Pack layers, waterproof gear, and warm clothes even though it's summer

Alaska in August is not warm. Daytime temperatures range from 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit in most ports, and the water is colder. You will spend time on deck watching glaciers and wildlife, so you need a waterproof jacket, fleece, and long pants — not summer clothes. The sun stays up nearly all day, which means you will be outside more than on a typical cruise, and you will get cold faster than you expect.

Pack as if you are going somewhere 20 degrees colder than the forecast. Bring layers you can add and remove throughout the day. A t-shirt under a fleece under a waterproof shell works better than a single heavy coat, because you will move between heated cabins and open decks constantly.

Key Takeaways

  • Waterproof jackets and pants are essential because rain is common and you will be on deck for hours watching glaciers and whales.
  • Pack fleece, thermal layers, and wool socks — August temperatures stay in the 55 to 65 degree range, not the 70s.
  • Bring binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, and a small backpack for day excursions to ports like Juneau and Ketchikan.
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses matter because the sun reflects off water and ice, and you are outside during long daylight hours.
  • Leave formal wear at home unless your cruise line requires it for one dinner — most Alaska cruises are casual.

Outerwear and rain gear you will actually wear

Buy or borrow a waterproof jacket before you leave home. Not water-resistant — waterproof. Brands like Helly Hansen, Grundéns, and Carhartt make jackets designed for Alaska fishing and outdoor work, and they cost between $100 and $300. A cheaper option is a basic rain jacket from REI or Target ($30 to $60), but it will not last as long or keep you as dry during heavy rain.

Pair the jacket with waterproof pants or rain pants. You will stand on deck in mist and spray for hours watching glaciers calve and bears fish. Wet jeans are miserable. Waterproof pants from the same brands run $80 to $150, or you can find basic ones for $25 to $40.

Bring a second lighter jacket or fleece for layering under the waterproof shell. Merino wool or synthetic fleece works better than cotton because it stays warm when wet. A zip-up fleece from Patagonia, Arc'teryx, or a budget brand like Costco's Kirkland runs $40 to $100.

Base layers, socks, and what to wear in your cabin

Pack thermal base layers or merino wool long underwear. You will wear these under your regular clothes on cold days and to bed if your cabin feels chilly. Merino wool base layers cost $40 to $80 per piece; synthetic thermal layers cost $15 to $30. Bring at least two sets so you have a clean pair while one dries.

Wool socks are not optional. Cotton socks stay wet and cold. Bring six to eight pairs of wool or wool-blend socks — your feet will be damp from rain and mist, and wet cotton socks cause blisters and cold feet. Wool socks cost $3 to $8 per pair at outdoor retailers.

Pack comfortable casual clothes for your cabin and the ship's interior: sweatpants, jeans, long-sleeve shirts, and a sweater or two. Most Alaska cruises do not require formal dress, so leave the suit at home unless your cruise line specifically says otherwise. Bring one nicer outfit if you want to eat at the specialty restaurant, but it does not need to be formal.

Footwear for wet decks and hiking excursions

Waterproof hiking boots or waterproof shoes are essential. You will walk on wet decks, muddy trails, and glacier viewing platforms. Regular sneakers will soak through and your feet will be cold for hours. Waterproof hiking boots from Salomon, Merrell, or Keen cost $100 to $180; waterproof shoes or slip-ons cost $60 to $120. Bring them already broken in — new boots on a cruise are a mistake.

Pack a second pair of shoes for the ship's interior: slip-on shoes, sandals, or casual sneakers. You will change out of wet boots when you come inside, and having dry shoes waiting makes a difference. Bring slippers for your cabin if you like them.

If you plan to book a hiking or glacier excursion, ask the cruise line what footwear they require. Some excursions provide boots; others expect you to bring your own. Check before you pack.

Camera gear, binoculars, and day pack essentials

Bring a camera with extra batteries. The sun is up nearly all day, but the light is often soft and gray, and you will take hundreds of photos of glaciers, bears, eagles, and whales. A smartphone camera works, but a dedicated camera with a zoom lens captures wildlife better. Extra batteries matter because cold drains them faster, and you will be outside for eight to ten hours at a time.

Binoculars make the difference between seeing a bear on the shore and actually seeing it. Bring compact binoculars (8x32 or 10x32) that weigh less than a pound. They cost $50 to $200 depending on quality. Leave them in your day pack so you have them on deck.

Pack a small backpack or crossbody bag for day excursions. You will carry water, snacks, a light jacket, sunscreen, and a camera. A 15 to 20-liter pack is enough and leaves your hands free for binoculars or photos.

Sun protection even on cool, cloudy days

Sunscreen is essential. The sun reflects off water and glacial ice, and you will burn even on overcast days. Bring SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours if you are on deck. A 3-ounce tube costs $5 to $15 and lasts most of a week if you use it regularly.

Sunglasses protect your eyes from glare off the water and ice. Bring a pair you do not mind losing overboard, because it happens. Polarized lenses reduce glare better than regular ones. Sunglasses cost $20 to $200 depending on the brand.

A wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap keeps sun off your face and helps you see better when you are looking for wildlife. Bring one that fits under your hood so you can wear it in rain.

Toiletries, medications, and what the ship provides

Bring your own shampoo, conditioner, and soap if you have sensitive skin. Most cruise ships provide basic soap and shampoo in the cabin, but they are often generic brands. A small bottle of your regular products takes minimal space.

Pack any medications you take regularly, plus extras in case your flight is delayed. Bring them in their original labeled bottles. The ship has a doctor on board, but getting to the medical office takes time and costs money if you run out of a prescription.

Bring motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness. Dramamine, ginger supplements, or prescription patches all work for different people. The ship sells these items, but they are expensive. Buy them before you leave home.

Pack a small first-aid kit: adhesive bandages, pain reliever, antacid, and anti-diarrhea medication. Blisters from wet boots and indigestion from ship food are common. A basic kit costs $10 to $20 and takes up almost no space.

What not to pack and what to leave behind

Leave formal wear at home unless your cruise line requires formal night. Most Alaska cruises are casual, and you will feel overdressed in a suit or evening gown. If your itinerary includes one formal dinner, bring one nicer outfit, but it does not need to be a tuxedo or ball gown.

Do not pack cotton sweatshirts or cotton long underwear. Cotton holds moisture and stays cold. Synthetic or wool layers dry faster and keep you warm when wet.

Leave heavy luggage at home. You will move between your cabin and the ship's public areas constantly, and you do not want to drag a large suitcase. A medium suitcase (22 to 26 inches) and a small backpack are enough for seven days. Most cruise lines allow two bags per person.

Do not pack items the ship prohibits: candles, hot plates, extension cords, or alcohol you bring on board. Check your cruise line's packing list for their specific rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need waterproof pants or just a waterproof jacket?

You need both. Rain and mist will soak your legs while you stand on deck watching glaciers. Waterproof pants keep you dry and warm. Wet jeans are heavy, cold, and take hours to dry in a small cabin.

What if I forget something important?

Most Alaska cruise ports have outdoor retailers or general stores where you can buy basics like socks, sunscreen, or a fleece. Juneau, Ketchikan, and Anchorage all have REI stores or similar shops. Prices are higher than at home, but you can replace forgotten items.

Is August really that cold for Alaska?

Yes. August is the warmest month in Alaska, but daytime temperatures in Southeast Alaska (where most cruises go) stay between 55 and 65 degrees. You will be outside for hours at a time, and the wind and water make it feel colder. Pack for 50 degrees, not 70.

Do I need to bring my own binoculars or does the ship provide them?

The ship does not provide binoculars. Bring your own or buy a pair at a port. Compact binoculars cost $50 to $200 and make wildlife viewing much better. They are worth the space in your luggage.

Can I do laundry on the ship if I run out of clean clothes?

Most cruise ships have laundry facilities you can use for a fee, usually $2 to $5 per load. Some cabins have in-cabin laundry. Check your cruise line's website. Laundry takes 24 hours, so plan ahead if you need clean clothes for an excursion.