Alaska Cruise Packing List for Kids: What Families Really Need to Bring
Getting ready for an Alaska cruise with kids this summer? We’ll be cruising to Alaska for the fourth time this year, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that packing for Alaska can feel like a lot.
There’s so much to look forward to and a lot to think about when it comes to what to bring.
After you’ve packed the basics, including your general go-to items, this guide focuses on the extras. These are the things that truly enhance your kids’ experience onboard and on shore. They are often the items you might not think of, but will be so glad you brought.
You’ll find plenty of packing lists online, but this one focuses on the little details that make a big difference for families.
Must-Have Extras for Kids on an Alaska Cruise
These are the items that go beyond the basics and help make the trip more engaging and fun for kids.
Binoculars (A Game Changer)
Let your child feel like a mini naturalist with their own pair of binoculars.
There’s so much to see on an Alaska cruise, from bald eagles and glaciers calving into the ocean to seals lounging on icebergs and even whales in the distance.
Having their own binoculars keeps kids engaged, makes them feel part of the experience, and turns wildlife spotting into a game. You’ll be surprised how proud they are when they’re the first to spot something.
What to look for:
Lightweight and kid-sized
A neck strap so they don’t drop them
Durable enough for everyday use
For ages 3-12, we love this pair of binoculars as the neck strap and color options are a huge hit with kids.
A Travel Journal (One of My Favorites)
Depending on your child’s age, a journal can be such a meaningful addition to the trip.
Younger kids can draw what they saw each day, while older kids can write about their experiences. Teens can jot down memories or things they don’t want to forget when they get home.
FreshCruiser Tip
Take photos of their journal pages and add them to your family photo album later.
I’ve had my son keep track of wildlife sightings, while my daughter draws pictures during dinner. Even if it’s just scribbles, it becomes something special to look back on. When she’s done, we’ll make a note at the bottom of what she drew.
Books about Alaska
Grab some books on Alaska to read to the kids before you leave. It gives them an understanding and builds excitement. Pack their favorite ones to bring with you. It’s fun to reread after seeing many of the places in the book. Below are a few of our favorites.
Activities for the Table
Dinners can be long on a cruise so make sure to bring different activities for them to play with between courses. Grab some new items from the toy section of a Dollar Store. Their tin puzzles, small figurines, and cars keep my kids distracted and happy. I hide the new items and bring something new every day or two to keep them entertained and happy.
This is our current favorites are Water Wow!They are mess-free, easy to pack, and reusable. As well asThe Hardest Hidden Pictures Book Ever for older kids. I enjoy looking for items in the pictures too!
Field Guides (Make It Interactive)
Field guides are such an underrated addition.
Bring one focused on birds, marine life, or wildlife. It turns the trip into a scavenger hunt and keeps kids engaged with their surroundings.
This one is personal for me. I used to be terrified of birds after a run-in with seagulls stealing my fries. Watching my kids get excited about spotting and identifying animals completely changed that for me. Now it’s something we love doing together.
Bring a Map of Alaska (So Simple, So Good)
This is one of those small things that adds so much to the experience.
We’ve picked up a physical map of Alaska, even from AAA, and it’s fun for kids to track your cruise route, see where you are each day, and understand how vast Alaska really is.
You can highlight your path as you go, which makes the trip feel more interactive and real.
Cruise Ducks (A Fun Bonus for Kids)
If you haven’t heard of cruise ducks yet, it’s such a fun and easy way to get kids excited onboard. Families hide and find small rubber ducks around the ship, which turns the entire cruise into a treasure hunt.
My daughter loves bringing a small bag to collect the ducks she finds. A simple crossbody bag works well and gives kids a place to keep their collection as they explore.
If you want to join in, read my full guide here: What Are Cruise Ducks? (How It Works + Tips for Kids)
Packing Tips That Make It Easier
Before you pack anything, check the weather.
On one of our cruises, everyone came prepared for typical Alaska weather with layers and jackets, expecting 60-degree days. But when we checked ahead of time, it turned out to be a record heatwave in the high 80s. We were so glad we packed shorts.
FreshCruiser Tip
Alaska weather is unpredictable. Pack layers, but always include a few warm-weather outfits just in case.
Don’t Forget These Cruise Basics
Along with your extras, don’t forget the essentials:
Layers like jackets, hoodies, and long sleeves
A few warm-weather outfits
Hats and sunscreen
Bathing suits, even for Alaska
Comfortable walking shoes
Playing cards and small games
Packing Tips That Keep You Organized
Packing for a family can feel overwhelming, but a little organization goes a long way.
Make a running list as you think of things
Use packing cubes
We use these packing cubes to help keep things organized and fit everything. I take the packing cube out and plop it in a drawer, it’s all organized and makes unpacking easy.
Let your kids help pack. Give them space for a few items they choose. It makes them more excited for the trip.
Note: All the products were selected by FreshCruiser. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you.
Updated with fresh tips and insights for 2026.