The Ultimate Guide To Packing for an Alaskan Cruise

Clothing:

• Layers: Layering is very important on an Alaskan cruise. Start with moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layers and waterproof outer layers. The day may start cold, warm up during the afternoon and cool down again at night. It’s best to be ready for varying temperatures.

• Warm clothing: Even in the summer months, temperatures can be cool. Bring light sweaters, long-sleeve shirts and a warm jacket.

• Rain gear: A waterproof jacket with a hood is a must. Waterproof boots or shoes are great for water excursions, hikes and sightseeing in the rain.

• Casual wear: Bring comfortable clothes for onboard activities and excursions. Things like long-sleeve t-shirts, jeans, khakis, button-downs and casual dresses.

• Formal wear: Your cruise will have one to two formal nights, so pack a nice dress or pantsuit for women and a sports jacket or suit for men. Formal nights are not optional in the main dining room, but there are lots of other dining options available if you don't want to participate.

• Undergarments and Sleepwear: Underwear, bras, Spanx, belts, under shirt, socks and PJ's.

• Activewear: For the fitness center and thermal spas.

• Swimwear/coverup: For the ship's pool or hot tub.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking / tennis shoes for excursions, waterproof boots, formal night dress shoes and casual shoes for onboard.

Accessories:

• Binoculars: Great for wildlife viewing, especially during scenic glacier cruising.

• Camera: Any chargers or batteries needed for it through the trip.

• Lanyard: For your cruise card.

• Cases: Waterproof phone pouch, passport case and luggage tag holder.

• Backpack, crossbody sling pack, fanny pack or travel purse

• Sunglasses and hat

• Gloves, scarf and warm hat

Miscellaneous:

• Travel documents: Passport, medallion (Princess cruises), cruise documents, boarding passes if not online and any visas (if needed). I keep all these items together in an inexpensive school zipper pencil pouch.

• Medications: Any prescription medications, plus over-the-counter medicines. If you aren't sure if you get seasick or not, and especially if you do get seasick, bring Dramamine, motion sickness patches and or sea bands. Advil / Tylenol, cold or sinus medicine, Pepto Bismol, Tums, Alka Seltzer and Imodium.

• Toiletries: Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, soap and any other personal care items you usually use. Wipes, hand sanitizer and extra empty zip-lock bags.

• Reusable water bottle/ Yeti / Stanley Cup: To stay hydrated during excursions and to fill with drinks on the ship.

• Electronics: Chargers for your devices, and maybe a power strip for your cabin. Any extra batteries for items you bring along that are battery-operated. Portable speaker.

• Laundry: Sheet detergent, a few dryer sheets and spray wrinkle remover.

• Night light

• Small first aid kit

Tips:

• Pack light: Cruise cabins can be small, so try to pack efficiently. Packing Cubes are fantastic for cruise packing.

• Check cruise line policies: Make sure to review your cruise line's specific packing guidelines and restrictions. Know what is allowed to be brought on board and what is not. i.e. drones, flammable items, etc.

• Carry-on bag: include essential items, such as an extra outfit, travel documents, passports, medications and empty Yeti-type water bottles.

• Phone info: Check with your carrier and see what countries are included in your plan. They can range from none, to full international, to Canada and Mexico. Regardless, it’s best to put your phone on airplane mode immediately after boarding the ship.

• Passport: Make sure that your passports are valid for six months past your sail date.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cruises page.