Alaska Cruise Packing List: What the Pros Know (And You Should Too!)

The air crackles with a crisp, ancient energy. A colossal wall of iridescent blue ice groans, shifts, and with a thunderous roar, surrenders a skyscraper-sized chunk into the turquoise water below. A pod of humpback whales breaches in the distance, their massive forms silhouetted against a backdrop of snow-dusted peaks and emerald forests. This is Alaska. And it’s a world away from any Caribbean getaway you’ve ever imagined.

For over two decades, I’ve navigated the world’s most stunning waterways, but the call of Alaska’s Inside Passage remains uniquely powerful. It’s a destination that seeps into your soul. But I’ve also seen the ill-prepared shivering on deck, missing the magic because they packed for the wrong vacation. The question I hear most often isn’t about the best shore excursion or the finest dining; it’s the deceptively simple, “What on earth do I pack for an Alaska cruise?”

You’re about to embark on an adventure that marries the untamed wilderness of the last frontier with the sophisticated comfort of a Royal Caribbean International ship. It’s a journey of incredible contrasts—from glacier trekking to gourmet dining, from zodiac explorations to Broadway-caliber shows. Packing for it doesn’t have to be daunting. In fact, with the right strategy, it’s the first step in building anticipation for the trip of a lifetime. This is not just a list; this is your comprehensive guide to packing with confidence, ensuring you’re perfectly prepared for every breathtaking moment.

Why Your Alaska Packing List is Different (And More Exciting)

Forget the simple calculus of swimsuits and sundresses. Alaska demands respect for its wild, unpredictable nature. One moment you could be basking in surprisingly warm sunshine in Ketchikan, the next you’re enveloped in a cool mist as your ship glides through the Tracy Arm Fjord. The secret, the absolute golden rule embraced by every seasoned Alaska traveler, is one simple word: layers.

Layering allows you to adapt, to be comfortable whether you’re on the deck of the Quantum of the Seas watching for bald eagles, sipping a hot chocolate in the two-story North Star observation capsule, or hiking to the face of the Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau. Your wardrobe needs to be a versatile toolkit, allowing you to add or subtract pieces as the day’s adventure unfolds. This is the core philosophy that separates a good trip from an unforgettable one.

Think of your days as a tale of two experiences. By day, you are an explorer, clad in practical, weather-resistant gear, ready for whatever the Alaskan wilderness presents. By night, you transition back into the world of Royal Caribbean—a realm of exquisite dining, dazzling entertainment, and refined relaxation. Your suitcase must cater to both of these incredible worlds.

The Pro's Layering System: Your Secret to Alaskan Comfort

Mastering the art of layering is simpler than it sounds. It’s a three-part system designed to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable in any condition. Forget bulky, single-purpose coats; think of these three layers as a team working together.

The Base Layer: Your Second Skin

This is the layer worn directly against your skin, and its primary job is not to provide warmth, but to manage moisture. When you exert yourself—even on a brisk walk—you perspire. Cotton traps that moisture, leaving you feeling damp, cold, and miserable. A proper base layer wicks that sweat away from your body, keeping you dry.

• What to Look For: Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics. Merino wool is the gold standard—it’s breathable, naturally odor-resistant, and stays warm even when damp. High-quality synthetics (polyester, polypropylene blends) are also excellent choices.
• What to Pack: 2-3 long-sleeved thermal tops and 1-2 pairs of thermal leggings or long underwear.

The Mid-Layer: Your Personal Furnace

This is your insulation layer. Its job is to trap your body heat and keep you warm. This is the layer you’ll most frequently add or remove as temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Versatility is key here.

• What to Look For: Fleece is the classic, reliable choice—it’s warm, light, and breathes well. A down-filled vest or a lightweight "puffy" jacket (with either natural down or synthetic fill) are also fantastic options as they offer incredible warmth for their weight and pack down to almost nothing.
• What to Pack: At least one fleece jacket or pullover, and perhaps a packable vest for extra core warmth on glacier-viewing days.

The Outer Layer: Your Shield Against the Elements

This is arguably the most critical piece of gear you will bring. Your outer layer is your armor against Alaska’s two most common elements: wind and rain. It must be both waterproof and windproof. Note the word "waterproof," not "water-resistant." A light drizzle is one thing; a persistent Alaskan rain during your whale-watching tour in Icy Strait Point is another.

• What to Look For: A high-quality rain jacket with a hood, preferably made with a breathable membrane like Gore-Tex. Taped seams are a sign of good quality. You should also pack a pair of waterproof pants. They may seem like overkill, but pulling them on over your jeans or hiking pants on a wet zodiac tour or a rainy day in port is a game-changer.
• What to Pack: One hooded, waterproof/windproof jacket and one pair of waterproof pants.

The Essential Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist

With the layering system as your foundation, let's build out the rest of your wardrobe and gear. This checklist covers everything from port-day essentials to onboard necessities.

Clothing: Beyond the Layers

• Waterproof Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes: This is non-negotiable. You need footwear with good traction and support that can handle uneven terrain and wet conditions. Crucially, make sure they are well broken-in before your trip.
• Comfortable Ship Shoes: A pair of sneakers, loafers, or flats for walking around the expansive decks of your Royal Caribbean ship.
• Warm Socks: Several pairs of wool or synthetic socks. Again, avoid cotton. Pack more pairs than you think you’ll need.
• Casual Daytime Outfits: Jeans, comfortable trousers, and sweaters for relaxing onboard, grabbing a casual lunch at the Windjammer Marketplace, or enjoying the views from the Solarium.
• "Smart Casual" Evening Wear: For most evenings in the main dining room and specialty restaurants like Chops Grille or Jamie's Italian, "smart casual" is the code. Think slacks, chinos, or dark jeans with a collared shirt for men; and a nice top with slacks or a skirt, or a casual dress for women.
• Formal Night Attire: Royal Caribbean typically hosts one or two "formal nights" (often called "Dress Your Best") on a 7-night Alaska sailing. While optional, many guests enjoy dressing up. This could be a cocktail dress or elegant separates for women, and a suit, or a sport coat and slacks for men.
• Swimsuit: Yes, a swimsuit for Alaska! Your ship will have heated pools, hot tubs, and the stunning, glass-canopied, adults-only Solarium—the perfect place to relax with a drink as the majestic scenery glides by.
• Pajamas, Underwear, and Workout Clothes: If you plan to use the state-of-the-art fitness center.

Gear & Accessories: The Game-Changers

• Binoculars: If you pack one thing from this list, make it this. A good pair of binoculars will be your best friend, transforming distant specks into soaring bald eagles, mountain goats, or even a bear on a distant shoreline.
• Camera with a Zoom Lens: You will be taking more photos than you can possibly imagine. A zoom lens is essential for capturing wildlife without disturbing it. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards.
• Portable Charger/Power Bank: For keeping your phone and camera charged during long days in port.
• Waterproof Daypack: A small backpack to carry your layers, camera, water bottle, and any souvenirs you pick up during your shore excursions.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and be environmentally friendly.
- Sun Protection: The sun reflecting off glaciers and water can be incredibly intense. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF.
• Insect Repellent: While not a major issue on the ship, it can be useful in certain ports, especially near forested areas.
• Warm Accessories: A warm knit hat (beanie), gloves or mittens, and a scarf or neck gaiter (like a Buff) are small items that make a huge difference in comfort when you're out on deck for hours of scenic cruising.
• Medications: Pack any personal prescriptions, along with basics like pain relievers and motion sickness medication (though modern ships are incredibly stable, it's always wise to be prepared).

Feeling prepared? The next step is matching your perfect packing list to the perfect itinerary. Our experts can help you choose between seeing the mighty Hubbard Glacier or navigating the serene Tracy Arm Fjord. Plan Your Alaska Adventure with a no-obligation quote and let us tailor the ideal voyage for you.

Packing for Your Royal Caribbean Ship: From Glaciers to Gastronomy

Your packing strategy must also account for the incredible world that awaits you onboard. Ships like the Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas are destinations in themselves, offering a dazzling array of activities that require a little forethought.

Adventure Onboard and Ashore

Your waterproof gear is essential for excursions like a salmon fishing trip in Ketchikan or a boat tour to see bears, but your activewear will also get use onboard. Feeling brave? You might want leggings or shorts for the rock-climbing wall that towers over the deck, or for trying the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator. And yes, you can even surf in Alaska, thanks to the FlowRider surf simulator. Your comfortable shoes are perfect for strolling the Royal Esplanade, a bustling boulevard of shops and cafes at the heart of the ship.

Evenings of Elegance and Entertainment

After a day of exploring the rugged beauty of Skagway, you’ll transform. This is where your smart casual and formal outfits come into play. Imagine recounting the day's adventures over a perfectly cooked filet at Chops Grille, or sampling exquisite sushi at Izumi. The evenings are a time to indulge. Later, you might take in a jaw-dropping multimedia spectacle in the technologically advanced Two70 lounge or enjoy a live band in the Music Hall. Having something a little more polished to wear enhances the sense of occasion and makes the experience all the more special.

Imagine watching a glacier calve from the panoramic windows of the Two70 lounge, knowing you have the perfect outfit for a steak dinner later. That's the Royal Caribbean Alaska experience. Let's make it happen. Our team is standing by on our dedicated line at 1 (888) 883‑0460 to answer your questions and help you select the perfect sailing.

Pro Tips The Guidebooks Won't Tell You

After countless voyages, you pick up a few tricks that make a world of difference. Here are some insider secrets:

• Magnetic Hooks: Your stateroom walls are metal. Bringing a few strong magnetic hooks creates instant extra storage for jackets, hats, and daypacks, keeping your cabin tidy.
• Power Strip: Cabins have limited outlets. A multi-outlet power strip (a non-surge protector model is crucial, as surge protectors are often confiscated) is a lifesaver for charging phones, cameras, and other gadgets simultaneously.
• Download the App: Get the Royal Caribbean app on your phone before you leave home. It’s your key to daily schedules, restaurant reservations, and messaging your travel companions onboard.
• Embarkation Day Bag: Your checked luggage may take a few hours to arrive at your stateroom. Pack a small carry-on with your medications, a change of clothes, your swimsuit, and any important documents so you can start enjoying the ship immediately.
• Don't Fear the Formal: Don't overpack for formal night. One or two elegant outfits are plenty. It's a fun chance to dress up, but it's not a strictly enforced, stuffy affair.

These small details can make a huge difference. Our travel advisors are full of them, gained from years of planning unforgettable Alaskan voyages. Have a specific question about stateroom categories or dining packages? Click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner and connect with a real person right now.

Your Alaskan Dream Awaits

Packing for an Alaskan cruise is not about preparing for the cold; it's about preparing for an adventure. It's about giving yourself the freedom to say "yes" to every opportunity, to stand on the deck in awe without a thought to the weather, and to fully immerse yourself in the staggering beauty of America's last frontier. With the right gear in your bag, you are not just a tourist; you are an explorer, ready for the wild and the wonderful.

The Last Frontier is calling. Are you ready to answer? From selecting the perfect stateroom with a balcony for glacier viewing to booking that once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour, we handle every detail. Start by exploring sailings on the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page, or for personalized, expert guidance, Get a Custom Quote today. Your adventure of a lifetime is just a click away.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alaska Cruise Packing

Do I really need rain pants?

Yes, we highly recommend them. While you may not use them every day, on a rainy day in port or during a small boat excursion with sea spray, they are invaluable for staying warm and dry. They are lightweight, pack easily, and can make the difference between a miserable day and a memorable one.

How many formal nights are on a 7-night Alaska cruise?

Typically, a 7-night Royal Caribbean cruise to Alaska will have one or two "Dress Your Best" nights. The number can vary by itinerary, but you can generally plan for two evenings where you might want to dress more formally.

Are hiking boots necessary or can I wear sneakers?

We strongly advise packing waterproof hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes. Many of Alaska's best sights involve walking on unpaved, uneven, or wet trails. Sneakers lack the ankle support and traction needed and will likely get soaked in the rain, leaving you with cold, wet feet.

Can I see the Northern Lights on an Alaska cruise?

It is possible, but unlikely. The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) are most visible during the darker months of late August and September. During the peak summer cruise season (June, July, August), Alaska experiences the "Midnight Sun," with very long daylight hours, making it too bright to see the aurora.

What's the one thing people always forget to pack for Alaska?

Binoculars! It's the most common regret we hear from first-time cruisers to Alaska. So much of the magic is in the details—a puffin on a cliffside, a bear foraging on a distant beach, the intricate patterns in a glacier. A good pair of binoculars brings the entire landscape to life.