Alaska Cruise and Land Packages
Discover how to combine Alaska cruise and land packages for unforgettable glacier views, wildlife spotting and seamless travel.
What to Wear on Alaska Cruise
The short answer
Dress in layers for varying weather conditions on an Alaska cruise.
When packing for an Alaska cruise, it's essential to consider the varying weather conditions you'll encounter, from chilly mornings to warmer afternoons, and potential rain showers, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day, with typical prices for a waterproof jacket ranging from $50 to $200.
This article will cover the essential clothing items to bring on your Alaska cruise, including tips on what to wear on shore excursions, formal nights, and casual days at sea, with a focus on practical advice and specific recommendations for making the most of your time on board.
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Compare prices →Packing Essentials for Alaska Cruise
A typical Alaska cruise will take you through a variety of weather conditions, from sunny days to rainy nights, so it's crucial to pack accordingly, with a mix of lightweight and breathable clothing, as well as warmer layers for cooler evenings, and don't forget to include a waterproof jacket, typically priced between $50 to $200, and comfortable walking shoes.
When selecting your clothing items, consider the time of year you're traveling, with summer months typically warmer than spring or fall, and pack a mix of short and long-sleeved shirts, as well as lightweight pants and warm sweaters, and don't forget to include a few formal outfits for special occasions, with prices for a formal dress or suit typically ranging from $100 to $500.
- waterproof jacket
- comfortable walking shoes
- breathable clothing
Dressing for Shore Excursions
When going on shore excursions, it's essential to dress in layers and wear comfortable clothing, including sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction, as you'll likely be walking on uneven terrain, and consider bringing a backpack or tote bag to carry your essentials, such as water, snacks, and a camera, and don't forget to apply sunscreen and insect repellent.
For glacier viewing or wildlife watching excursions, dress in warm and waterproof clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf, and consider bringing a pair of binoculars to get a closer look, and be sure to follow the instructions of your tour guide and stay on designated paths to avoid disturbing the environment.
- hiking boots
- backpack or tote bag
- binoculars
Formal Nights and Special Events
On most Alaska cruises, there will be at least one formal night, where you'll have the opportunity to dress up and enjoy a special dinner or event, and men should consider bringing a suit and tie, while women can opt for a cocktail dress or formal gown, with prices for formal wear typically ranging from $100 to $500.
In addition to formal nights, there may be other special events on board, such as theme parties or live shows, and be sure to check your cruise itinerary to see what's planned and pack accordingly, and don't forget to bring a few accessories, such as a tie or scarf, to add a touch of elegance to your outfit.
- suit and tie
- cocktail dress
- formal gown
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Casual Days at Sea
On casual days at sea, you can dress in comfortable and relaxed clothing, such as t-shirts, shorts, and sweatpants, and don't forget to bring a few swimsuits and cover-ups for lounging by the pool or on the sun deck, and consider packing a few lightweight dresses or jumpsuits for a easy and stylish option.
When dining on casual nights, you can opt for smart casual attire, such as a button-down shirt and nice pants, or a sundress and sandals, and be sure to check the dress code for specific restaurants or events on board, and don't forget to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- t-shirts
- shorts
- sweatpants
Layering for Varying Weather Conditions
One of the most important things to consider when packing for an Alaska cruise is the need to layer your clothing, as the weather can change quickly and temperatures can fluctuate, and opt for breathable and moisture-wicking clothing that will help keep you dry and comfortable, and don't forget to bring a few warm layers, such as fleece or wool, for cooler mornings and evenings.
When layering, start with a base layer, such as a t-shirt or tank top, and add a mid-layer, such as a sweater or fleece, and finally, add a waterproof and windproof outer layer, such as a jacket or parka, and consider bringing a few accessories, such as a hat and gloves, to add extra warmth.
- breathable clothing
- moisture-wicking clothing
- warm layers
Packing Tips and Tricks
When packing for your Alaska cruise, be sure to pack essentials, such as undergarments and socks, in your carry-on luggage, in case your checked luggage is delayed, and consider packing clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched, such as a few versatile tops and bottoms, and don't forget to bring a few accessories, such as a scarf or belt, to add a touch of style to your outfits.
To save space in your luggage, consider rolling your clothing items, rather than folding them, and use packing cubes or compression bags to keep your belongings organized, and be sure to leave some extra space in your luggage for souvenirs and any items you might purchase on board, and don't forget to check the cruise line's luggage restrictions and pack accordingly.
- carry-on luggage
- packing cubes
- compression bags
Key takeaways
- pack layered clothing
- bring waterproof gear
- dress for formal nights
- check cruise line's dress code
Where to book this cruise
When booking your Alaska cruise, be sure to consider the time of year and potential weather conditions, and pack accordingly, and don't forget to check the cruise line's dress code and pack a few formal outfits, and compare current sailings and prices on CruiseDirect before booking to find the best deal.
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Frequently asked questions
what to wear on a glacier viewing excursion?
dress in warm and waterproof clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf, and consider bringing a pair of binoculars.
can i wear jeans on a formal night?
it's generally not recommended to wear jeans on formal nights, opt for dress pants or a skirt instead.
what is the dress code for dinner on an Alaska cruise?
the dress code for dinner on an Alaska cruise varies, but typically ranges from casual to formal, check the cruise line's dress code for specific guidelines.
do i need to bring a suit and tie on an Alaska cruise?
it's not always necessary to bring a suit and tie, but it's recommended for formal nights, and can be rented on board if needed.
can i do laundry on board an Alaska cruise?
yes, most Alaska cruises offer laundry facilities on board, including washing machines and dryers, or you can send your laundry out to be cleaned.
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