Options for baggage...

[PK4SC]

If one is doing a land tour (independent) prior to the cruise and wants to get one bag with all the formal wear and ship stuff taken care of ahead of time so that all the extra baggage is not hauled all over Alaska what can one do. My wife and I want to be able to use just our carry on bags for the land portion and not have to bother with the stuff we will need on board. Any ideas or experiences? Thanks for your advice.

[Glaciers]

There is a baggage storage area at the Anchorage airport where you can drop your bags off prior to your land portion. It may be a bit pricey for a week, however. You can also see about dropping your bags off at the hotel you will be staying at the night prior to the cruise, or have them shipped there. We did something similar while travelling in Europe several years ago. Flew into London, shipped a bag to the Lisbon hotel where we were going to be boarding a cruise two weeks later. We backpacked for two weeks and when we arrived in Lisbon the bag was at the hotel waiting for us. They didn’t mind at all holding it for us.

http://www.dot.state.ak.us/anc/travelerInfo/passengerSrvcs.shtml

[luvtokayak]

It might be possible for you to leave them at the rental place if you are renting a vehicle or motor home.. ABC rentals offers that, I don't know if others do or not.

[Budget Queen]

Your only option is storage. The cruiseline has nothing for independents. If you are going by car, it is simple to leave bags in the trunk or back seat. IF going by rail/bus, then pack lighter?? You may have luck storing your bag at your first lodging in Anchorage??? I would contact them directly and inquire, and tip well.

[Lookingforfacts]

You're going to have to pay and/or TIP to store your bags. Most airlines charge most passengers to check bags. You might consider renting formal wear from the cruise line. You'll also save a few dollars with dry cleaning.

 

Baggage handling is one of the advantages of a cruise sponsored tour. There are advantages, and disadvantages, with cruise tours vs independent tours.