The Ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing Guide: Luxury Edition
Alaska is one of those magical destinations that asks a lot from your packing list. One minute you’re kayaking past glaciers, the next you’re in a spa robe at the spa before dinner. I help clients prepare for these kinds of trips all the time, and I’ve also experienced an Alaska cruise firsthand—so I’ve pulled together exactly what to bring for an elevated (and comfortable!) experience at sea and ashore.
This list is tailored for a 7-night luxury summer Alaska cruise.
The Essentials
These are the things you want in your carry-on or somewhere easily accessible:
Passport and printed cruise docs (I also provide a digital itinerary to clients)
Credit cards and a little cash
Phone + charger + portable power bank (Alaska is photogenic—you’ll need it)
Lysol or sanitizing wipes (I always bring these for planes and high-touch areas)
E-reader or favorite book
Headphones/air buds
Prescription medications always go in your carry-on
Pre-Cruise Overnight (Carry-on is your friend!)
Pack your embarkation day outfit and overnight essentials in your carry-on so you don’t have to dig through your big suitcase until you’re unpacking on the ship. It makes that quick hotel stay the night before so much easier:
Comfortable jeans or travel pants
Lightweight sweater or fleece
Casual puffer or jacket
Sneakers or walking shoes
Onboard Style: Elegant, Not Fussy
Luxury cruise lines do a great job walking the line between relaxed and refined. During the day, it’s all about elevated comfort. In the evenings, it’s elegant casual—so no jeans or tees at dinner, but no need to bring a ballgown or tux either. Pro-tip: Sticking to a capsule wardrobe keeps things simple: fewer pieces, more outfit options, and less overpacking:
For day:
3–4 casual outfits (blouses, jeans/slacks, lightweight layers)
1–2 athleisure outfits for hitting the gym or a workout class
Swimsuit for the spa or heated pool
For night:
2–3 resort dresses or stylish separates
1–2 cocktail dresses + a jacket/blazer for dressier nights
Dress shoes and/or nice flats.
A light wrap or shawl (dining rooms and the theatre can run cool)
Small, versatile evening bag
And don’t worry—many luxury cruise lines offer complimentary laundry and have self-serve machines onboard. You definitely don’t need to overpack.
Spa Time
If you’re planning on using the spa (highly recommend!):
1–2 swimsuits
Flip-flops or spa sandals
Lightweight cover-up or spa wrap
Hair ties/headband for treatments
Workout clothes if you’re doing any wellness classes
Travel-size skincare
What to Pack for Alaskan Weather
Alaska in July and August is beautiful—but not necessarily warm. Think layers and waterproof everything:
Rain shell (Gore-Tex or similar)
Insulated down or puffer jacket
Thermal base layers
Wool or moisture-wicking socks
Warm hat, gloves, scarf or gaiter
Excursion Gear
For the kayaking, hiking, wildlife safaris, and glacier treks:
Quick-dry hiking pants or leggings
Moisture-wicking shirts (long and short sleeve)
Waterproof hiking boots (already broken in!) for longer hikes
Amphibious shoes or closed-toe sandals for kayak days
Bug spray and sunscreen
Dry bag or waterproof phone pouch for water excursions
Small waterproof daypack for all excursions
Toiletries & Health
Your preferred skincare and makeup etc
Razor, deodorant, hairbrush
Motion sickness remedies (bands, ginger, patches)
Any prescriptions + a few basics (ibuprofen, Band-Aids)
SPF lip balm
A Few Extras
Travel sized white noise machine or app
Eye mask + earplugs
Travel pillow for the flight
Small binoculars for wildlife spotting
Magnetic hooks… hear me out. Cruise ship walls are metal, which means you can use magnetic hooks to hang hats, purses, jackets, or even a backpack. It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference in keeping your cabin organized.
Final Thoughts
Alaska is unlike anywhere else. It’s raw, beautiful, and totally worth the layers. You don’t need to go overboard (pun intended)—just focus on packing smart and keeping it luxe and low-maintenance.