Packing for an Alaska cruise can be tricky, even for seasoned travelers. The weather in Alaska is hard to predict and very changeable, so you can experience several seasons in one week.
Last Frontier is also a visual paradise with incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. So you want to bring the right gear to make memories and make the most of your trip. In addition, Alaska cruises offer a wide range of activities. To take part in these exciting excursions, you should think twice before boarding an Alaska cruise.
(Photo courtesy of Nancy Schretter)
If you’re wondering what to pack for an Alaska cruise, here are twelve essential things to put on your Alaska cruise packing list:
List of What You Read
1. Multiple layers
Deciding what to bring on an Alaskan cruise is not easy, especially when it comes to choosing your clothing. It’s a good idea to check the weather in each of Alaska’s ports in advance, but don’t rely entirely on these forecasts when planning your cruise in Alaska. Alaska weather is unpredictable and can change drastically over the course of a cruise – or even in a matter of hours – so it’s important to be prepared for all seasons. Bring plenty of clothes that you can easily put on and take off if the weather changes during the day.
Your clothing needs will also depend greatly on the excursions you take ashore. For an Alaskan cruise you will need short and long sleeve shirts, light jackets, fleece jackets, sweaters, a light fleece or plush vest, a warm hat, a scarf and gloves. Base layers for men and women can also help combat the cold. Don’t forget to bring a swimsuit and polarized sunglasses.
Summer in Alaska can include a few hot days, so bring shorts and lightweight hiking pants or zippered convertible pants – especially when deciding what to pack for an Alaska cruise in July or August.
2. Packable rainmaker
Alaska can receive a lot of liquid sunshine during the spring and summer seasons, so it’s important to plan accordingly. A good waterproof rain jacket with a hood, a windproof umbrella and waterproof, quick-drying men’s or women’s kayak and hiking pants are essential for an Alaska cruise. Make sure your rain jacket is compact in your bag and big enough to wear layers and fleeces underneath for extra protection from the elements.
Some travelers deciding what to pack for an Alaska cruise in May or September may want to pack a spare 3-in-1 jacket for extra warmth in cold, rainy weather.
(Photo courtesy of Pixabay/Free-Photos)
3. Waterproof hiking boots
The terrain in Alaska can be rugged and the ground muddy, so adventurous treks and land-based activities often require shoes or boots with good tread. Bring a pair of comfortable, waterproof men’s or women’s hiking boots on your Alaska cruise, as well as two pairs of good socks in case one gets wet. Make sure you break in your hiking boots before your trip to avoid blisters and other problems.
4. Output adapter with USB ports
Cruise ship cabins usually have a very limited number of outlets, and there are never enough to charge all the cell phones, camera chargers, computers, tablets and other tech devices that Alaska cruise guests bring with them. When thinking about what to bring on your Alaska cruise, make sure you bring a multi-adapter with USB ports so you can easily charge all your devices while cruising.
