Planning your Alaskan cruise in August? Here’s the keyword-packed guide to exactly what to pack for an Alaskan cruise in August—so you stay cozy, dry, and cruise-ready from deck to dog sled!
Weather Overview 🌡️
August in Alaska is the tail end of summer but still unpredictable. Expect temperatures between 50°F–65°F (10°C–18°C) with possible rain and wind. Days are long, skies can be misty, and excursions may range from whale watching to glacier hiking—so versatility is key. Think layers, waterproofing, and warm-but-cute vibes.
What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise in August 🎒
Dress code: Layer up, stay dry, look fabulous
While cruise ships are luxe and cozy, Alaska’s outdoors demand practicality. Shore excursions can be chilly and wet, while onboard dinners lean dressy-casual. Layering is your best friend.
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools
🧳 Carry-on suitcase – (1) Easy to access for embarkation essentials
🧳 Checked luggage – (1) Pack bulkier layers & boots
🎒 Daypack or personal item – (1) For excursions and onboard needs
🧼 Waterproof hanging toiletry bag – (1) Cruise cabin space-saver
📁 Document organizer / travel wallet – (1) Keep IDs, tickets, and insurance in one place
🧺 Laundry kit or bag – (1) Helpful for rewearing base layers
🔒 Small lock – (1) Security for shared excursions or lockers
🧻 Quick-dry towel – (1) Optional, useful for wet excursions
💤 Inflatable neck pillow + 🕶️ Sleep mask – (1 each) For flights or scenic naps
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
👗 Clothes
👕 T-shirts (3–4) – Lightweight for layering
👚 Casual tops (2–3) – Long sleeves recommended
🧥 Fleece or thermal jackets (2) – Warm, quick-dry insulation
🧥 Waterproof rain jacket (1) – Non-negotiable for Alaska!
🧤 Gloves (1 pair) – Lightweight, touch-screen friendly
🧣 Scarf (1) – Cozy and stylish
🎩 Beanie or warm hat (1) – Wind and chill protection
🧦 Wool socks (5+) – Dry, warm, and anti-stink
👖 Jeans (1–2) – Casual cruise wear
👖 Waterproof hiking pants (1–2) – For glacier treks or wildlife walks
👗 Smart casual dress or jumpsuit (1–2) – For dinners or onboard events
🩳 Activewear (2 sets) – Yoga, gym, or layering
🧘 Pajamas / loungewear (1–2) – Warm and comfy
👙 Swimsuit (1) – For onboard hot tubs
🧥 Lightweight packable down jacket (1) – Compact warmth
🧤 Tights / base thermal layers (2) – Wear under pants if temps dip
💆 Skincare
🧼 Cleanser – Hydrating for wind-exposed skin
☁️ Moisturizer – Extra-rich formula for dry climates
🌞 Sunscreen (face + body) – Even cloudy days reflect off glaciers
💧 Lip balm – SPF + moisture
🌊 Makeup remover – Waterproof for long days
🥶 Facial mist – Instant refresh
👁️ Eye cream – Cold wind = puffy eyes prevention
💄 Makeup
💄 BB cream – Lightweight with SPF
🖌️ Concealer – For brightening tired skin
👁️ Mascara – Waterproof, please!
💋 Lipstick or tinted balm – Pop of color for cruise dinners
🌟 Highlighter – Gorgeous glow in soft natural light
🧴 Setting spray – Helps makeup stay during misty excursions
💅 Brushes / sponge – Compact travel set
💇 Hair
🪮 Hairbrush / comb
🧴 Travel-size shampoo & conditioner – Hydrating formulas
🌬️ Dry shampoo – Saves time and space
🔥 Heat protectant spray – For shipboard styling
🧖♀️ Mini flat iron or curling wand – Elegant night looks
💍 Hair accessories – Chic and cruise-ready
👠 Shoes & Accessories
🥾 Waterproof hiking boots (1) – Key for land excursions
👟 Sneakers (1) – Great for casual exploring
👠 Dress shoes or flats (1) – Dinners and ship events
👜 Day purse / crossbody – Hands-free for port stops
🧢 Cap / visor – Sunny days surprise you
🕶️ Sunglasses + case – Glare from water and ice
☔ Foldable umbrella – Mist turns to drizzle quickly
🧾 Documents & Essentials
🛂 Passport – Required, even for Alaska cruises
🖨️ Copies of passport & ID – Backups save lives
💳 Credit + debit cards – Notify your bank before sailing
💰 Emergency cash – Both USD and coins for small purchases
📋 Travel insurance info – Crucial for wilderness excursions
📍 Offline maps or directions – No signal in the fjords
🖊️ Pen & small notebook – Handy during customs or journaling
🔑 House keys & wallet – Don’t forget the basics!
🩹 First Aid
🩹 Bandaids + blister pads – Hiking = heel drama
💊 Pain relievers – Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
🧻 Antiseptic wipes + gauze – For minor scrapes
🌡️ Thermometer – Just in case
✂️ Scissors (travel-size) – Cabin hacks
📦 Q-tips + cotton pads – Versatile hygiene helpers
💊 Health & Hygiene
💊 Prescription meds – With extras for delays
🧴 Hand sanitizer – Always
🧼 Disinfecting wipes – Wipe down airplane and cabin surfaces
🦟 Bug spray – Coastal Alaska can have mosquitos
🚺 Feminine hygiene products – Not always easy to restock
😴 Sleep aid – Jet lag or cruise excitement
🪥 Toothbrush + toothpaste – Of course
🧼 Body wash & deodorant – Compact or bar
🪒 Razor – Plus shaving cream
🧴 Moisturizing lotion – Cold air dries fast
📱 Tech & Electronics
📱 Phone + charger – With backup cord
🔌 Universal adapter (if coming from outside US) – U.S. uses Type A/B
📸 Camera + SD cards – Capture those glaciers!
🔋 Portable power bank – For long days off ship
🎧 Noise-cancelling earbuds – Flights & loud cabins
📚 E-reader or tablet – Loaded with books and movies
🧰 SIM card or cruise Wi-Fi plan – Book early for savings
🎧 Entertainment
📖 Books / e-books – Alaskan mysteries or scenic reads
🎵 Podcasts & playlists – Great for scenic sailing
🎥 Downloaded movies – Internet is spotty
🗒️ Journal – Write your epic cruise saga
🃏 Travel games or cards – Rainy day activities
📰 Magazines – Poolside or fireside reads
🎒 Extras
🥤 Reusable water bottle – Excursions often BYO
🍫 Snacks / protein bars – Fuel for adventure
🛍️ Foldable shopping bag – Souvenir friendly
🧺 Travel detergent – Rinse base layers
🧵 Mini sewing kit – Just in case
🚿 Shoe deodorizer – Wet boots = danger
🧼 Lint roller – Keeps cruise looks fresh
🚨 Safety whistle – For solo hikes or nature trails
✈️ Travel Tips
✔️ Pack layers in your carry-on (weather may flip fast)
✔️ Check cruise dress code for formal nights
✔️ Label luggage clearly – Cruise terminals are busy
✔️ Download maps, ship app, and excursion info before departure
✔️ Set bank travel notices and carry emergency cash
✔️ Print your boarding pass and port arrival form
🛂 Visa Tips
❗U.S. citizens: No visa needed for Alaska cruises departing from the U.S.
🪪 Bring valid government-issued ID or passport
✈️ For non-U.S. travelers: Check U.S. entry requirements
📷 Always carry a printed copy of your cruise itinerary and hotel stay (if applicable)
✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip
✔️ Passport + copies
✔️ Travel insurance info
✔️ Emergency contacts
✔️ Phone + charger + power bank
✔️ Layers + waterproof gear
✔️ Offline maps + itinerary
✔️ Daypack with snacks + water
👍 Good-to-Have Items
🧪 Liquid IV or electrolyte powders
🧼 Travel steamer
🛏️ Sleep mask
🎧 Noise-cancelling headphones
🧣 Travel blanket
💤 Neck pillow
🪪 Luggage tags with contact info
☂️ Mini umbrella
📱 Local SIM or cruise internet plan
👜 Extra tote for souvenirs
