The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List: Everything You Actually Need!

I have a confession to make: when I started packing for my first Alaska cruise, I was totally lost. I’m a warm-weather vacation girl at heart, and I’m used to packing flip-flops and sundresses. Packing for Alaska is a whole different ball game!

The weather in Alaska is wild, one minute I was in a tank top soaking up the sun on the deck, and an hour later I was pulling out my hat and gloves because the cold coming off a glacier is no joke.

After a few trips, I’ve finally mastered the art of the Alaska suitcase. Trust me, if you follow this list, you won’t be the one shivering at the railing while everyone else is enjoying the view!

The “Golden Rule” of Alaska Packing: Layers, Layers, Layers!

If you take one piece of advice from me, let it be this: dress like an onion. You want layers you can peel off and put back on as the weather shifts.

1. The Base Layer: Think moisture-wicking tees or tank tops. The ship’s interior is cozy, so you don’t want to be stuck in a heavy sweater at lunch!
2. The Middle: A good fleece or a puffer vest is your best friend.
3. The Shell: This must be windproof and waterproof. Alaska mist is real, and a regular hoodie will just get soaked.

My #1 Must-Have: The 3-in-1 Jacket

I am telling you, if you buy one thing for this trip, make it a high-quality 3-in-1 jacket. It’s a waterproof raincoat and a warm fleece that zip together. You can wear them separately or together, so you basically have three different coats in one spot in your suitcase. It’s a total game-changer!

The Vertical Storage Cabin Hack

Cruise ship cabins are notoriously tight on space. If you have a family of four in one room, it can look like a tornado hit your suitcase by day two! Here are my favorite ways to fix that:

• AirTags in Every Bag: Put an Apple AirTag in your checked luggage. Cruises handle thousands of bags on embarkation day, and seeing exactly where your suitcase is on your phone is the ultimate peace of mind.
• Magnetic Hooks are Non-Negotiable: Did you know almost all cruise ship walls are metal? Bring a pack of heavy-duty magnetic hooks (look for the 25lb+ ones). Stick them to the walls to hang your wet rain jackets, day bags, and lanyards. It keeps your gear off the tiny desk and helps everything dry out faster.
• The Over-the-Door Organizer: This is my secret weapon. Hang a clear over-the-door shoe organizer on the bathroom door. Instead of shoes, use the pockets for your “everyday essentials”—sunscreen, sunglasses, chargers, lip balm, and those ship cards. You can see everything at a glance, and it keeps your counters completely clutter-free.

Cabin Essentials & Gadgets

• The Yeti Coffee Mug: Ship coffee cups are tiny! If you’re a coffee lover like me, bring your Yeti. It stays hot while you’re whale watching from the balcony.
• Multi-USB Power Strip: Most cabins only have one or two outlets. We bring a (non-surge) power strip so we can charge all our phones and cameras at once.
• Wrinkle Releaser: Irons are a big “no-no” on cruise ships (fire hazard!). Pack a travel-sized bottle of Downy Wrinkle Releaser to keep your dinner outfits looking fresh.

What to Wear to Dinner

Don’t stress about Formal Night! While some people go all-out in gowns, most people go for “Smart Casual.” A nice pair of dark jeans, a cute top, and some flats are perfect. My motto? It’s your vacation wear what makes you feel great!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a raincoat? Yes! Even if the forecast says sun, Alaska mist is a real thing. A lightweight stow-away rain jacket is a must-pack for your daypack.

How many bags should I bring? Alaska is one of those trips where you’ll probably hit your airline weight limit. Between the heavy jackets and layers, it adds up fast. Use packing cubes to squeeze it all in!

Is it really that cold in the summer? It varies! It can be 70 degrees in the afternoon and 40 degrees by the time you reach a glacier. That’s why those layers are so important.

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Planning your excursions next? Don’t miss my guide on What Alaska Cruise Excursions to Book to make sure you see the best of the Last Frontier!