PACKING FOR ALASKA IN JULY
Yesterday marked our official 1 month countdown before we board a plane to Alaska. This trip has been on my bucket list for years, and I can't believe it's almost here. This trip was actually supposed to happen last July, but due to the pandemic, Canada wasn't allowing US cruise ships to come through their ports - so it was pushed back to this July and thankfully everything is a go!
I've been searching blogs and Pinterest for ideas on what we should be packing. It's tricky because the weather there seems to fluctuate so much in the summer. People say in 24 hours you could go from 70 degrees and sunny, to 45 degrees and raining. So basically it sounds like we need to dress in layers, and be prepared for all weather types. I will say that this is going to make packing (and keeping my luggage under 50 lbs) a challenge, but I'm going to try. The great thing I hear about this cruise (other than a couple of dinners) is that the attire is very casual. So hopefully I can create a capsule closet where I mix and match everything I'm bringing, allowing myself to wear some things more than once. More on that in another post!
In my research, below are some of the essential items that people say are a must haves if you're traveling to Alaska in July/August. I thought I would share these items with you (along with links) and if you have any comments or suggestions of additional things I will need, please let me know!
1. Rain boots - for obvious reasons. We will be getting off the ship each day going on outdoorsy excursions, so having a pair of these may be necessary if the weather permits. And if I don't use them on the trip, I'll for sure use them in everyday life - especially playing in the garden.
2. Packable rain jacket - (with a hood) to have in your day bag - just in case you need it.
3. Portable charger - again, for obvious reasons.
4. Hiking shoes - for one of our excursions we will be doing some hiking in medium terrain, so it's suggested to bring along appropriate footwear. Sneakers may be just fine, but I don't want there to be any injuries that I could have prevented - had I had the right shoes on.
5. Lots of under ware (my new go-to is SKIMS - I don't care what you say about Kim, her undies are bomb - super comfortable - they stay in place - and are size inclusive) - which I feel is obvious as I tend to over pack this item when I travel because you just never know.
6. Weatherproof Backpack - to carry all of your essentials when getting off the boat. I also have a nice-sized crossbody bag on the days where we may not need to bring as many items with us. I plan to bring rain gear, protein bars, bottle water, and of course my camera equipment.
7. Leggings - lots of leggings - and you already know how I feel about Old Navy's leggings….we can just say that I'm stocked up!
8. Sweatshirts (and long sleeve t-shirts) - for chilly days and evenings.
9. Dirty laundry bag - perfect to place any worn items that you would like to not mix with the clean clothes in your suitcase - especially for your undies.
10. Binoculars (that can also attach to your phone) - and these are like $15 on Amazon (be sure to click the available 50% off coupon before checkout). We splurged and got a room with a balcony, so I can totally see us out there on early mornings with our binoculars looking for wildlife.
11. Beanie hat - for during our excursions of the glaciers. So many people said do not skip bringing a hat with you because yes it's July, and #globalwarming, but this is one item that they said do not leave home without. So I will listen to the people.
And there you have it. I'm sure I'll be adding to the list - but again, if there is anything that you know for sure we'll need - please let me know!