry air in cabins and the cold outdoor environment can be dehydrating for your skin. A good moisturizer will keep your skin comfortable.
• Hand Sanitizer: A small bottle of hand sanitizer is always useful for cleanliness, especially before meals or after touching shared surfaces.

Cruise Cabin Packing List: Maximize Your Stateroom Space

Cruise ship cabins are designed to be efficient, but they often lack storage space and convenient hooks. A few clever items can transform your cabin into a much more organized and functional living area.

• Magnetic Hooks: Stateroom walls and doors are typically metal, making magnetic hooks incredibly useful. Use them to hang jackets, hats, wet gear, towels, or even a small handbag, keeping items off the floor and helping them dry without dripping on other clothes.
• Stateroom Door Magnetic Dry Erase Board: A fun and practical item for communicating with cabin mates or leaving messages for your stateroom attendant. We’ve seen cabins with magnetic dry erase boards on their doors, inviting fellow passengers to share cool messages – a great way to engage with others!
• Cruise Luggage Tag Holders: Protect your paper luggage tags from damage, rain, and tearing during transit. Reusable luggage tag holders with a secure metal ring ensure your tags stay attached and legible, making the embarkation process smoother.
• Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer: Even if you don’t use it for shoes, an over-the-door organizer with multiple pockets is fantastic for storing small toiletries, accessories, snacks, or other miscellaneous items, freeing up valuable counter and drawer space.
• Collapsible Laundry Hamper: Keep dirty clothes neatly contained and off the floor with a small, collapsible laundry hamper.
• Small Clothesline with Suction Cups: Perfect for drying small items like swimsuits, socks, or undergarments in your shower or on a cabin wall.

Your Essential Carry-On Bag Packing List

When you arrive at the port, you’ll likely check your main luggage with porters who will deliver it to your cabin. This can take several hours, sometimes until late afternoon. Therefore, packing a well-stocked carry-on bag is crucial for your immediate needs and peace of mind.

• Official Documents: Your passport or other required identification, cruise documentation, airline tickets, and copies of your luggage tags are paramount. Keep these easily accessible and secure.
• Travel Insurance Documents: Have a copy of your travel insurance policy details and emergency contact numbers.
• Essential Medications: All prescription medications you need daily, plus any critical over-the-counter remedies, should be in your carry-on. Do not put these in checked luggage.
• Camera and Tech Gear: Your expensive camera body, lenses, laptop, and any other valuable electronics should always be in your carry-on to prevent damage or loss.
• Charging Cables: Phone, camera, and tablet charging cables are essential for keeping your devices powered from the moment you board.
• Backup Set of Clothes: Pack at least one full change of clothes, including underwear, socks, and a comfortable top and bottom. This is a lifesaver if your checked luggage is delayed.
• Toiletries for Day 1: A small pouch with travel-sized toiletries like a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and face wash will help you feel fresh until your main luggage arrives.
• Eyeglasses/Contact Lenses & Solution: Don’t risk being without these if your luggage goes astray.
• A Book or Entertainment: For embarkation day, you might have some waiting time, so having a book, e-reader, or downloaded movies on your tablet can keep you entertained.

We hope this expanded Alaska Cruise Packing List provides you with all the insights and recommendations you need for a truly amazing and comfortable cruise adventure. If you have any essential items you swear by for Alaskan cruises that we might have missed, please share them with us!

Additional Alaska Cruise Resources to Plan Your Trip

Dive deeper into planning your Alaskan adventure with these helpful resources:

• Alaska Cruise Tips
• First-time Cruise Questions Answered
• Common Cruise Terminology to Know
• Cruising to Alaska National Parks Ports of Call

Exploring Tracy Arm Fjord

• Tracy Arm Fjord Glacier Explorer Excursion

Discovering Glacier Bay

• Cruising Glacier Bay on a Cruise Ship: Amazing and Cold!

Juneau, Alaska Highlights

• An Evening at the Red Dog Saloon, Juneau Alaska
• Visiting Mendenhall Glacier outside of Juneau Alaska
• Our Day in Juneau on our Alaska Cruise

Adventures in Skagway, Alaska

• See Bears on the Wildlife Expedition Excursion in Skagway
• Driving to the Yukon Territory from Skagway on our Alaska Cruise
• A Stop at Yukon Brewing in Whitehorse during our Alaska Cruise
• Red Onion Saloon, Skagway Alaska
• Klondike Gold Rush Visitor Center in Skagway Alaska

Ketchikan, Alaska Attractions

• Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan

Starting Your Journey from Seattle, Washington

• Leaving Seattle on our Alaska Cruise

Exploring Alaska Cruise Ships

• Carnival Freedom – Photo and video tour along with info on this great cruise ship.
• Carnival Miracle – Photo and video tour of the ship coming soon. Check out our Carnival Miracle Alaska Cruise.
• Tour of the Holland America Westerdam
• 10 things we loved on the Golden Princess

Post originally shared August 7, 2013, updated on February 24, 2020. This version further updated and expanded for comprehensive travel planning.