What to Pack for your Alaskan Cruise

Congratulations! You’re going on an Alaskan cruise, hooray! Glaciers, rainforests, and wildlife galore await you -  but what to pack? After all, this isn’t your average bikini and flip-flops cruise...

1. Layered Clothing 

You’ll be heading to Alaska sometime between May and September, with temperatures ranging from the 40’s during a chilly evening to the mid 70’s on a lucky day. It’s wise to layer up with tees, long sleeves, and a coat so you’re prepared for anything.

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2. Camera and Supplies

You’ll definitely want a way to capture all of Alaska’s beauty! Don’t forget extra memory cards and batteries.

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3. Rain Gear

If you’re from somewhere that doesn’t necessitate rain gear, wait until you’re in port to buy some. They’ll have all kinds of Alaska-branded gear in gift shops that make for a great souvenir as well as keeping you dry. There will also be plentiful plastic ponchos for a buck or two, if that’s your style!

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4. Sunscreen and Sunglasses

While Alaska isn’t known for having lot’s of sunshine, it’s still very wise to use sunscreen even on cloudy days! During the summer months, Alaska’s days last longer than most, and you might need your sunglasses as late as midnight so don’t forget to pack those either!

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5. Waterproof Hiking Shoes

These are essential for getting into Alaska’s nature comfortably. Even if it’s not raining the day you’re in port, it will have probably rained recently, and there will be squishy mud and puddles to contend with. (If you want to look like an Alaskan, grab some Xtratufs!)

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6. Binoculars

These will be especially handy while on your cruise ship and during your excursions as there will frequently be an abundance of wildlife around and these will help you spot it.

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7. Bug Spray

A tourist gift favorite is “Alaskan State Bird Traps”, which are little traps in packages adorned with ornery looking mosquitoes. There’s a reason they sell so well! Mosquitoes are HUGE in Alaska, and they travel in very large packs.

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8. Backpack

Bring a backpack or another kind of hands-free tote to carry your things while in port.

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9. Winter Supplies

Pack light winter gloves, a scarf, and a hat. You’ll want these for unseasonably cold days, for glacier tours, and when outside on the cruise.

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10. Cruise Supplies

Bring motion sickness medicine if you need it, and check with your cruise to see if there are formal nights, or any indoor pools and hot tubs. You may need that bikini after all!

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