Ultimate Alaska Cruise Tour Packing List

Weather changes rapidly in Alaska, so it’s important to be prepared for sun, rain, and wind all in one day. We recommend that you dress in layers that you can add or remove easily. It’s typical to go from cool mornings to warmer afternoons to chilly glacier viewing. Rain is very common, so a waterproof jacket with a hood is a must. Pro Tip: Wear your bulkiest items, like hiking boots, during travel days.

Clothing Essentials

  • Base layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool or synthetic)

  • Mid layers: Fleece jackets or pullovers, lightweight down vest

  • Outer shell: Wind and waterproof rain jacket with a hood

  • Insulated jacket: Warm puffer or down jacket for cold evenings and glaciers

Tops

  • Long-sleeve shirts: Quick-dry materials, flannel, or thermal

  • Short-sleeve shirts: For warmer days or ship interior

  • Sweaters or cardigans: For cooler evenings

Bottoms

  • Hiking pants or waterproof rain pants: Quick-dry material for excursions where you may get wet

  • Shorts and Jeans: For warmer days or ship activities and casual evening wear

  • Leggings or base layer bottoms

Footwear

  • Waterproof hiking boots/ Comfortable walking shoes: Broken in, ankle support, for shore excursions

  • Sandals: For around the cabin and pool area

  • Dress shoes: For dressy nights on the ship

  • Socks: Wool, sport, and dress socks, so you have options depending on the weather and activities

Accessories

  • Beanie, baseball hat, or sun hat

  • Gloves: waterproof outer, warm liner or glove liners

  • Scarf or neck gaiter

  • Sunglasses with UV protection

  • Belt(s) if needed with pants

Cruise Formal/Smart Casual Wear

  • Dresses or dressy outfits: For formal night(s)

  • Slacks/khakis and button-up shirts or blouses for smart casual

  • Accessories: Bag, tie, etc.

Outdoor & Activity Gear

  • Backpack or belt bag: For shore excursions

  • Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing if your stateroom does not come with them

  • Reusable water bottle or tumbler

  • Trekking poles (optional but helpful if hiking)

  • Dry bags/waterproof pouches: For electronics and valuables

Toiletries & Personal Care

Basic Toiletries

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss

  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash (ship provides basics, but you may wish to have your own)

  • Deodorant, razor, and shaving cream

  • Face wash and face, han,d and body lotion moisturizer: Alaska can be very dry

  • Hairbrush, comb, hair ties/hair clips

  • Hairdryer (Dysons have issues on some cruise ships, so we recommend packing a different brand)

  • Sunscreen: SPF 30+, even on cloudy days, Lip balm with SPF

  • Prescription medications (bring extras)

  • Feminine hygiene products

  • Contact lens solution, case, glasses, wipes for glasses

  • Earplugs and an eye mask

First Aid & Medications

  • Motion sickness remedies: Dramamine, ginger tablets, or patches

  • Pain relievers: ibuprofen, acetaminophen

  • Antihistamine: for allergies

  • Anti-diarrheal medication

  • Bandages and blister treatment

  • Any prescription medications (in original containers)

  • Insect repellent: mosquitoes can be present in the summer

Electronics & Documentation

Electronics

  • Cell phone and charger

  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards

  • Power bank/portable charger

  • Laptop and/or tablet

  • Universal power adapter: Cruise ships usually have standard outlets

  • Headphones or earbuds

  • E-reader for cruise relaxation

Important Documents

  • Passport (at least 6 months and one day validity beyond the end of your trip)

  • Driver's license or government ID

  • Cruise tickets and boarding documents

  • Travel insurance information

  • Credit cards and cash

  • Hotel/tour confirmations

  • Emergency contact information

  • Copies of important documents: keep separate from originals

Cruise Specific Items

  • Luggage tags provided by cruise line

  • Reusable tote or duffle bags for packing souvenirs purchased

  • Magnetic hooks or clips for metal cabin walls

  • Small travel noise machine

  • Deck of playing cards

Miscellaneous

  • Snacks, for hiking or between meals

  • Sewing kit

  • Laundry detergent packets for hand washing or ship laundry if available

  • Clothespins or clips

  • Travel umbrella

Optional but Recommended

  • GoPro or another type of action camera

  • Waterproof phone case

  • Compression socks for long flights

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