10 Things to Pack for Your First Alaska Cruise

Are you packing for your first cruise to Alaska? There are many things to remember when packing the perfect clothes and items for your voyage. 

Having the right gear for an Alaska cruise can make or break your trip, so it’s essential to do your research before you start packing. The weather, in a word, can be summarized as unpredictable. The Alaska cruise season typically runs from late spring (April) to early fall (October), when the weather heats up and the days are longer. No matter when or where you sail in Alaska, you will likely encounter a mix of warm and cold weather and rainy and sunny days. 

To help you streamline your packing process, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten must-have items to pack for first-time Alaska cruisers. Enjoy your trip to the Last Frontier! 

1. Raincoat or Windbreaker 

Rain is very common in Alaska during the months of the cruise season. Come prepared; you will likely encounter it during your voyage. A raincoat or light waterproof jacket is a great item to pack in your suitcase, so you can stay dry while exploring the port, going on excursions, or even just getting around the outdoor areas of your ship while at sea. We recommend an easily collapsible coat included in your suitcase or placed inside a day carry-on bag.

2. Binoculars

You never know when you will spot wildlife or want to get a closer look at something beautiful in nature when cruising in Alaska. Having a pair of binoculars is a great item to have on hand so you don’t miss those spectacular moments like a whale breaching in the distance or catching an up-close look at a glacier or passing bald eagle.

3. Bug Spray

Just because you are on vacation doesn’t mean the local bugs are! Mosquitos can be found all over Alaska, and during the mild, wet summer climate, they are out in full force. The mosquito is often referred to as the state bird. If your excursions find you outside, having bug spray repellent on hand for your trip is a good idea. We suggest a waterproof spray or lotion option, where you don’t have to apply as often. 

4. Waterproof Boots

Save the flip-flops for your next Caribbean cruise. Waterproof boots/shoes are a must for an Alaska voyage. With the region’s rainy climate, you can expect muddy and wet conditions for walking around and exploring. We recommend bringing footwear that can get damp without issue and offers extra traction/protection from the elements. If you are planning on hiking in the woods or doing any extreme activities, you will want to consider shoes that will be best to keep your feet most protected from the terrain. Consider footwear with thicker soles that have been made for outdoor activities. 

5. Layers

On a typical Alaska day, you can see temperatures range from 40s and cold to hours later at sunny and 60+ degrees. There’s no way to ruin a perfect port day than by being uncomfortable because you are too hot or cold. We recommend dressing in layers, that way if you get hot you can shed some of the excess items, or vice versa if you get cold you can add a layer or two to warm up. We recommend packing a mix of short and long sleeve shirts, as well as sweatshirts/fleece, and maybe even a vest and a good waterproof windbreaker. 

6. Hat and Gloves

Although it's summer, you definitely want to make sure you have a hat and pair of gloves ready for Alaska. Especially if you are traveling in the shoulder season months of April/May and September/October. You will likely get cold and want them for protection or while out on the deck enjoying the scenery. We recommend bringing hats and gloves with you, instead of buying an expensive set onboard the ship or in port. 

When considering a hat, it's recommended to use something that offers full protection and covers your ears. If you plan on using a smartphone, we recommend looking for a pair of gloves with e-tip technology. That way, you can easily use your phone without having to take the gloves on/off. 

7. Backpack

A small backpack is a great way to carry around the extra gear you might need in Alaska. You can store (the aforementioned) gloves, hats, binoculars, and layers, as well as carry around all the items you need for a day in port. A backpack is also a great place to keep any souvenirs you pick up along the way, so you are not carrying around shopping bags on excursions or while out sightseeing. Don’t forget to add a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your time in port. 

8. Seasickness Medicines 

Nothing ruins a great sea day like a case of motion sickness. The weather and ocean conditions in Alaska and surrounding areas can be unpredictable, causing motion to the ship. Even if you are not prone to seasickness, you may find yourself feeling a little green on rougher sea days during an Alaska cruise. We recommend you consider bringing motion sickness medicine, sea bands, or ginger chews to alleviate any symptoms. 

9. Sunglasses & Sunscreen

Despite chilly or rainy conditions, remember it's still spring/summer in Alaska, and the sun’s UV rays are at their strongest. Surprisingly, you can still get sunburned even on a cloudy day. If you are spending a port day on the water or a glacier, the sun with reflect, making it essential to have good protective sunglasses and sunscreen. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses and sun protection; most importantly, don’t forget to use them! 

10.  Portable Phone Charger

If you are using your cell phone as your camera, don’t forget to bring a portable phone charger as a backup for your battery! You wouldn’t want to be on a once-in-a-lifetime dog sledding glacier adventure and miss out on taking pictures or videos as your phone has no battery. A backup battery is also essential if you use your phone as a clock so you don’t miss out on port time. 

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