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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.
- 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!
- The Middle: A good fleece or a puffer vest is your best friend.
- 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.
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!
My husband and I are leaving in 10 days. I was wondering if the Northface 3 in 1 jacket will be adequate for our excursions or do we also need additional rain gear? We are getting excited. Your photos are beautiful!!
That was ALL I needed. The outer shell is a rain jacket
Wow, nice! Wonderful list, and it’s so sweet and helpful in the way you explained the reasons for each. Look. Like you had a fun trip. Now I am about to head over to view more vacation pictures.
This was the best website for an Alaskan cruise! We’re leaving this week and I was starting to panic about last minute packing,but you calmed my fears.Thank you
Have the best time!!
The mobile charger is such a must! All the videos you take on excursions and onboard drain your phone battery. Such a great list!
Why do you suggest shampoo and conditioner? My understanding is that is supplied in the bathroom of your cabin. Also do you think regular athletic shoes are fine so we don’t have to lug hiking boots? We really don’t want that extra weight.
I used the shampoo and conditioner on my last cruise and it made my hair feel like straw. So I would totally recommend bringing your own.
Ok…this is several years after your trip but did you really feel you needed shorts when you went to Alaska. We are planning on going in June but surely it’s too cold for shorts and maybe even crops.
Please let me know. Thanks
Hi Nancy – I would for sure bring shorts – We went in late May and we had two days that were around 70 degrees. My son was there for 5 weeks over the summer and wore shorts on many occasions!
Thanks! We are leaving June 10 on Ruby Princess! Hubby not wild about having to get a sport coat. But oh well! Will be fun!
Honestly, than I wouldn’t make him! It is YOUR vacation – if he doesn’t want to wear one, have him wear a nice shirt and pants – no one will turn him away. People will be dressed all of the place!
Thank you so much for the information. Have an Alaskan cruise (also on the Princess Ruby) scheduled for June 3rd. Am so excited, and reading your information has added to that excitement.
Unfortunately, we did not have good weather during our visit to Alaska. Lots of rain and very cool weather. I thought about packing a turtleneck sweater and wished I had. Did wear my jeans and long sleeved shirts many times. Through all of it though, the ship was beautiful, water was calm, food was excellent and we took advantage of the entertainment.
PS-No irons in the room.
We are headed on our Alaskan cruise the 23rd of this month. Can you tell me if there are hair dryers in the rooms? Don’t see it listed anywhere
Thanks..
You are going to LOVE IT! I am soooooo jealous! Yes, they have hair dryers – at least I know they do on Princess – but they are not the best…at all! I would bring your own.
Thanks so much. Everyone tells us that we will LOVE it! Can’t wait.
After reading this I’m am even more excited!! My husband and I are going the first week in June on Carnival. We have already booked almost all the same excursions as y’all except we are taking the tram up the mountain in Juneau. Thanks so much for the packing list and suggestions for what to do in the cities after/before the excursions.
Did you see any whales while on the cruise ship?