Packing for an Alaska Cruise: Weather Considerations by Month

April & May

If you're cruising early in the season—late April or May—expect cooler temperatures compared to the summer months.

• Temperature: Lows in the mid-30s°F, highs in the mid-50s°F
• Daylight: Around 16–17 hours per day
• Rain: April and May are among the driest months of the cruise season, though occasional rain is still possible

Despite the lower chance of rain, it’s wise to pack raingear and dress in layers to accommodate shifting conditions.

June & July

June and July typically offer the warmest weather of the Alaska cruise season, making them popular months to visit.

• Temperature: Lows in the 40s°F, highs in the mid-60s°F
• Daylight: Fairbanks sees 21.5 hours of daylight in June, while Juneau experiences 18 hours
• Weather Variability: It can be warm and sunny, but heavy rain showers are possible—even within the same day

Many travelers consider this period the best for cruising, both for mild weather and wildlife sightings. Still, rain gear and layered clothing remain essential.

October

October marks the tail end of the cruise season, bringing cooler and wetter weather.

• Temperature: Lows in the 30s°F, highs in the low 50s°F
• Rain: Frequent and sometimes heavy
• Daylight: Decreases to just 11 hours per day

This time of year requires extra preparation, with insulated layers and waterproof gear to handle colder, rainier days.

             Packing for an Alaska cruise requires careful consideration of both shipboard life and shore excursions. You'll need comfortable clothing for daytime and evening activities, including formal night, as well as weather-appropriate gear for land-based adventures.

Clothing for Excursions

When exploring ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, layering is key. Be sure to pack:

• Base layers: Moisture-wicking shirts and thermal wear
• Mid layers: Fleece or insulated sweaters for warmth
• Outer layers: A warm jacket and/or waterproof rain gear
• Accessories: Hats, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof footwear

Shipboard Attire

Alaska cruises tend to be more relaxed, and casual compared to Caribbean and Mediterranean sailings. While formal nights are optional, many travelers opt for smart casual attire instead of dressy evening wear. Consider bringing:

• Casual outfits: Comfortable daywear for lounging and onboard activities
• Smart casual attire: Polished but relaxed looks for dinners and entertainment
• Layers: Even indoors, temperatures can vary, so having a light sweater or jacket is useful

Casual & Daytime Wear

• Short-sleeve shirts
• Long-sleeve shirts
• Sweatshirts or fleece sweaters
• Cardigan or light weight jacket for layering
• Comfortable pants (jeans, leggings, or joggers)
• Fleece-lined leggings
• Warm socks (thermal or wool)
• Undergarments
• Thermal base layers

Outerwear & Accessories

• Lightweight lined jacket or puffer coat
• Hooded waterproof rain jacket or windbreaker
• Waterproof hat
• Thin gloves
• Scarf
• Beanie or ear warmer (for colder months)

Sleepwear & Activewear

• Comfortable sleepwear
• Activewear for the gym or outdoor workouts
• Breathable hiking clothes for excursions

Evening & Shipboard Attire

• Casual or smart casual dresses
• Blouses or sweaters
• Pants or nice jeans
• Cocktail or formal dresses (optional)
• Shawl or pashmina (for layering in cooler dining areas)
• Evening bag/purse (optional)
• Jewelry (optional)

Swim & Footwear

• Bathing suits
• Swimsuit cover-ups
• Flip-flops (for indoor pool or hot tub)
• Hiking boots or waterproof shoes (for ports of call/excursions on rainy days)
• Comfortable walking shoes (for excursions)
• Sneakers (for casual wear or workouts)
• Dress shoes (if attending formal nights or dressing up for dining)

Extras & Essentials

• Polarized sunglasses (reduces glare when sightseeing)
• Moisturizer and lip balm (Alaska’s weather can be drying)
• Lightweight waterproof backpack or crossbody bag (for excursions)
• Reusable water bottle
• binoculars

Layering & Outerwear

Alaska’s temperatures vary, so layering is essential.

• Thermal base layers (tops & bottoms)
• Lightweight lined jacket or puffer coat
• Hooded waterproof rain jacket or windbreaker
• Hat (waterproof or insulated)
• Thin gloves (waterproof or touchscreen-compatible)
• Scarf
• Beanie or ear warmer (for cooler temperatures)

Casual & Daytime Wear

Comfortable clothing for exploring and relaxing onboard.

• Short-sleeve shirts
• Long-sleeve or flannel shirts
• Sweatshirts or fleece sweaters
• Comfortable pants (jeans, khakis, or travel-friendly joggers)
• Shorts or cargo pants/convertible pants
• Warm socks (wool or moisture-wicking)
• Undergarments

Evening & Formal Wear

Alaska cruises tend to be more casual than Caribbean cruises, but some evenings may call for dressier attire.

• Smart casual wear (for dinner & evening events)
• Khakis or nice jeans
• Nice shirts or sweaters 
• Suit or tuxedo (for formal nights, if attending)
• Dress shirts
• Tie
• Belt
• Dress shoes

Sleepwear & Activewear
For relaxing and staying active on board. 

• Comfortable sleepwear
• Gym clothes (for workouts or onboard fitness classes)

Swim & Footwear

Waterproof and supportive shoes are essential for excursions.

• Bathing suit (for indoor pool or hot tub)
• Flip-flops (for use at the pool or spa)
• Hiking boots or waterproof shoes
• Comfortable walking shoes (for excursions & shipboard wear)
• Sneakers (for casual outings & workouts)

Accessories & Essentials
Suggested items to bring to make your cruise more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Polarized sunglasses (to reduce glare while sightseeing)
• Baseball cap
• knit hat or beanie
• Lightweight waterproof backpack or crossbody bag (for excursions)
• Reusable water bottle
• Moisturizer & lip balm (Alaska’s air can be dry)
• Binoculars (optional, for wildlife viewing)

Essential Documents & Travel Items

• Passport (if required) and/or government-issued ID
• Certified copy of Birth Certificate if not traveling with passport
• Cruise boarding pass & travel itinerary
• Credit/debit cards 
• Cash for tipping and port shopping
• Travel insurance documents
• Emergency contact list
• Copies of important documents (printed or digital)

Health & Medications

• Prescription medications (with original packaging) 
• Motion sickness remedies (sea bands, ginger chews, or medication)
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, etc.)
• Vitamins & supplements (liquid iv, activated charcoal, etc.)
• Band-aids & small first-aid kit
• Sunscreen (even in cold climates)
• Bug spray (for excursions)
• Lip balm & moisturizer (cruise air can be drying)

Hygiene & Toiletries 

• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Shampoo (Shampoo is provided by cruises however if you use particular hair products such as sulfate free or if cannot use a shampoo/conditioner combo)
• Hair Conditioner (not usually provided by cruises)
• Body wash or soap (body wash is provided but suggested to bring if you have sensitive skin)
• Deodorant
• Perfume/Cologne
• Razor & shaving cream
• Hairbrush or comb 
• Hair ties or clips
• Hair Styler devices (curling iron, hair straightener)
• Makeup & skincare products
• Travel-sized laundry detergent/Tide pen (optional for washing clothes)
• Poopourri spray or air freshener 
• Lysol or disinfectant wipes
• Hand sanitizer (travel size for use in ports)

Electronics & Accessories 

• Phone & charger
• Waterproof phone case
• Power adapter or multi-port charger (non-surge protection)
• Headphones or earbuds
• E-reader or tablet (for entertainment)
• Camera & memory card (if taking photos)
• Portable power bank
• Nightlight or small flashlight (cabin lighting can be dim)
• Small fan 9in or smaller
• selfie stick

Comfort & Extras 

• Travel pillow & blanket (for flights or relaxation)
• Travel sewing kit with safety pins
• Hanging toiletry bag
• Travel Alarm Clock (most cell phones have alarm options)
• Strong magnetic hooks
• Reusable water bottle
• Insulated coffee mug (keep hot drinks hot while whale watching from your balcony or on cruise decks)
• Waterproof Backpack or crossbody bag for excursions
• Small tote or collapsible bag for carrying items onboard
• plastic trash bag (use inside backpack to keep items from getting wet)
• Individually wrapped snacks for travel days
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes 
• compact umbrella
• rain poncho
• Binoculars (for wildlife spotting
• collapsible hiking or walking sticks
• weather thermometer