Alaska Cruise Packing List [2025] for Families: What to Pack for Your Disney Alaska Adventure

An Alaska cruise is more than just a vacation — it’s an unforgettable family adventure filled with glaciers, whales, and memories your family will treasure forever. Unlike tropical cruises, Alaska requires thoughtful packing. The weather changes quickly, excursions are more active, and traveling with kids means you’ll need to be ready for everything from dining in the ship’s restaurants to hiking near glaciers. I’m here to make sure your family is perfectly prepared — with no stress, no guesswork, and maximum enjoyment.

Get Your Free Alaska Cruise Packing PDF

To make your journey effortless, I’ve created this  beautiful, printable Alaska Cruise Packing List PDF designed just for families. It covers everything from baby gear to evening dinners — all in one handy download.

Download your free Disney Alaska Cruise Family Packing List PDF here.

Why Packing Smart is Critical for Alaska Cruises

Alaska’s climate is famously unpredictable. You might wake up to misty rain, enjoy sunshine by midday, and need a jacket again by evening. That’s why layering is the secret to staying comfortable. And when you add kids, excursions, and shipboard activities into the mix, the right packing strategy ensures your family enjoys every moment stress-free.

On my most recent Disney Alaska cruise, I quickly learned that being prepared with the right gear made all the difference — from cozying up on deck while watching whales to dressing up for dinner without overpacking.

To give you an idea, below is a quick snippet of everything I wore on our most recent Alaskan adventure:

Alaska Cruise Packing Essentials for Families

Clothing & Layers

The foundation of every family Alaska cruise packing list starts with layering;

• Base Layers: Moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms for everyone
• Mid Layers: Cozy fleece jackets or wool sweaters
• Outer Layers: Waterproof rain jackets and pants — absolute must-haves
• Casual Wear: Long sleeves, t-shirts, comfortable jeans or pants
• Dining Room Attire:  Dresses, button-downs, slacks, polos, khakis
• Robes: For enjoying your balcony or verandah

 Pro Tip: Cruise ships can feel warm indoors, so bring layers that are easy to carry in a daypack.

Footwear for Onboard & Excursions

• Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy shoes ideal for excursions on trails or near glaciers.
• Comfortable sneakers for shipboard walking and casual port days.
• Slippers for the stateroom and verandah views.
• Tennis shoes for active port days or exercising.

Tip for families: If you’re bringing kids, waterproof shoes are a lifesaver on rainy port days.

Accessories to Stay Comfortable

• Warm hats, gloves, and scarves
• UV-protective sunglasses and sunscreen (yes, even in Alaska)
• Binoculars for spotting wildlife
• Swimsuits for onboard pools and hot tubs
• Sleep masks to combat long daylight hours

Toiletries & Health Must-Haves

• Sunscreen (30 SPF+) and SPF lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Motion sickness bands or Dramamine
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Children’s shampoo and toiletries
• Hair tools like flat irons or curling irons (check ship allowances)

For more onboard wellness tips, check our Disney Cruise Planning Guide 2025

Documents & Travel Essentials

• Passports or government IDs
• Cruise confirmations, travel insurance
• Credit cards and a bit of cash for tipping and small shops

Entertainment & Kid Comfort

• Tablets, portable game systems, headphones
• Coloring books, small toys, travel games
• Stuffed animals & special blankets
• Autograph books for character meet & greets
• Binoculars
• Mini cameras or GoPro’s

Baby & Toddler Packing Guide

• Diapers, wipes, creams (*note: not allowed in ship pools)
• Formula, bottles, snack containers
• Stroller and baby carrier (handy on deck)
• Baby-safe sunscreen, sound machine, and favorite toys

Traveling with little ones? See our Family-Friendly Resorts in Turks & Caicos for more vacation inspiration.

Additional Travel Tips & Smart Additions

• Travel pillows and blankets for flights
• Chargers, multi-port USB hubs for the cabin
• Magnetic hooks for added storage
• Wet bags for swimsuits
• Collapsible hamper for laundry
• Laundry detergent
• Nightlight for navigating the cabin
• MagicBand+ or lanyards if you’re sailing Disney
• Reusable water bottles and daypacks for shore adventures
• Umbrella

Watch the Weather Before You Go

Always check your departure and port forecasts starting 10 days out. This lets you adjust — perhaps packing an extra sweater or lighter rain gear. Alaska weather is famously unpredictable, so flexibility is key. Always check your Alaska weather forecast starting 10 days before departure.

FAQ: Alaska Cruise Packing for Families

Q: Do I need formal clothes?
While Alaskan cruises are generally more casual, most lines (including Disney) have at least one optional formal night. A nice dress or collared shirt and slacks are perfect for formal nights. For the dining rooms, causal wear is accepted, though I always feel most comfortable in a nice dress or pants.

Q: Should we bring binoculars?
Absolutely. They’re essential for whale watching and scanning shorelines for bears and eagles. Even kids love spotting wildlife this way. Bonus tip: bring a tripod for your binoculars for easy viewing on your verandah!

Q: Is layering really necessary?
Yes — it’s the best way to stay comfortable all day. You might peel off layers in the sun and bundle up again by afternoon.

Q: What items are prohibited onboard?
No irons, candles, or large glass containers. Pools have diaper rules — check the cruise line.

Q: Do I need sunscreen in Alaska?
Yes! SPF 30+ protects against sun and glacier reflections. Hats help too.

Q: Should I bring entertainment for kids?
Yes. Tablets, coloring books, or small games make downtime easier.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Alaska Cruise?

As a luxury travel expert who has helped hundreds of families craft seamless Disney Alaska cruise vacations, I’ll make sure you’re fully prepared, from stateroom preferences to every last packing detail. Request a personalized quote today and let’s make your family’s Alaska adventure effortless.

Download Your Free Alaska Cruise Packing List PDF

This post comes with an easy-to-print Alaska Cruise Packing List you can take with you. It’s designed for families, with space to check items off as you go.

Download Your Free Family Alaska Cruise Packing List PDF