My Alaska Cruise Packing List (& What I Wish I Brought)
Packing for an Alaska cruise isn’t your typical flip-flops-and-beach-towel situation. Between glacier winds, unpredictable weather, and excursions like whale watching and hiking, I had a lot of questions before we left. In this post, I’m sharing my complete Alaska cruise packing list from our 8-day Princess Cruise, plus what I wish I’d brought and a few helpful tips to make sure you’re prepared for your own adventure.
What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (My Real Packing List)
Layers are key for an Alaska cruise as the weather can shift quickly, but there are a few other essentials I wouldn’t sail without. Here’s everything I packed for our 8-day Alaska cruise with Princess Cruises. While Alaskan cruises are generally more casual than tropical ones, I still ended up needing two outfits per day for port days: one for outdoor excursions and another for evenings on the ship. As someone who usually travels carry-on only, I try not to overpack, but in this case, hiking gear and dinner attire didn’t overlap. We were lucky to have amazing weather with no rain, so a few things didn’t get used, but I’d still pack them all again, just in case.
Alaska Cruise Clothing Essentials
Airport Outfit
Wear whatever you’ll feel comfortable pairing with your hiking or waterproof boots (no need to waste space packing them!) I went with jeans, t-shirt, zip-up hoodie, tall socks, and these waterproof hiking boots.
Excursion Days (Based on 4 Port Days)
- Base-Layer Thermal Set
- 3 Fleece Jackets (great for layering or as outerwear)
- 4 T-shirts
- 2 Hiking Pants/Leggings (preferably quick-dry or water-resistant)
- Wool or moisture-wicking socks (enough to pair with your hiking boots daily)
On the Ship
- Shoes:
- Casual Sandals (I take these everywhere!)
- Walkable Slip-ons (I’ve walked miles in these)
- Dressy Flats (I love my Birdies, comfortable and versatile)
- Cruise Attire:
- 7 outfits total
- 2 semi-formal outfits (I wore sweater dresses, but some guests went all out with tuxes and gowns)
- 5 casual outfits (jeans + sweaters worked perfectly for daytime and dinners)
- Other Essentials:
- Swimsuit (for hot tubs)
- Cozy swim cover-up
- Daily undergarments
- Socks
- Belt
- Pajamas
Toiletries & Personal Care
- Body Wash/Shampoo/Conditioner
- Toothpaste/Toothbrush/Floss/Mouth Guard or Retainer
- Deoderant
- Shaving Kit
- Medications & Vitamins
- Face Wash and Lotion
- Makeup & Hair Tools
- Contacts & Solution or Glasses
- Feminine Hygiene Products
Gear & Extras
- Waterproof Jacket
- Sunglasses
- Warm Hat and Gloves (Baseball hat if desired)
- Small backpack for shore excursions
- Crossbody Bag
- Lint roller
- Cash for Tips
- Camera, Computer, Cell Phone & Chargers for each
- Cards or Books for downtime
Health Kit
Some might say it’s overkill, but I always keep an emergency pouch packed and ready, whether we’re on a road trip, flight, cabin weekend, or cruise. It’s not just for us either, I’ve actually helped quite a few people out with it over the years! You never know what will be available at your destination, and once it’s stocked, it’s easy to toss in your bag and refill as needed.
- Health Essentials
- Tylenol
- Ibuprofen
- Benadryl
- Alka-Seltzer (regular + cold formulas)
- LMNT Electrolyte Packets (hydration is key!)
- Organifi Immunity Packets – Use CREATIVEADVENTURES for 20% off!
- Motion & Tummy Support
- Bonine (motion sickness relief)
- Tums
- Pepto-Bismol
- Psyllium Husk (travel-friendly digestive fiber)
- Digestive Enzymes
- Cold & Allergy Relief
- First Aid Basics
- Bandaid Kit
- Neosporin
- Blister Treatment (heel-specific)
- Germs & Cleanliness
What I Wish I Had Packed for Alaska
No matter how much research you do, there’s always something you miss. Here’s what I’d make sure to pack on our next Alaska cruise.
- BINOCULARS!! – I thought about packing these multiple times before we left, but somehow still forgot them. I missed having a pair every time we spotted wildlife or were scanning the shoreline from our balcony.
- Cruise Door Magnets – Not a necessity, but definitely a fun addition. Some doors were incredibly creative, and it was an easy way to spot groups traveling together or celebrate birthdays and anniversaries. It adds a bit of personality to your stateroom and makes hallway wandering more entertaining.
Alaska Cruise Tips & Tricks You’ll Want to Know
Layer Like a Local
Weather in Alaska changes quickly, you might start the morning in sunny 60°F and find yourself in cold wind and rain by afternoon. Plan for three layers: a base layer, something warm, and a waterproof outer layer. Even just switching sides of the ship can make a difference from shade and wind on one side or sun and calm on the other.
Don’t Forget a Day Bag
You’ll want something small and easy to carry for excursions, especially if you’re walking a lot or taking a scenic train ride.
Don’t Forget to Drink Water
We brought our Yeti Ramblers, but refill stations on the cruise weren’t easy to find. We ended up relying on bottled water and made sure to grab four bottles each night so we had something to drink in the morning. Also, don’t forget to bring water with you on shore days!
Final Thoughts: Packing for Your Alaska Cruise Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming
A little prep goes a long way for an Alaska cruise, especially when it comes to packing. Even though I’m not a fan of overpacking, feeling prepared made the trip so much smoother, minus forgetting the binoculars. Whether you’re sailing with Princess Cruises or another line, I hope this Alaska cruise packing list gives you a helpful head start. Want a simple, printable version to check off as you go? Just drop your name and email below to grab my free Alaska cruise packing list.
Safe Travels, Jacki
For more information on Alaska cruising, be sure to check out my other detailed blog posts below covering itineraries, packing tips, and must-see excursions.
🍴 The Ultimate Guide to Alaska Cruise Food: Gluten Free Options & Dining Highlights
🛤️ Top Princess Alaska Cruise Shore Excursions & Essential Travel Tips for Your Trip
🛳️ My Royal Princess 7-Day Alaska Cruise Itinerary (2025): What to Do in Every Port + FAQ’s