11 Packing Mistakes Alaska Cruise Visitors Make
Every cruise season, over one million visitors (yes, over one million!) step off cruise ships in Southeast Alaska. This place almost always looks like a picture-perfect postcard, even on a cloudy day, so I don’t blame them for wanting a taste of the magic we have here.
After living in Southeast Alaska for years though, I’ve noticed the same packing (and fashion) mistakes happen over and over again. They’re completely understandable, but a few simple changes can make your trip much more comfortable!
Here are the biggest mistakes I see and how to avoid them!
1. Packing for Winter in Alaska Instead of Southeast Alaska
When most people picture Alaska, they imagine snow, heavy winter coats, and below-freezing temperatures. And while that image isn’t completely wrong, it is not what you will experience during cruise season in Southeast Alaska.
We live in a temperate rainforest in SEAK, which means cool temperatures, damp air, ever-changing weather, and lots of rain. You won’t find any blizzards here in July!
Pack for cool and wet instead of freezing cold.
2. Bringing an Umbrella Instead of a Rain Jacket
This is probably the biggest one.
If you’ve ever tried to use an umbrella in downtown Skagway or Juneau on a windy day, you know exactly how quickly it becomes useless.
There was a TikTok I saw last year that went viral from someone who cruised to Southeast who thought an umbrella was a good idea. It was quite humorous and many people were surprised at the weather.
Wind and sideways rain are common enough that most locals don’t even bother owning umbrellas.
Instead, invest in a lightweight waterproof rain jacket with a hood. If you only buy one thing before your trip, make it that!
3. Packing Heavy Winter Clothes
I’ve seen people walking around town in giant insulated parkas and fur hats in July. Meanwhile, locals are wearing t-shirts and a light rain jacket.
Heavy coats take up a ton of suitcase space and are usually far warmer than you’ll need.
Layers work much better – even if you are coming from a hot climate and aren’t used to the cooler temperatures. Because if the sun comes out on a rainy day, you will be thankful that you can remove layers instead of sweating through your winter coat. 🙂
4. Forgetting Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cruise ports are surprisingly walkable! Between docks, downtown shopping, museums, excursions, and scenic viewpoints, you’ll most likely spend more time on your feet than riding around.
Choose shoes you already know are comfortable. If they’re waterproof? Even better! Rain boots are great (like Hunter), as long as they are comfortable enough for you to wear all day.
5. Packing Too Many Clothes
Most visitors imagine needing a completely different outfit every day, which you can do.
But honestly, you can probably wear the same fleece several times. And you can probably wear the same rain jacket and comfortable shoes every day also!
6. Dressing for the Forecast Instead of the Actual Conditions
Weather apps are helpful, but they are not always reliable here in Southeast. The information on the apps is not always what it actually feels like outside.
A forecast that says 60F degrees could feel very warm if it’s sunny, but if it’s cloudy or windy, it can feel quite chilly.
You can’t always believe what you read on those forecasts, and that is why I recommend layering.
7. Forgetting a Small Backpack
A backpack or roomy crossbody makes your trip so much easier than a handbag. You’ll appreciate having both hands free so you can take photos, shop, and explore.
I used a crossbody and it worked perfectly for me, but I was staying in town for my first visit. A backpack is much handier because it can hold your water bottle, wallet, camera, souvenirs, and most importantly – snacks!
8. Assuming Every Port Has Everything You Need
Our towns are small and our access to “regular” things is not exactly normal. If you forget something major, you may be able to replace it, but your choices will be very limited. They will be expensive and won’t be what you’d find at a Target back home.
It’s worth packing thoughtfully before your cruise begins. (My packing list can help!)
9. Wearing Fashion Shoes Instead of Practical Ones
I get it. You want cute vacation photos and videos for TikTok.
But Southeast Alaska has docks, gravel, uneven sidewalks, hiking trails, wet boardwalks, and lots of walking. Comfort always wins!
In Alaska, the last thing we’re trying to do is impress anyone – we dress very casual and for conditions and comfort here. And that’s one of the best things about living here, in my opinion!
10. Not Expecting to Get a Little Wet
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again – it rains here. A lot.
Some of my favorite days here have been misty, foggy, and rainy. If you’re prepared for it, you’ll probably find yourself enjoying it instead of wishing it away.
Rain is simply the reality of existing in Southeast. If you don’t like rain, I would recommend visiting a beach instead!
11. Forgetting to Download Maps & Excursion Information Before You Arrive
Cell service is generally good, but it isn’t perfect everywhere. There are many days where service gets overloaded in Skagway.
Downloading maps and taking screenshots of important excursion information ahead of time can save you a lot of frustration, especially if you’re planning on doing any exploring on your own like hiking.
Final Thoughts
Packing for Southeast Alaska doesn’t have to be stressful! I see countless people online agonizing over what to bring.
I cannot emphasize enough the importance of layers, comfortable shoes, and a solid rain jacket.
Focus on staying comfortable instead of dressing for Instagram, and you’ll spend far more time enjoying your cruise than thinking about what you packed!
