Alaska is breath-taking, the air is crisp and the scenery is incredibly beautiful. An Alaska cruise is one of the best ways to soak in the scenery of this incredible place, while still having the luxuries of the cruise ship.
Packing for an Alaska cruise can be a bit tough. Usually, cruises are associated with days out in the sun, but then Alaska goes hand in hand with snow and freezing cold weather. Surprisingly enough though, you will need to pack some clothes for sunny days when on an Alaska cruise. There are probably a handful of things you might not think of when packing for the cruise, so here is a complete list of everything you will need, specific to an Alaska Cruise.
Essentials
Sunscreen
The sun will be harsh on your skin as the air is clearer and thinner up in Alaska. Wearing sunscreen will be so important to ensure you don’t get badly sunburned and even suffer with sunstroke. Wear it at all times during the day. Get yours here.
Sea-sickness Band
Many people find their bodies do not agree with the rocking movement of the ship. A sea-sickness band can be worn discreetly and will help you avoid any motion sickness that threatens to ruin your trip. Take a look at this impressive advanced one from Amazon right here.
Collapsible Backpack
A collapsible backpack will be great to use when out on land trips. Fold it away neatly in your bag and pull it out and fill it with essentials when venturing out on a day trip.
First Aid Kit
Minor scratches, burns or headaches can happen easily. Have your own first aid kit packed away and ready to use. You will be able to fill it with medicines and salves that you know work for you, and won’t have to wait for a crew member on the ship to help.
Water Bottle
Walking around the ship and on land can become tiring, and the last thing you want is to land up dehydrated. Keep a thermal water bottle on hand that will keep your water cold, and keep you hydrated.
Insect Repellent
Yes, there are mosquitoes and other bugs in Alaska. A good bug spray will help you keep these bugs away and stop you from getting bitten every five minutes.
Waterproof Bag
A waterproof bag will keep your belongings safe when traveling on land or even during a sudden downpour, or snowfall. It will keep the water out and keep its contents safe.
Small Fan
The cabins on the cruise ship can actually become too hot, or you might feel a little heated on the deck. A small, portable fan that fits in your bag will help you cool down and stay comfortable.
Warm Jacket
Alaska is obviously going to be cold. Bring a good, warm jacket that can be used throughout the trip. One that keeps the icy cold wind out and keeps your body heat in. One with lots of little pockets and a hood is always a winner!
Wet Wipes
Wet wipes are a must for anyone, especially for those on a cruise. Accidental spills or messes can easily be wiped up. Sharing a cruise with thousands of others can become quite germy, so keeping wet wipes around can help you keep your hands clean and the germs away.
Shampoo and Conditioner
Many people forget their shampoo and conditioner when traveling. While some cruise ships offer small complimentary toiletries, but you want your own products that work well with your hair, and that will actually last the whole trip.
Slip-proof Sandals
Pool water on the deck, rain or spilled drinks can all be serious falling hazards. Keep yourself safe by wearing slip proof sandals when walking out and about on the ship.
After Sun
If you do get a little bit of sunburn, an after sun gel will help soothe, cool and hydrate your skin.
Organization
Ziploc Bags
Ziploc bags come in handy for so many reasons. Keep your phone dry, keep important documents safe, keep snacks packed away and even put your dirty clothes away in large Ziploc bags. They have so many uses and you will be so thankful you brought them with.
Lanyard
Keep your access card safe on a lanyard. It will always be on your person, you won’t have to fish it out your pocket every couple of minutes and it won’t get lost.
Passport Holder
You might need your passport on your trip, and a lost passport is a nightmare. Keep yours safe in a passport holder where it won’t get damaged.
Credit Card Pouch
It is much easier to use your credit card when on a cruise. Cash can get lost or stolen easily. A credit card pouch will keep your cards safe, but easily accessible for when you need them.
Waterproof Folder
You might need to keep important documents, such as copies of identity documents or your cruise tickets, safe. A waterproof folder is the best way to keep these from being damaged.
Waterproof Sports Watch
Cruise ships offer activities for guests that run on a strict schedule. Keep on time for all your favorite activities using a simple and reliable waterproof sports watch.
Clothing for Men
Gloves
Icy cold hands are bound to happen in the cold wind on an Alaska cruise. Gloves will protect your hands from the outside elements and help you enjoy your time on board a little more. Take a look at these ones.
Beanie
You lose most of your body heat through your hands, feet, and head. So making sure your head is warm is a good way of keeping your whole body warm. A thick beanie will keep all the heat in and look pretty cool as well.
Sweater for Layering
Layering is the key to keeping warm. The more thin layers you wear, the warmer you will be. Good, thin, but warm material is perfect to use under a sweater or jacket. It insulates your body heat and will keep you warm. Here’s a good one from Amazon.
Rain Jacket
There might be sudden snowfall or rainfall when you are out. An easy to carry and easy to pack raincoat will be such a help when you find yourself in a little bit of a wet situation. One that packs small into your bag is perfect to carry around.
Thermal Socks
Thermal socks will be an absolute lifesaver, especially during those chilly nights. Your feet will be nice and toasty and all the heat will be insulated. They go a long way in keeping you warm and keeping the chills out.
Hiking Boots
The land in Alaska can be challenging, for those heavy walking shore tours it’s worth packing good waterproof hiking boots.
Swimming Shorts
While it could be pretty cold out, the cruise ship might have some warm hot tubs to jump in. It will be lots of fun and a great relief from the cold, but only if you remember to pack your costume! Get yours here.
Boxer Shorts
You need something to sleep in. Your room will more than likely have a heater, so a soft cotton pair of boxer shorts will be perfect to sleep in.
Clothing for Women
Sweater for Layering
Lightweight and soft – that is what you want from a layering shirt. It will keep the cold out and the heat in. Take a look here.
Beanie
A cute beanie will not only make you look the part on your Alaska cruise, but it will keep you warm and comfortable while doing so.
Rain Jacket
A good rain jacket will be your best friend some days. Avoid getting your hair wet and ruining your clothes, keep a compact yet effective rain jacket with you in your bag for any surprise weather changes.
Thermal Socks
It is a bit tough to layer your shoes, so thermal socks will take care of keeping your feet and calves warm through the chillier parts of your trip.
Gloves
Gloves that have removable fingers will be helpful when wanting to carry out daily activities, but when your hands are too cold to be left uncovered. Pop the finger covers back on when the wind gets a bit too chilly.
Swimsuit
Jump into the hot tub and watch the miserable weather from the warmth of the tub. Packing a swimming costume for an Alaska cruise might not seem obvious, but it is a definite.
Pyjamas
Some light and comfortable pajamas will do the trick in helping you get a good night’s rest after a busy day, and getting ready for the next busy day ahead of you.
Sports Bra
You might end up doing quite a bit of walking and activity on your cruise trip. A comfortable sports bra won’t cause any pain or awkwardness and will give you the support you need when out and about.
Gear and Accessories
Travel GPS Tracker
Make sure you keep track of your adventure ashore by using a good real-time GPS tracker. Handy if going on your own tour away from those operated by the cruise line.
Sports Camera
It’s very important to capture those stunning views in Alaska with the ones you’re cruising with. You’ll need a good sports camera which can handle the conditions of this region.
Sunglasses
The glare from the Alaskan landscape and from the sun can be quite harsh. Good Polaroid sunglasses will help you cut out the glare and have a clearer, comfortable view of the ocean and surrounds.
Walking Shoes
There will be a lot of activities and even guided walks on land. Comfortable shoes will make such a difference in how much you enjoy these events and how your feet deal with the extra walking.
Binoculars
Don’t miss out on anything, whether out at sea or on land. Small binoculars that are effective can fit easily into your bag and can be whipped out at any moment to see anything in the distance, whether it be a bird or a passing ship.
Selfie Stick
Cruise selfies are a must, how else will you prove you were on holiday? A foldable selfie stick that is sturdy and easy to use can help take the most wonderful pictures on you and the surrounding scenery.
Wide Brimmed Hat
Keep your head and neck protected from the harsh rays of the sun and keep your eyes sheltered from the glare of the surrounding sea, sun, snow and everything else. Check those hat for men and women.
Coffee Mug
Take your coffee on the go with you, don’t be limited to coffee only in the dining hall. An insulated coffee mug will keep your coffee hot and not spilling, to be enjoyed on the deck or just about anywhere. Take a look at this one.
Fitness Tracker
Take in your calorie count each day and count your steps with an easy to use cheap fitness tracker. Perfect to use during your time on land on an Alaska cruise.
Foldable Walking Stick
Hikes on land can become a bit tiresome without a walking stick. One that folds up is ideal to travel with and will just take off that extra edge.
Electronics
Chargers
You won’t be able to touch base back home, post your holiday selfies or check up on any news if your phone dies. Take an adapter with that can charge various devices such as your phone, camera and fitness watch.
Camera / Video Camera
A good quality camera that doubles up as a video camera will take stunning images and videos of your trip, for you to keep and treasure. Make sure it is compact and easy to carry around, but also durable and won’t shatter easily.
Alarm Clock
Be sure you set a travel alarm clock each morning, or for afternoon naps, to be up in time for breakfast or any activities you don’t want to miss out on.
Nightlight
The lights in the cabin might be too bright to use in the middle of the night. An easy portable light that can come with you to get some water or to the bathroom will be super helpful.
Thermometer
Keep a check on the chilly weather outdoors with a small portable thermometer. This will be essential for those long hiking shore excursions on an Alaska cruise.
Hair Dryer
You really don’t want to be walking around the cruise ship with wet hair. A travel hair dryer will get the job done for you and leave you looking fabulous.
Also Read: 10 Things You Absolutely Need for Your Alaskan Cruise
Packing for an Alaska Cruise
Hopefully, with this list you won’t forget to pack anything or leave any essentials behind. Have a great holiday with everything you need!
