When you think of packing for a cruise you might think bathing suit, wide brimmed hat, shorts and sandals. But your packing list for a cruise to Alaska needs to be a little bit different. Here are 8 tips that will help you pack to make the most of your Alaska Cruise Experience.

From the Expert:

Alaska climate ranges from rainforest in the Inside Passage to mountain ranges in the Interior to permafrost in the Far North... I recommend packing to dress “like an onion”…in layers. Bring a hat, Thinsulate-style gloves, jacket with a removable liner (to work as a windbreaker/rain jacket) and hood and a small umbrella. Good walking/hiking shoes/boots that have been worn in. You don’t want blisters on your trip! If traveling in June, July or August, you should pack some shorts and T-shirts as well.

Packing Tips:

• Fabrics: Moisture-wicking fabrics such as wool and polyester are best for an Alaska cruise. They will keep you warmer for longer and will dry quickly if they get wet.


• Layers: Pack a variety of clothing that can be layered because temperatures vary in Alaska even in the summer months. You’ll need a wide variety of clothing such as formal, casual and sporty attire to cover all aspects of cruising in Alaska.


• Evening-Wear: Remember to bring your formal wear such as a dress pants, dress tops, dress shoes etc. for nighttime dining.


• Rain Gear: Weather in Alaska can change in the blink of an eye with rain and a heavy mist that tend to take over, so a waterproof jacket with a hood is a must on an Alaska cruise. Rubber boots are also recommended to avoid slipping on any ramps getting on and off the cruise ship.


• Comfortable Shoes: If you choose to take part in excursions off the ship, then running shoes with good traction and support are adequate for anything you’ll be doing except a high intensity hike. If you plan on hiking steep hillsides, bring a lightweight hiking boot. Wear your sneakers on the plane to save room in your luggage.


• Light Winter Cap/Gloves/Scarf: These will keep you warm if it gets unseasonably cold or if you get chilly from the glacier-chilled wind. As our AAA expert says “...dress like an onion” so you can add and remove clothing based on your comfort.


• Binoculars: Don’t forget to bring your binoculars so you can zoom in on the amazing wildlife and breathtaking scenery that Alaska has to offer.


• Sun Protection: Don’t let Alaska’s chilly temperatures fool you. The sun’s UV rays are strong in Alaska and the sun’s reflection off the ice can be very intense. Be sure to pack and apply enough sunscreen when visiting Alaska.

Want to learn more about an Alaska Cruise? Visit your local AAA Travel Center to speak with a AAA Alaska expert.