General Packing Tips:

Alaska is casual, but be prepared to dress for dinners. The best approach is to bring clothes that can be layered; more layers for cooler, windier weather, fewer layers for warm, dry days. Be sure to also bring:

• A lightweight, waterproof coat or jacket, as well as a sweater or warm vest for strolling the decks of the ship and for glacier viewing
• A warm hat and gloves
• Women may want to bring two or three pairs of washable slacks or jeans (combined with polo shirts, blouses or light sweaters and accessorized with a belt, scarf or jewelry, this basic outfit can be worn just about anywhere. Depending on weather and occasion, add a blazer, cardigan or windbreaker jacket)
• Men may want to add an extra pair of slacks, but they’ll find that the same basic dress theme works for them, too (there is no place in Alaska a man cannot go in a sport coat and slacks. Also, a dark suit is appropriate for dinner on board ship)
• Sturdy walking shoes for every day use (two pairs are suggested) both leather, to stand up to rain if necessary, and a pair with good arch support
• One or two pairs of dress shoes to accompany your dinner outfit
• Binoculars – if you enjoy bird watching or would like a closer look at wildlife and glaciers

It is always a good idea to use a carry-on bag to keep your travel documents, identification, medication, jewelry, camera, film, cash, and any other valuables with you at all times.

If bringing medication, be sure you have a sufficient amount for the duration of your vacation. It must be transported in the original container and kept in your carry-on, purse, or similar.

Airlines, limousines, and other transfer vehicles have luggage allowance policies which may limit the amount and/or weight of luggage you may take with you and/or impose excess luggage charges. You are responsible for complying with the policies. Please keep this in mind when packing. Most major airlines allow each passenger to check 2 pieces of luggage weighing no more than 50 pounds each. You are also allowed one carry-on and a personal item such as a purse, small bag or similar.

It is highly recommended that you attach your own personal significant item to your luggage to make identifying and claiming your luggage a little easier.

Place a card with your name and address inside your luggage.

What to Wear:

For daytime casual dress, Holland America suggests bringing comfortable relaxed clothing that can be layered easily. Two evenings are designated as formal and the gentlemen are asked to wear a tie and jacket. Ladies should plan on a long skirt, dressy pantsuit or cocktail dress. However, if you choose not to dine in the dining room on those evenings, you may dine at the Lido Restaurant and dress casually. All other evenings are designated as casual. The Alaska Experience is probably the most casual cruise/vacation available today.

Dinner Dress:

Evening dress falls into two distinct categories: Formal or Smart Casual. Smart Casual can be defined as slacks and sports shirt or sweater for men and skirt or trousers and sweater or blouse for women. T-shirts, swimsuits, tank tops and shorts are not allowed in the restaurants or public areas during the evening hours. On festive Formal evenings ladies usually wear a cocktail dress or gown and gentlemen usually wear a suit and tie or tuxedo. Please note, Formal wear or Smart Casual wear is recommended at the Pinnacle Grill at all times.

Exercise Clothes:

If you’re a fitness fan or just like to stroll around the decks be sure to pack your exercise clothes. There are aerobics classes on the ships, treadmills, exercise bikes and other equipment in the fitness center on board each ship. Be sure to bring your running or aerobics shoes, swimsuit and a cover-up (for lounging, if not for warming up.)

Laundry Service:  

Ironing is prohibited in your stateroom. Washers, dryers, irons and ironing boards are available at the self service laundry rooms. There is a charge for the use of washers and dryers. Irons are not permitted onboard; any iron found onboard will be stored at the front desk and returned at the end of the cruise. Full laundry and dry cleaning service is available and information on cost will be located in your cabin.