If an adventure cruise to Alaska is on your mind, the right gear should be an essential tool in your travel kit. Weather, terrain and wildlife are some reasons why you need to be better-prepared, rather than under-prepared.
While the basic packing gear offers some protection, additional outdoor equipment is crucial to help enhance your overall Alaska adventure experience.
But before heading out for any activity in any location, the most important thing to consider is the weather. In Alaska, temperatures can dip dramatically, at a moment’s notice, even during the summer months.
Apart from having plenty of layers, the key to being prepared for any eventuality, in Alaska, especially when it comes to wildlife, is to carry bear safety gear. Bear spray and bear bells are available for sale all over the state.
It is recommended to carry them at all times, especially for spring, summer and fall seasons which are ideal for fishing, backpacking, hiking and trips in the backcountry, or any activity that involves going outdoors.
Essential adventure cruise packing gear
Whether you are joining an exhilarating shore excursion or not, this list will help you to be prepared for your next adventure.
- Tent: A lightweight backpacking tent that safeguards against heavy wind and rain
- Backpack: Consider one that fits you best and are comfortable carrying the required weight. Lightweight options are available in 4400 and 5400 cu capacity. Make sure you have a waterproof back cover that is large enough to fit over the fully loaded pack
- Trekking Poles: Whether you have used them before or not, you will definitely need them for off-trail backpacking in Alaska
- Sleeping Bag: Carry a compressible lightweight sleeping bag rated 20-30F
- Camp chair : A compatible tripod model for leisurely mornings and evenings rest that should remain steady on the uneven backcountry surfaces
Feet & Hands
- Sturdy Trail Boots: Get the best hiking boot in which you are sure that you can backpack off-trail with them
- Sleep socks: One pair of warm, loose socks just for sleeping
- Gloves: Two pairs, one lightweight for cold days and one warm for wearing around the camp
Outerwear
- Puffy Jacket: A synthetic lightweight option in case conditions become very damp
- Rain Jacket : You are out all the time in Alaska and it can rain anytime, so look for a GORE-TEX fabric jacket and not an ultra-light rain jacket as they are not suitable for Alaska
Clothing
- Underwear: Three pairs for a 7-10 day trip
- Shorts: On a sunny day in Alaska you might prefer to hike in shorts
- Long underwear : On a cold day a long underwear is a great accessory to stay warm under your hiking pants. You can also use them for sleeping or lounging around the camp
Headwear
- Bug Net: If you are insect-sensitive, a head bug net will make all the difference between spending a pleasant evening under the cook tarp or having to make a hasty retreat into your tent to avoid the marauding mosquitoes
- Beanie: Bring one that is compact and lightweight and covers your ears
Additional Items
- Charging Device: If you are carrying a camera, phone or any other electronic device that may need charging, bring a portable battery power bank along with the appropriate cords.
- Waterproof Gaiters: They are extremely useful for shin protection during stream crossings and keeping the feet dry on rainy days
If you plan to travel independently in future, consider adding these items to your checklist:
- Navigation equipment: Paper maps and compass are great for tracking. Additionally, they never run out of batteries. Digital navigation can also come in useful while in the backcountry
- Emergency communication device, first-aid kit, stove and a communal eating shelter
