Rain Jacket: If there is one essential item in your Alaska packing list, it should be a rain jacket. The weather is very temperamental in Alaska and it rains a lot, especially as the summer goes on. A Helly Hansen rain jacket or something comparable would be great for your Alaska road trip, Alaskan cruise, or hiking in Alaska.

Rain Pants: This is something we wish we brought with us on our Alaskan cruise! Because it rains so much, we highly recommend bringing rain pants to wear over your regular hiking pants or jeans.

Lightweight Down Jacket: The weather varies by the hour and you’ll be visiting glaciers so it is important to bright a lightweight down jacket to keep you warm.

Daypack: Whether you’re hiking in Alaska, on an Alaska road trip, or an Alaskan cruise, you’ll want a daypack to bring with you on your excursions around Alaska.

Camera: DUH, right?! Alaska is one of the most photogenic places in the world. It would be a shame not to capture it on camera!

Waterproof Hiking Boots: If you couldn’t tell the theme on your trip to Alaska, it’s to try to stay dry 🙂 Whether you’re glacier trekking, hiking around town, or hiking in Alaska, you’ll want supportive, waterproof hiking or walking shoes.

Fleece: Again, it’s all about the layers in Alaska! A North Face or Spyder fleece would be perfect for your Alaska road trip, Alaskan cruise, or hiking in Alaska.

Wool socks: Wool socks will help keep your feet warm and they’re a must in Alaska – especially if you’re hiking in Alaska.

Sunglasses: Even though it rains a lot in the summer months, it’s imperative to bring sunglasses on your summer trip to Alaska! We would highly recommend packing polarized sunglasses!

Hats: We recommend bringing a sun hat or baseball hat as well as a warm beanie. You’ll need both depending on the weather and the location.

Eye Mask: If you’re visiting Alaska during the summer months, you’ll be there for the midnight sun! While your Alaska RV, Alaskan cruise, or hotel will most likely have blackout shades, we highly recommend bringing a sleep mask to help you rest!

Sunscreen: You’ll be enjoying the Great Outdoors on your Alaskan vacation so make sure to protect your face with sunscreen!

Moisture wicking long sleeved shirt: Moisture wicking long sleeved shirts are fantastic for layering when you’re on an Alaskan vacation. The moisture wicking will help keep your body temperature at a normal level, especially if you’re hiking in Alaska.

Binoculars: Binoculars are a must – especially if you’re on an Alaskan cruise. You’ll want to be on the lookout for orcas, whales, otters, and eagles!

Swimsuit: If you’re on an Alaskan Cruise, you’ll most likely have access to a pool or hot tub so bring your swimsuit. Or if you’re feeling super daring and want to do a Polar Plunge, you can do that too 🙂