Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations. Passengers love the beautiful landscapes, the unspoiled nature, and the unique ports full of distinct character.
However, all passengers who have to go to Alaska for the first time have doubts about how to dress and what to pack for a cruise there.
Well, I must admit that packing for Alaska is not simple, but I will give you all the advice you need to avoid mistakes.
The Key to Alaska: Layering Like a Pro
The first thing I want to say, and perhaps the most important, is to dress in layers.
You should consider that the weather in Alaska changes very quickly, much more quickly than what we are used to in our cities.
It can go from sunshine to rain in the blink of an eye, so it’s crucial that you are able to adapt with ease.
Base Layer: Stay Warm and Dry
The base layer is the most important one. You should choose something that keeps you both warm and dry at the same time.
Alaska can be cold, but activities like walking, hiking, and sightseeing can make you sweat quickly.
For this reason, opt for fabrics that keep you dry like merino wool or moisture-wicking synthetics.
Middle Layer: Insulate Against the Cold
The middle layer is your insulation and should trap the body heat to keep you warm, especially during very cold days.
A fleece jacket or a lightweight down option is perfect for Alaska. Fleece is a great choice because it’s breathable and adds exceptional warmth without adding bulk.
Consider that you must also evaluate comfort; avoid things that are too bulky and make it difficult for you to walk.
Outer Layer: Defend Against Wind and Rain
The outer layer is the one that comes into direct contact with the Alaskan weather so it absolutely must be waterproof and windproof (both are very frequent in this region).
I would choose a durable and good quality waterproof jacket. It will keep you dry but will also block out those sharp winds you’ll encounter on deck or during shore excursions.
Before you depart, check that it fits in your backpack so that you are comfortable in case the sun comes out and you want to take it off.
Daytime Outfits
Now let’s move on to some outfits you can wear during the day.
As we’ve already seen the most important thing to keep in mind is to dress in layers.
Even during the summer, between June and August, the temperature in Alaska can range from 47°F to 70°F, so you have to dress to be protected from the cold but still ready to remove some clothing in case it gets warmer.
Below you can see a very classic outfit with a hat, long-sleeve thermal turtleneck, and comfortable stretch pants.
As you can see it’s a perfect outfit for when it’s sunny and a little warmer.
Below here you can see a similar outfit but with the addition of a jacket in case it gets a little colder or for when it’s not sunny.
As I said before check that the material of the outermost layer is always water-proof in case it starts to rain.
As for style, many peoplel generally stick to the same warm and comfortable clothes for excursions.
In my opinion, the one aspect you can play with is the colors. For cruises in Alaska, I absolutely recommend earth tones like forest green, brown, and burgundy that complement the rugged, natural beauty of this region.
