One question we receive frequently is, “What should we pack for Alaska?”
While every trip we put together is a little different because it’s customized for each client, below are Packing Guidelines for you to review. We have also included a general packing list so you can get a sense of what to bring on your trip to the Great State of Alaska. Please remember to tailor this list to your specific Alaskan experiences!
Southeast Alaska Packing Guidelines:
- Pack in layers: During the day, Alaska’s temperatures can jump 20+ degrees from the cooler morning or evening temperatures. Consider dressing in multiple layers when you are hiking or whale watching. You may get too warm from physical activity or quite chilly from a moving boat on icy cold water.
- Rain gear: I cannot stress the importance of getting great rain gear. In most places in southeast Alaska, it rains quite frequently (sometimes for several days in a row); after all, several parts of Southeast Alaska are a part of Tongass National Forest. If you have the opportunity to purchase a waterproof taped seam outer-layer, please do so. You will thank me later!
- Fabrics: Alaska can be quite damp especially if you spend any time fishing or on the water. When selecting pieces of clothing to bring, consider packing clothes with quick dry fabrics and avoid bringing heavy cotton layers. Cotton does not dry quickly and may remain wet/damp in Alaska’s atmosphere.
General Packing List:
- Rubber boots
- Sneakers
- Short sleeve & long sleeve t-shirts
- Thermal leggings and tops
- Rain jacket & pants
- Scarves, hats, gloves (especially if visiting a glacier – the air temperature cools drastically)
- Thermal coat
- Light Jacket
- Bug spray
- Sunscreen
- Backpack for any day hiking
- Water bottle
- Bear spray
- Binoculars
- Sunglasses
- Swimming suit (several accommodations have hot tubs)
- Camera (waterproof if possible)
Have questions regarding what to bring / what not to bring? Feel free to contact us here and we’ll provide as much advice as possible!