What to Pack for Kids on an Alaska Cruise: A Complete Guide
Alaska Cruise Kids Packing List
An Alaska cruise is an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking glaciers, incredible wildlife, and thrilling excursions. But packing for kids in this unpredictable climate can be a challenge! To help make your trip stress-free, here’s a complete packing guide to keep your little explorers warm, dry, and entertained throughout your cruise.
Clothing Essentials
1. Base Layers – Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is key. Pack moisture-wicking base layers (thermal tops and leggings) to keep kids warm and dry.
2. Waterproof Shoes – Whether exploring the ship’s deck or heading on an excursion, waterproof shoes or boots are a must to keep little feet warm and dry.
3. Beanie & Gloves – Even in the summer, Alaska’s temperatures can be chilly, especially near glaciers. A warm beanie and gloves will help kids stay cozy during outdoor adventures.
4. Hat – A hat with a brim is great for sun protection during warmer days or when spending time on deck spotting wildlife.
5. Swimsuit and Shorts – Even Alaska can have hot and sunny days in the summer.
6. Flip Flops or Crocs – Easy shoes to slip on to lounge around the ship instead of always having to put boots on.
Adventure & Exploration Gear
6. Binoculars – Make wildlife spotting even more exciting! Bring kid-friendly binoculars so they can look for whales, sea otters, eagles, and bears. Pro tip bring a pair for each child so there is no fighting over the binoculars.
7. Waterproof Excursion Backpack – Pack a lightweight backpack for excursions to carry essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, and a camera.
8. Reusable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is important, especially when out exploring. A spill-proof, insulated water bottle is ideal.
9. Camera – Kids will enjoy capturing their adventure with a digital camera or an instant-print Polaroid camera.
10. Sunglasses– The glare from the water and snowy glaciers is very bright.
Snacks & Entertainment
11. Favorite Snacks – Cruise ships have plenty of food, but bringing a few favorite snacks (that are pre-packaged and allowed onboard) can be a lifesaver for picky eaters or during excursions.
12. Activities & Entertainment – While cruises offer plenty of onboard entertainment, bring some small activities like coloring books, travel games, or a tablet loaded with movies and audiobooks for downtime or long travel days. Cruise walls are metal so a set of magna tiles to put on the wall is always a hit.
Bonus Tips for a Smooth Cruise
- Pack Motion Sickness Remedies – Alaska’s waters can be a bit rough, so consider packing motion sickness bands or kids’ medication if needed.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho – A waterproof outer layer is helpful for unexpected rain showers.
- Extra Socks & Gloves – Wet socks or gloves can make kids miserable, so having extras is a smart idea.
- First aid kit – It’s always best to pack a few over-the-counter meds for kids rather than relying on finding them if needed.
- Sunscreen – Sunscreen is essential in Alaska because glaciers, water, and snow reflect UV rays, increasing sunburn risk. Long daylight hours and open decks expose you to more sun, even in cool temperatures. Apply SPF 30+, wear a hat, and use SPF lip balm to stay protected.
- Bug Spray – If you’re planning an excursion in the forest or wetlands, having bug repellent could be very useful.
- Ziplock bags – This is a random item I always take and find us for. Whether it’s to put some cookies in from the buffet later or wet clothes. Ziplocks always come in handy.
With this packing list, your little ones will be ready for an exciting and comfortable adventure in the Last Frontier. Happy cruising!
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