Alaska Cruise Packing Guide
What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise Without Overpacking
Packing for Alaska is different than packing for the Caribbean.
You don’t need giant winter coats or snow boots, but you do need smart layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes.
The good news? Once you pack correctly, Alaska cruising is comfortable, flexible, and absolutely unforgettable.
Here’s what you actually need for a summer Alaska cruise.
Alaska Weather: What to Expect
Typical Summer Temperatures
For most summer Alaska cruises, plan for cool, changing weather.
- May & September: often cooler, around 45°F–60°F
- June–August: often 55°F–70°F
- Glacier viewing days: usually feel colder because of wind
Alaska weather can vary a lot, but this gives you a realistic starting point for cruise packing.
Expect Rain:
Rain is part of Alaska cruising, especially in:
- Ketchikan
- Juneau
- Southeast Alaska
Usually, this looks like:
- mist
- light rain
- short showers
- cloudy skies
Long Daylight Hours
In June and July, it stays light very late.
That’s great for:
- sightseeing
- wildlife viewing
- photography
- evening walks on deck
Packing tip: A sleep mask can actually help.
The Secret to Packing for Alaska: Layers
You do not need one huge coat.
You need layers you can add or remove throughout the day.
Base Layer:
Wear
- moisture-wicking shirts
- merino wool
- athletic fabrics
- lightweight long-sleeve tops
Avoid heavy cotton when possible because it holds moisture and can feel cold when damp.
Mid Layer:
For warmth pack:
- fleece
- pullovers
- sweaters
- lightweight puffer jacket
- warm zip-up layers
Outer Layer:
Most important item: a waterproof rain jacket.
Look for one that is:
- waterproof
- windproof
- lightweight
- easy to layer over sweaters or fleece
A good waterproof jacket is one of the best things you can bring to Alaska.
Alaska Cruise Packing List
Clothing
Tops
- 3–4 lightweight long-sleeve shirts
- 2–3 t-shirts
- 2 sweaters, fleece pullovers or warm layers
Bottoms
- 2 pairs jeans or casual pants
- 1–2 pairs hiking or activewear pants
- 1 pair shorts
- 1–2 thermal leggings or base layers
Dinner Outfit
Bring:
- 1 nice dinner outfit
- 2 if your cruise line or itinerary is dressier
That’s enough for most Alaska cruises.
- Princess: usually slightly dressier, with smart casual evenings and possible formal nights
- Norwegian: generally more casual, but still expects put-together clothing in dining venues
- Royal Caribbean: usually somewhere in the middle, with “Dress Your Best” or formal-style evenings depending on the sailing
You do not need to pack gowns, tuxedos, or multiple formal outfits unless you personally enjoy dressing up. Princess and Royal Caribbean still describe formal or dressier evening options, while NCL keeps things more flexible and casual.
Swimsuit
People forget this for Alaska cruises.
You may want it for:
- hot tubs
- covered pools
- spa areas
- saunas
- hot springs excursions
Shoes
Waterproof Walking Shoes or Hiking Shoes
This is one of the most important things you’ll pack.
Choose shoes that are:
- comfortable
- broken in
- supportive
- water-resistant or waterproof
Other Helpful Shoes
Also consider:
- casual sneakers
- sandals or flip-flops for the cabin or pool area
- comfortable dress shoes
- warm moisture-wicking socks
Outerwear & Accessories
Waterproof Rain Jacket
This is your most important Alaska item.
If you invest in one thing, make it a good waterproof jacket.
Optional: Waterproof Rain Pants
These are not required for everyone, but they are nice to have for:
- hiking
- kayaking
- rainy excursions
- active port days
Beanie or Warm Hat
Perfect for:
- glacier viewing
- whale watching
- windy mornings
- cool evenings on deck
Lightweight Gloves
Especially helpful on glacier days and early mornings.
Sunglasses
Glacier glare is real.
Bring sunglasses for:
- glacier viewing
- sea days
- sunny port days
- wildlife watching
Sunscreen & SPF Lip Balm
Yes, even in Alaska.
The sun can reflect off water, ice, and snow, so sunscreen and SPF lip balm are worth packing.
Baseball Cap or Wide-Brim Hat
Helpful for sun, drizzle, and keeping rain off your face during excursions.
Binoculars
One of the most forgotten Alaska cruise items.
Great for spotting:
- whales
- bears
- bald eagles
- seals
- glaciers and shoreline views
Hand Warmers
Tiny item, huge comfort boost.
Great for glacier viewing days, whale watching, and chilly mornings.
Sleep Mask
Helpful because of the long daylight hours, especially in June and July.
Insect Repellent
Especially helpful if you are doing:
- hiking excursions
- inland tours
- Denali or cruisetour extensions
- summer evening activities
Princess also includes insect repellent, sunscreen, nausea medicine, personal medications, and first-aid basics in its Alaska cruise packing guidance
Bags & Gear
Small Backpack or Daypack
Perfect for excursions and port days.
Use it for:
- water bottle
- extra layer
- rain jacket
- camera
- snacks
- gloves and hat
Reusable Water Bottle
Most ships have places to refill water, and it is helpful on long excursion days.
Waterproof Phone Pouch or Dry Bag
Great for:
- whale watching
- kayaking
- rainy ports
- boat tours
- protecting electronics in your backpack
Portable Power Bank
You’ll use your phone constantly in Alaska for photos, videos, maps, and messages.
Extra Charging Cables
Cruise cabin outlets are not always where you expect them to be.
A longer charging cord can be helpful.
Small First-Aid Basics
Pack a small kit with:
- band-aids
- blister care
- pain reliever
- motion sickness medicine
- antiseptic wipes
- any personal medications
Earplugs
Helpful for:
- hallway noise
- travel days
- light sleepers
- shared cabins
Laundry Bag
A small laundry bag helps separate worn or damp clothes in your cabin.
Cruise Cabin Hacks
These make cruise cabins much easier to manage.
Magnetic Hooks
Cruise cabin walls are usually metal, and magnetic hooks create extra storage.
Use them for:
- hats
- jackets
- lanyards
- small bags
- damp rain gear
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes help keep tiny cabins organized and make it easier to find what you need.
Lanyard for Cruise Card
Helpful if your cruise line uses physical keycards.
Cruise-Approved Outlet Option
If you bring an outlet extender or power strip, make sure it is cruise-approved and non-surge protected.
Many cruise lines do not allow surge-protected power strips.
Glacier Viewing Day Essentials
Glacier days are colder and windier than regular port days.
Bring:
- waterproof jacket
- warm layers
- gloves
- beanie
- binoculars
- sunglasses
- power bank
- insulated coffee mug or tumbler
- camera or phone with plenty of storage
You Don't Need a New Outfit Everyday
This is one of the biggest ways to avoid overpacking.
You can repeat:
- jackets
- fleece layers
- jeans
- hiking pants
- dinner layers
- shoes
Alaska packing is more about staying dry and comfortable than having a totally different outfit every day.
Embarkation Day Carry-On Tips
Always keep these in your carry-on:
- medications
- one change of clothes
- phone charger
- important documents
- toiletries
- lightweight jacket
- sunglasses
- swimsuit, if you may use the pool or hot tub right away
Your luggage may not arrive at your cabin right away.
Final Thoughts
Packing for Alaska is all about:
- layers
- waterproof gear
- comfortable shoes
Pack smart, stay flexible, and you’ll be ready for everything from glacier viewing to whale watching to sunny afternoons on deck.
Alaska weather can change quickly, but that’s part of the adventure. With the right layers and a few smart extras, you’ll be ready to enjoy it instead of worrying about what you packed.
Packing for Alaska is all about layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes. Pack smart, stay flexible, and you’ll be ready for everything from glacier viewing to whale watching.
Ready to start planning your perfect Alaska adventure?
Choosing the right cruise line (and the right side of the ship for the best glacier views!) makes all the difference. As an Alaska cruise specialist, I handle all the details, from cabin selection to shore excursions, at no extra cost to you.
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