So you’ve booked your cruise to Alaska. Now, the hard part – packing for an Alaskan cruise. And even more challenging, figuring out how to actually feel cute on board the ship and during excursions.
Read on for all you need to know when packing for an Alaskan cruise!
Before You Pack
Before putting a single item in your suitcase, take some time to consider your itinerary and to check the weather. This will ensure that you have everything you need and also that you don’t overpack (at least as much – I tend to always overpack a little).
Figure Out Your Alaskan Cruise Itinerary
There are so many things to see and do on an Alaskan cruise, so it’s important to decide on which excursions you’ll be taking and what you want to do on the ship. More active excursions require a very different packing list than just walking around the ports. You’ll also want to check if there are any formal nights and decide if you’re going to use the fitness facilities on board.
Check the Weather and Plan for Changing Conditions
Regardless of your activities, the weather will likely be unpredictable. However, as a general rule, expect the weather to be cool and damp. Of course, check the actual weather as your departure nears, but referencing average temperatures by month is helpful if you want to plan farther in advance.
Unless you’re lucky, the temperatures are most likely going to be chilly. It can also be windy on deck, adding to the cold. Assume the worst of the weather and pack in layers accordingly, and you’ll likely be fine!
What to Pack
Daytime on the Ship / Around Town
During the daytime, expect most of your shipmates to be on the casual side. Keep this in mind when packing for an Alaskan cruise. Because the general vibe is laid back, jeans and leggings will be staples. A couple good pairs of boots and sneakers will keep your feet warm, while being wearable for the entire day on board the ship. Add on layers – sweaters, vests, long sleeve shirts, flannels, etc. – and you’ll have your on-ship uniform. I also like to have a small bag or wristlet to carry little things that I don’t want to run back to the room for.
If you’re getting off the ship, your attire will be fairly similar – casual layers with comfortable shoes. I also suggest bringing gloves, a hat, and a waterproof coat depending on the day’s weather. It poured rain during our time in Ketchikan, so I was beyond thankful to have layers and a heavy coat. A cute backpack or belt bag will hold all the essentials while ensuring that you don’t forget anything.
Packing List
- Jeans
- Leggings
- Long-sleeved tops
- T-shirts
- Lightweight sweaters
- Sweatshirts
- Waterproof jacket/raincoat
- Waterproof boots
- Non-slip shoes (the deck is pretty much always wet)
- Gym attire and shoes (if you’re planning on working out)
- Swimsuit, cover up, and sandals for the hot tub
I ended up packing my heaviest coat for a cruise in May and was happy I did. Even during the day it got chilly outside, so I was happy to have something warm enough for sitting on deck and exploring the ports.
Outfit Ideas
For an elevated look that isn’t too dressy, combine jeans with a lightweight sweater and boots.
Leggings, a long sleeve top, and a flannel with boots or sneakers is comfortable, while still looking put together. Swap out the flannel for a vest to make a completely different outfit without taking up all your suitcase space.
Try pairing leather pants with a sweater and sneakers for a trendy outfit that will still keep you warm and comfortable.
If you indulged too much in the unlimited drink package and aren’t feeling like putting on real clothes, a matching sweatsuit set with sneakers and a ball cap basically feels like you’re still in pajamas, but looks like you put in some effort.
Active Excursions
If your excursion involves hiking, biking, kayaking, or anything athletic, it’s important to dress practically. The rules for excursions are similar to packing for any other activity on an Alaskan cruise – expect cool, damp weather and wear layers.
Packing List
- Leggings
- Long sleeve top (preferably in a breathable material)
- Warm coat
- Raincoat or waterproof jacket
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Hiking boots or other waterproof athletic shoes (depending on your activity)
- Backpack or belt bag
Outfit Ideas
Black leggings and a long sleeve shirt make the ideal base layer for a hiking excursion. Make sure to bring a heavier jacket, gloves, and a hat so you’re prepared for all weather.
For excursions on the water, try quick drying leggings and a breathable long sleeve top. If you’re kayaking, a waterproof jacket or raincoat is essential.
Evenings and Dinner on the Ship
While most dinners aren’t “formal” you’ll still want to step up your attire a little in the evenings. For example, Princess requires smart casual attire in the dining rooms, meaning pool attire, shorts, and torn jeans aren’t allowed.
Jeans with a nice top and shoes are perfect for a typical dinner on-ship, but you could also upgrade your look with a skirt or dress. I found a light sweater or blazer to be plenty warm enough for the evenings, since I was typically inside after dark. Save suitcase room and skip bringing a nice coat for the evenings – the ship is warm enough that you won’t need it unless you’re going outside.
Packing List
- Nice jeans (no tears)
- Trousers
- Dressy tops
- Dresses
- Skirts
- Cardigan or blazer
- Heels or flats, depending on preference
- Fun jewelry
I prefer dressing up, so I didn’t wear jeans with any of my evening outfits. However, nice jeans are absolutely allowed for non-formal dinners. If denim is your thing, you won’t be underdressed in the dining rooms.
Outfit Ideas
Try pairing an oversized blazer with a silky top and wide leg trousers. You can also re-wear most of the pieces and create a totally different outfit by swapping out the trousers for a coordinated mini skirt. Either look is trendy and fun, but the blazer will keep you warm during the chilly Alaskan nights.
A classic combination – you can’t go wrong with a little black dress and heels or flats. Add a cardigan for warmth and you’re good to go!
Throw on a jumpsuit and heels for an easy evening outfit that requires minimal thought.
Formal Nights
Not all cruises have formal nights and some cruise itineraries have multiple, so double check before packing. If your cruise does have a formal night, it will have a stricter dress code in the dining rooms. For example, Princess cruises suggests women wear evening attire or cocktail dresses and men should wear dark suits, dinner jackets, and ties. Tuxedos are also appropriate depending on how fancy you want to get. This the time to break out your dressiest outfits – you’ll see everything from trousers and a cardigan, to long, luxurious gowns, or shimmery cocktail dresses.
Not everyone likes dressing up on vacation – if this is you, just plan on having dinner somewhere besides the dining rooms on formal nights.
Packing List
- Cocktail dress
- Long gown
- Heels or flats, depending on preference
- Jewelry (leave anything precious at home)
Outfit Ideas
A beaded cocktail dress adds a dose of glamour to formal night.
If you’re not feeling flashy, a simple black cocktail dress is perfect. Pair it with colorful shoes to make a little black dress way more fun.
For the dressiest option, an Alaskan cruise is a great opportunity to break out your long dresses.
Don’t Forget These Alaskan Cruise Must Haves
In addition to your attire, there are a few other must haves that you should include when packing for an Alaskan cruise.
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Backpack for excursions and ports
- Toiletries
Check out my full list of travel essentials!
Optional Nice to Haves
These items aren’t necessarily needed when packing for an Alaskan cruise, but they can be really nice to have.
- Wine – Double check ship policies, but generally passengers are allowed one bottle of wine per person. This is great to have if you don’t purchase an unlimited beverage package, or if you want a special wine that might not be available on ship.
- Eye mask – Alaska is known as the Land of the Midnight Sun for good reason. During the summer months, the sun sets late and rises early. An eye mask will ensure the sun isn’t keeping you up all night or waking you up too early.
- Multi outlet adaptor – Cruise ships are notorious for not having enough outlets in the rooms. Bring your own outlets to make sure you have a place to charge all your essentials.
- Belt bag or crossbody – It’s really nice to have a small bag to keep the essentials when walking around the ship.
- Wrinkle spray – Irons aren’t allowed on board, so a good wrinkle spray will help you look put together after travelling.
- Reusable water bottle – I’m a big water drinker and always like to have a reusable bottle with me. Most cruises have plenty of places to fill up around the ship.
- Waterproof bag for phone – A must have if you’re taking any excursions on the water. This will keep your phone safe and dry, but still allows you to take pictures.
Are you planning on an Alaskan cruise? If you’ve already been on one, what were your must haves?
