The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist

The items on this checklist are handpicked for cruises lasting three to seven days, covering everything from clothing and footwear to excursion must-haves. Whether you're sailing in late spring, summer, or early fall, the weather will keep you on your toes with crisp mornings, warmer afternoons, and sudden showers. 

With our Alaska cruise packing list, you'll be ready for anything:

Essential Documents & Money

Before you travel to Alaska, make sure you have all the necessary documents and access you'll need. Don't forget:

Passport/ID (required for cruises entering Canadian waters)

Cruise documents and boarding passes

Travel insurance information

Credit cards, cash, and small bills for gratuity

Emergency contact information

National park passes (if applicable for certain excursions)

Alaska Weather & Seasonal Considerations

Alaska's weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures and conditions changing often. Here's a brief weather overview:

Late Spring (May-June): Temperatures 40-60°F, more rainfall possible

Summer (July-August): Temperatures 50-70°F, longer daylight hours, less rainfall

Early Fall (September): Temperatures 40-55°F, increasing rainfall, possible early snow

Daylight hours (up to 18+ hours of sunshine in the summer)

We suggest bookmarking the National Weather Service for regular updates.

Clothing Essentials 

Your Alaskan wardrobe should keep you warm, dry, and ready for adventure. Here's what to bring for different activities and changing weather conditions.

Base Layers

Layers are your best friend here. Don’t leave home without:

Thermal underwear

3-4 moisture-wicking base layer tops (long and short sleeve)

2-3 quick-dry shirts and pants

2 pairs of comfortable jeans/pants

3-4 T-shirts for layering

2 mid-weight fleece or wool sweaters

Adjust quantities based on cruise length:

3-4 days: Pack one outfit per day plus one extra

5-7 days: Consider mix-and-match pieces for versatility

Outerwear

Alaska's weather can go from breezy to flat-out cold in no time, so stay ready with:

1 waterproof rain jacket (essential for all Alaska seasons)

1 lightweight down jacket or heavy fleece

1 windproof outer layer

1 warm hat that covers ears

1 pair of gloves

1 scarf or neck gaiter

4-6 pairs of warm socks (wool or synthetic blend)

Evening & Formal Wear

Yes, you’re cruising to Alaska to explore the wilderness, but you’ll still need the right attire for formal dinners and shows on the ship. Pack these essentials to be dressed for every occasion without overstuffing your suitcase:

2 or 3 business casual outfits for dining

1 formal/semi-formal attire for cruise line requirements

Comfortable but stylish shoes for evening

1 light sweater or wrap for air-conditioned ship areas

Footwear

Your feet are your best travel buddies, so don't leave them hanging. Here's an overview of footwear to add to your Alaska cruise packing list:

1 pair of waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes

1 pair of comfortable walking shoes

1 pair of casual shoes for onboard

1 pair dress shoes for formal nights

Outdoor Activities & Excursion Gear

Alaska isn't the place to wing it. Here's how to stay prepped for whatever comes your way:

Waterproof daypack

Binoculars for wildlife/ faraway glacier viewing

Camera with extra batteries

Polarized sunglasses (reduces glare from water and glaciers)

Refillable water bottle

Hand/foot warmers for glacier excursions

Trekking poles for hiking excursions (can often be rented)

Quick-dry towel for hot springs visits

Waterproof phone case/dry bag

Insect repellent (especially important in summer)

Sunscreen (even in cloudy weather)

Lip balm with SPF

Anti-fog wipes for binoculars/glasses/camera lenses

Motion sickness remedies for small boat excursions

Glacier & Alpine Excursion Essentials

Glaciers are cool (literally), but if you're planning to get close to one, you'll need the right gear to stay warm, dry, and steady on your feet. Consider:

A few extra warm layers

Waterproof pants or wind gaiters

Gloves (waterproof)

Sunglasses with UV protection (to combat glacier glare)

High SPF sunscreen (UV reflection from ice)

Microspikes/traction devices (for glacier walks)

Thermal/insulated water bottle

Toiletries & Personal Care

There are places you can travel to and buy your personal care there without having to use precious suitcase real estate. Alaska is not one of them. Add these to your Alaska cruise packing list:

Basic toiletries and personal hygiene items

Moisturizer (Alaska air can be drying)

Medications (prescription and over-the-counter)

Motion sickness remedies

Eyedrops if you're prone to dry eyes

Technology & Entertainment

Even if you're cruising to disconnect, you'll probably want: 

Phone and chargers

Portable power bank

Headphones

Books (or e-reader) for days at sea 

Camera, straps, packs, and lenses, with extra memory cards

Binoculars

Cabin Comforts & Conveniences

Your cruise cabin is your homebase, so why not make it cozy like home? Add these to your Alaska cruise packing list for extra smooth sailing:

Sleep mask (for extended daylight hours)

Ear plugs (useful if your cabin is near common areas)

Travel alarm clock

Nightlight

Portable humidifier to combat dry/stale air

Hanging toiletry bag (so that your stuff isn't spread all over the bathroom counter)

Cabin door decorations (optional but fun)

3-7 Day Cruise Packing Strategies

Packing for an Alaskan adventure is different from other trips. This section walks you through how to pack smart, save space, and feel prepared:

3-4 day cruises:

Your best Alaska outfits will be made of versatile, layerable pieces that can be worn in different ways multiple times

Limit formal wear 

Prioritize excursion gear based on pre-booked activities

5-7 day cruises:

Pack one outfit per day plus 1-2 extras

Consider shipping laundry for emergencies (though expensive)

Include options for variable weather conditions

Plan outfits around scheduled excursions and activities

Pre-Departure Planning

A little planning before your trip can make everything go more smoothly. Don't forget these steps to take before you leave:

Research your ports and excursions

Learn about your ship; find out what entertainment and dining options are onboard

Check weather forecasts as you approach the departure date

Review ship's facilities and dress codes

Consider luggage weight limitations

Pack a small bag with embarkation day essentials

Before We Depart

Now that you've got the essentials covered, you're ready for an unforgettable adventure. If you have any must-have items for an Alaska cruise packing list, drop them in the comments below!