50 Essential Items to Pack for an Unforgettable Alaska Cruise
Going on an Alaska cruise can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, offering the opportunity to see incredible scenery, wildlife, and experience unique cultures. However, packing for an Alaska cruise can be overwhelming. You need to consider various weather conditions, activities, and the length of the trip. To make the packing process easier, we’ve compiled a list of 50 things to take to an Alaska cruise and why you need them.
- Warm Jacket – You’ll need a warm jacket for the chilly weather in Alaska. A good quality jacket will help you stay warm and dry.
- Rain Jacket – Rain is frequent in Alaska, so a waterproof rain jacket is essential to keep you dry and comfortable.
- Warm Hat – A warm hat will keep your head and ears warm during the colder months.
- Gloves – Keep your hands warm and protected from the cold by packing gloves.
- Scarf – A scarf will keep your neck warm and protect you from cold winds.
- Thermal Underwear – Thermal underwear will keep you warm and dry.
- Warm Socks – Keep your feet warm and dry by packing warm socks.
- Hiking Boots – Hiking boots are essential if you plan to go hiking or walking in the Alaskan wilderness.
- Water Shoes – You’ll need water shoes if you plan to do any water-based activities, such as kayaking or rafting.
- Sunscreen – Even though it’s cold, the sun can still cause damage to your skin, so it’s essential to pack sunscreen.
- Sunglasses – Protect your eyes from the sun’s glare with sunglasses.
- Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be a nuisance, so pack some insect repellent.
- Camera – Capture your Alaskan adventure by taking a camera.
- Binoculars – Spot wildlife from a distance with binoculars.
- Maps and Guidebooks – Pack maps and guidebooks to help you plan your trip and get around.
- Travel Pillow – A travel pillow will help you sleep better on the plane or during long car rides.
- Medication – Pack any medication you need, including prescriptions and over-the-counter medications.
- First Aid Kit – A first aid kit will help you treat minor injuries.
- Hand Sanitizer – Keep your hands clean and free from germs by packing hand sanitizer.
- Water Bottle – Stay hydrated by packing a reusable water bottle.
- Backpack – A backpack will help you carry your essentials during your day trips.
- Swimsuit – Pack a swimsuit if you plan to visit hot springs or take a dip in a pool.
- Formal Clothes – Most Alaska cruises have formal nights, so pack some formal clothes if you plan to attend.
- Casual Clothes – Pack casual clothes for everyday wear and relaxing on the cruise ship.
- Fleece Jacket – A fleece jacket is a great layering option for warmth and comfort.
- Wool Sweater – A wool sweater will keep you warm and cozy.
- Turtleneck – A turtleneck will keep your neck warm and protect you from cold winds.
- Long-sleeved Shirts – Long-sleeved shirts are great for layering and keeping you warm.
- Short-sleeved Shirts – Pack some short-sleeved shirts for warmer days.
- Shorts – Pack shorts for warmer days and outdoor activities.
- Pants – Pack pants for colder days and formal nights.
- Skirts or Dresses – Pack skirts or dresses for formal nights.
- Pajamas – Pack comfortable pajamas for a good night’s sleep.
- Underwear – Pack enough underwear for the duration of your trip.
- Bras – Pack enough bras for theduration of your trip and consider bringing sports bras for active days.
- Swim Cover-up – A swim cover-up is a convenient item to pack for trips to the pool or beach.
- Beach Towel – Many cruise lines provide towels for pool and beach use, but it’s always a good idea to pack your own just in case.
- Laundry Bag – A laundry bag is a useful item for keeping your dirty clothes separate from your clean clothes.
- Travel Iron – If you want to ensure that your formal clothes are wrinkle-free, consider packing a travel iron.
- Travel Steamer – A travel steamer is an alternative to a travel iron for those who prefer not to use irons.
- Hat – A hat will protect you from the sun and rain, and it’s also a great accessory to add to your outfit.
- Waterproof Phone Case – Protect your phone from water damage by packing a waterproof phone case.
- Travel Adapter – Make sure you pack a travel adapter if you plan to use electrical devices on your trip.
- Portable Charger – A portable charger is a must-have item for keeping your phone and other devices charged while on the go.
- Deck of Cards – A deck of cards is a great item to pack for downtime on the cruise ship.
- Books – Bring some books to read during your downtime or on the plane.
- Snacks – Pack some snacks for when you get hungry between meals or for long day trips.
- Water-resistant Watch – A water-resistant watch is a useful item to pack for water-based activities.
- Travel Insurance – Make sure you have travel insurance to protect yourself from unexpected events.
- Cash – Bring some cash for tips and purchases in port cities.
In conclusion, packing for an Alaska cruise can seem daunting, but with this comprehensive list of 50 items, you should have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Remember to consider the weather conditions, activities you plan to do, and the length of your trip when packing. Happy cruising!
20 activities to consider doing during an Alaska cruise
- Whale Watching – Alaska is home to a variety of whale species, and many cruise lines offer whale watching excursions.
- Glacier Viewing – Witness the majesty of Alaska’s glaciers up close on a glacier viewing tour.
- Dog Sledding – Experience the thrill of dog sledding on a glacier or through the Alaskan wilderness.
- Fishing – Alaska is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with opportunities to catch salmon, halibut, and more.
- Kayaking – Paddle through Alaska’s pristine waters on a kayaking excursion.
- Hiking – Take a guided hike through the Alaskan wilderness and explore the stunning scenery.
- Helicopter Tours – See Alaska’s natural beauty from a unique perspective on a helicopter tour.
- Zip-lining – Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip-lining adventure through the Alaskan wilderness.
- Rafting – Navigate the rapids of Alaska’s rivers on a thrilling rafting excursion.
- Wildlife Viewing – Spot bears, moose, eagles, and other wildlife on a guided wildlife viewing tour.
- Native Culture Tours – Learn about Alaska’s rich native culture through guided tours and cultural performances.
- Train Rides – Take a scenic train ride through Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes.
- Photography Tours – Capture stunning photos of Alaska’s natural beauty on a guided photography tour.
- Flightseeing – Take a small plane or helicopter tour to see Alaska’s remote wilderness and glaciers from above.
- Mineral Hot Springs – Relax in the natural mineral hot springs found throughout Alaska.
- Salmon Bakes – Enjoy a traditional Alaskan salmon bake with delicious food and entertainment.
- Historical Tours – Learn about Alaska’s fascinating history through guided tours and museums.
- Glacier Bay National Park – Visit Glacier Bay National Park to witness glaciers calving into the water and see whales and other wildlife up close.
- Northern Lights – Experience the awe-inspiring Northern Lights during a winter Alaska cruise.
- Shopping – Explore the shops and galleries in Alaska’s port cities to find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Keep in mind that some of these activities may have additional costs, so be sure to check with your cruise line or excursion provider for pricing and availability. Enjoy your Alaska cruise!