Embarking on a new adventure on an Alaska cruise but can’t figure out what to wear on an Alaskan cruise? This blog is going to cover all the details you might need for packing.
Unlike most cruises, where you’re required to bring clothes for consistent temperature, Alaska cruises can encounter varying climates. Predictably, travelers will be exposed to different temperatures. Therefore, figuring out what to wear on an Alaskan cruise can be a tricky endeavor.
But don’t fret anymore if you’re soon to get onboard on an Alaska cruise. To help you wear the right outfit and pack all the essentials that you might need according to seasonal changes, here is an ultimate guide that you can consider in this blog.
Let’s dive deeper into the details!
30-Seconds Summary
On Alaska cruises, there are no strict rules for clothing. However, you need to know how to dress for Alaska cruise to have the most adventure there. Moreover, by packing all the essentials along with you, you will worry less.
For the day, you can plan outfits based on comfort. You can stay warm and wear layers. For the Alaska Cruise formal night, you can pack lighter and less fancy outfits. The one thing good about an Alaskan cruise is that you can dress for the joy and not by feeling obligated.
So, if you’re planning to get onboard on an Alaskan cruise, this list can help you pack better to stay comfortable while sailing.
What to Wear On an Alaska Cruise – During the Day
No wonder Alaskan cruises are more casual than other cruises over the sea. Even the Holland America cruise has strict guidelines for clothing when heading to Alaska. According to the Holland America dress code for Alaska, it is always advised to pack smarter and lighter.
However, what to pack for Alaska is always tricky because of the weather variation. You might have heard that “there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.” Therefore, it is advised to learn the art of layer and packing smartly.
Expert Tip:
Regardless of the season you’re traveling to Alaska, ensure you check the weather forecast for all the ports about a week before you get on board. This will help you to learn the weather and plan your outfits accordingly.
If you’re not interested in weightlifting your heavy luggage filled with coats and boots, here are a few Alaska cruise outfit ideas that you can read further.
1: Short and long-sleeved T-shirts
Since the weather can change drastically even on the same day during sailing, layering your outfit will help you to dress comfortably. If you’re planning to travel during the shoulder seasons (May and September), it will be preferable to pack more long-sleeved tees than short ones.
According to the summer Alaska cruise outfits list, it is wise to carry half-sleeved T-shirts. But, if you catch a cold rapidly, carrying both will be your savior on the trip.
2: Vest
A puffer or fleece vest is a small item of clothing that can make a big difference in keeping you warm and cozy for the day. Therefore, consider layering yourself with long-sleeved T-shirts to stay cozy.
This way, you don’t have to bring a heavy jacket outside or have to wear it under the coat.
3: Lightweight jacket
The other one of the most favorite Alaska cruise clothing ideas is bringing an insulated jacket to your trip. These lightweight jackets offer double duty by keeping you comfortable during the chiller days along with saving you from sweating on the warmer days.
If your lightweight jacket is waterproof, it will be an even better option for you to consider during the sailing adventure on the Alaskan cruise.
4: Wool and Wicking Socks
While you are cruising, there will be a time when you want to enjoy some long rest in your cabin. A pair of wool socks will keep your feet nice and warm during the trip.
Therefore, you are advised to bring a few wool and wicking socks with you. With this, you can better enjoy the view from your balcony with a hot chocolate in your hand.
If you’re planning outdoor excursions, it is recommended to pack a pair of wicking socks that will keep your feet dry while you’re busy exploring the location.
5: Base layer
It is always safe to pack sweaters and jackets on the Alaska cruise. However, it is smart to bring along a few base layers to wear underneath our clothes, too. Wearing these thin tops and bottoms made from a special type of insulating fabric will help you stay warm.
Moreover, this base layer will also manage the moisture. This way, you don’t have to worry about sweating as this layer will absorb the moisture while protecting you.
6: Sweatshirts, Jeans and Leggings
When you’re on the Alaskan cruise, you don’t have to be obligated to the Alaskan cruise attire during the day. You can easily move with leggings just like you’re at home. You can also wear jeans to keep your legs warm around the cold bay.
Other than this, you can wear sweatshirts made of fleece to keep you comfortable and cozy on the cruise. This way, you can enjoy the day without worrying about the dress code on the Alaskan cruise.
7: Hat and Gloves
Many travelers wonder whether they need hats and gloves onboard or not. But they sure hold an importance. Fortunately, they don’t take up a lot of space, and they are worth bringing on the cruise to Alaska in the summer or fall.
No wonder the mornings and late nights on the cruise around the glaciers can be frosty. Therefore, it will be useful to bring thin touchscreen gloves along with you. This way, you can use your smartphone while keeping your hands warm and comfortable.
A hat will be awesome for a sunny and windy day. If you want to protect your head from a cold breeze, a wool cap or furry one will be a cozy addition to your outfit.
8: Scarf
One of the best additions to women’s clothes for Alaska cruise list is a scarf. Therefore, don’t underestimate the utility of a scarf for the sailing adventure.
At the same time, it may seem like an accessory that might take up a lot of space in our bag. However, a wool scarf will be a lightweight addition that will come in handy during cooler days. Therefore, carrying a scarf or shawl will help you to cover your arms and chest as a defense against the cold.
9: Swimsuit
Many travelers have second thoughts about bringing a swimming suit. It might sound unnecessary for many people who are traveling for the first time on the cruise. However, there are a number of Alaska cruises that have heated pools, spas, and hot tubs.
So, if you are planning to enjoy hot baths or pool fun, you can check out the Alaska cruise wear list and bring at least one swimsuit along with you. This way, you can have the best dip in the water indoors or covered outdoors on your vacation without any discomfort.
10: Workout Clothes
During your cruise adventure, if you want to take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness center or any fun exercise class, you are advised to bring at least one workout outfit with you.
This will help you participate in healthy activities to stay fit and maintain your health during the sailing. Moreover, it will allow you to meet new people and learn something new about fitness.
Therefore, carry your workout gear to unlock health benefits.
11: Sunglasses
While you’re stressing about what to wear during the day on an Alaska cruise, carry your sunglasses along with you. The reason is that the glare from the snow-covered mountains and glaciers can be blinding to the eyes.
Therefore, you must carry your eye shield with you to protect your eyes during the adventure.
What to Pack for the Rain on Alaska Cruise
When you’re taking an Alaskan Cruise, it is important for you to pack some rain gear along with you. Alaska is home to the Tongass National Forest, which is known for its largest temperate rainforest.
Carrying rain gear doesn’t mean you will be experiencing heavy rain all the time during your adventure. However, Alaska can be drizzly or misty on any day. Therefore, you must carry your rain gear for unexpected rainy days.
Here is a list of things that you can pack for the rain:
1: Poncho
A poncho is a light clothing item that will not take up much of the room. So, carry a poncho as a rain cover for the Alaska trip. If you don’t have a poncho, you can shop online for an effective and easy rain shield.
2: Waterproof Boots
Alaska is all about exploring the great outdoors when you are sailing on it. Therefore, carrying the best waterproof hiking shoes will keep your feet dry and comfortable during the adventure.
Many travelers consider wearing sneakers; waterproof hiking shoes are better for drastically changing weather conditions. That’s why having a nice pair of shoes will be a good option for traction and support in uneven terrain.
3: Windproof Umbrella
An umbrella is an optional thing for an Alaska cruise. However, as the weather is unpredictable, and if you get in the mood to explore outdoors during the rain, it will be your friend on the journey.
Therefore, if you’re comfortable carrying an umbrella with you, ensure that it is windproof and easy to carry.
4: Rain Jacket
Depending on the time of the year, a rain jacket is a must to pack essential for an Alaska cruise. If you’re cruising around June, July, and August, it is recommended to bring a rain jacket along with you for unpredictable rainy days.
5: Thermal Wear
Another important thing that you must carry for a rainy day is thermal wear. This will keep you warm during the rainy and cool days in Alaska. Moreover, wearing this can help you to layer light and stay comfortable while sailing.
What to Wear On Evening on Alaska Cruise
Planning for the Alaska cruise formal night is one of the most stressful things for many travelers. There are many cruises that give cruise dress code suggestions to travelers so they pack mindfully.
However, on an Alaska cruise, you might have to pay little attention to the dresses that you can wear on formal nights. If you are planning a seven-day cruise adventure on an Alaska cruise, most of the time, you can stay casual and easy.
But there will be one or two formal nights on which you have to dress up well. For this, you can pack a few formal dresses or a pair of black pants with a classy top. This way, it will be easier for you to dress up for an Alaska cruise formal night.
If you like wearing jeans, it will be a good and easy outfit for you. But for a formal night or casino, a nice dress will only enhance your look and make you appear sophisticated. You can carry a dress or tuxedo depending on your preferences for the formal night.
You can check the requirements of Alaska cruise dinner outfits online for specialty restaurants. Moreover, if you don’t want to dress formally, you can eat at the cruise ship buffet or grab a pizza from a casual restaurant.
What Shoes To Carry On An Alaska Cruise?
When getting onboard, many travelers think that they might have to carry too many shoes for an Alaska cruise. But you only need a pair of a few different shoes to keep yourself stylish and comfortable on the ship.
Here is a list of shoes that you can consider:
- Sneakers, or waterproof rain shoes
- Dress shoes or heels
- Hiking shoes
- A pair of flip-flops
Accessories to Pack for the Alaska Cruise
Now that you know what to bring from your closet, it is time to go through all the items that will make your adventure on cruise ever-lasting and most memorable.
Wondering what to take on Alaska cruise while packing? Don’t worry anymore. Here are a few must-have items as cruise essential list that you can consider in this blog:
1: Camera
Sure, in the smart technology era, we all can take pictures with our phones. However, capturing Alaska and its beautiful landscape might not get a full-frame on your tiny phone.
Therefore, consider carrying a camera as a great option if you want to capture the best view from your trip. By packing a camera, you will be more thankful and find it amusing to capture the best scenes with the camera.
2: Binoculars
Another thing that you need to bring on the adventure is the binoculars. You will be exposed to wildlife during the adventure. Therefore, it will be wise to carry binoculars along with you for the trip.
This way, you can fully experience the animals of Alaska wilderness regardless of how distant you are.
3: Waterproof Bag
Cruising is not all about sitting on your deck or spending time in the cabin. There are so many outdoor activities that need your attention and participation. For this, consider carrying a packing bag in your suitcase to enjoy outdoor fun.
This way, you can kayak or fish without worrying about your valuable things getting wet during the fun.
4: Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
On a trip to Alaska, you might not be prepared for any outdoor adventure completely if you don’t have sunscreen along with you. Therefore, consider packing the best quality sunscreen for yourself to protect your skin.
Along with sunscreen, you need to pack an incest repellent with you as well. You might think that the cold can save you from the mosquitos. But, there will be insects that can do harm to you. Therefore, having your essentials packed with you will be a great option to stay safe.
5: Cell Phone Dry Bag
While cruising, the last thing anyone wants is to see their phone damaged or ruined by water. This can be a devastating thing to deal with. Therefore, you should carry a cell phone zipper bag that will keep your phone protected from water.
What Should You Pack For an Alaska Cruise In June?
If you’re planning to cruise around June, you must be wondering about the summer Alaska cruise outfits ideas. For your help, it is advised to carry polarized sunglasses, a sleep mask, and a T-shirt with half-sleeves would be enough for the perfect beach day.
Moreover, bring your sunscreen with you if you’re planning to wear a bathing suit on excursion day.
What Should You Pack For an Alaska Cruise In July?
To enjoy the warmest average temperature, consider packing a mix of short and long-sleeved T-shirts and waterproof pants that will also convert into shorts for extra sunny days.
What Should You Pack For The Alaska Cruise In August?
If you are wondering what to wear on an Alaskan cruise in August, it will be the time of year when you can encounter the most rain. Therefore, you must pack all of your waterproof gear, rain jacket, and poncho in your luggage.
Moreover, you should also consider bringing warmer sweaters, scarves, and hats. This will help you stay warm as you will be exposed to colder weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 Can You Pack Shorts for an Alaska Cruise?
Since the Alaska weather is highly unpredictable, it is safe to pack one pair of shorts if you want to work out in the gym or find a warmer day to enjoy. However, if you’re taking an Alaska cruise during the summer, it will be fun to enjoy days wearing shorts and T-shirts.
Q.2 Is There Cold On An Alaska Cruise?
According to a number of reviews, many passengers have stated that there wasn’t any cold on the cruise ship. The cruise environment is surprisingly comfortable for the guests.
However, on the Glacier viewing day in Glacier Bay, there can be some cold on the cruise ship, and you might need a sweater or shawl to cover yourself.
Q.3 Is It Safe To Pack A Bathing Suit For Alaska Cruise?
Many Cruisers suggest that you should pack at least one bathing suit that will cover you up for the day. There is always a heated indoor pool on an Alaska cruise that you might enjoy. However, some Alaska cruises don’t have any heated indoor pools.
In such cases, you can enjoy the outdoor hot tub or covered pool area to make the most out of the cruise.
Q.4 What You Cannot Wear In The Dining Room On Alaska Cruise?
Alaska Cruise has a few rules to follow when it comes to dining rooms and specialty restaurants. These items must include swimwear, baseball caps, flip-flops, and tank tops.
You cannot wear faded, ripped, or any holey jeans to the dining on Alaska cruise.
Q.5 Do You Need a Coat for an Alaskan Cruise?
If you easily catch a cold, then you must carry a puffer jacket or lightweight coat for your trip on an Alaska cruise. Regardless of the season you’re traveling on an Alaska cruise, it will be handy to have an additional layer to keep yourself warm during the cold weather.
Therefore, pack a light jacket or puffer-style vest in your luggage.
Final Takeaways:
When it comes to deciding what to wear on an Alaskan cruise and what to pack, knowing all the details will be time-consuming and taxing. Since Alaska cruises are more casual than other cruises, planning your outfits will be easier than ever with little research.
So, if you’re planning to get onboard on an Alaskan cruise and want to carry all the essential outfits that you can enjoy wearing during the day and evening.
