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What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
A Local's Guide for Cruise Visitors
If your Alaska cruise includes a stop in Sitka, here's what I recommend packing after living here for years and welcoming thousands of cruise visitors.
What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise | A Sitka Local's Guide
Planning a cruise to Sitka? One of the questions I hear almost every day is, "What should I wear? or "What should I pack?" The good news is that you don't need expensive outdoor gear to enjoy your visit. With a few smart choices, you'll stay comfortable whether you're exploring downtown, watching whales, or joining a walking tour.
As a local, here's what I recommend.
I've lived in Alaska for decades and spend every cruise season helping thousands of visitors explore Sitka. One of the questions I hear almost every day is, "What should I pack?" This guide is based on what I've seen work—and what visitors often wish they'd brought.
-Emily
What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise: The Essentials
Dress in Layers
Alaska's weather can change several times in a single day. A running joke around here is, "Don't like the weather? Wait 15 minutes and it will change." A cool morning may turn into sunshine before lunch, followed by light rain in the afternoon.
The best approach is to wear layers that are easy to add or remove.
A typical outfit might include:
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Moisture-wicking T-shirt or lightweight long-sleeve shirt
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Fleece or light sweater
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Waterproof rain jacket
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Comfortable pants or jeans
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Baseball cap
Layers are far more useful than one heavy coat. The baseball cap fits nicely under the hood of the rain jacket and keeps the rain off your face.
Always Bring a Rain Jacket
Sitka is located in a temperate rainforest. While it doesn't rain every single day, passing showers are common throughout the cruise season. It's best to plan for rain and be surprised if it doesn't.
A lightweight waterproof jacket with a hood is one of the best items you can pack. Even on sunny days, many visitors carry one in a backpack just in case. The coat does not need to be expensive, but it does need to be water proof. Wearing a ball cap under the hood is helpful if you don't like rain drops on your face.
Wondering what to do if it rains? Here's a local tip guide for the rainy days in Sitka.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Many of Sitka's attractions are within walking distance of downtown.
You'll enjoy your visit much more with:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Trail shoes
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Waterproof sneakers
High heels, dress shoes, and flip-flops are not ideal if you plan to spend much time exploring. If you buy new shoes for your trip, make sure to wear them a few times before you leave for your trip to prevent unwanted blisters or packing uncomfortable shoes.
Planning to explore Sitka on foot? Many of Sitka's most popular attractions are walkable from downtown, but some wildlife attractions are located farther away and require transportation. Before deciding what to pack—or how much walking you'll be doing—check out our Sitka Wildlife Guide to learn where to see bears, eagles, whales, and other wildlife, along with the best ways to get there.
Don't Forget a Small Day Backpack
A lightweight backpack or crossbody bag is perfect for carrying:
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Rain jacket
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Water bottle
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Camera
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Phone charger
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Souvenirs
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Extra layer
Keeping your hands free makes exploring much easier.
Your daypack should include your rain jacket, camera, water bottle, and anything you'll need while exploring. If Sitka is one of your ports, our Sitka Cruise Port Guide can help you decide what to bring based on how you plan to spend your day.
What About Umbrellas?
Most locals rarely use umbrellas.
A rain jacket with a hood is usually much more practical, especially when it's breezy near the waterfront.
But seriously. If you are wandering around Sitka and looking for some tasty eats, check out my local Where to Eat in Sitka Guide for some ideas!
Summer Weather in Sitka
During the cruise season, daytime temperatures are often between the mid-50s and upper-60s °F, although warmer and cooler days certainly happen.
Don't expect tropical Alaska—but don't expect constant rain either. Many visitors are surprised by how comfortable Sitka can be.
What Should I Pack for a Whale Watching Tour?
Even on a sunny day, it feels cooler out on the water.
I recommend bringing:
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Waterproof jacket
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Warm layer underneath
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Comfortable pants
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Closed-toe shoes
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Hat
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Sunglasses for bright days
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Small backpack to put it all into
You'll be much more comfortable if you're prepared for wind on the open water.
Planning a whale watching tour? Here's a local tip guide for whale watching in Sitka.
What Should I Wear on the Haunted Sitka Walking Tour?
Our walking tour takes place rain or shine.
The best outfit includes:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Weather-appropriate layers
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A light rain jacket if showers are possible
There's no need for hiking boots or technical outdoor clothing—just dress comfortably for walking around historic downtown Sitka.
Not sure if you want to go on the Haunted Historical Tour or the Haunted Pub Crawl?
Check out the comparison between the two tours here!
Items You Probably Don't Need
Many first-time Alaska visitors overpack.
You can usually leave these at home:
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Heavy winter coat (during cruise season)
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Snow boots
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Bulky insulated clothing
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Formal attire for exploring town
Comfortable, casual clothing is perfect for most activities in Sitka.
Looking for more ideas for Sitka shore excursions? Check out my Sitka Shore Excursion guide here!
Local Tip
The weather forecast may call for rain, but don't let that change your plans. Sitka is beautiful in every kind of weather, and locals go about their day whether the sun is shining or a light shower is passing through.
Pack a rain jacket, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy your adventure—you'll fit right in.
Continue Exploring Sitka
Planning your perfect day? Here are a few more local guides you might enjoy:
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📸 Best Photo Spots
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🧳What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist (Free PDF)
Want a simple checklist you can print or save on your phone? We've created a free Alaska Cruise Packing Checklist PDF that includes clothing, footwear, electronics, toiletries, travel essentials, and the items visitors most often forget.
No sign-up required. Just click, download, print, and enjoy your Alaska cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need waterproof clothing?
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A waterproof rain jacket is highly recommended. Waterproof shoes are helpful but not an absolute for most visitors. I typically wear sneakers that are goretex/waterproof lined everywhere I go.
Are shorts okay?
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Yes! On warm summer days, many visitors wear shorts. Bringing a light jacket is still a good idea because temperatures can change throughout the day.
Do I need hiking boots?
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Not unless you're planning a strenuous hike. Comfortable walking shoes are all most cruise visitors need.
Should I bring bug spray?
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Generally, mosquitoes aren't a major concern in downtown Sitka, though bug spray can be useful if you plan to spend time hiking or in wooded areas.
What should I pack if I'm only in Sitka for one day?
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For most cruise visitors, a comfortable outfit, walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sunglasses, your camera, and a small backpack are all you need for a great day ashore.
Should I pack bear spray?
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No! Do not pack this item as it is highly regulated on air planes, in an aerosol can, and not safe for general travel. Instead, if you plan on hiking on back trails where bears are more common (not in downtown or at the National Park), you can get bear spray in town.
