What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

 

What do you look for when you plan a vacation?  I look for a place that’s relaxing, has great scenery, and lots of activities my whole family can enjoy.  So naturally I chose Alaska.  Many of you would not immediately think of heading to Alaska on vacation but seriously, the place has it all.  From great seafood and the most pristine untouched wilderness to explore to sexy lumberjacks who put on a great show.  My family just got back from an Alaskan cruise and I can’t wait to share with you some beautiful photos and insider tips on the best excursions and how to get the most out of cruising, but first I thought I’d cover what to pack.

Packing for an Alaskan cruise is very different than packing for any other cruise.  You must consider the climate but also what excursions you will be going on.  There is also down time on the boat and a few formal nights which makes packing light a challenge.  I found it best to look at the weather at each of our stops a few days before packing.  On our trip, the weather was 50 to 60 degrees F with rain on and off.  Luckily the rain wasn’t too bad and we never were rained out of activities.  Here is what I packed.

 Down Coat // Quilted Vest // Slouchy Sweater // Striped Sweater // Cardigan // Striped Top // Graphic Tee // Slouchy Tee

 Black Skinny Jeans // Dark Wash Skinny Jeans // Compression Capris // Striped Skirt // White Shorts

 Lace Dress // Black Wedges // // Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoes c/o // // Pearl Studs // Cubic Zirconia Studs

Not pictured is a beanie and fleece or cotton .  You will definitely want those. As stated before, packing light was a challenge.  We were gone a total of 10 days with 2 1/2 days spent driving and 7 days cruising.  We went during rainy season so I was happy I packed all those sweaters.  Many an east coast American was seen freezing in their little sundress and would not venture outside the ship on cruising days.

Layering is key in Alaska so I would typically wear 2 layers under my coat and take things off as needed.  I ended up wearing my down coat way more than I thought I would.  I was happy I had my tennis shoes to wear on excursions and my Sperry’s to wear on the boat.

Being prepared is key for enjoying your trip to Alaska.  I wouldn’t have enjoyed myself while hiking or zip lining if I was freezing and wet the whole time.  Forgo packing light in lieu of being prepared and you will get the most out of your Alaskan cruise.