Our Alaska cruise packing guide

An escape to the Last Frontier requires clothing for a surprisingly wide range of climates and temperatures, from the crisp air of a woodland hike to the bracing winds of a whale-spotting expedition, as well as relaxing in warmth and comfort on board.

 

To help you pack for a cruise to Alaska, here’s our simple packing guide, full of clever packing hints and tips to ensure you’re appropriately packed for your Alaskan adventure.

Alaska cruise packing essentials

You won’t want to forget any of these essentials for your Alaska cruise, so make sure they’re safely stowed in your luggage.

 

Passports

Driving licences

Travel documents

ESTA confirmation paperwork

Travel insurance paperwork

Any prescription medication you take, plus a doctor’s note

Spending money

First aid kit – painkillers, antacids, allergy relief, plasters, etc.

Device chargers

Alaska cruise clothing guide

Next up, your Alaska cruise wardrobe. Winter clothing can take up a lot of suitcase space, so it’s important to prioritise pieces that are multi-functional. Opt for layers you can use to build up warmth and remove easily, when you want to.

Alaska cruise day wear

Alaska cruise accessory packing list

What you hope to see and do on your Alaska cruise will have a bearing on the accessories you bring with you, but we recommend not forgetting the following:

Sunglasses

Binoculars

Camera and tripod

Waterproof day bag or backpack

A dry bag for your mobile phone

Water bottle

Alaska cruise toiletries packing list

These are the toiletries to pack for your Alaska cruise:

Insect repellent

Sunscreen –with a high SPF suitable for face and neck

Toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste

Deodorant

Face moisturiser

Hand sanitiser

Lip balm

Cosmetics

 

In your stateroom, you’ll find complimentary Penhaligon’s toiletries, including shampoo and hand and body wash. Additional toiletries and cosmetics are also available to purchase on board Queen Elizabeth in the Royal Arcade, found on deck 3.

What not to pack for a cruise

How to pack light for an Alaska cruise

The key to keeping your Alaska cruise luggage weight down is to plan a practical capsule wardrobe that enables you to mix and match daytime and evening outfits. Daywear should be all about versatile layers and comfortable separates, while you can streamline your evening wardrobe by switching up accessories such as jewellery, cravats and shawls. Where possible, try to pack lighter base layers, fleeces and long-sleeved T-shirts, and avoid bulky knitwear.

Remember, all of our ships offer a laundry service on board, and we also provide complimentary pool and bathroom towels, so there’s no need to bring these from home.

Download our Alaska packing list (PDF)
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