Essential Packing Checklist For An Unforgettable Alaskan Cruise In May

Table Of Content

• Base layers
• What are the essential items to pack for a cruise to Alaska in May?
• Are there any specific accessories or gear that are recommended for a cruise to Alaska in May?
• Waterproof Smartphone Bag
• REI Co-op Women’s Trailmade Pants
• Alaska cruise packing list
• Essential Packing Checklist For An Unforgettable Alaskan Cruise In May
• Warm and waterproof layers

As for shoewear, the only rule is that flip flops are never allowed during evenings on the ship. Bringing a swimsuit on your cruise to Alaska might sound unnecessary, but remember, all of our ships have solariums with heated pools, spas, and hot tubs. Bring at least one swimsuit just in case you feel like taking a dip during your vacation. Of course, there are also your prescriptions, basic toiletries, money, credit card(s), travel insurance,  driver’s license or passport, and other important items you always travel with. The Alaska sunshine is very strong and can easily damage your skin. Be sure to pack plenty of sunblock and lip balm, both with a high SPF level.

Base layers

It is important to pack appropriate attire for these occasions. Additionally, some cruise lines may have restrictions on swimwear in public areas or require specific attire for certain activities such as rock climbing or ice skating. You’ll also want a daypack, dry sack, and belt bag for carrying all your necessities on the ship and during trips ashore. Ideally these will be water-repelling, but definitely lightweight and packable.

What are the essential items to pack for a cruise to Alaska in May?

I opted not to bring my hiking poles since we didn’t plan any long hikes but if you KNOW you’re going on a long hike I highly recommend packing them. I packed a basic $2 pair of gloves and a warm hat but never ended up wearing them. Pack thermal layers that can keep you comfortable in temperatures ranging from 30- to 80-degrees Fahrenheit. Outfitters often provide the special gear for Alaska shore excursions, so no need to load your bags with crampons and waders. Before you bust out the suitcase and start throwing stuff in, consider the weather and how it varies. If you’re cruising the Inside Passage and waterways of Southeast Alaska, expect summertime highs between 50 and 60 degrees, with the occasional 70- or 80-degree day.

Are there any specific accessories or gear that are recommended for a cruise to Alaska in May?

It’s great for Alaska because it’s waterproof and windproof, so it’s a no-brainer to wear on glacier hikes, during rain showers, on your balcony, and around the ship. The high collar helps to trap heat around your neck, and it’s designed to fall below your hips, keeping your core insulated for better warmth. There are also two zippered pockets where you can securely store your ship identification, lip balm, or other small items.

Waterproof Smartphone Bag

To make sure your priorities and preferences are met, it is essential to compare these cruise lines and what they offer. Each is unique in its packages, ports, and ambiance, so do your research so you can select the one that best suits your needs. Keep in mind that every port will have ATMs available and many cruise lines also have ATMs onboard, so you don’t need to step on deck with tons of cash. This isn’t a safe idea anyway, so just have enough to get you through the first day or two after you have a chance to see how much spending you and your group are doing on average. Cologne or PerfumeWhether you’re getting dressed up for dinner or want to smell nice during the day, having a signature scent can go a long way in making you feel good. Opt for a travel-size version that’s preferably made of plastic instead of glass so it won’t take up too much space in your suitcase and is unlikely to break.

27 First time Alaska cruise tips (2024) Cruise.Blog - Cruise Blog

27 First time Alaska cruise tips ( Cruise.Blog.

Posted: Tue, 13 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

REI Co-op Women’s Trailmade Pants

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: 10 Must-Pack Items - Cruise Critic

What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: 10 Must-Pack Items.

Posted: Wed, 20 Nov 2019 08:00:00 GMT [source]

You’d be surprised how many people choose to eat at the Lido buffet on an Alaska cruise, especially on formal night. Basically, you would pack the same but plan on either sending out a load of laundry on the ship, doing a sink wash or hauling it into a town to a laundromat. These Alaska cruises can also be seven nights with departures northbound from Vancouver and Seattle or southbound from Seward and Whittier, Alaska. A cross-Gulf cruise will give you the time to spend in Alaska’s interior before or after your cruise.

Alaska cruise packing list

When we cruised to Alaska, we found the packing to be a bit challenging. From warm, sunny days in the 70s to cool, rainy days where it doesn’t get out of the 40s, you need to be prepared for just about anything. These are just some of the recommended items for excursions and outdoor activities during an Alaska cruise in May. Be sure to check with your cruise ship or excursion operator for any specific recommendations based on the activities you will be participating in. With the right gear, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters that Alaska has to offer.

(Want to avoid rain? Here's the best time to cruise Alaska.) Waterproof jackets and shoes or boots, umbrellas and hats will serve you well. Alaska weather can be unpredictable and varies by elevation. You never know when you will want to just stop and take in the beauty of the place. A hammock is easy to pack even if you don’t end up using it.

Warm and waterproof layers

An Alaska cruise is high on many travelers' bucket lists. Illegal drugs and other illegal substances are strictly prohibited on cruise ships. The cruise line staff and security team are trained to detect and handle any suspected illegal activity. If you are found to be carrying illegal drugs or using them on board, you may face legal consequences and could be removed from the ship at the next port of call. Firearms and other weapons are also generally not allowed on cruise ships. This is for the safety and security of all passengers and crew members.

Opt for something lightweight but still warm, such as a wool or fleece beanie. Though it may not seem like an essential item at first glance (especially if you’ll be cruising in the summer months), you’ll be thankful to have one when the chilly evenings set in. Aside from the comfortable and sports clothing you’ll wear during the day and on excursions, you’ll also want to pack dressier attire, too. During dinner in the ship’s main restaurant, cruisers will dress according to Celebrity Cruises’ dress code.

It's really easy to find yourself overpacking for an Alaska cruise because of the wide temperature swings involved in a typical sailing. This portable charger is the one I recommend using (link contains affiliate link that costs you nothing extra). Binoculars may be of interest to you as well, especially if you plan to do any wildlife viewing excursions.

This jacket is light enough to wear on warmer days, but also keeps you dry while you’re out and about. Best of all, if you are a light packer, a good rain jacket can pack up fairly small and not take up a ton of space. When packing for your Alaska cruise, it is a good idea to bring at least two pairs of footwear. One pair should be comfortable and waterproof for walking around the ship and ashore. The second pair can be specifically for hiking or more strenuous activities if you plan on participating in them. Remember to check the specific cruise line's dress code and recommendations before packing for your Alaska cruise.

Alaska can be both cold and sunny on any given day, so this fleece-lined brimmed beanie in a wool knit will certainly see some action on your cruise. I bring two of the large size so, as I mentioned, I can pop my camera into one in case of rain. Coffee or tea in a cruise ship’s coffee mug just doesn’t hold the heat and doesn’t have a lid.