Sunday, March 31, 2024

What To Pack For An Alaska Cruise: The Complete Guide

what to pack for a cruise to alaska

She loves to get active while at port, whether cycling through mountains in the Caribbean or scuba diving under the sea. You can also reduce the amount of clothes you bring to Alaska by relying on laundry services. It's really easy to find yourself overpacking for an Alaska cruise because of the wide temperature swings involved in a typical sailing. Before starting to pack, it’s important to understand the basics of an Alaska cruise so you know what to expect both onboard and in port. The major ingredient in this, Picaridin, is considered much safer than DEET and is a synthetic compound derived from the same plant genus that produces table pepper. Unlike DEET, picaridin is also odorless and non-greasy.

What to wear to dinner on a Cruise to Alaska

Think of it while going through the beautiful views of The Last Frontier. Here are some must-have items for your printable packing list for Alaska cruise to make your cabin comfortable. Going on an Alaskan cruise means you need more than just the right clothes. You also need accessories and travel gear that match Alaska’s wild beauty and changing weather.

Sandals, Sneakers, and Hiking Boots

If it’s warm when I travel, I put it into a freezer ziplock bag and squish the air out of it. It’s also water resistant (not waterproof) and a windbreaker. This is the best and least expensive of my Alaska-wear. It’s basic, loose-fitting with room to layer underneath.

I packed for a 7-day cruise with just a carry-on suitcase and backpack - Cruise Blog

I packed for a 7-day cruise with just a carry-on suitcase and backpack.

Posted: Thu, 14 Jul 2022 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Best Clothes to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Some people might skip the waterproof pants, but there’s no reason to skip the water protection for your legs after you’ve worked so hard to keep your head, body, and feet dry. That said, you only need to bring one pair of waterproof pants — as long as they actually work. We’re turning to the Trailmade Rain Pants from REI Co-op. For starters, they come from a tried and trusted brand, and are made from a reliable, breathable, waterproof, and windproof fabric that is both rip-resistant and Bluesign-approved. These pants can be worn on their own or slipped on over leggings or jeans. The elastic waist and ankle cuffs are both adjustable, and there are three zippered pockets and a hook for hanging to quickly drip dry after a wet hike.

Hanging toiletry bag

I also bring a pair of nice unfaded black jeans that can double as dress pants on formal nights. There should be enough room in your denim jean’s legs if you need to put on a pair of silk or silk-like long “underwear” underneath. Outside of your main clothes and footwear, don’t forget to pack accessories for an Alaska cruise.

A summer cruise in Alaska is an adventure with amazing views and changing weather. To enjoy your trip, it’s important to plan your outfits carefully. Choosing the right clothes means thinking about comfort and how well they work for different conditions.

Warm Hat and Gloves

Long days spent touring, abundant daylight and getting your body clock adjusted all lean towards casual. On formal nights in the main dining room or an upscale specialty restaurant, men can pair dark pants with a sport coat, shirt and and maybe a tie. A guy could even get away with wearing a nice pull-over sweater and maybe a collar peeking out over the neckline. Alaska cruises really are relaxed when it comes to dress-up nights.

Opt for something lightweight but still warm, such as a wool or fleece beanie. Though it may not seem like an essential item at first glance (especially if you’ll be cruising in the summer months), you’ll be thankful to have one when the chilly evenings set in. By the time September rolls in, it’s shoulder season in Alaska, meaning there’s less tourists but chillier weather. Temperatures will continue to drop, with highs only reaching the mid 50s and lows going down to the mid 30s. Therefore, if you booked a September cruise to Alaska, make sure to bring heavier layers of clothes, such as thick wool sweaters, socks, hats, a warmer jacket, and a sturdy pair of gloves. July enjoys the warmest average temperatures of the summer (they can go from low 50s to high 60 degrees), which is why it’s one of the best times to cruise to Alaska.

what to pack for a cruise to alaska

If you already have a camera, think about bringing a zoom lens. To capture close-up images of the glaciers, wildlife foraging along the shore and on and on. I used the mm lens with this Joby Gorilla travel-size tripod for a DSLR camera, to capture the Northern Lights on an Inside Passage cruise.

I use mine as an evening wrap as well as my outdoor scarf. You can roll it up, and it won’t take up much room in the suitcase. Again, if you’re on one of the mainstream cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean or NCL, then if past experience holds well, there were not men in tuxedos or women in formal gowns.

These are the must-haves to pack for shore excursions and day trips in Alaska. The weather is unpredictable, so it can be warm and sunny or you can have heavy rains, even in the same day! Be prepared for rain, with the proper outdoor clothing and gear.

From warm, sunny days in the 70s to cool, rainy days where it doesn’t get out of the 40s, you need to be prepared for just about anything. When it comes to packing, there’s a big difference between the classic Caribbean cruise and what you’ll experience in Alaska. Of course, you won’t be spending beach time in the warm sun… and you should probably prepare a little differently than bringing a few pairs of shorts and flip-flops. Cruises to Alaska don’t draw as many families as trips to the Caribbean but it’s certainly an awe-inspiring place for a family vacation. If you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. A dry bag is great for Alaska because it will keep your belongings safe and dry, even if you get caught in a rainstorm or end up taking a dip in the ocean.

The secret to packing right for an Alaskan cruise is layering. Stick with us as we delve into the specifics to ensure you’re prepared for this exciting Alaskan experience. Hydration is key when you’re hiking in Alaska or engaging in other active excursion outdoors. Bring along your favorite water bottle to keep on hand during your trip.

This portable charger is the one I recommend using (link contains affiliate link that costs you nothing extra). I'd also recommend bringing a camera with a zoom lens or a cellphone that takes high quality photos. You should also bring enough chargers and enough memory cards for the hundreds of photos that you will likely take. Whichever type of shoes you decide to bring, make sure the soles of your shoes have plenty of grip.

Alaska Packing List: What to Pack and Wear on Your

what to pack for a cruise to alaska

But it’s especially important to pack a first aid kit on an Alaska cruise, where you may be doing some outdoor activities in remote areas. Your first aid kit should include bandages, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, and any other items that you think might come in handy. You can create your own first aid kit or buy a preassembled one. When going hiking or outside on the cruise, you must have a lot of stuff with you. This backpack will also keep your belongings dry if it rains. Bring lightweight layers so you can transition warm days to cool evenings.

Accessories to pack on an Alaskan Cruise

The best time to cruise Alaska - The Points Guy

The best time to cruise Alaska.

Posted: Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Instead of packing bulky items like towels or blankets, confirm beforehand if these will be provided on the ship. For clothing, opt for materials that are lightweight, quick-drying, and wrinkle-resistant to save space and reduce the need for laundry services. In addition to clothes, there are a few extra items that will go a long way in making your cruise to Alaska a memorable experience. For example, one of the highlights of traveling to Alaska is spotting wildlife in its natural habitat. Therefore, we recommend travelers bring a handheld camera and a good pair of binoculars, in order to fully experience the wonder of Alaska’s nature.

Reusable Water Bottle

I also like all the customizable details put into this jacket, from an adjustable waist and vented hem to zippered pockets and a stowable, three-piece hood. Beyond black and beige, this women’s rain jacket comes in pretty shades of light blue, pink, and purple. Best of all, these light layers fold down to almost nothing when you pack them or roll them into a backpack.

How Much Spending Money Should You Take on an Alaskan Cruise?

Daytime calls for casual clothes so you can explore freely. Hence, knowing what to wear on an Alaskan cruise means finding a balance. Going on an Alaskan cruise means you’ll see the region’s stunning beauty. It’s crucial to adjust your Alaska cruise wardrobe essentials for varying weather.

You’ll Also Love

I like this jacket because it’s lightweight, has a detachable hood with a slight rain-blocking brimming (so no need to pack a rain hat), and has hand and chest pockets with easy zipper pulls. You’ll also get optional armpit venting and a more tapered fit that somehow ends up making this rain jacket look kind of chic. The women’s version comes in seven colors ranging from basic to bright, and the six men’s variations include solids and two tones. The first time I traveled to Alaska was on a family trip. It was a two-week cruisetour with Princess Cruises, where you spend a week on land and a week on a cruise ship — and I got it completely wrong when it came to packing. Growing up in Florida, Alaska was as far away as you could get.

For those going on a serious, full-day hike, bring rain pants for extra comfort. If you're visiting Anchorage or Juneau and want to walk around the city, a compact umbrella is a good idea, as is a lightweight waterproof bag or backpack and a phone case. Finally, if you're planning on packing casual shoes, those should have a waterproof coating, too.

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: 10 Must-Pack Items - Cruise Critic

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: 10 Must-Pack Items.

Posted: Wed, 20 Nov 2019 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Complete Guide to Using Your Phone on a Cruise (Carnival, Royal Caribbean & More)

This base layer for men is a best-seller that really should be on your Alaska cruise packing list. If you’re simply more comfortable wearing a dress on formal night, by all means pack a dress. If so, you might want to bring a pair of stockings or tights for a bit of warmth on your stroll around the deck. Both men and women should pack at least one or two comfortable (but not torn) denim jeans.

Or, if your ship is doing a late-night stay in port, you might want to seek out the best place for king crab, wild Alaska salmon and other local delicacies on shore. Alaskans tend to dress for comfort at restaurants — even those with fancy menus. Packing for an Alaska cruise does not have to be a stressful experience. Yes, you will be visiting some places where the weather might be chillier than back home, but you will not encounter truly Arctic conditions.

Phone Charger

You may encounter slippery or rocky surfaces on shore excursions or while exploring on your own, so you want to make sure your shoes have enough friction. Packing a pair of comfortable lounge shoes for the ship is a good idea, too. Slippers, flip flops, or comfy sneakers can be nice to have when walking around the ship and your stateroom. Morning and evening can be much colder than what you may experience in mid-afternoon, so having the flexibility to put on or take off clothing will be well appreciated.

what to pack for a cruise to alaska

Great guides will get you the animal access, but you can maximize these moments by packing binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. This gear lets you easily spot and capture images of your wild finds. It is your place to rest and reflect from an incredible day and charge up for the next day and a place to store your gear. Here are some tips for essential cruise items that will make your cabin feel like home. No matter the cruise, with Alaska Tours handling logistics and acting as the go-to source for cruise-related advice, passengers can quickly immerse themselves in their Alaska cruise experience.

These Maui Jims are considered unisex, but you can choose your lens tint in bronze or blue. Princess has more balconies and suites than any other cruise line in Alaska, allowing you to maximize your glacier-viewing experience at every turn. You may also want to pack binoculars for an even closer look at all the splendor the Great Land has to offer. Having active and passive options means every sea day can be perfect, regardless of the weather. Emily Concannon is the face and storyteller behind Emily Embarks and Sea to Summit Alaska. A full-time travel blogger, she is committed to sharing her top travel advice and adventures with the world.

In addition to my usual one or two pashminas, I always pack a warm scarf. On days when a heavier weight scarf would be overkill, I’ll just wear a high-neck top and then if the weather suddenly gets warm, I can open my jacket and be comfortable. Over the lightweight sweater or sweatshirt, I’ll either wear a thin, loose-fitting waterproof rain jacket or my usual water repellent puffy jacket with hood, depending on if it’s a sunny or rainy day. However, some people still love to dress up on formal night. But like I said earlier, it’s less common on Alaska cruises.

A breadth of sizes from XS to XXL and tall options are available, but the color options are pretty much limited to basic black. Sure you may not be sitting on the deck by the pool in a swimsuit, but even being out and about during an excursion is enough to get burned. So while most of your body is likely to be covered up in warmer clothes, it’s still a good idea to pack sunscreen for exposed areas like your cheeks, ears, and neck. And while we’ve mentioned bringing a camera, you might also want to pack a monopod.

The Alaskan cruise season typically runs from May to September, with July and August being the peak months for Alaska cruises. Alaska’s weather during these times is very unpredictable. So, you’ll need to pack a variety of Alaska cruise clothing suitable for all types of conditions. Although Alaska cruises tend to be less dressy than Caribbean cruises, most Alaska cruises have formal nights, elegant or chic nights.

So, wear layers you can add or remove to stay comfy and ready for anything. That way, your Alaska cruise experience focuses on fun and discovery, not being uncomfortable or unprepared. Smart packing is critical to having a smooth and enjoyable trip for your Alaska cruise.

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