Alaska Cruise Packing List (What I Wish I Knew Before My Trip)

ByZoe Grace Posted on

There’s nothing like the first time you cruise through Alaska.

I still remember standing on the upper deck as we passed Glacier Bay—mist clinging to the railing, air so cold it felt like it bit my cheeks. I was layered up like a marshmallow and still couldn’t stop smiling.

But let me tell you… I was not fully prepared. I packed too much of the wrong stuff and not enough of what I actually needed.

So here’s what I’ve learned. If you’re getting ready for an Alaska cruise—whether it’s your first or fifth—this guide will help you pack smarter, feel comfortable, and stay ready for every moment, from glacier sightings to gala dinners.

1. Pack for Layers, Not Just Warmth

Alaska’s weather is all over the place—it can flip from sunny to freezing rain in 10 minutes. You’ll wake up needing a fleece, by noon you’re sweating in a t-shirt, and by nightfall you’re reaching for your beanie again.

What worked for me? Three simple layers:

Forget giant parkas unless you’re cruising in early May. What you really want is flexibility. I made the mistake of bringing two thick coats and barely wore them. My rain jacket and fleece did the job every day.

2. Shoes Matter More Than You Think

I thought I could get away with sneakers. Big mistake.

On our Juneau excursion, we walked through wet, uneven trails to see Mendenhall Glacier—and by the time we got back, my socks were soaked and feet freezing.

Lesson: bring waterproof hiking shoes or boots with grip. You’ll use them on nature walks, in port towns, and even just walking around the deck when it’s wet.

Also bring something comfy for the ship—crocs, flip-flops, or slip-ons. Trust me, your feet will thank you.

3. Don’t Forget “Onboard Life” Clothes

When I was packing, I focused so much on staying warm I almost forgot that I’d be spending half my time inside a floating luxury hotel.

The cruise ship is heated. It’s cozy. There are formal nights, brunches, shows, and live music. That means you need a few nice outfits, too.

I packed a black dress, one sweater-skirt combo, and a pair of flats. That was enough for 2 formal nights and dinners at specialty restaurants. For guys, a blazer and button-down will do.

The rest of the time? Soft leggings, sweatshirts, and cozy socks were perfect.

4. The Cold Doesn’t Mean You Can Skip Sunscreen

This surprised me: you can still get sunburnt in Alaska.

Especially when you’re outside all day, near the water or glaciers—UV bounces off the surfaces. My husband didn’t pack sunscreen and came back from whale watching with a red nose and cheeks.

Bring SPF 30+ and lip balm with sunscreen. Your skin (and photos) will look way better.

5. Swimwear? On an Alaska Cruise? Absolutely

Here’s the fun part: yes, you need your swimsuit.

Most cruise ships have hot tubs and heated indoor pools. And nothing beats sitting in warm bubbles with a cocktail in hand, surrounded by snowy peaks. It’s surreal.

I almost didn’t pack mine, and that would’ve been tragic.

Also bring flip-flops or spa sandals—you don’t want to walk barefoot on cold, wet pool decks.

Recommended Swimsuit: Women High Waisted Bikini Sets

6. Shore Excursions: Be Prepared for the Wild

We went dog-sledding in Skagway, kayaking in Ketchikan, and hiking near glaciers in Sitka. If you’ve booked excursions like these, make sure to pack:

I used my small North Face backpack every single day off the ship. It held snacks, rain gear, an extra layer, and my DSLR camera.

7. Toiletries: What the Ship Won’t Have

Yes, your cruise room comes with shampoo and soap—but if you’re picky, bring your own.

I also brought:

  • A small toiletry bag that hangs (cabin bathrooms are tight)
  • Lip balm, moisturizer (the wind dries you out fast)
  • Sea-sickness meds (even if you “never get seasick,” bring them)
  • A mini first-aid kit—blisters and sore muscles are real

One night I felt queasy after a bumpy stretch—Dramamine saved me. And I met a fellow cruiser who forgot hers and ended up paying double at the ship’s store.

8. A Few Extra Items I’d Pack Again

These were surprisingly useful:

9. What NOT to Bring

Here’s what I brought and never used:

  • Fancy heels (ship floors are slippery + you’ll mostly wear flats)
  • Iron/steamer (they’re not allowed)
  • Too many books (there’s a ship library and you won’t read that much)

And for those asking—don’t bring alcohol or drones. They’ll get confiscated at check-in.

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