Crucial items to pack for your upcoming Alaskan cruise (with printable checklist)

Your dream cruise through Alaska is almost here, and now it’s time to pack! There’s a small something you need to think about, however, which is that a cruise in Alaska is bound to be unlike any other. And that means your packing list will be unique, too!

Being prepared can make your trip, while being unprepared can break it. The right clothing, gear and attitude will allow you to enjoy your cruise, any land excursions, and any on-ship events, to the fullest extent – even when it goes from pouring rain in the morning to sunny and 75 degrees in the afternoon.

So, forget the standard packing practices – Alaskan cruises demand careful thought when you’re preparing your luggage. Below are a number of key items that you will most certainly want to prioritize!

Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas docked in Seward during a past cruise season. Adventuresome Co. photo.

Clothing

You might encounter conditions such as cold winds, heavy rains, bright sunshine, and high humidity in a very short time frame, going from forest hikes to city walks to boat tours to glacier adventures in the span of just a few days. Because of this, it is especially important to pack lots of layers. That includes base layers, such as moisture-wicking, warm merinos; mid-layers, such as vests, lightweight sweaters, and quarter-zip fleeces; and outer layers, such as a rain jacket, hooded puffer and wind shield. We’re also fans of taking a pair of slip-on sandals or shoes that you can use around the ship and on deck. And, if you’re planning on any formal events – such as a special dinner or show on the ship – don’t forget to pack for that, too!

Gear

Some of the small extras that we recommend taking with you include a day pack with rain cover, hiking sticks, and crampons, the latter of which can provide extra traction on muddy hikes and glacier excursions. For on-ship experiences, we always bring along earplugs, an eye mask, and a small personal towel. Packing cubes can help you stay organized, and a personal fan can help keep you cool on the sunniest of days! We’re also fans of sun protection gloves, along with the wintry kind.

Toiletries

Along with your typical toiletry kit, adding in anti-nausea medications can also be very helpful, even for those with their sea legs! Items such as SeaBands and other motion sickness relievers can make all the difference on your trip. We like to use a hanging or over-the-door organizer for these, allowing for quick and easy access.

Unsurprisingly, the Alaskan sun can be brutal, especially when you’re on the water. Be sure to bring a sunscreen you’ll actually use, and use daily! Sunglasses are also bound to be of use. Do yourself a favor, and don’t skimp on the bug spray, either! While out-of-doors, you can expect find out why mosquitoes are also known as ‘Alaska’s state bird.’

Special note: Per the Federal Aviation Administration, animal sprays and repellents –such as bear spray – greater than 4 fluid ounces or 118 ml are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage. Most bear sprays are over 4 ounces, meaning they cannot be taken with you on your flight to your destination. Most insect repellents, on the other hand, aren’t restricted as hazardous materials, so they don’t have the same limitations on commercial aircraft.

Attitude

The four seasons for which you pack clothes and gear also come into play when talking about attitude during your trip! You might experience a ton of rain on your tour, or so much sun that you don’t know what to do with yourself. It’s best to be prepared for anything – any weather, any delay, any hangup that might alter your trip a bit. The climate can be unpredictable in Alaska, but traveling can be unpredictable anywhere, so keep your head up and attitude positive, and you’ve already added to your chances of a successful adventure!

Final note

Your packing style will dictate how you get ready for a big cruise. Be sure to double-check your itinerary once you think you’re packed and ready to go, to make sure you’re prepared for any and all excursions, events, and themed nights!

You might prefer to bring your own hangers, hooks, door decor or entertainment; if you have particular excursions in mind, you will probably be bringing items tailored to those – such as a tripod for shooting photos and videos of the aurora, hiking sticks for more intense treks, or binoculars for a wildlife Zodiac boat tour.

Some travelers like to bring absolutely everything they think they’ll need, and then some, but if you forget something important, you can usually find a replacement at a dry goods shop, either on the ship or on land. Just be ready to pay a premium for it.

You can check out our simple, printable packing list, created for cruising in Alaska, below!

- AC

A basic packing list that you can personalize for your cruise to Alaska. Click the image to open it in a new tab!