Arctic Cruise Packing List: Warm, Dry and Adventure Ready!

There was a fleeting moment in which I was poised over a mess of winter clothing in my room, at a loss for what to pack for an Arctic cruise.

My first Arctic expedition was with Adventure Canada on their Heart of the Arctic itinerary. I was delighted to find that their suggested packing list was comprehensive and accurate. However, after trial and error, I learned a lot about what kind of products to buy.

This Arctic cruise packing list will have you prepped and ready, so you’re not scratching your head like I was!

Essential clothing to keep you dry and warm

During excursions

• Rain pants. One of the most important pieces of essential clothing for an arctic cruise, these must be not only wind resistant but also waterproof. Tags on products that say “Gore-Tex” will do the trick. I went with these Columbia rain pants, as they were not bad on the wallet. Plus, they had Velcro at the bottom that I could cinch around my rubber boots.
• Rubber boots. We were supplied rubber boots on the Heart of the Arctic expedition, but if you are told to purchase your own, ensure they are higher than your ankle, as you most likely will be stepping in inches of water during your zodiac transfers from the ship to the shore.
• Hiking shoes. Once you make that transfer to the landing, rubber boots aren’t the most adequate for long treks. Now is the time to switch over to hiking shoes. You may prefer ankle-length, which are lightweight and easy to pack. I used some old Timberland snow boots that I knew had good traction–which is key, as the arctic rocks are slippery! I’ve heard good things about Merrell, and they’re a bit cheaper, too.
• Socks (and more socks). I layered regular athletic socks underneath wool socks for extra warmth. Mine were of the merino wool variety. I ended up wearing them around the cabin, too, sporting a socks-with-sandals look that had my fellow passengers laughing (but also envying my coziness).
• Scarfs. A balaclava and/or a neck gaiter are fantastic. The balaclava will fit snug around your head, and you can layer another hat or scarf on top of it. The neck warmers long enough to pull up into a face scarf will add an extra layer of protection for your lips and nose. The air gets pretty nippy, and you don’t want your skin vulnerable.
• Two pairs of gloves. They need to be waterproof. My best recommendation is to go try some on at a store. Buying them online does not guarantee they’ll be as thick as you want them to be.
• A winter hat. Choose one that fits tight to the head, so it doesn’t fly off when the zodiac ride gets fast and bumpy. The kind with the pom poms are cute, but if your rain jacket has a hood, it might be a little cumbersome and annoying.
• Long johns. At least two pairs. I wish I brought three! Buy them in sets with different colors and patterns. This makes it easy to keep track if you need to reuse or wash them.
• Pants and leggings. Multiple pairs of leggings and loose athletic pants to layer over may make you feel like the Michelin man, but you won’t be cold!
• Long-sleeve tops and jackets. Both athletic tops and jackets that are moisture wicking and stretchy work best for packing. The less bulky your items, the more you can bring.
• Rainproof/windproof jacket. This was another item that Adventure Canada provided for us. However, if you are in need of one, these are the details to think about:
  • Purchase a size bigger than you think for layering
  • Make sure it has a hood that you can cinch close to the head
  • Look for one with plenty of pockets for storing gear and gadgets in

• Fleece or puffer jacket. This will go over your athletic wear and under your rainproof/windproof jacket, so a full winter coat is too thick and heavy. When deciding, remember that a fleece is breathable, while a puffer is insulating. Use what you have or what you prefer!

On board

• Gym shoes and slip-ons. Pack supportive gym shoes to walk around in—nonslip is best for strolling on the deck to spot wildlife. I would also recommend slippers or slip-ons for when you need to run down from your cabin for a quick hot chocolate or want to join in on a polar plunge. (If you’ve been holding back on your secret love for crocs, now’s the time to shine…)
• Even more socks!! After being out and about all day, your toes are going to be cold. Be kind to yourself and bring extra socks for relaxing around the ship.
• Comfy clothes. You have full permission to pack that sweat suit! After a long excursion through the tundra and a warm shower back in your cabin, sweatpants and a sweatshirt are going to be your best friend.
• At least one nice outfit. Just in case! Some cruises have a captain’s dinner or special events. Our Adventure Canada cruise was pretty casual, but I always suggest something simple that you can repurpose—my favorite item is a black jumpsuit that I can easily dress up or down with a sweater or scarf.

Essential gadgets and gear to keep you moving

During excursions

• Binoculars. You can find pairs that work really well for cheap. This one was perfect for me. Don’t skip out—if I hadn’t purchased mine, I would have missed out on spotting my first polar bear.
• A waterproof pack. This is where you’ll put your hiking boots, extra gloves and clothes, wallet, camera, etc, so they don’t get wet during zodiac rides. If you go for a brand like Earth Pak, get the 20L so you can fit enough gear inside.
• Bug spray. There were a lot more mosquitos in the Arctic than I had realized. Some smart travelers had bug nets in addition to wipes and sprays.
• Sunscreen. If you didn’t already know, the sun gets stubborn up in the Arctic. During the summer, there are days with 24 hours of sunlight! You’ll want to bring that SPF with you while on land and on the ship.
• Extra camera equipment. If you’re a photographer, bring extra batteries and SD cards, and stow it away safely in your waterproof pack. I would suggest a waterproof coat that has an inner pocket where you can quickly keep it dry and close to your body. If you have a point-and-shoot like I do, ensure it has a wrist strap!
• Phone case. If using a phone for pictures, get a waterproof pouch that hangs around your neck.

On board

• A bag for stinky, wet clothes. The items that get doused in the adventurous mix of bug spray, sunscreen, water, and dirt go straight into a separate bag and away from your clean clothes. Instead of a plastic bag that you can’t reuse, try something like the STNKY. This is one of my favorites to travel with.
• Motion sickness meds. One night, we were sailing through the Davis Strait… and yes, I got motion sickness. Good thing I had that Dramamine on hand. Another pro tip is to nibble on ginger or peppermint.

Wait, what about style and fashion?

While, first and foremost, you need to think about function when you’re packing for the Arctic, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun–especially with those outside layers you’ll be sporting. This is the time to play with the style and color of your jacket, your hat, and your shoes. Then, when on board, get cute with some of your favorite winter sweaters.

I know, it’s a lot. But you’ll want the option to take off layers when you’re hot—rather than not have enough if you get cold. Focus on lightweight items that roll and squeeze into your suitcase. You can also reuse items and wash them on board when you need.

During an arctic cruise expedition, everyone is along for the wild ride together. If you’re feeling a bit at a loss, ask a friend! You’ll be making plenty where the air gets cold and the icebergs are awe-inspiring.