Alaska Cruise Packing List for First-Timers Who Have No Idea What to Wear

Packing for an Alaska cruise feels nothing like packing for a Caribbean getaway, and if it’s your first time, it’s easy to overpack the wrong things and forget the essentials. The weather can change three times in a day, and you’ll go from chilly glacier-viewing decks to cozy dinners onboard in the span of an hour.

This Alaska cruise packing list is built to take the guesswork out of it. From the layers you’ll be grateful to have on deck to the gear that makes shore excursions way more comfortable, this guide covers everything first-timers need to know about what to wear and what to bring. With the right pieces in your suitcase, you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready for every glacier, whale sighting, and scenic port that comes your way.

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Clothing for Changing Weather

Even in the peak of summer, Alaska’s weather can swing from bright sun to cold drizzle in the same day. Layering lets you stay comfortable whether you’re standing on the ship deck in chilly wind or walking through town on a warm afternoon. You’ll want things you can peel off in seconds and stuff in your backpack.

• Lightweight waterproof jacket – essential for rain and wind protection.
• Fleece or wool sweater – for chilly mornings and evenings.
• Long-sleeve shirts – versatile base layers.
• Short-sleeve shirts – for warmer afternoons or shipboard.
• Comfortable jeans or hiking pants – good for both city walks and excursions.
• Quick-dry hiking socks – helpful on long days exploring.
• Packable down vest – adds warmth without taking up space.

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Footwear That Actually Works

our shoes matter more here than anywhere else. Sidewalks get slick, trails muddy, and even walking the deck can be slippery when it’s misting. Many first-timers regret bringing only fashion sneakers that slip on wet docks. Waterproof shoes or boots will save you a lot of hassle.

• Waterproof walking shoes – great for city days and light trails.
• Sturdy hiking boots – if you plan to take glacier hikes or nature excursions.
• Casual slip-ons or sandals – for shipboard lounging.

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Specialty Gear for Excursions

Alaska excursions range from glacier treks to whale watching, and having the right gear makes them much more comfortable. Many tours provide equipment like crampons or helmets, but you’ll want your own basics.

• Binoculars – whale watching and spotting wildlife from the ship.
• Daypack – lightweight, water-resistant, to carry snacks, water, and extra layers.
• Reusable water bottle – easy refill on excursions.
• Gloves and warm hat – even in July, glacier winds are cold.
• Sunglasses – glacier glare is surprisingly strong.
• Sunscreen – yes, Alaska sunburns happen, especially on water.
• Insect repellent – mosquitoes can be fierce near forests and rivers.

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Formal and Onboard Wear

Most Alaska cruises still host formal or semi-formal nights. It’s not tuxes and gowns unless you want it to be. The rest of the time, casual and comfortable outfits will carry you through dining and onboard shows.

• One or two dress outfits – a simple dress or button-up shirt with slacks works fine.
• Casual evening outfits – nice tops, dark jeans, or skirts.
• Light sweater or wrap – dining rooms can feel cool.

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Toiletries and Health

Here’s where being overprepared pays off. The ship shop charges $12 for a tiny tube of motion sickness pills. Bring moisturizer, because the combo of cold air outside and heated air inside dries skin fast. Lip balm is essential too, or you’ll be licking cracked lips by day three.

• Travel-sized shampoo/conditioner – cruise lines may provide generic brands only.
• Moisturizer and lip balm – Alaskan air is dry and wind-chapped lips are common.
• Prescription meds – always in original containers.
• Basic first-aid kit – band-aids, ibuprofen, blister care.
• Motion sickness remedies – patches, bands, or pills.
• Hand sanitizer – handy for shore excursions.

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Electronics and Accessories

Photos and videos are a huge part of any Alaska cruise. Between glaciers, wildlife, and port towns, you’ll want reliable gear. The ship provides some outlets but not enough for multiple devices, so a multi-port charger is a quiet hero.

• Camera with zoom lens – smartphone cameras struggle with distant wildlife.
• Spare memory cards – you’ll take more photos than expected.
• Portable power bank – for long excursion days.
• Multi-port USB charger – cabins rarely have enough outlets.
• Waterproof phone case – keeps gear safe in drizzle or splashes.
• Travel alarm clock – some cabins don’t have bedside clocks.

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Important Documents and Money

I’ve watched people get turned away from excursions into Canada because they forgot passports. Don’t be that story. Even if your itinerary seems all-Alaska, sometimes ships reroute, and you don’t want to be the one scrambling. Cash helps too in smaller towns don’t always take cards for snacks or tips.

• Passport or government-issued ID – required for international stops (like Canada).
• Cruise documents – print and digital copies.
• Credit/debit cards – for shopping and tours.
• Small bills – useful for tipping guides and drivers.
• Travel insurance details – crucial for remote destinations.

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Things You Should Not Bring

Overpacking is the biggest mistake most travelers make. Cabins are small, so don’t waste room on bulky stuff or things the ship already has. The less you bring, the less you haul through airports and terminals.

Leave These Out:

• Hair dryers – cabins have them.
• Multiple formal outfits – one or two is plenty.
• Heavy winter coats – layering works better than bulky gear.
• Large bottles of shampoo or toiletries – save space with travel sizes.
• Extra shoes – more than three pairs is usually overkill.
• Irons – not allowed on cruise ships for fire safety.

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Seasonal Considerations

The difference between sailing in July or September is huge. July meant long days, warmer afternoons, and plenty of mosquitoes inland. September was colder, wetter, and dark earlier, but less crowded. What you pack depends a lot on when you’re going.

Adjustments by Season:

• Early season (May): pack warmer jackets and heavier layers.
• Mid-summer: focus on lighter layers and stronger insect repellent.
• Late season (September): bring waterproof pants and more sweaters.

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Additional Handy Tips

Some of the best hacks come from repeat mistakes. Laundry can cost a fortune onboard, but detergent sheets let you hand-wash in your cabin sink. And zip-top bags? They’ve saved my electronics in rainstorms more than once.

• Laundry: some ships have self-service laundry, so pack detergent sheets if you want to wash and re-wear.
• Snacks: excursions can run long—bring protein bars.
• Zip-top bags: great for keeping electronics safe in rain.
• Collapsible umbrella: good backup when jackets aren’t enough.
• Refillable coffee mug: ship cups are tiny, and excursions often start early.
• Cruise lanyard: keeps your room key handy.