About a month before I headed up to Petersburg last Summer, I started going through my mental checklist of items that I wanted to bring. It dawned on me that this list maybe helpful for you too (duh!). Below are my top 5 Basic items that I would recommend taking on your Alaskan vacation. Hopefully these items help you along your adventure like they’ve helped me!

1. Thin Thermals: The air is often damp and chilly – even during the summer. If you get cold easily (like me!), take a pair of thin thermals that you can wear under (almost) every outfit. I purchased a set from Amazon Prime a few years ago that I still use today!
2. Gumboots: Alaska is not the place for high heels, flip flops or even sneakers. You will see locals wearing gumboots – brown, knee length rubber boots that are waterproof. Any waterproof walking shoe / lower boot will do but the key is that its 100% waterproof (not just water resistant).
3. Bear Bells & Bear Spray: If you’re hiking in Alaska, it’s smart to carry bear spray and bear bells with you. The concept behind bear bells is that if bears hear you coming, they’re less likely to be spooked and *hopefully*, less likely to attack (Brown/Grizzly bears are the aggressive ones). Bear spray looks like an oversized canister of pepper spray and you may need to purchase it once you get to your destination since airlines do not like transporting anything that is flammable. Bear bells look like jingle bells with a velcro strap that you can use to attach it to a book bag.
4. Waterproof Matches: If you’re doing any type of outdoor camping or plan on building a campfire, waterproof matches may save the day. It rains a lot in Southeast Alaska and if it’s not raining, there’s often a fog. Waterproof matches maybe your best bet to starting a fire.
5. Vest: I’m sure you’ve read that dressing in layers is key to a successful day in the great outdoors (and it is!). One more piece of clothing advice is to take a warm vest. Whether your hiking or on the water exploring the Wrangell Narrows, a warm vest will keep your center warm while allows your arms are brushed with the coolness of the Alaskan air.