Layers

• A waterproof, windproof outer jacket
• Fleece or wool mid-layer
• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Waterproof pants for excursions like whale watching or rainforest tours

Footwear

• Waterproof, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots
• Warm wool or synthetic socks

Accessories

• Binoculars for wildlife and glacier viewing
• A warm hat and gloves, even in summer
• Sunglasses (glacier glare is real even on cloudy days)
• A daypack for excursions

The Layering System That Works in Alaska

Alaska weather can swing from sunny and 70°F in Skagway to 45°F, wet and windy in front of a glacier on the same trip. Pack layers rather than bulky coats:

• Base layer: moisture-wicking long-sleeve tops (merino or synthetic)
• Mid layer: fleece or light down jacket
• Outer layer: waterproof, wind-resistant rain jacket with a hood
• Bottoms: jeans or hiking pants, plus water-resistant pants for excursions

Complete Alaska Packing Checklist

Clothing

• 3–4 long-sleeve layers and a few T-shirts for warm port days
• Fleece or light puffer jacket
• Waterproof rain jacket
• Warm hat, light gloves and a neck gaiter or scarf for glacier days
• Waterproof walking shoes or light hiking boots
• Swimsuit for the ship’s hot tubs and pools
• One or two dressier outfits for evenings

Gear

• Binoculars (one pair per person if you can)
• Camera with a zoom lens, extra batteries and memory cards
• Small daypack and a dry bag for phones and cameras
• Reusable water bottle
• Sunscreen and sunglasses (glare off ice and water is strong)
• Bug spray for forested excursions in summer
• Eye mask; summer daylight lasts late into the evening

Documents

• Passport (strongly recommended; required for Vancouver departures and one-way cruises)
• Copies of excursion confirmations and cruisetour vouchers

What to Skip

• A heavy winter parka — layers work better and pack smaller
• Umbrellas, which are awkward on windy decks; a hooded rain jacket is better
• Too many dressy outfits; Alaska cruises are casual by day