After sharing our Alaskan cruise adventure over the past few weeks, I realized that I have valuable information and tidbits that I couldn’t keep all to myself. I realized several items that really enhanced our vacation, and a few that I wished we would have had. So, today I’m sharing 10 items to add to your Alaskan cruise packing list.

Binoculars | Binoculars definitely added to the awe of your trip. Not the cheap kind either. Invest in (or borrow from a family member or friend) a great pair of binoculars for wildlife & scenery viewing. I was blown away by how much more we could take in by keeping a pair handy while on deck or our balcony.
Robe/Blanket | A robe would have been great for mornings & evenings relaxing on our balcony. I’m sure we could have requested one from our steward, but I always prefer my own. A blanket would have been even better! We did use our bed’s comforter for cozying up on the balcony, but it was much too big to lug out. A throw blanket would have been perfect, and could double up for use on the plane.
Flowers  | No, don’t run to the grocery store before leaving home. I’m talking about popping by Pike Place Market, if you’re sailing from Seattle. Stop by the morning before you sail away to pick up a bouquet of flowers for as little as 10 bucks! Bring a plastic cup for a vase or ask your cabin steward for one.
All Weather Shoes | Rain, snow, glaciers, you need shoes that covers it all! We loved wearing duck boots for the rubber, skid resistent soles for rain, snow, and wet decks. They also gave added warmth on cold days. We were also sure to get duck boots that were comfortable for walking on port days.
Light Jacket | Not all day, everyday will be cold enough for a heavy coat. A light jacket will come in handy for warmer days. 
House Shoes/Slippers | This is something I really wish I would have taken—slippers. We loved hanging out on our balcony in the early mornings before heading out and in the evenings after showers. Instead of putting on socks and shoes to keep my tootsies warm, house shoes would have been the perfect fix. Bonus—they don’t take up much space in luggage.
Stamps | We enjoyed mailing postcards back home from our ports, but I didn’t bring enough to send from each port or to everyone I would have liked. So pack some stamps (you can buy postcard stamps for a little cheaper than regular stamps) and a pen to treat someone back home to a taste of your trip.
Sunscreen | Believe it or not, the sunshines bright in Alaska! We spent many days on deck overlooking the ocean and onboard pools, suncreen would have definitely been appreciated!
Small Bills | Our service was so impecable, we wanted to show our appreciation even more than just the cruise line’s gratuity rates. We carryed on a stack of 1s and 5s for additional tipping. Having the cash kept our final bill at bay when checking out on the last day.
Hearty Appetite | ​So much good food! Onboard, in port, great food options everywhere! 

Hopefully this list adds to the enjoyment of your Alaskan cruise! If you’re still waiting to book your adventure, contact me, and let’s start planning!

If you want to check out highlights from our Alaskan Cruise, you can check out those blog posts here:

Norwegian Joy | Alaskan Cruise

Juneau, Alaska | Alaskan Cruise

Glacier Cruising | Alaskan Cruise

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