When it comes to Alaska, expect the unexpected. Locals joke that you can experience all four seasons in a single day. The golden rule? Dress in layers like an onion, something you can peel off or pile on as the weather changes.
Rain is almost a guarantee, so bring a lightweight, packable poncho. I actually prefer the cheap ponchos over fancy rain gear—they do the job and won’t break the bank.
Your Glacier Day will be cold, no matter the season. That’s the beauty of small-ship cruising: you’ll be up close and personal with towering ice, not viewing it from miles away like on a mega cruise line. But be warned, the wind coming off the ice can cut right through you.
Skip the jeans. Denim holds moisture and takes forever to dry. Instead, stick to natural cottons or performance fabrics. I swear by Cuddl Duds as a cozy base layer, you can find them at Macy’s, Target, and more.
And yes, it might even hit the 70s or (on rare days) the low 80s. That’s why I’ll say it again: Pack for ALL weather—because in Alaska, it’s not just smart, it’s essential.
