Whether you are cruising through the Last Frontier or to the White Continent, travelers can get exposed to extreme temperatures that can change dramatically daily, or even on an hourly basis. This makes it crucial to come prepared to tackle the elements.
The tricky part is what to pack and how to keep your trendy outfits ready when the occasion demands. Unlike most cruises where you need clothes for consistent temperature, a polar cruise comes with varying climates.
So if you are planning to go cruising to the Alaskan icebergs or spotting the incredible wildlife of Antarctica from Ushuaia and have no idea at all about the right attire, this ultimate cruise wardrobe guide will reveal all.
Alaska cruise packing list
The Alaska cruising season begins in May and ends in November. The summer months are warmest, but the weather can vary on a monthly basis, and are even known to drop drastically daily.
Temperatures in Alaska can vary from morning to noon to night, that is why the items you choose should include layers of clothing that can be easily removed if it gets hot.
Aside from cruise ship wear, you will need specific activewear clothing for the shore excursions or when kayaking through the fjords.
During the summer months, bring a mix of short and long sleeve shirts, a fleece vest, an insulated light-weight jacket, a windbreaker, base layers, scarf, comfortable trousers and wicking socks.
Hats, gloves, sweaters, swimsuits, sunglasses and smart casual outfits for dinner are a must depending on the length of the cruise.
Ushuaia, Argentina packing list
If you are planning to take a charter flight from Ushuaia to Antarctica and then go on a cruise, each person can carry one checked-in baggage of weight not exceeding 23 kg and one carry-on of no more than 8 kg.
In general, the temperature hovers around 0°C in summer in Antarctica so pack light by bringing some base layers for top and bottom, waterproof pants and fleece layers to wear under an expedition jacket. In addition pack:
- Warm waterproof gloves(knee-high)
- Warm beanie
- Long underwear
- Ten pairs of woollen socks
- Swimwear
- Hiking poles
- A dry bags
- Sunscreen
The big difference with both types of cruises is that in Antarctica the cruise guests are subjected to strict requirements as to what to wear on shore, particularly footwear.
Packing tips for a cruise
Before embarking on your cruise holiday, pack efficiently for a better onboard experience. Having access to laundry services means you can streamline your packing list by focusing on versatility and convenience.
# Opt for quick-drying lightweight fabrics that can be easily washed and dried in the launderette or the cabin room to reduce time and hassle.
# Pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched to reduce the number of clothes to carry..
# Pack a few versatile accessories that complement your cabin’s wardrobe and give you additional style options.
# Bring foldable hangers for extra hanging space in the cabin room.
# Bring a compact waterproof bag to separate dirty clothes from clean ones during the cruise.
Laundry services on cruise ships are unique, so it is better to check the amenities ahead of time. This way you can pack accordingly and lighten your luggage knowing that you can clean clothes whenever needed.