Packing, splurges, excursions—and a few things I’d do differently next time
There are trips you can prepare for by reading itineraries and packing lists.
And then there’s Alaska.
Before my first Alaska cruise, I researched the weather, planned our excursions and packed for seemingly every possibility. I thought I was prepared.
I was—mostly.
But once we were actually sailing through Alaska, I realized some of the things that mattered most weren’t necessarily the things I had worried about before leaving.
I packed too many coats and dress clothes I never wore. I discovered that a balcony was worth far more to me than I expected. I learned that Alaska sea days feel very different from Caribbean sea days—and that the pace of a cruise-and-land itinerary deserves more consideration than I had given it.
After experiencing Alaska in May, here are the things I would tell another woman planning her first Alaska cruise—especially those of us traveling in our 50s, 60s and beyond.
1. Pack Layers, Not an Entire Closet of Coats
I understood that Alaska required layers.
What I didn’t understand was just how effective the right layers would be.
I brought a Columbia puffer coat, waterproof windbreaker and another rain jacket, plus long rain ponchos as backup.
I didn’t need all of them.
What worked best was a simple layering system: thermals, merino wool sweaters, a puffer when needed and a waterproof outer layer.
The weather could change remarkably quickly. At sea, the wind could be brisk and occasionally accompanied by blowing rain. Being able to add or remove a layer was much more useful than having several bulky coats competing for suitcase space.
A wool hat, gaiter, waterproof gloves and merino wool socks were also excellent additions.
What I’d do next time: Bring one warm insulating layer and one dependable waterproof/windproof outer layer rather than multiple coats.
2. Waterproof Shoes Matter More Than Pretty Shoes
My waterproof hiking boots became my everyday shoes on land.
Between rain, wet walkways, excursions and changing conditions, having warm, comfortable, waterproof footwear mattered.
I brought both Keen and Columbia waterproof hiking boots, along with tennis shoes and flats for the ship.
That was more than enough.
The tights, skirt and some of the “maybe I’ll dress up” clothes?
They stayed in my suitcase.
Our sailing offered two formal evenings for anyone who wanted to participate, but overall Alaska felt considerably more casual than some other cruises.
Next time I’d concentrate on three types of footwear:
Waterproof walking/hiking shoes + comfortable sneakers + one pair of simple dinner flats.
And I’d leave the heels at home.
3. Build a Small Capsule Wardrobe
One of the easiest ways I’d simplify my next Alaska packing list is by choosing two or three coordinating colors and making almost everything interchangeable.
Fleece leggings, stretch chinos, jeans and black pull-on pants worked well. The chinos and black pants could easily transition from exploring during the day to dinner onboard.
Merino sweaters and thermals provided layers without requiring bulky clothing.
A lightweight jersey cardigan even doubled as my spa cover-up.
And yes—pack a swimsuit.
When you’re surrounded by glaciers and snow-covered mountains, it might not be the first thing you think of, but you’ll want it if your ship has a thermal spa, indoor pool or hot tubs.
My new Alaska packing philosophy is simple:
Pack for the experiences you’re actually planning—not every imaginary “what if.”
Less luggage. Less outfit anxiety. More comfort.
4. A Balcony Was Worth the Splurge for Me
Before Alaska, a balcony was something I enjoyed.
In Alaska, it became part of the experience.
We could step outside whenever the landscape changed, scan the water with our binoculars, watch for birds and wildlife, and simply sit quietly as Alaska passed in front of us.
Glacier Bay made me especially grateful we’d chosen one.
Instead of competing for space on a public deck, we could step outside our cabin and experience that extraordinary landscape in real time.
Traveling with my mother made the balcony even more valuable. She could enjoy the scenery comfortably and retreat inside whenever she became cold.
Would I pay extra for an Alaska balcony again?
Absolutely.
5. Bring Binoculars—and Keep Them Nearby
Alaska isn’t scenery you simply look at.
You’re constantly searching it.
A bird along the shoreline. Something moving in the water. Wildlife in the distance. A feature on a mountain you can’t quite identify.
Having binoculars readily available meant we could stop wondering “What is that?” and actually look.
They lived close to our balcony door.
I’d consider them an Alaska essential.
6. Alaska Sea Days Feel Different
If your previous cruising experience involves the Caribbean, don’t assume your Alaska sea days will feel the same.
People naturally spent considerably more time indoors on our sailing. The outdoor pools and decks weren’t always the center of activity.
That isn’t a negative—it simply changes how I would prepare.
Bring a book or Kindle, cards, a puzzle or something else you genuinely enjoy doing during quieter periods. And take a look at your ship’s indoor activities before sailing.
We purchased thermal spa passes, and on cold sea days I was particularly happy that we had.
For me, that was another worthwhile splurge.
7. Look Beyond the Excursion Description
I enjoyed all of our major Alaska excursions.
Our whale-watching trip was fantastic. Exploring from Skagway toward the Yukon independently gave us the freedom to stop and experience things at our own pace. And flying by floatplane into Alaska’s wilderness was unforgettable.
But the floatplane taught me something important.
When traveling with an older parent—or if you have any mobility or hearing concerns—don’t evaluate an excursion solely by what you’ll see.
Ask how you’ll experience it.
How do you board the aircraft or boat? Are there ladders or large steps? How much walking is involved? What kind of headset or communication equipment is used?
Access to our floatplane was more difficult for my mother than I anticipated, and the headset created an additional challenge.
I’d still consider the experience again, but under our circumstances I might investigate a private flight where we could have greater flexibility and comfort.
Adventure doesn’t have an expiration date.
Sometimes it simply requires better planning.
8. Don’t Automatically Buy the Beverage Package
This is one expense I’d calculate differently next time.
Our beverage package was roughly $80 per person, per day and included beverages ranging from water and sodas to alcoholic drinks.
Convenient? Absolutely.
Necessary for us?
Probably not.
We had three long port days when we spent much of the day away from the ship. Looking back, paying à la carte likely would have made more sense for our drinking habits.
Before purchasing a package, calculate what you’ll realistically consume—and how much time your itinerary has you off the ship.
If you skip it, bring a refillable water bottle.
9. If I Did the Cruise + Land Tour Again, I’d Consider Land First
This is one of the biggest things I’d reconsider.
The Alaska land portion was much more active than I had imagined.
There were scheduled departures, transportation days and sightseeing with relatively little downtime.
It was fascinating—but it wasn’t necessarily relaxing.
Knowing that now, I’d strongly consider reversing the order:
Explore Alaska by land first. Then board the ship, unpack once and let the cruise become the slower finish to the journey.
And I’d study the land itinerary much more carefully—not just where we were going, but how long we’d actually have in each place.
10. The Little Things I Was Glad I Packed
Some of the least glamorous items were among the most useful.
Compression bags helped organize bulky clothing. Ziploc bags came in handy repeatedly. Magnetic hooks gave us extra hanging storage in the cabin, and a hanging toiletry bag kept bathroom clutter under control.
I was also glad to have sunglasses, lip balm, sunscreen, wipes, chargers and charging cords, a small medication kit, travel-size toiletries, tea bags, mints and my inflatable hooded neck pillow.
One thing I didn’t use? Hand warmers.
I’d brought them expecting bitter cold, but our layers were sufficient.
And don’t overlook an eye mask. Alaska’s long daylight hours can make sleeping surprisingly difficult if you’re accustomed to darkness at night.
A large scarf or pashmina can also serve several purposes—warmth, travel blanket, wrap or an extra layer on the plane.
11. Keep Important Travel Information Available Offline
I don’t like having critical travel information dependent upon an internet connection.
Before leaving, I save important documents and itinerary information to my phone where I can access them offline—and keep paper copies when appropriate.
Passport, required entry documents or visas, transportation information, reservations and important travel details should be easy to reach.
A small zip travel pouch is also useful for keeping tickets, cards and miscellaneous documents together.
When you’re moving between a ship, excursions, hotels, trains and buses, organization becomes part of traveling comfortably.
12. Your Alaska Experience Will Depend on When You Go
We traveled in May.
There were advantages: fewer crowds and a wonderful sense of Alaska still emerging from winter.
But it was cold, and some wildlife and seasonal outdoor activities weren’t as prevalent as they may be later in summer.
Someone traveling during warmer months may have different opportunities for boating, fishing, rafting and wildlife viewing.
So rather than simply asking:
“What’s the best month to cruise Alaska?”
I’d ask yourself:
“What kind of Alaska experience do I want?”
Your answer should help determine when you go, what you pack and which excursions you choose.
What I’d Leave Home Next Time
The heels.
Delicate outfits.
Extra coats.
And most of the clothes I packed because “maybe I’ll need this.”
I’d use that space for clothing that layers well, handles changing weather and allows me to comfortably experience the destination.
Because one of the things Alaska reminded me is that comfortable travel doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style.
For me, traveling well at this stage of life means something different than it once did.
It’s less about having an outfit for every possibility and more about being prepared enough that I can stop thinking about what I’m wearing—and start paying attention to where I am.
And in Alaska, there is an extraordinary amount worth paying attention to.
Travel lighter. Stay curious. And leave a little room in the suitcase for what you discover along the way. 