Planning a trip to Alaska is an exciting adventure, filled with stunning landscapes and unique wildlife encounters.
However, packing for such a journey can be a bit daunting. With our travel tips, we will provide you with essential packing tips to ensure you are well-prepared for your Alaskan expedition. From clothing layers to outdoor gear, we’ve got you covered on what to bring for a memorable and comfortable experience in the Last Frontier.
Summer temperatures in South Central Alaska typically range from 55° to 70° F (13° – 21° C), but don’t let that fool you – the long hours of sunlight make it feel warmer (note: recent summers have been even toastier).
It’s all about layering up for the Alaskan weather. As the summer goes on, expect more rain showers to roll in.
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Grab your suitcase and get ready to pack smart for your Alaskan escapade!
Clothing
Clothing-wise, pack items that you can layer. Think long underwear, a cozy fleece, and a waterproof shell, along with a mix of short and long sleeve shirts, and a trusty sweater or fleece. If you’re planning on outdoor adventures like bear viewing or camping, long underwear is a must.
For city stays, you can skip the long undies and throw in a pair of shorts for good measure.
Footwear
When it comes to footwear, opt for comfy shoes with solid grip. Running shoes with good support should do the trick for most activities.
If you’re gearing up for hikes, boat trips, or rugged terrain, consider sturdy hiking shoes or boots, preferably waterproof.
Sun protection
Don’t forget your sun essentials!
Sunglasses are a must-have, and if you’re prone to sunburn, lather on some sunscreen, especially if you’ll be soaking up the sun outdoors for hours on end. With those long summer days in Alaska, a surprise sunburn is always a possibility.
Head and Neck
Light winter hat/gloves/scarf: These are perfect for keeping you cozy when the weather unexpectedly turns chilly, or if you’re facing the bracing cold winds of a glacier, all without weighing you down.
Other Essentials
Bug spray: Don’t worry too much about pesky insects – they’re not usually a big issue, especially outside of June and July. For extra protection, go for 100% DEET products. Mosquito head nets might be too much unless you’re planning on lots of hiking or camping, as they can limit your visibility and get a bit warm. Many guides and accommodations provide bug spray, but if you’re venturing off the beaten path, it’s wise to bring your own.
Camera/video camera: Remember to pack your charger(s) and keep them handy when you’re on the move. Consider a portable charger for longer tours in Alaska, where you might need some extra juice.
Binoculars/spotting scope: Having your own binoculars is a smart move, especially in Denali National Park where rentals might not be readily available.
Lending or renting gear
We absolutely love winter in Alaska – and you don’t have to shiver just because you’re here! With the right gear and know-how, you can stay warm and snug throughout your winter adventure in our snowy paradise. If you’re missing any essentials, reach out to the Salmon Berry team, and we’ll do our best to hook you up from our gear lending closet or gear rental program.
Base Layer
This layer is key! We opt for polypro base layers (breathable, soft material that’s a bit pricier but totally worth it).
If you don’t have fancy polypro, any kind of long johns is better than nothing. They should fit snugly without excess bagginess so you can layer them under different clothing.
Steer clear of cotton, as it holds onto moisture and chills you. And remember, Nylons are not a substitute for long johns or poly pro base layers – they’ll leave you feeling cold!
Mid Layer
For everyday activities like sightseeing and city strolls, jeans are our go-to choice. But for longer outdoor adventures like dog sledding and snowmobiling, we opt for more flexible, non-cotton pants – the kind you’d find at an outdoor gear store for hiking.
Even those zip-off-into-shorts pants are fine (even though we won’t be converting them into shorts this season).
On top, another long-sleeved, non-cotton shirt layer works well – something slightly thicker than your base layer.
Outer Layer
When you’re out on your adventures, make sure to rock some snow or ski pants.
Opt for pants specifically designed for snow activities, not just any old waterproof layer. These pants keep you dry and snow-free, no matter how many times you sit, lie down, or tumble outside – plus, they keep you nice and toasty with their insulation.
For your upper half, grab a parka or a winter jacket with a hood for that extra neck protection, even if you’re already sporting a cool hat. Look for jackets meant for skiing or snowboarding; they’re the bomb because they repel snow and keep you cozy.
Footwear
When it comes to keeping your feet warm and dry in cold weather, consider layering non-cotton socks. While a single layer works if it’s the right type, multiple layers of thinner socks are even better. Start with a thin, cold weather sock and add a slightly thicker one on top.
Opt for knee-high socks to prevent snow from getting in between your boots and snow pants, ensuring your skin stays protected.
Choosing the right boots is crucial. Brands like Sorel and North Face are reliable options. For activities like dog sledding in extreme cold, opt for a heavy-duty boot rated for well below zero temperatures. However, for city strolls, overly bulky boots may not be practical. Ankle-high boots won’t cut it in Alaskan snow conditions, so go for taller ones. Look for “pack boots,” known for their exceptional warmth in harsh winter conditions.
Head
When it comes to staying warm in the winter, cozy hats that cover your ears are essential.
Opt for a hat with ear flaps for extra warmth, but beanies work well too, especially if your jacket has a hood.
Don’t forget a scarf, particularly handy for strolling around Anchorage with lighter layers – they do wonders in keeping the chill away from your neck!
Hands
Choose mittens over gloves for toasty hands in the cold weather.
