Book Cruise to Alaska
An Alaskan cruise is exciting, but packing can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to the outfits. Whether you’re on deck taking in the glacial views or at a formal night, having the right Alaska cruise outfits is key to enjoying your trip comfortably and stylishly.
Daytime Attire: Comfortable Exploring
During the day, your outfits should be able to handle the great outdoors and keep you comfortable. Layering is key as the weather can go from sunny and mild to cold and wet in an instant.
- Base Layer: Start with moisture-wicking thermal underwear. These will keep you warm without overheating, perfect for active days on deck or shore excursions.
- Mid Layer: Add a fleece or wool sweater for insulation. These will retain heat even if damp and are great under outer layers.
- Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential, ideally with a hood to protect against sudden rain showers or sea spray. Look for breathable materials to prevent overheating during active moments.
- Pants: Waterproof hiking pants are a must. They are designed to be versatile for all activities and weather conditions. They’re also easier to layer over thermal leggings.
- Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes are a must. Make sure they are well broken in before your trip to avoid discomfort and blisters.
- Accessories: Remember waterproof gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. These can be adjusted as needed and are essential for colder days.
Evening Wear: Alaska Cruise Evening Wear
Evenings on a cruise ship can be casual dinners or formal events. Here’s how to prepare for both:
- Casual Evenings: For most nights, casual attire such as slacks or jeans and a nice shirt or sweater are fine. Always bring a light jacket or wrap as evenings can be cool.
- Formal Nights: Alaska cruise formal night attire is less formal than in warmer climates, but many guests like to dress up. Men can wear a dark suit or a tuxedo, and women can wear a cocktail dress or an evening gown. Remember, it’s all about feeling good as well as looking good, so choose something that feels comfortable.
Also Read: 5 Best Places to Visit in Alaska While Cruising
Formal Night Alaska Cruise
A formal night on an Alaska cruise is a bonus! Here are some tips:
- Men: A dark suit with a tie or tuxedo will do the trick. Consider a lightweight wool suit that’s warm without the bulk.
- Women: A cocktail dress or evening gown with elegant accessories will be perfect. Consider dresses made from heavier fabrics or with long sleeves for warmth. A shawl or pashmina is great for extra warmth.
- Footwear and Accessories: Dress shoes should be comfortable as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and dancing. Simple but elegant jewelry will enhance your outfit without overpowering it.
More Alaska Cruise Outfit Tips
- Layering: The weather can be crazy, and dressing in layers allows you to adjust to it.
- Sun Protection: Even in cooler climates, the sun can be strong, especially on the water. Pack sunglasses with UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.
- Dress for Excursions: If your cruise itinerary includes excursions like glacier hiking or wildlife tours, make sure to pack the right gear. This includes thermal underwear, waterproof outerwear, and sturdy boots.
Also Read: What is the Most Affordable Month to Travel to Alaska Cruise?
Packing Tips for Kids
Packing for an Alaskan cruise with kids means more than just tossing in a few outfits. It would be best if you thought about the weather, activities on board and ashore, and your child’s comfort throughout the trip. Here are some must-pack items for kids on an Alaska cruise:
Clothing
- Layered Outfits: Like adults, layering is key for kids. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating middle layer like a fleece or wool sweater, and top it with a waterproof and windproof jacket. This way, kids can add or remove layers as needed.
- Waterproof Gear: Make sure to pack waterproof jackets, pants and boots. Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, and staying dry is key to staying warm and comfortable, especially during excursions.
- Extra Sets of Clothes: Kids get dirtier and wetter than adults, so pack extra sets of clothes, especially socks and underwear.
Footwear
- Sturdy Boots: Waterproof boots are a must for any outdoor activities. They keep feet warm and dry.
- Comfortable Shoes: Pack comfortable walking shoes for less intense activities and for wearing on the cruise ship.
Accessories
- Warm Accessories: Remember hats, gloves, and scarves. Waterproof gloves are especially good for kids who will want to play in the snow or touch icy surfaces during excursions.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: Protect your child’s skin and eyes from UV rays, which can be strong in Alaska, especially in the water.
Also Read: An All-Inclusive Guide to the Best Time to Cruise Alaska
Miscellaneous
- Entertainment: Bring books, games, coloring supplies, or a tablet loaded with movies and apps to keep kids entertained during downtime or long periods of travel.
- Snacks: Pack a variety of snacks your child likes. Having familiar food can help calm travel nerves and hold them over between meals.
- Medications and First Aid: Pack any medications your child needs daily, along with a basic first aid kit with kid-friendly items such as pediatric pain relievers, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes.
- Identification and Documentation: Make sure all necessary identification and travel documents are easily accessible. Consider a waterproof document holder for documents during excursions.
Packing Tips
- Involve Your Child: Depending on their age, involve your child in the packing process. It will make them feel more like they are part of the trip, and they’ll have everything they think they’ll need.
- Check Baggage Allowances: Before you pack, check the baggage allowances of the cruise line and airlines. This will help you avoid overpacking or extra charges.
- Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are great for kids’ clothing and accessories. They keep outfits together and make it easier to find things without having to unpack everything.
Also Read: How much does an Alaskan cruise Cost usually?
Final Thoughts
Now you’re packed and ready for your Alaskan cruise. You’ll be prepared for all the daytime adventures and evening cruises. With these tips, you can focus on the stunning views and once-in-a-lifetime experience that an Alaska cruise has to offer. Your clothes will be functional and a part of the memories you’ll make.
FAQs about Alaska cruise
1. What do I wear for evening wear on an Alaska cruise?
For formal nights on an Alaska cruise, men wear a black suit or tux, and women wear a cocktail dress or evening gown. It can get cold, so bring a nice shawl or pashmina.
2. Do I need to bring waterproof clothing on an Alaska cruise?
Yes, waterproof clothing is a must on an Alaska cruise. The weather can be unpredictable, and you may encounter rain or sea spray. A waterproof jacket, pants, and shoes will keep you dry and comfortable during outdoor activities.
3. What do I wear for shore excursions on my Alaska cruise?
Dress in layers for shore excursions, base layer moisture wicking, mid-layer fleece or warm, outer layer waterproof. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is a must for comfortable and safe exploring.
4. Are there any accessories I should bring on an Alaska cruise?
Accessories for an Alaska cruise should include binoculars for wildlife and scenic views, a camera with extra batteries, a waterproof backpack for day trips, and thermal gloves, hats, and scarves for warmth, especially for evening deck activities or when chasing the Northern Lights.
5. What shoes do I wear on an Alaska cruise?
The best shoes for an Alaska cruise are waterproof hiking boots for excursions and comfortable walking shoes for onboard and in-port activities. For formal nights, bring dress shoes that are comfortable enough for dancing or walking around the ship.
6. How do I prepare for the weather on an Alaska cruise?
Preparing for the weather on an Alaska cruise means expecting everything from sun and warmth to cold and wet. Pack layers to adjust easily, waterproof and windproof clothing, and don’t forget UV protection for your eyes and skin, even on cloudy days.
