Layers are the rule: a moisture-wicking base, an insulating fleece or down mid-layer, and a waterproof, windproof outer shell cover almost every condition Alaska offers in a single day. Add waterproof boots, a warm hat and gloves, and rain pants for Destination Experiences, then dress more casually onboard by day and in an elevated resort-casual style by evening.

Summer temperatures in Alaska typically range from around 10°C to 18°C, though wind chill on deck or near a glacier can make it feel noticeably colder. Near-24-hour daylight through June and July means a warm afternoon can give way to a much cooler evening breeze, so keep a mid-layer close at hand even on a bright day.

Not usually. A well-made waterproof, windproof shell worn over a fleece or down mid-layer generally performs better than one heavy coat, since it can be adjusted as temperatures shift between ship, shore and glacier. Save the suitcase space and bring the layering system instead.

Waterproof walking shoes or boots, a warm hat and gloves, polarised sunglasses, rain pants, binoculars and a daypack cover most excursions, from glacier walks to wildlife watching. Beyond that, the three-layer clothing system matters more than any single item on the list.

Build a packing list around your planned excursions rather than a generic checklist and resist the urge to bring a heavy coat or formal wear you will not need. With no formal evenings onboard Explora Journeys ships, there is no dress hire to plan for either, which alone removes a surprising amount of luggage.