Packing for an Alaska cruise is very different from packing for a tropical cruise. Between chilly glacier views, unpredictable weather, and compact cruise cabins, a little preparation goes a long way.
After researching experienced Alaska cruisers (including a recent Travel + Leisure article) and gathering tips from seasoned cruise travelers, here’s a complete packing guide to help you make the most of your trip.
If you’re joining our Alaska cruise in September 2027, bookmark this page and come back to it as the trip gets closer!
🐋 Alaska Excursion Essentials
These are the items travelers most often say they were grateful to bring on their Alaska cruise.
🧥 Layered Clothing
Alaska temperatures usually range from 45–65°F, but wind and rain can make it feel colder.
👉 Recommended item: Lightweight puffer jacket
🌧 Waterproof Rain Jacket
Rain and mist are very common in Alaska ports.
A packable rain jacket with a hood is far more comfortable than a poncho.
👉 Recommended items:
Poncho
Rain Jacket
👟 Waterproof Walking Shoes
Waterproof shoes or hiking sneakers are a big upgrade from regular sneakers.
👉 Recommended items:
Waterproof hiking shoes – Men’s
Waterproof hiking shoes – Women’s
Warm booties/snow boots
🔭 Binoculars
Wildlife sightings are one of the highlights of an Alaska cruise.
👉 Recommended items:
Compact travel binoculars
Slightly nicer binoculars
🎒 Daypack for Excursions
A lightweight backpack is perfect for carrying (a fanny pack wont be big enough)
👉 Recommended item: Foldable travel backpack
🔋 Portable Charger
Between photos, videos, and navigation apps, your phone battery can drain quickly during long excursion days.
A portable power bank is extremely helpful.
👉 Recommended item: Portable Charger
🚢 Cruise Cabin Must-Haves
Cruise cabins are smaller than most hotel rooms, so a few simple items can make them much more comfortable.
🧲 Magnetic Hooks
This is one of the best cruise hacks.Cruise cabin walls are metal, so magnetic hooks can hold items like jackets, hates, backpacks, etc.
👉 Recommended item: Magnetic Hooks
🗂 Magnetic Organizer
Many cruisers bring a magnetic organizer that hangs on the wall.
Great for storing shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and other small items.
👉 Recommended item: Organizer
🔌 Cruise-Approved Power Adapter
Cruise cabins often have very limited outlets.
Note: Surge protectors are not allowed on most cruise ships.
👉 Recommended item: Power Strip
🔊 Small Portable Speaker
A small Bluetooth speaker is nice for relaxing music on the balcony or getting ready for dinner.
👉 Recommended item: Portable speaker
🧳 Packing Cubes
I swear by packing cubes! They keep everything organized in the small cabin closet. Packing cubes are like Tetris for your suitcase — somehow you always fit more.
👉 Recommended item: Packing cubes
🌙 Nightlight
Cruise cabins can be extremely dark at night. A small plug-in nightlight makes midnight bathroom trips easier.
👉 Recommended item: Nightlight
☕ Reusable Water Bottle
Helpful for staying hydrated, excursions, gym visits on the ship.
👉 Recommended item: Water bottle
🧳 Small Items That Make a Big Difference
These are the little things travelers often forget—but end up very glad they packed. Most are inexpensive, take up almost no space, and can make your trip much more comfortable.
• Gloves
• Beanie or knit hat
• Warm socks (merino wool are moisture-resisant)
• Lip balm (preferably with SPF)
• Sunscreen
• Bug spray
• Motion sickness medication
• Sea-Bands for motion sickness
• Hand sanitizer
• Travel-size tissues
• Sunglasses (polarized)
• Reusable water bottle
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes
• Ziplock bags (great for wet items or snacks)
• Travel-size first aid kit
• Pain reliever (Tylenol / Advil)
• Allergy medication
• Sleep mask
• Ear plugs
💡 Pro Tip:
When I travel, I keep many of these items together in a small pouch so they’re easy to grab for excursions or long travel days.
🚫 What NOT to Pack for a Cruise
Cruise ships have security rules, and some items will be confiscated during boarding. To avoid delays or having items held until the end of the cruise, leave these at home.
Items commonly not allowed on cruise ships include:
• surge-protector power strips
• clothing irons or garment steamers
• candles or incense
• drones
• standard extension cords
If you need additional outlets in your cabin, bring a cruise-approved power adapter without surge protection, which is allowed on most ships.
💡 Tip: Always check your cruise line’s website before sailing, as policies can vary slightly.
🍷 Can You Bring Alcohol on a Cruise?
Most cruise lines allow guests to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per adult (750 ml) when boarding the ship.
A few important rules usually apply:
• Wine must be packed in carry-on luggage
• Additional bottles may require a corkage fee around $15 each bottle
• Hard liquor and beer are typically not allowed at embarkation
If you choose to drink your wine in a restaurant, cruise lines usually charge a corkage fee, while wine consumed in your cabin typically does not have a fee.
Because alcohol policies can vary slightly by cruise line, it’s always a good idea to check your cruise line’s website before sailing.
🥂 Fun Idea for Group Cruises
If you’re traveling with friends or family, consider a balcony wine night.
Everyone brings a bottle and shares while enjoying the scenery. It’s a fun way to relax together after a day exploring Alaska’s beautiful ports.
🧳 Final Tip: Pack Smart, Not Heavy
The goal isn’t to bring everything—it’s to bring the right things.
With the right gear you’ll be comfortable whether you’re:
- whale watching
- exploring Alaska’s charming port towns
- or standing on deck as we sail past glaciers in Glacier Bay.
Trust me… those glacier views are worth bundling up for.
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