What to Pack for your Alaskan Cruise.
You have decided to go on that Alaskan Cruise you have been eyeing. Great! I know you must be super excited! If you haven’t booked yet I would recommend you check out this Best Time for Cruising to Alaska guide. Now let’s get to the reason you are here… A packing guide. I know packing for Alaska can be very tricky, so we will hopefully help you out.
Clothing to Pack for your Alaskan Cruise
The first thing to remember when packing for an Alaskan cruise is you will want layers. The weather can vary greatly. Check out the month by month guide to give you an idea of some things you will want to be aware of for each month. Layering can be a little confusing, but it is fairly easy and most of the things you will need can be found in your closet. Start with a base layer, wear a lightweight material that fits snugly to your body. Then, you will want something with sleeves, think long sleeve t-shirt. A popular layering item is a vest, followed by a lightweight jacket. Some days you may need a thicker, warmer jacket. You may also want to bring a waterproof jacket, especially when traveling during the rainy months. Jeans, warm socks, and waterproof boots are also recommended. Top all that off with a warm hat, gloves, and scarf. Is that enough layers for you? You may start the day off in all of the layers and remove many throughout the day, that is why the layers are so important.
Layering tip: Wearing several layers is the best way to trap heat close to your body. Two (or more) thinner layers will be much warmer than a single heavier layer of similar bulk.
Non-layering things you may want to pack for your Alaskan cruise would include lounging clothes for watching the scenery from your balcony. A hoody is great to throw on and run to the buffet. Comfy warm pajamas are great for the balcony too. Don’t forget your swimsuit if you plan on enjoying the pools or hot tubs. If you want to participate in the formal nights you will want to have something a little nicer than the layered casual look you are wearing during the day.
Other Items to pack for your Alaskan Cruise
Although luggage room may be tight there are some non-clothing items you won’t want to leave home. Binoculars are one of those items, you will want them I promise. A camera, yes everyone has them on cell phones now but if you have a nice one, bring it. Extra outlet with USB ports, we all know that cruise ships are not known for lots of outlets. A day bag, anytime I travel I carry a day bag with essentials I may need, including a small first aid kit. Portable charger, although you may not be talking on your phone much you will most certainly be using it for taking pictures. Most cruise lines have apps that you will use on your phone too. Ziploc bags, because these always come in handy. You will want to check out the full list below for all the items I recommend packing.
As you can see we have quite a lot that you will want to pack for your Alaskan cruise. The list is probably larger than what you need for a normal cruise. Which leaves the question, what should you pack in? I recommend a durable, large, lightweight suitcase. Remember most airlines have a weight limit and the cost if you exceed it can be hefty.
Full Packing List
Clothes
- Base Layer – Under Armour or fitted tank (enough for daily wear)
- Long Sleeve T-shirt or loose fitting shirt (enough for daily wear)
- Vest
- Lightweight fitted jacket
- Warm Jacket – This is one of the most recommended brands, for its warmth, and ease of packing.
- Waterproof Jacket – Make sure it is waterproof and not just water resistant.
- Jeans
- Nylon pants for hiking or kayaking
- Warm socks – wool is recommended for warmth
- Boots – These are great waterproof ones (you want waterproof) another option are these for a waterproof boot with a leather look to it.
- Hat – I like a knit hat but baseball caps and brimmed hats are also popular to help keep rain and sun off.
- Gloves – I like the kind that has the touch capability for using my cell phone.
- Yoga Pants
- Tunic
- Hoody
- Warm comfy pajamas.
- Dress/slacks for formal nights.
- Scarf – This is great for warmth and looks great with a simple dress for dinners on the cruise.
- Slip on shoes – You may want to change into something comfortable after being in boots.
- Shoes for formal night
- Swimsuit
Other
- Polarized sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Extra outlet with USB ports
- Day bag – water resistant and easy to fold is great
- Portable Charger
- Ziploc bags
- Travel first aid kit – you can buy one or make one using items you have in your medicine cabinet.
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- Water Bottle
- Hanging organizers
- Magnetic hooks or clips – To use for hanging stuff in your room, because most of the doors and walls are matal.
- Toiletries
- Passport/documents
- Medications
- Portable Stainless Coffee Mug – Seriously, who doesn’t want hot coffee or hot chocolate while watching the glaciers?
I hope you found this list useful. If you have something you think should be added we would love to hear it. Let us know in the comments or on our facebook. The agents at Wish Upon Afar would love to help you plan your unforgettable Alaskan Cruise so contact an agent today to get started planning.
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