The Ultimate Kids’ Packing Checklist for an Unforgettable Alaska Cruise
Planning an Alaska cruise with kids can be an incredible adventure, but packing for unpredictable weather and varied activities may feel overwhelming. The key to keeping your kids comfortable and happy on an Alaskan cruise is all about layers, weatherproof gear, and thoughtful planning for downtime on the ship and excursions ashore.
Whether your child is a toddler, young adventurer, or pre-teen, having the right clothing and essentials can make a world of difference.
This ultimate kids’ packing guide is organized by age group to make it simple to find exactly what your child needs for an Alaska cruise.
It’s tailored to the unique conditions of Alaska—think rainy port days, chilly glacier excursions, and sunny afternoons exploring charming coastal towns. Each item is practical, versatile, and easy to find, ensuring you’ll be prepared for anything Alaska throws your way.
From waterproof jackets and cozy layers to kid-friendly binoculars for wildlife spotting, we’ve got you covered. Dive into the list below, filled with handpicked recommendations to make packing for your Alaska cruise simple and stress-free!
We’ve made packing simple! On the checklist, you’ll notice ‘Boy’ and ‘Girl’ highlighted, click those links to find curated items we recommend for your kids. It’s all set up to help you shop with ease!
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.
Ages 0-3 (Toddlers)
Baby Boy Cartoon Hooded Jacket
Baby Girl Cartoon Hooded Jacket
This lightweight hooded windbreaker is perfect for little girls on an Alaska cruise! Soft, windproof, and designed for breezy days, it features adorable, colorful prints that make it as fun as it is practical. With elastic cuffs and a zip closure, it’s easy to wear, keeps the wind out, and is ideal for layering during all your adventures!
Lightweight Puffer Jacket
This adorable hooded jacket is a must-have for your Alaska cruise! With cute little “bear ears” on the hood, it keeps your baby cozy and turns every adventure into a picture-perfect moment. Warm, soft, and irresistibly cute—your little one will love it as much as you do!
Jackets for Kids (Sizes Starting at 3T and Up)
Waterproof hooded jacket
Boy or Girl
This water-resistant hooded rain jacket keeps kids warm and dry on rainy Alaska days. Lightweight, packable, and lined with soft cotton for extra warmth, it’s perfect for outdoor adventures. With a durable design and easy closures, it’s great for boys and girls alike!
Lightweight Puffer Jacket
BOY
GIRL
This fully lined jacket is perfect for keeping kids cozy on your Alaska cruise! With on-seam pockets for little treasures, elastic binding around the hood and cuffs for extra warmth, and an easy-to-use full-length zipper, it’s both practical and adorable. A great companion for chilly days and Alaskan adventures!
Fleece-lined zip-up hoodie
This hooded fleece jacket is perfect for kids on your Alaska cruise! With a soft fleece lining and a windproof hood, it keeps them warm and cozy on breezy days. The fun cartoon prints add a playful touch, and the handy pockets and easy zip closure make it both adorable and practical for every adventure!
Long-sleeve onesies and short-sleeve onesies for layering
Fleece-lined leggings or pants
BOY 
Playful Prints and Patterns: This pack features vibrant and whimsical designs, adding a fun touch to any outfit. Perfect for boys and girls, these playful styles are sure to delight on your Alaska cruise adventures!
GIRL
Cozy Fleece Pants: This 4-pack of fleece pants from Simple Joys by Carter’s is a must-have for your Alaska cruise! Soft cotton fabric and banded cuffs provide warmth and comfort, making them perfect for layering and keeping kids cozy during all your adventures. Practical, durable, and oh-so-comfy!
Warm socks 
Keep your little ones warm and comfortable on your Alaska cruise with these kids’ wool hiking socks! Soft, breathable, and cozy, they’re perfect for both outdoor adventures and relaxing indoors. A must-have for chilly Alaskan days!
Mittens 
Magic stretch mittens for kids: several optional sizes for you to choose, such as 1 to 4 years, 5 to 10 years and so on, stretchy size for easy-on wear, ribbed cuff for snug fit
Quick Dry Hat
For your Alaska cruise, this UV sun hat is a must-have for kids! Made with UPF 50+ quick-dry fabric, it provides full neck coverage and all-day UV protection. Lightweight, water-resistant, and chemical-free, it’s perfect for sunny adventures on and off the ship!
Accessories
6 Set Packing Cubes 
Packing Cubes: Simplify packing for your Alaska cruise with these must-have organizers! Packing cubes keep clothes and essentials sorted, making it easy to find what you need without unpacking your entire bag. Say goodbye to mess and hello to stress-free travel with these game-changing cubes!
Bring some compression packing cubes to make packing even easier!
Compression Packing Cubes: These expandable packing cubes are a must-have for Alaska cruises! Using a two-zipper system, they compress your clothes, saving space and reducing bulk. Perfect for fitting more into a carry-on and avoiding checked bag fees, they make packing effortless and efficient!
Baby Stroller with Organizer & Cushion, Mom’s Choice Gold Award Winner
Compact & Lightweight Design: Say goodbye to bulky strollers that make travel a hassle. Our baby stroller boasts compact design that effortlessly folds down into a compact size. Weighing in at just 11.5 pounds, thanks to its advanced carbon fiber frame, ensuring a hassle-free experience wherever you go.
Stroller rain cover
Baby carrier
(for hikes or excursions with limited stroller access)
For an Alaska cruise, this lightweight baby carrier is a game-changer for exploring ports and enjoying scenic hikes. At just 5.5 pounds, it’s designed for ultimate comfort with padded straps, lumbar support, and an adjustable waistband. Perfect for long adventures, it even features a washable drool pad to keep things clean and easy. A must-have for cruising with little ones!
Portable Booster Chair for dining
The Summer Pop ‘N Sit Booster Chair is a must-have for your Alaska cruise! With 3 versatile modes—floor seat, feeding seat with tray, and toddler booster—it’s perfect for dining on the ship, at port, or during excursions. Compact, lightweight, and easy to use, it’s ideal for travel with little ones!
Baby sunscreen (Alaska can have sunny days)
This SPF 50 mineral sunscreen stick is perfect for sunny Alaska days! Water-resistant, fragrance-free, and gentle with zinc-oxide, it’s easy to apply and great for kids on outdoor adventures.
Travel baby blanket 
This thermal fleece layer is a must-have for keeping kids warm on your Alaska cruise! Soft, durable, and breathable, it’s designed with your child’s comfort and safety in mind—free of harmful chemicals and gentle on skin. Perfect for chilly days in port or onboard!
Portable sound machine for naps on the go
This portable sound machine and night light is perfect for your Alaska cruise! With three soothing sounds and a gentle amber glow, it creates a calming sleep environment for your baby while traveling. Compact and easy to use, it’s a must-have for peaceful nights onboard or in port.
Ages 4-7 (Young Kids)
Clothing
Waterproof jacket with a hood
BOY
This waterproof rain jacket is a must-have for kids on an Alaska cruise! Built with Columbia’s advanced technology, it’s durable enough to handle everything from light drizzles to sudden downpours, keeping your child dry and comfortable during all your adventures. Perfect for unpredictable Alaskan weather!
GIRL
This waterproof rain jacket for girls is perfect for Alaska’s unpredictable weather! Made with durable double-layer fabric, it keeps your child dry and comfortable, whether it’s a light drizzle or a heavy downpour. A must-have for your cruise adventures!
Lightweight puffer jacket 
BOY & GIRL
This lightweight, warm jacket for kids is perfect for layering on your Alaska cruise! Designed for cooler weather around 50°F, it’s soft, cozy, and easy to wash. Paired with a T-shirt, it’s a versatile choice for comfort and style during your adventures.
Fleece jacket or pullover for layering
BOY
This polar fleece jacket is a must-have for your Alaska cruise! Made from soft, double-sided knit fabric with a brushed finish, it provides warmth and insulation for cooler days. Durable and cozy, it’s perfect for staying comfortable during all your Alaskan adventures!
GIRL
Long-sleeve tops (cotton or moisture-wicking material)
Short-sleeve tops
Waterproof pants
BOY & GIRL
These durable kids’ pants are designed to handle the adventures of an Alaska cruise! With reinforced areas to resist wear and tear, they’re perfect for active days exploring and provide long-lasting comfort and reliability. A great choice for any outing
Fleece-lined leggings
GIRL
These lightweight fleece-lined leggings are a must-have for your Alaska cruise! This 2-pack offers soft, warm, and cozy fabric that’s perfect for layering on cooler days. Easy pull-on closure makes them comfortable and practical for all your family’s adventures!
Jeans or comfortable pants for casual days
Warm socks
These merino wool hiking socks are perfect for keeping kids warm and comfortable on your Alaska cruise! This 6-pair pack is ideal for hiking, running, skiing, or any outdoor adventure. Soft, durable, and designed for all-day comfort, they’re a must-have for active kids exploring Alaska!
Beanie Hat
BOY
This kids’ beanie hat is made from high-quality acrylic material, offering a soft, comfortable fit. The stretchy knit design ensures a snug fit and allows for longer wear, making it perfect for keeping kids warm on chilly Alaska cruise days!
GIRL
This kids’ beanie offers a great fit with two sizes, designed to grow with your child. With plenty of stretch, it comfortably fits head circumferences from 15.7″ to 21.2″, making it ideal for kids aged 0-2T and 2-8 years. Perfect for keeping little ones warm on Alaska cruise adventures!
Lightweight gloves
These stretch magic gloves are perfect for kids ages 4-9, keeping little fingers warm on chilly Alaska cruise days! Small, compact, and available in classic colors, they’re easy to pack and ideal for any adventure.
Swimwear
Non-slip sandals or Flip flops
Accessories
Kids Suitcase with Wheels
A kids’ roller suitcase is a great travel companion for your Alaska cruise! Lightweight, durable, and easy to roll, it gives kids a sense of independence while keeping their essentials organized. Look for fun designs and smooth-rolling wheels to make traveling even more enjoyable!
Child-sized backpack
(for travel & excursions)
Adorable Toddler Backpack: Perfect for kids aged 3-6, this lightweight and durable backpack is made from soft neoprene for ultimate comfort. With a roomy pocket for toys, snacks, books, and more, it’s great for keeping essentials organized on your Alaska cruise. The adjustable shoulder straps and top handle make it easy to carry, and the cute design adds a fun touch to every adventure!
Sunglasses
This kids’ water bottle is perfect for your Alaska cruise! Made from BPA-free plastic, it’s safe and easy to clean with a top-rack dishwasher-safe design. The tethered straw disassembles for thorough cleaning, ensuring no parts get lost—practical and kid-friendly for all your adventures!
Binoculars
Essentials
Waterproof Shoes
BOYS
These waterproof, slip-resistant shoes are perfect for kids exploring Alaska on your cruise! With a durable rubber outsole, they provide excellent flexibility, grip, and protection from wet conditions, ensuring comfort and safety during all your adventures. A must-have for active little travelers!
GIRLS
These waterproof shoes for girls are a must-have for your Alaska cruise! Made with water-repellent fabric, they keep feet dry and comfortable, perfect for playing and exploring in wet conditions. Stylish, durable, and practical, they’re ideal for active adventures on and off the ship!
Sunblock and bug spray (Alaska’s open spaces can have sunny spots and insects)
Travel games
or books for downtime on the ship
This magnetic fishing game is perfect for keeping kids entertained on your Alaska cruise! Designed for ages 3-5, the strong magnets make it easy for little hands to catch and release fish, creating hours of fun. Compact and portable, it’s an ideal travel game for ship days or downtime in port. A must-have for young adventurers!
Make the family vacation to Alaska even more fun for the kids with our travel journal & activity book full of fun facts about the Last Frontier, Alaska-theme puzzles & activities, and prompted travel journal for up to 14 days
Ages 8-13 (Older Kids)
Clothing
Hooded waterproof jacket
(lightweight and windproof)
This waterproof boys’ jacket is perfect for Alaska’s unpredictable weather! Designed to be both windproof and rainproof, it keeps kids warm, dry, and comfortable, whether exploring on rainy days or braving windy adventures. A reliable and practical choice for your cruise!
Fleece
BOY
This boys’ fleece hoodie is a cozy must-have for your Alaska cruise! Made from a soft cotton-polyester blend with a durable polyester lining, it provides ultimate comfort and warmth for cooler days. Perfect for layering and built to last, it’s ideal for any adventure on your trip!
GIRL
Puffer Jacket for layering
This quilted jacket is a must-have for keeping kids warm on your Alaska cruise! Designed with elastic cuffs and a quilted pattern to trap heat, it provides extra warmth and comfort on chilly days. Soft and gentle on the skin, it’s both cozy and practical—perfect for all their adventures!
Long- and short-sleeve tops
Warm hoodie or sweater
Waterproof pants
BOY
These boys’ quick-dry cargo pants are perfect for active kids on your Alaska cruise! Made from durable, quick-dry fabric with UPF 50 sun protection, they’re designed for outdoor adventures like hiking and climbing. Water- and stain-repellent, they handle Alaska’s unpredictable weather with ease, keeping kids comfortable and ready for anything!
GIRL
These windproof, waterproof hiking pants are perfect for kids exploring Alaska! Made with breathable, quick-dry fabric, they keep kids comfortable and dry after outdoor adventures. Featuring an adjustable elastic waist and secure zipper pockets, they’re both practical and stylish for any adventure!
Waterproof Leggings
These fleece-lined leggings for girls are a must-have for your Alaska cruise! Warm and soft with a cozy brushed lining, they’re perfect for outdoor adventures in temperatures around 50-60℉. The water-repellent finish keeps her dry, while high-waist design with an internal drawstring ensures a secure fit. With two side pockets and a hidden inner pocket, they’re both functional and comfortable for exploring in style!
Comfortable jeans or cargo pants
Gloves and a hat
BOY
This soft fleece-lined beanie is perfect for boys on your Alaska cruise! Stretchy and comfortable, it fits kids aged 5-14 (head circumference 17-18.8 inches), providing cozy warmth for chilly Alaskan adventures. A practical and stylish essential for outdoor fun!
GIRL
This 3-piece hat, scarf, and gloves set is perfect for keeping kids cozy on cool Alaskan summer days! Made from premium-quality acrylic, it’s soft, comfortable, and gentle on the skin. A practical and stylish choice for breezy adventures on your cruise!
Baseball Cap
This classic baseball cap is perfect for kids aged 6-14 on your Alaska cruise! With a bio-washed finish, it’s soft and comfortable for all-day wear. Featuring a pre-curved bill for sun protection, an adjustable strap for a perfect fit, and ventilation eyelets to keep cool, it’s a practical and stylish accessory for exploring in any weather!
One Size Fits Most Kids (6-14 years)
Accessories
- Waterproof or insulated hiking boots (comfortable for longer walks)
- Small daypack for excursions (with multiple compartments)
- Refillable water bottle (insulated, like a Hydro Flask or similar)
- Travel journal and pen (to document the trip)
Essentials
- Compact binoculars (for wildlife spotting from the ship or on excursions)
- Portable charger (for devices)
- Sunglasses (UV protection)
- Multi-purpose headband or neck gaiter (for warmth on windy days)
General Items for All Ages
Toiletries
- Travel-size shampoo and body wash (fragrance-free or kid-friendly)
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Kid-friendly moisturizer (to prevent dry skin in colder weather)
Entertainment
- Coloring books, crayons, or markers
- Lightweight tablet or e-reader with downloaded books/movies
- Travel games, puzzles, or activity books
Extras
- Compact first-aid kit (band-aids, antibacterial ointment, etc.)
- Motion sickness remedies (child-appropriate options)
- Camera (waterproof or kid-friendly for older kids)
I hope this packing list helps you feel prepared and excited for your upcoming Alaska cruise with your kids! As a local from Ketchikan and someone who knows the ins and outs of cruising Alaska, I’m here to make sure your family’s adventure is unforgettable. If you have any questions or need recommendations, feel free to reach out. Safe travels and enjoy every moment!
