Suggested Alaska Summer Vacation Packing List

While we hope you have perfect weather during your vacation, Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Our packing list offers suggested items and clothing to help keep you reasonably comfortable in any conditions. Your best bet is to dress in layers and bring a backpack. You can always remove a layer of clothing if you get hot and store in your pack, or put it back on if the conditions change.  You know your body best, so if you are prone to chill easily, bring extra warm clothing.  Most of all, be prepared for a variety of weather conditions from cool rain to warm sunshine!

• Camera / Video Camera – be sure to capture Alaska on film!  Don’t forget the extras such as: film, batteries, lenses and chargers. Don't pack photo film in checked luggage as new airport screening equipment could ruin it. Put it in your carry-on instead.
• Back Pack or Tote Bag (medium to large)
• Binoculars / Spotting Scope
• Rain Gear (tops and bottoms, preferably a top with a hood)
• Ball Cap (hat with brim preferred)
• Sweaters / Sweatshirts
• Light Jacket (wind proof preferred)
• Fleece Vest or Pullover
• Waterproof Shoes/Boots (ankle high preferred) - make sure you bring comfortable shoes with good traction for walking.
• Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Light Gloves / Hat / Scarf - when walking aboard cruise vessels on outside decks, especially near glaciers, the wind can be cool.  Also helpful for cooler or rainy days.
• Long Underwear - particularly if you plan to participate in outdoor activities, this extra layer can come in handy.
• Toiletries & Any Necessary Medication - pack toiletries, clothing, and other items in clear zipper top bags. This makes it easier to repack if your bag is searched while also ensuring that items that could leak are sealed in a bag. Extra plastic bags are handy for storing dirty or damp clothing.
• First Aid Kit  - for minor emergencies, pack a first aid "kit" in your carry-on.
• Identification and/or Passport, Credit Card – Drivers license and major credit card in driver’s name is required for vehicle rentals, government issued identification must be presented with airport, train, and ferry check-in, and many hotels require credit cards for incidental charges.
• Watch/Alarm Clock - it’s easy to lose track of time with so much daylight!
• Swimsuit - your hotel might include hot tub, sauna or pool facilities
• Contact Information - Bring cards with your contact information to give new friends and mailing labels for sending postcards to friends at home.
• Keep in mind airline and security changes – pack any questionable items in your checked luggage, be prepared to turn on your laptop computer at security if you bring it, and be aware of your airline’s baggage allowances and weight limits.