What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List for Every Season

Packing for an Alaska cruise is very different from packing for a Caribbean vacation. Instead of swimsuits and flip-flops every day, you'll likely experience cool mornings, sunny afternoons, light rain, and chilly evenings—all in the same day.

The good news? You don't need an entire winter wardrobe. The secret to staying comfortable in Alaska is packing smart and dressing in layers.

Whether you're sailing in May, June, July, August, or September, this guide will help you pack with confidence so you're ready for glacier viewing, wildlife excursions, scenic cruising, and everything in between.

Ready to start planning your Alaska adventure?

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Understanding Alaska's Weather

One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is that Alaska isn't always freezing.

Temperatures in Southeast Alaska cruise ports generally range around:

• May: 45–60°F

• June: 50–65°F

• July: 55–70°F

• August: 50–65°F

• September: 40–60°F

Temperatures can feel much cooler when you're standing on an open deck watching glaciers or whale watching.

Rain is also common throughout the season, especially in ports like Juneau and Ketchikan.

Instead of packing bulky clothing, focus on lightweight layers that you can add or remove throughout the day.

The Layering System

Think in three simple layers.

Base Layer

This layer sits next to your skin.

Choose:

• Moisture-wicking shirts

• Long-sleeve performance tops

• Lightweight thermal shirts for cooler sailings

For active or potentially wet excursions, moisture-wicking fabrics are a better choice than cotton because they dry more quickly.

Mid Layer

This provides warmth.

Good choices include:

• Fleece jackets

• Quarter-zip pullovers

• Lightweight insulated jackets

• Sweaters

You'll probably wear this layer more than anything else.

Outer Layer

This is your protection from rain and wind.

Pack:

• Waterproof rain jacket

• Windproof shell

• Hooded jacket

You don't need an expensive mountaineering jacket. A lightweight waterproof shell paired with warm layers works well for most Alaska cruises.

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A packable rain jacket is especially useful because it can easily go into your daypack when the weather warms up and come right back out when the rain or wind rolls in.

📱 Use the Online Checklist

Our online checklist is perfect for viewing on your phone, tablet, or computer while you pack. It's organized by category, making it easy to see what you've packed and what you still need before you head to the cruise terminal.

👉 Use the Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist Online

What Clothes Should You Pack?

A good packing list includes:

Tops

• T-shirts

• Long-sleeve shirts

• Moisture-wicking shirts

• Casual sweaters

• Fleece jacket

Bottoms

• Jeans

• Hiking pants

• Leggings

• Comfortable casual pants

Many travelers wear the same few pairs throughout the cruise.

Shoes

Comfortable shoes are one of the most important things you'll pack.

Bring:

• Waterproof walking shoes

• Hiking shoes if your excursions require them

• Comfortable sneakers

• Casual shoes for evenings onboard

Skip high heels unless you know you'll wear them.

Don't Forget These Accessories

Small items often make the biggest difference.

Bring:

• Warm hat

• Light gloves

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Lip balm

• Reusable water bottle

• Small backpack or daypack

• Camera

• Portable phone charger

Keep Your Phone Charged in Port

Between taking photos, using maps, checking excursion details, and keeping in touch with your travel companions, your phone can drain quickly during a long day in port.

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Binoculars Are Worth Packing

If you only bring one extra item, make it binoculars.

You'll have a much better chance of spotting:

• Whales

• Sea otters

• Bald eagles

• Mountain goats

• Bears

• Glaciers in the distance

Many experienced Alaska cruisers say binoculars become one of the most-used items they pack.

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Glacier Viewing Days

If your itinerary includes a glacier-viewing or scenic-cruising day, you may spend several hours outside watching the scenery.

Even if the temperature isn't extremely cold, standing outside can feel much cooler because of the wind and the cold air coming off the ice.

Wear:

• Base layer

• Fleece

• Waterproof jacket

• Hat

• Gloves

You'll be much more comfortable than someone wearing one heavy coat.

Evening Wear Onboard

Evenings are generally relaxed on Alaska cruises.

Pack:

• Nice jeans or casual slacks

• Polo shirts or blouses

• Casual dresses

• Lightweight sweater

If your cruise includes formal night and you'd like to participate, bring one dressier outfit.

Otherwise, smart casual clothing works well in most restaurants.

What NOT to Pack

Many first-time Alaska cruisers overpack.

Leave these at home:

• Heavy winter coats

• Snow boots (unless specifically needed)

• Bulky sweaters

• Too many dress clothes

• Multiple formal outfits

• Hair dryer — most cruise ship cabins provide one, so check your ship before packing yours.

• Beach towels (provided by the cruise line)

Packing for Excursions

Think about the activities you've booked.

If you're planning:

Whale Watching

Bring:

• Waterproof jacket

• Binoculars

• Camera

Glacier Hiking

Bring:

• Waterproof hiking shoes

• Warm layers

• Small backpack

Railroad Tours

Bring:

• Camera

• Binoculars

• Light jacket

Wildlife Viewing

Bring:

• Binoculars

• Camera with extra batteries

• Waterproof outer layer

Looking for unforgettable shore adventures?

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Free Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist

Now that you know what to pack for your Alaska cruise, make packing even easier with our Free Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist.

Whether you prefer packing with your phone or checking items off on paper, we've got you covered.

📄 Download the Printable PDF

Prefer a traditional checklist? Download our free printable PDF and check off each item as you pack. It's perfect for keeping on the kitchen counter, dining room table, or tucked into your suitcase while you prepare for your Alaska adventure.