Alaska cruise packing is confusing for many passengers. First of all, many people have no idea what kind of weather to expect in Alaska in the summer.
Does it snow? Will it be cold? Wet? Icy?
In reality, weather in Alaska in the summer can be quiet pleasant. It can also be quite wet, expecially in southern coastal Alaska, where it rains anywhere from 50 to 250 inches of a rain a year.
But inland areas can get up into the 70's and even 80's, so if you are going on an inland Alaska tour before or after your cruise, you might want to pack a pair of shorts.
Here are some other helpful pointers when packing for an Alaska cruise:
Pack lots of layers - Wet, cloudy mornings can turn into sunny, pleasant afternoons, so pack thin shirts, sweaters or sweat shirts and some sort of waterproof outerwear like a rain jacket or windbreaker.
Bring a good rain jacket - not to be too repititive, but it is very damp in the fjords when viewing glaciers, and they are simply so amazing, you wat to be able to stay on deck and view them for hours. So make sure you have a good quality rain jacket and a small umbrella too
Pack a pair of thermal underpants - no, it won't get THAT cold, but if it is cool and damp, you'd be amazed how cold your legs can get when you are just standing around viewing glaciers for hours. I packed a pair on my first cruise and was incredibly greatful that I did.
Pack a camera and binoculars - You'll want to take TONS of pictures, and binoculars are an absulte must. Pack lots of film (or digital cards) too.
Pack a coat or gown - You don't have to dress up very often, but the formal night dinners are not to be missed. So don't forget your jacket and miss out on lobster (or a similar treat).
Pack a ski cap and gloves - I don't want to scare you and give you the wrongful impression that it will be freezing cold. But again, you get quite chilly when you stand outside, especially if it is cloudy. Better safe than sorry (and chilly!)
Pack a pair of shoes with good traction - sneakers or hiking boots will do. It gets slippery when the deck is wet with mist or rain. Plus you need a good pair of shoes for most shore excursions.
So that's about it for my Alaska cruise packing suggestions. Just be prepaired for rain and chilly mornings, and you should be fine.
Oh, and don't forget to pack a bathing suit for the pools and hot tubs!
