Whether you are planning to go to Alaska during summer or winter, to explore or relax, there are some essential items that must end up in your bag!
Some of them are not usually the ones people might think about while packing, so we are here to guide you.
Generally, travelers pack layers and layers of clothing, and while it is necessary, there are more significant things to add to your packing list. So, without further ado, here is our Alaska packing list!
Alaska Packing List: Summer
Let’s start with the most popular holiday season! Though the weather conditions are quite similar throughout the whole year, travelers quite often prefer their trips in the summertime.
And yes, there are certain items in your packing list that differ, so let’s find out what they are!
Waterproof Hiking Shoes
Naturally, many Alaska tours include hiking as a number one activity, especially hiking in the mountains or through glaciers.
Meaning, there are plenty of possibilities to get your feet wet and cold, and no one wants that!
Therefore, to protect yourself from frozen toes and the chance of catching a cold, bringing the best possible footwear is essential!
You could always opt for rain boots, but they might not be as comfortable for long walks. Of course, do not forget to put on warm, thick socks, and if possible, look for shoes with soles designed for hiking!
Light Pants
Though at least an inch of snow is always covering most parts of the ground in Alaska, in the summertime, the temperature can get up to 22°C, which is quite warm!
While it is not scorching hot, travelers often see the numbers and are quick to throw a pair of shorts in their bag.
We strongly recommend against this. The temperature is entirely appropriate for this kind of attire; however, the mosquitoes are going to torture you throughout your entire trip.
They get quite annoying during summer, so we suggest packing some light, thin pants that will allow your skin to breathe in the sun while protecting you from getting bitten by these small annoying creatures.
All Kinds of Shirts
While packing your shirts, you should apply the same rules as with pants. Only, maybe make sure to throw in some short-sleeved ones as well.
This way, you will get more elevation if you are already wearing long pants.
Our best tip for you is to buy some athletic shirts designed to let the skin breathe and cool you off or warm you up while you are involved in active pursuits. These are lifesavers!
Jackets
Once again, do not be tricked into thinking that Alaska weather in summer is tropical and hot when you see higher numbers in the weather forecast!
Our suggestion is to bring two jackets, either of which you will most likely wear until about halfway through your hikes when you get really hot.
The first one would be a rain jacket, and it is quite self-explanatory! The climate in Alaska is quite humid, and they like the rain, as well! So you should be prepared for moist weather.
Other than that, just pack a little thicker yet still breathable jacket to wear over your shirts, and that is simply for when you get chilly or if it gets windy while you’re out exploring.
That is it for the essentials of your packing list in the summertime! Read on to learn about winter and general tips.
Packing List for Alaska: Winter
If you choose to visit Alaska in winter, your packing list should differ quite drastically from our list above. In fact, there are some essential items to keep you as comfortable as possible in the frost and snow.
Long Underwear
As weird or as uncomfortable as it sounds, long underwear is a lifesaver during a chilly holiday!
An additional layer might just be the thing saving you from freezing. Also, consider getting silk ones, if possible.
They are the most comfortable, and being as thin as they are, they will not require any additional room under your clothing.
Socks
While we have already mentioned getting thick socks on our summer list, you should acquire even thicker ones for winter!
Keep in mind that you will spend most of your time with your feet sinking in the snow, so you want that additional layer of material since your legs are the part of you to get cold the quickest.
Parka/Winter Coat
Naturally, you will need a warm winter jacket to get you through the trip.
The temperature in Alaska can get extreme, and before you know it, you are almost freezing, thinking how you should have brought a sturdier jacket with you.
But that is only the scenario if you are actually unprepared. So be prepared! Bring a thick parka with you if you see that the forecast promises low temperatures.
Also, don’t forget additional accessories like a warm hat, gloves, and a thick scarf!
Snow Pants
The term probably reminds you of childhood, when you were dressed in colorful gear, feeling like you could barely move your arms and legs.
Well, the snow pants we are suggesting are not that extreme! However, you should still look for chunky, solid pants explicitly designed for hiking, skiing, or doing any winter activities.
If you are not worried about restricted movements, you could also look for coveralls since they guarantee maximum warmth and protection.
You should look for those at specialized shops or ski-gear departments since they usually have designs that allow you to move freely and do not make you sweat!
General Important Items
While you have separate lists for summer and winter, there is stuff you should bring with you no matter the season.
- Sunscreen: Yes, as silly as it sounds, sunscreen is not only for holidays at the beach. Sun exposure in Alaska can be brutal if you spend a lot of time outside. Especially with it bouncing off the whiteness of the snow. The sun can quickly burn you, so be prepared with some SPF!
- Sunglasses: On the same note, sunglasses are essential! And not only for sheer comfort, too. As we mentioned, snow in Alaska can get really dangerous, and you can get snow blindness if you are not careful. Especially in the wintertime, when the sun is at a low angle, intensifying the effect of UVB rays, which can burn the cornea. This is an actual condition requiring treatment, so beware, and always carry around your sunglasses!
- Sleep Mask: While it is not necessary, most people have trouble sleeping with the lights on, and during the period of Midnight Sun, when it stays bright during the night, you might find it extremely difficult. So, keep your eyes covered to get a well-earned rest!
- Day Pack: This might come naturally, but we would like to remind you that most activities in Alaska take a lot of time – whether it is hiking, climbing, skiing, cruising, etc. So never leave the house empty. Always carry a bag with the most necessary items: sunscreen, a bottle of water, and of course, snacks!
There you go! Now that you have read our list, you are an expert in packing! Recheck it once you are all ready to go so that you do not forget anything important.
Other than that, enjoy the scenic views and exciting time in Alaska!