Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (2024)

Table of Contents
Packing Checklist for an Alaska Cruise Clothing Shoes Gear and Accessories Luggage and Bags T+L's Top Picks and Tips Best Base Layers for Men Icebreaker Thermal Leggings and Crew Top Best Base Layers for Women Kari Traa Half-zip Baselayer Best Waterproof Pants Mountain Hardwear Men’s Ozonic Pant Best Vest Prana Alpine Air Vest Best Long-sleeve Shirt for Women Outdoor Research Long-Sleeve T-shirt Best Long-sleeve Shirt for Men Outdoor Research Long-sleeve Sun Shirt Best Waterproof and Windproof Jacket Helly Hansen Men’s Jacket Best Packable Down Jacket for Men Marmot Men's Fordham Jacket Best Packable Down Jacket for Women Arc'teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie Best Pants for Men Icebreaker Merino Men's Shifter Jogger Lounge Pants Best Pants for Women Outdoor Voices RecTrek Jogger Best Swimsuit for Men Vuori Banks Short Best Swimsuit for Women Mindy x Andie The Amalfi Best Shorts Patagonia Women’s Short Best Short-sleeve Shirt Patagonia Short-sleeve Shirt Best Mid-layer Patagonia Women's Full-zip Hoody Best Socks Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Sock Best Hiking Shoes Danner Men’s Mountain 600 Best Sandals Chaco Sandal Best Casual Shoes Blundstone Men’s Classic 550 Chelsea Boots Best Binoculars Nocs Provision Standard Issue 8x25 Waterproof Binoculars Best Sunglasses Persol PO3292S Sunglasses Best Hat Carhartt Knit Beanie Best Portable Charger Anker PowerCore 1000 Portable Charger Best Sunscreen Pipette Mineral Sunscreen Best Bug Spray Off! Family Care Insect Repellent With Picaridin Best Travel Camera Canon EOS 6D Mark II Digital SLR Best Dry Bag Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack Best Duffel Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag Best Suitcase Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Best Day Pack L.L.Bean Stowaway Day Pack Why Trust Travel + Leisure FAQs

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (1)

Vast terrain, mountainous landscape, exciting wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures are just some of the ways that the gorgeous state of Alaska truly lives up to its nickname of “The Last Frontier.” Cruising the unspoiled waters of the 49th state is the trip of a lifetime for most, offering the opportunity to experience a multitude of destinations all within one epic vacation. Viewing the stunning landscape from the water also provides a unique vantage point, whether you’re spotting whales and eagles or marveling at the towering peaks and ancient glaciers.

With Alaska’s fickle weather that can change on a dime, it’s important to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature might throw at you. Layers are crucial, as you can experience the warmth of the sun one minute and wind, rain, or snow the next. It can be overwhelming to pack for a destination in this type of climate as well as the variety of activities that might be on your itinerary. We spoke to Kristin Erz, an expert on cruising in Alaska and the sales director for Hurtigruten Group, to help curate this packing list that'll ensure you have the best trip possible. Essentials range from clothing like the Ibex Wool Aire Hoody to Canon's EOS 6D Mark II camera.

Packing Checklist for an Alaska Cruise

Here are our top packing picks for a cruise in Alaska, broken down into essential categories. We’ve included specific recommendations that can serve as a great checklist for your trip so you can worry about one less thing as you get ready for an unforgettable journey.

Clothing

Shoes

  • Best Hiking Shoes: Danner Mountain 600 for Men and Women
  • Best Sandals: Chaco Z/Cloud Sandal for Men and Women
  • Best Casual Shoes: Blundstone Classic 550 Chelsea Boot for Men and Women

Gear and Accessories

Luggage and Bags

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Clothing and Outerwear

“The key to packing for Alaska is layers. Although the cruising season happens primarily during the summer months, shorts and T-shirts will be in the minority of your Alaskan wardrobe (sorry!). As the saying goes, ‘There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing,’ and so you will want to be prepared for the unpredictability of the weather,” shared Erz.

Fabrics should be moisture-wicking and breathable, suitable for active exploits. Packing casual pieces to hang out in on the boat during transit periods is a good idea as well, as it will maximize comfort. Although you’ll need to pack for a variety of situations, the cruise line you choose will determine if you’ll need to bring something for formal dinners or events.

“Larger lines do have formal nights throughout their sailings (think suits, dresses, and the shoes to match); albeit these evenings are optional for guests, so it may just mean you can’t dine in certain restaurants that evening if you’re not dressed in formalwear,” said Erz. “An expedition cruise line like Hurtigruten Expeditions, for example, has no onboard dress code — so if you want to go into the dining rooms with the same clothing you wore earlier that day exploring, that’s perfectly fine.”

“For cultural activities with Indigenous communities, there isn’t a specific dress code for guests to follow, but we recommend our guests dress respectfully,” Erz added. “Keep it modest and simple, as everyone will be focused on the beautifully designed — and often handmade — clothing and costumes worn by local communities in their daily lives as well as for celebrations and cultural ceremonies.”

Best Base Layers for Men

Icebreaker Thermal Leggings and Crew Top

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (2)

A thermal base layer, moisture-wicking/breathable mid-layers, and water/windproof outer layers are essential, giving you the flexibility to add and remove layers for warmth and weatherproofing depending on the day's adventure,” Erz said. Icebreaker’s 100 percent merino wool is packed into this crew top andleggingsfor men, offering the best combination you could want in a base layer.

Best Base Layers for Women

Kari Traa Half-zip Baselayer

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (3)

Super soft and comfortable, this base layer set not only keeps you warm but feels great against the skin and doesn’t itch, despite being 100 percent merino wool. Cute patterns and colors make the topand pantsa treat to wear, not just under everything else but on their own as well.

Best Waterproof Pants

Mountain Hardwear Men’s Ozonic Pant

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (4)

Waterproof pants will be your best friend in Alaska’s fast-changing weather. Staying dry is your goal when exploring, and these waterproof pants, which are also availablefor women, are your ticket to comfort in that regard. Their stretch gives you all the mobility you crave, while side zips make putting them on and taking them off a breeze. As a bonus, they come in a variety of sizes, including short and long, so they’re suited for almost everyone.

An outdoor vest can be the perfect addition to your layering setup, providing core warmth without making you overheat. Bringing a vest that’s packable and doesn’t take up too much space is ideal, but you also want something that keeps you toasty, and this one ticks all those boxes.

“I recommend an insulated vest, one that you can easily roll up and fit into your backpack as you become more active or as the day warms up,” Erz shared. The Alpine Air Vest also comes in women's sizes.

Best Long-sleeve Shirt for Women

Outdoor Research Long-Sleeve T-shirt

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (6)

We love the sun protection built into the Women’s Outdoor Research Activelce Spectrum Long-sleeve shirt. In addition to blocking harmful UV rays, this shirt is perfect for layering or wearing on its own for your Alaskan exploits. Stay warm using the added thumbholes, and the stretchy material won’t stop your range of motion no matter what you choose to do on the ship or off in the pristine Alaskan wilderness.

Best Long-sleeve Shirt for Men

Outdoor Research Long-sleeve Sun Shirt

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (7)

Stylish while also offering sun protection, the Men’s Outdoor Research Astroman Long-sleeve Sun Shirt is a versatile piece to bring on your Alaska cruise. Breathable fabric and a button-up style mean you can wear this to dinner on the ship after a full day of fishing orhiking in Alaska.

Best Waterproof and Windproof Jacket

Helly Hansen Men’s Jacket

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (8)

To save space for packing, it’s wise to get a lightweight jacket that offers both rain and wind protection as an outer layer. Despite offering a shield from the elements, the Loke Jacket is breathable, so you won’t end up sweltering within your outer layer. Adjustable cuffs, hood, and waist allow you to tailor it to your fit and style as well. It also comes inwomen’s sizes.

Best Packable Down Jacket for Men

Marmot Men's Fordham Jacket

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (9)

Our Ratings

  • Comfort

    4.5/5

  • Warmth

    5/5

  • Design

    4.5/5

  • Value

    4/5

This jacket is big on warmth and style, so you can wear it for excursions and while walking around on deck. Weighing just three pounds, this jacket can easily pack into your luggage, especially if using packing cubes, but will still provide that heft you want when wearing a down jacket. Plus, the pockets are extra spacious so you can carry binoculars, gloves, cameras, or any other essentials.

Best Packable Down Jacket for Women

Arc'teryx Atom Insulated Hoodie

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (10)

Our Ratings

  • Comfort

    4.5/5

  • Warmth

    3/5

  • Design

    3/5

If you're short on space, you'll love this light and breathable Arc'teryx jacket. This coat is the opposite of bulky, which is perfect for packing or storing in carry-on bags. It's really a functional jacket for outdoor use, especially when you'll be moving a lot (like on hikes). For sightseeing or standing still for long periods of time, we do recommend layering this coat with thermal or flannel pieces for extra warmth.

Windy conditions on land as well as on the ship should be expected at some point during your trip, so it's important to pack pants thatwill keep you warm and comfortable. These Icebreaker joggers are made primarily with wool to keep you cozy no matter what your day has in store.

The 11 Best Travel Pants for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best Pants for Women

Outdoor Voices RecTrek Jogger

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (12)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    4.5/5

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Quality

    5/5

  • Durability

    4.5/5

  • Design

    4/5

We love that these joggers are versatile enough that you can dress them up or down — keeping warm for every occasion. They feature an adjustable waist and relaxed fit toward the legs that aren't so loose they look baggy. Made with RecTrek fabric that feels like the material of a windbreaker, these pants are durable and lightweight, sure to keep you comfortable and protected both indoors and outside in the cold.

Best Swimsuit for Men

Vuori Banks Short

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (13)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Quality

    5/5

  • Coverage

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

Wear our favorite swim trunks for water-based activities as well as a casual lunch on the boat. Their relaxed design can be dressed up or down, and no matter what, you’ll always be ready to hop in the ship’s pool, go for a kayak, or do anything else where water is involved while visiting Alaska. Plus, they're made of the brand's VCycled fabric, so each pair is made of four to five recycled plastic bottles.

Best Swimsuit for Women

Mindy x Andie The Amalfi

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (14)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Quality

    5/5

  • Coverage

    5/5

  • Value

    4.5/5

For a sporty feel that looks chic, The Amalfi One Piece is the way to go. With a variety of sizing options, including classic fit and long torso, it’s ideal for all body types and will be suitable for any water-based activity, including pool and hot tub dips on your Alaskan cruise. We also love that the fit feels so secure, with a shelf bra and soft cups for support and adjustable shoulder straps, so there's full mobility, too.

Best Shorts

Patagonia Women’s Short

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (15)

These shorts will come in handy on warmer Alaskan days and are suitable for casual or active pursuits. Boththe men’sand women’s styles are made of moisture-wicking and quick-dry materials that also move with you on hikes or during other outdoor adventures. They’ll be the perfect addition to your Alaskan cruise wardrobe when the heat turns up a bit.

Best Short-sleeve Shirt

Patagonia Short-sleeve Shirt

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (16)

We like Patagonia’s Capilene Cool shirt for everyday wear, whether you’re doing something casual on your cruise or being active. The fabric is specifically designed to keep you cool and dry when Alaska turns up the temperature. The soft, stretchy fabric also provides flexibility to move with you during your adventures instead of restricting your mobility. A women’s version is also available.

Best Mid-layer

Patagonia Women's Full-zip Hoody

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (17)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Design

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Value

    3/5

A fleece or another warm mid-layer is a must on an Alaskan cruise. This one offers a full zip-up style and a hood so you can regulate your temperature and have protection in case of heavier wind. Patagonia also offers it for men.

Moisture-wicking socks like these Darn Tough Micro Crew Cushion Socks for womenand menare ideal for Alaska for casual pursuits and outdoor adventures. They’ll provide warmth without being too bulky and dry quickly, making them perfect for hiking, kayaking, or exploring historic Gold Rush towns.

Shoes

“Don’t forget about your feet — waterproof hiking shoes or boots are great for comfortably getting you through all kinds of excursions,” Erz says. Without overpacking, you’ll want to make sure you have something comfortable for walking and/or hiking, as well as casual shoes for your time hanging out on the ship. Adventure sandals aren’t always necessary but can also make a welcome addition to your list for water-based exploits.

Best Hiking Shoes

Danner Men’s Mountain 600

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (19)

Our favorite leather hiking boots for both men and women are ready to rock straight out of the box and easily go trail to town. They have many fantastic features like traction and cushion but aren’t too technical in design. Warmth, breathability, and practicality make these a solid choice for Alaska and anywhere else you’ll be exploring the outdoors.

Best Sandals

Chaco Sandal

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (20)

Our Ratings

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Drainage

    5/5

  • Protection

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Traction

    5/5

Summer in Alaska can, in fact, have warm weather days, and if you’re trekking to a waterfall, embarking on a trail with a river crossing, or kayaking, you’ll want a pair of sturdy sandals with grip. The Chaco Z/Cloud Sandals for women and men offer a cushioned footbed, adjustable straps for a tailored fit, and excellent grip and traction.

Best Casual Shoes

Blundstone Men’s Classic 550 Chelsea Boots

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (21)

Our Ratings

  • Comfort

    5/5

  • Durability

    3.5/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Fit

    5/5

These stylish slip-on boots with a low profile are ideal for going from ship to town, and even for a nature walk or easy hike. They offer comfort and versatility and are fashionable enough to pair with jeans or other pants for a casual, but nice dinner look. Women's sizes arealso available.

Gear and Accessories

Once your shoes and apparel are covered, your attention should turn to the equipment that will help you get the most out of your time on the Alaskan waters. With the tools and products below, you'll be as comfortable as possible and able to fully absorb the magnificence of your surroundings.

Best Binoculars

Nocs Provision Standard Issue 8x25 Waterproof Binoculars

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (22)

These portable, waterproof binoculars are the perfect addition to your packing checklist for Alaska. Rugged yet lightweight, they’ll help you spot wildlife such as moose, eagles, whales, and other creatures from the cruise ship deck or out on your daily ventures.

Best Sunglasses

Persol PO3292S Sunglasses

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (23)

Our Ratings

  • Fit

    5/5

  • Performance

    5/5

  • Quality

    5/5

  • Appearance

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

Handmade in Italy and ready for any adventure, these Persol sunglasses are unisex, stylish, and protective. This style comes in ten different colorways and various sizes, so you can be sure to select the perfect option for you. You also have the option to add your monogram and/or prescription to be sure you look great and see everything there is to see on your travels.

A warm hat is a good idea for nighttime on the cruise ship, especially as it can get windy and chilly when the temperature drops. A lightweight beanie should get the job done, and this unisex one by Carhartt does just that and comes in a wide array of colors as well.

Best Portable Charger

Anker PowerCore 1000 Portable Charger

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (25)

Although there are plenty of outlets on board cruise ships for charging, it’s a good idea to have a compact and portable backup power bank when out on excursions, especially if you're using your phone as a camera. This one by Anker is ultra-compact and reliable, making it a solid option for travel.

Best Sunscreen

Pipette Mineral Sunscreen

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (26)

Our Ratings

  • Feel

    5/5

  • Transfer

    4.8/5

  • Opacity

    5/5

  • Water Resistance

    5/5

Sunscreen is crucial whether you’re traveling to the beach or the Arctic. The Pipette Mineral Sunscreen is reef-safe, scent-free, and comes in a travel-size container, making it a fantastic choice for an Alaskan cruise, where you will need to apply it for daily outdoor activities. It has a lightweight, creamy texture that absorbs easily into the skin and is perfect for those who may want to apply makeup or other skincare products on top.

The 11 Best Reef-safe Sunscreens of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best Bug Spray

Off! Family Care Insect Repellent With Picaridin

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (27)

Our Ratings

  • Effectiveness

    5/5

  • Coverage

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Smell

    5/5

  • Ease of Use

    5/5

This family-friendly insect spray will come in handy on an Alaskan cruise, particularly in the summer months when mosquitos can be prevalent. We especially appreciate its easy-to-use, quick-pump top so you can re-apply when you're out and about and it doesn't leave behind any oily or greasy residue.

Best Travel Camera

Canon EOS 6D Mark II Digital SLR

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (28)

There are a lot of fantastic travel cameras out there, but one of our top picks for Alaska is the user-friendly Canon EOS 6D Mark II for its full-frame and low-light capabilities as well as 4K video. You’ll want something more than your smartphone for this type of trip, with interchangeable lenses in order to capture wildlife, wider landscape scenes, and much more.

Luggage and Bags

“For those avid photographers, Alaska delivers, but it's important to protect your equipment from the elements, [which is] why a dry bag or waterproof backpack is highly recommended,” Erz said. In addition to a dry bag, you’ll need something to bring your clothing and other belongings onto the cruise without having to lug around a giant suitcase, which can be extremely cumbersome and take up too much room in your cabin space.

Best Dry Bag

Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (29)

A dry bag offers waterproofing for the important belongings that you don’t want to get wet, and they’re an absolute must for a cruise to Alaska, where you might get caught in wet weather, go kayaking, or participate in other water-based activities.For those that need something on the smaller end, the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Sack has options ranging from 1L to 35L. For those that need more storage in a heavier-duty dry bag for things like camera gear, extra clothing, etc., theHydraulic Dry Packis an excellent choice; padded straps and a removable hip belt help you carry your items comfortably.

Best Duffel

Thule Chasm Sport Duffel Bag

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (30)

Our Ratings

  • Capacity

    4/5

  • Design

    4/5

  • Portability

    4/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Durability

    5/5

A classic duffel bag can be the way to go when packing for an Alaskan cruise. This duffel is spacious, with options to hold anywhere from 40 to 130 liters — all of your essentials and then some. The water-resistant TPE laminate and nylon base are durable and provide structure. It also features hand straps on each side as well as backpack straps for a variety of comfortable carrying options.

Best Suitcase

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (31)

Our Ratings

  • Capacity

    5/5

  • Design

    5/5

  • Maneuverability

    4.5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

If you’re packing in a suitcase for your cruise, you'll want something that's spacious for all your layers as well as easy to maneuver for your travels. This hardside suitcase is easy to roll around with four spinner wheels, and there's plenty of room to fill up with two separate sides for organization. It even comes with built-in compression compartments to keep all of your bulky clothing items organized so it's no surprise it's the best checked suitcase we tested.

Best Day Pack

L.L.Bean Stowaway Day Pack

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (32)

Our Ratings

  • Capacity

    5/5

  • Design

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

  • Comfort

    5/5

When on a cruise, you may have constant access to your room, but you'll still want to bring a light day pack to store items you want with you at all times. This polyester backpack is made of recycled bottles and conveniently packs away into its own pocket, so you can store it while in-flight and have it ready for day trips when you board the ship. With plenty of pockets plus sternum and hip belts, this is a comfortable pack that you're sure to love.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the best month to take an Alaskan cruise?

    “Alaska’s cruise season takes place during summer, so most cruise travelers are headed there from May to September. Although temperatures can be chillier, some cruisers will seek out shoulder season, April to May and September to October, which can offer lower pricing and fewer crowds compared to the peak months of mid-June to mid-August,” Erz explained.

  • How many outfits should I pack for a seven-day cruise?

    With a need for a mix of practical clothing and layers, outfits for dinner, and more casual wear, it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact number of outfits to pack for a week-long Alaskan cruise, which is why it's key to pack lightweight layers when possible. Since you can wear your outer layers more than once (and there are often laundry services onboard), you will likely only need five to six outfits.

  • How much luggage can I bring on a cruise?

    “Luggage restrictions are heavily dependent on airline limits, which are typically one suitcase weighing up to [50 pounds]. When packing for a longer adventure, find out if your cruise ship offers self-serve or paid laundry services on board. The use ofpacking cubesor vacuum bags is a smart way to further condense what’s going into your suitcase. Merino wool, bamboo, and other natural fibers are great anti-odor clothing that can be worn more than once,” Erz said.

  • Do you need a winter jacket on board an Alaskan cruise ship?

    You should certainly wear a warm jacket even on board an Alaskan cruise. When traveling around the ship, you're likely to find yourself outside frequently, whether you're heading from place to place or standing outside sightseeing, so it's best to be prepared. We recommend you bring a packable jacket that you can easily stuff into your day pack and/or layer up to keep cozy.

  • How far in advance should I book an Alaskan cruise?

    “Cruise lines tend to offer their best pricing further out. You will want to start planning your Alaskan voyage about 10-12 months out from departure, especially if you have a certain room category or side of the ship that you want to be on (i.e., if you cruise north or south along the coast, availability of a balcony on the land side tends to fill up faster). Also, keep in mind that airfare is best purchased in advance, especially if you need to factor in flights to Anchorage, for example, where the ideal flight times and minimal connections can sell out more quickly,” Erz said.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

An outdoor enthusiast and travel writer, Lauren Breedlove used some of her personal experience traveling to Alaska as well as cruising to write this guide. Additionally, she and writer Taylor Fox analyzed testing insights and scoured the internet to research and select the best products for this type of trip. Lauren also interviewed Hurtigruten’s sales director, Kristin Erz, to gather expert insights as well as ask for packing suggestions.

The 21 Best Walking Shoes for Women of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise (2024)

FAQs

Here's Exactly What You Need to Pack for an Epic Alaska Cruise? ›

Layers are very important in Alaska. Pack multiple layers of shirts, sweaters and fleece rather than one heavy coat. A hat to keep you warm and another to protect you from the summer sun. Great rain gear including pants and jacket.

How do I not overpack for an Alaskan cruise? ›

You don't need to pack more than two outfits per day for every day of the trip. Even if you plan on doing a variety of activities, you should be able to conserve and reuse clothing at times. It's a good idea to take an item or two just in case, say one extra change of clothes or a jacket for if you get cold.

What extra to pack on a cruise to Alaska? ›

On an August cruise to Alaska, remember to pack all of your waterproof gear—rain jacket, poncho, waterproof shoes, and water-resistant pants—in order to come as prepared as possible. Consider bringing warmer sweaters, scarves, and hats, as there's a heightened chance you'll be exposed to colder weather, too.

How much spending money should you take on an Alaskan cruise? ›

A typical Alaska Cruise can cost between $600 and $5,000 per person, depending on the length of your cruise, the type of cruise you choose, and your room choice. We recommend budgeting an additional $1,000 to $1,500 per person for shore excursions to get the most out of your Alaskan cruise.

What do you wear on a cruise to Alaska in July? ›

Since I have experienced temps as high as 90 F in Alaska during the summer, I normally take mostly shorts and polo shirts. Long trousers for dinner. Since it can rain, I also bring a rain jacket and a brolly. Don't forget, in July it's summer time in Alaska.

Should I take an umbrella on an Alaskan cruise? ›

Yes, rain in some parts of Alaska can be frequent. Still, it's best to leave the umbrella at home. You'll be all set with a hood on your all-weather jacket or a weatherproof hat that can pull double duty by protecting you from the rain and sun.

Do you dress up for dinner on an Alaskan cruise? ›

Sandals and capri pants, and especially jeans, will not be permitted in the main dining rooms on any ship. Most ships have two formal nights - where at least a tie for the man and nice dress for the female, are desired. Many will wear tuxedos and "prom" dresses to those dinners.

Is Alaska cold on a cruise? ›

Alaska Cruise Temperature by Month

Temperatures can reach anywhere from the low 30s to upper 80s depending on your month of travel as well as the port of call. We always recommend that you dress in layers to prepare for whatever weather comes your way.

How much money should I bring on a 6 day cruise? ›

As a general rule, plan to have $50 to $100 each day in the local currency. Also, you may want to bring an extra $20 a day for tipping crew members. Make sure to include smaller bills for tips. Fifty to a hundred dollars a day should be enough to cover small purchases, tips and snacks at each port.

Is it worth paying for a balcony on an Alaskan cruise? ›

On an Alaska cruise, a balcony cabin provides your own private viewing space to take in spectacular scenery, glaciers, wildlife, and more. While this category of staterooms comes with a higher price tag, the benefits offered on an Alaska cruise will make a huge difference and is well worth the investment.

What is the most expensive month to go to Alaska? ›

In researching your trip, you may see other dates mentioned:
  • Peak season is June to August. By mid-June, it's as warm as it's going to get. ...
  • Cruise Season is also May through September. ...
  • Shoulder Season is May (early season) and September (late season), with 10-25% discounts on some hotels, tours, and cruises.

What is a good amount of cash to bring on a cruise? ›

Most guests bring $50-$120 cash per day to spend during the cruise. You will have many opportunities to purchase duty free goods, take exciting shore excursions, buy local souvenirs, play your chance in the casino, or enjoy some pampering in the spa.

Do you need a swimsuit on an Alaskan cruise? ›

Bring a swimsuit to take advantage of the ship's pools and spas and something comfortable to lounge around in on the ship. If you don't want to let your workout routine slip too much while you're on board, pack some gym clothes and shoes. Most cruise lines offer exercise classes as well as gyms.

How cold is it on a cruise ship in Alaska in July? ›

Alaskan cruise weather, temperatures, and rainfall by month:
MonthLowRainfall
Jun46.1°F3.3 inches
Jul49.2°F4.1 inches
Aug48.3°F5.4 inches
Sept43.8°F7.5 inches
8 more rows

Do you need hiking boots for Alaska cruise? ›

You'll need a sturdy pair of hiking boots or shoes to tread upon Alaska's mountainous terrain, which can be muddy or even snowy during cruise season. Member sue450 recommends bringing "a pair of waterproof hiking shoes (they look like tennis shoes but the Gore-Tex makes them absolutely waterproof).

How do you pack for a cruise without overpacking? ›

Read on for a few quick tips that can make your cruise packing process simpler, saner and less stressful.
  1. Pick a Palette. ...
  2. Go Two if by Sea. ...
  3. Layer Up. ...
  4. Get a Shoe Clue. ...
  5. Stay Fresh. ...
  6. Accessorize. ...
  7. Be Clever With Carry-Ons. ...
  8. Roll Up.
Oct 2, 2022

What do I wear to dinner on an Alaskan Princess cruise? ›

For more formal settings, men should bring a dinner jacket, slacks, or a dark suit and a nice pair of shoes, while women may want to bring an evening gown, cocktail dress, or elegant pant suit. When packing, bring wrinkle-free items or try rolling your clothes.

How much luggage can you take on an Alaskan cruise? ›

A good rule of thumb is to keep your luggage to 1-2 pieces of carry-on or checked luggage up to 50 pounds each, plus two personal items such as a backpack and tote or purse. Always double-check with your cruise line before you start packing so you know how much space you have available.

What is the best side of the ship to be on for an Alaska cruise? ›

For example, cruising from Vancouver, B.C., to Whittier, Alaska, northbound, you might prefer a starboard side room to get majestic views of the Canadian and Alaskan coastlines. Southbound cruisers will want to opt for a port-side room for the same views.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Roderick King

Last Updated:

Views: 5766

Rating: 4 / 5 (71 voted)

Reviews: 86% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Roderick King

Birthday: 1997-10-09

Address: 3782 Madge Knoll, East Dudley, MA 63913

Phone: +2521695290067

Job: Customer Sales Coordinator

Hobby: Gunsmithing, Embroidery, Parkour, Kitesurfing, Rock climbing, Sand art, Beekeeping

Introduction: My name is Roderick King, I am a cute, splendid, excited, perfect, gentle, funny, vivacious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.