Planning a cruise to the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska? Don't leave home without our comprehensive packing list! This essential guide includes everything you need to pack for a comfortable and unforgettable journey. From layering tips to must-have accessories, we've got you covered. Whether you're exploring glaciers, wildlife watching, or enjoying onboard activities, ensure you're prepared for any weather. Save this detailed packing list to make the most of your Alaskan adventure. Packing for an Alaskan cruise can be more challenging than packing for other destinations, because the weather is so unpredictable! Alaska is known for being cold, but most travelers experience Alaska in the summer months when temperatures are milder and condensation is more likely to be rain than snow. If traveling in the summer, you may even experience sunny days and warmer weather! These temperature fluctuations mean that you need to be prepared for any type of weather during your Alaskan Vacation. The best way to pack for a variety of temperatures is to pack layers so that you can put on or take off as necessary. Be prepared on your next trip to Alaska with these recommendations: Layers are Key When packing for an Alaskan cruise, layers are the key to staying comfortable in all weather conditions. Start with a base layer of comfortable and breathable undershirts to keep you warm in colder temperatures. Thermal underwear is also a good option to stay warm throughout the day. On top of the base layer, wear long-sleeve shirts and sweaters. Be sure to include warm socks and pants that can be layered such as leggings or sweatpants. Stay Dry Alaska is known for its rain and wind, so it's important to pack waterproof outerwear. A good windbreaker jacket, raincoat or poncho, and waterproof shoes are a must! Hats, gloves, and scarfs are also suggested so that you can stay warm while outside. Consider bringing a waterproof hat or cap and since most people use the camera on their phones, a pair of gloves with touch screen compatibility is best. Don't pack new shoes, if you are purchasing shoes for the trip, wear them in ahead of time since there will be a lot of walking. By packing the right clothes and dressing in layers, you are sure to enjoy your trip to Alaska! In addition to clothing, it's important to have the right equipment while exploring Alaska's national parks and viewing the fascinating wildlife. Consider the following items for your trip whether it is on land or a cruise (see below for more cruise centric recommendations): 1. Binoculars - Alaska is known for its magnificent landscape, including glaciers and wildlife. Bringing a pair of binoculars will enable you to spot animals from a distance and take in the magnificent scenery. 2. Camera - An Alaskan cruise is a photographer's dream come true. Make sure to bring a camera to capture all the unforgettable memories. Most cell phones are equipped with great cameras, get to know the settings to maximize your shots! 3. External Battery - With so many opportunities for pictures and videos, you may find your phone or camera battery running low. An extra battery ensures that you will have enough power to capture every moment without missing a beat. 4. Eye Mask - Alaska has many hours of daylight. If you are used to sleeping in the dark, you may want to consider bringing an eye mask to block out the light and help you get some sleep. 5. Sunscreen and Bug Spray - Although the weather can be cool, it's still essential to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Bring bug spray as well, the mosquito population rises from late in June through early August. 6. Sunglasses - Along with sunscreen, sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes from the sun. With the extended daylight hours in Alaska, sunglasses will be beneficial throughout the day. 7. Medications - Make sure to have at least 5 days worth of medication past your return date just in case. It is advisable to bring a copy of your prescription in case you need a refill or emergency supply while on your trip. 8. First-Aid Kit - A small first-aid kit with essentials such as bandages, antibacterial cream, and pain relievers can come in handy. 9. Water bottle - These days, no one goes anywhere without a refillable water bottle, but especially on excursions in Alaska. You will be well prepared for your Alaskan vacation with these essential items. If you are taking an Alaskan Cruise, here are some suggestions for time spent on the ship:
1. Motion Sickness Medication - If you are prone to motion sickness, talk to your doctor about an appropriate medication. Don't forget that many of the excursions in Alaska also involve smaller boat rides such as fishing excursions or whale watching, so even if you don't usually get sick on a large cruise ship, be prepared for the small boat experiences. Always check with your doctor before taking any medication you have not tried before. 2. Swimsuit - Although Alaska is known for its cooler temperatures, many of the cruise ships feature swimming pools, hot tubs, and water parks. It doesn’t hurt to pack your swimwear which might come in useful after a long day hiking or exploring the region. At the very least, you might be able to enjoy a warm embarkation day from Vancouver. 3. Battery-Operated Fans or Heaters - The climate onboard the ship can vary. If you know you run hot or cold, bring battery-operated fans or heaters to stay comfortable in your room. 4. Entertainment - While onboard the ship, there are bound to be some free hours for relaxation. Consider bringing along books, e-books, games or puzzle books.
0 Comments
As a travel advisor, who is constantly on the go, I learned that having the right travel items can make all the difference in having a comfortable and stress-free travel experience. Clients ask for packing lists and recommendations all the time, whether they are headed on an Alaskan Cruise or a Multi-City European adventure! As I prepare for a weeklong River Cruise down the Danube with AMAwaterways, I am making my list! I am staying a night pre-cruise in Budapest, Hungary and post cruise in Nice, France. I am so excited to bring all my essentials with me as I stayed in 5 different countries in 10 days! Here are a few items that I consider must-haves for any trip: Packable Backpack - Whether you're exploring a new city or going on a day hike, having a sturdy and lightweight backpack is essential. The Outlander Packable Backpack is my go-to because of its lightweight and compact size when not in use, yet it's big enough to carry my winter coat, a hat and my husbands vest along with snacks, and 2 water bottles! Its comfortable mesh straps made it easy to carry during long excursions, and it’s stylishly adaptable for any situation. Packing Cubes - Staying organized is crucial when packing for trip with multiple stops, and I find packing cubes the best way to sort and access my clothes. I brought the 6 Set of Various Colored Packing Cubes in 4 Sizes that I have had forever! Rather than packing my things in one cube and my husbands in another, I prefer to pack a day or 2 for each of us in each cube so that if luggage is lost or stolen, we both still have clothes. I always suggest having at least 1 outfit per person packed in your carryon and the various sizes in this pack make that very easy. European Power Adapter - Power outlets in European countries differ from that in North America, so I knew I would need my European Travel Plug Adapter. This is a necessity to charge my electronics and keep me connected throughout my trip. I choose to get the 2 pack and I was so glad I did. My husband was able to have his phone charging on one side of the bed while I had my phone charging on the other. The USB plugs are handy for ipads and other devices that also need to be charged. Travel Bottles - Although cruise ships and hotels all provide soap, shampoo and conditioner, I prefer to bring my own toiletry products. The Gemice Travel Bottles for Toiletries are TSA approved and a great way to bring my usual products with me on any trip without compromising on quality. I fit the perfect amount for my 10-day trip, which made me so happy to have my own products. Luggage Scale - One of the most important things to remember when traveling by air is that airlines have strict weight limits for luggage. That's why I always use my Amazon Basics Portable Digital Luggage Weight Scale. This small but mighty device helps me avoid the stress and hassle of overweight baggage fees and ensures my luggage meets the airline's weight restrictions. It's small enough to pack if you want to, I generally weigh my luggage before I go and leave it behind (one less thing to carry!) By having these items, I was able to navigate my River Cruise with ease, and it allowed me to have a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Before your next trip, consider packing these essential items - you can thank me later!
As retirement approaches, many people worry about what they will do with their newfound free time. For some, the prospect of having so much time to fill can be overwhelming, while others relish the opportunity to explore different hobbies and interests. If you're looking for educational and rewarding hobbies for retired people, travel is undoubtedly one of the top options.
Traveling allows you to explore new places, experience different cultures, and create lifelong memories. But travel is just one of many hobbies that can help keep you engaged and fulfilled in retirement. Here are five other options to consider: 1. Learning a new language - Learning a new language can be a fun and rewarding way to stay mentally sharp in retirement. You can take classes, hire private tutors, or use language learning apps to get you started. This hobby not only helps keep your mind active but can also come in handy during your travels, allowing you to connect with locals and better understand the culture. 2. Joining a book club - Joining a book club is a great way to continue learning and engaging with others in retirement. Book clubs provide a social setting for discussing literature and can help expand your literary horizons. Additionally, book clubs often give retirees a sense of purpose, as they are committed to reading and sharing their thoughts on a regular basis. 3. Volunteering - Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community while staying active and engaged. There are countless organizations that need volunteers with different interests and skill sets, so you're sure to find one that aligns with your passions. Volunteering not only feels good but also provides a sense of purpose and contributes to a more meaningful retirement. 4. Gardening - Gardening is a great outdoor activity that provides physical exercise and a sense of accomplishment. Whether you have a small balcony or a spacious backyard, there are numerous plants and flowers that you can grow based on your level of experience. Gardening also allows you to connect with nature and is a therapeutic way to reduce stress and anxiety. 5. Photography - Photography is a creative and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed at any age. It's a great way to explore the world around you and capture special moments and memories. You can take classes, join a photography club, or simply practice on your own. Additionally, you can use your photography skills during your travels to document your adventures and share them with others. Retirement offers the opportunity to explore new hobbies and interests that provide education and fulfillment. Traveling is an excellent option, but remember, there are many other rewarding ways to engage yourself in retirement. Learning a new language, joining a book club, volunteering, gardening, and photography are just a few examples of hobbies that can provide lifelong enjoyment and satisfaction. |
AuthorI enjoy guiding clients through the planning process: from finding the right destination to organizing the logistics and finally hearing about the trip upon your return! I am a strong advocate for my clients when it comes to price, quality and service. Trust and building lasting relationships along with continuing education are all extremely important to my business. Categories |