Our team loves Alaska and spends time there each year. We have also booked hundreds of guests to this fantastic state. We want to share some of our packing tips based on the knowledge we have gained from planning many trips to Alaska.
PACKING TIPS:
Packing for your Alaska adventure? Along with your usual travel essentials—like identification, money, credit cards, a comfortable daypack, phone, sunglasses, binoculars, and camera—be sure to bring a selection of clothing that will keep you comfortable no matter where you go or what the weather brings.
Summer Clothing:
From June through August, temperatures in Alaska typically range from 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), but May and September are usually cooler, with temperatures between 45°F and 55°F (7°C to 13°C). The secret to staying comfortable is layering, with a focus on casual, easy-to-wear pieces that you can mix and match as needed.
- Base Layer: Start with lightweight, breathable fabrics that wick moisture away from your skin. Think moisture-wicking pants and long-sleeve shirts or T-shirts, plus long underwear (definitely avoid cotton, as it traps moisture).
- Mid Layer: This layer provides warmth and flexibility—perfect for changing conditions. Good options include durable jeans or khakis, a wool or fleece sweater, and fleece pants or a vest. It’s also great for layering under rain gear if the weather turns.
- Outer Layer: The final layer protects you from wind and rain. A quality rain jacket and pants are must-haves, as the weather can be unpredictable.
By packing smart and layering your clothes, you’ll be ready for anything Alaska’s incredible landscapes and ever-changing weather throw your way!
Dress in Layers :
- Inside layer: Moisture-wicking fabrics against the skin, such as Capilene (also called polypropylene) or light wool.
- Sunny days. Drip-dry style long sleeve shirt and zip-off pants. They dry fast if you get sweaty, offer sun protection and can work as an outer layer over your poly-pro in light-but-chilly wind.
- Insulating layer: Expedition weight long underwear or light pile. For most summer hikes, you’ll only need a top. Great to put on at the summit or during lunch break.
- Outside layer: breathable yet waterproof fabric such as Gore-tex
- Rain forest? If hiking in areas like Prince William Sound or Southeast Alaska—with the potential for unrelenting torrential downpours—consider carrying coated, waterproof rain gear as a backup.
Packing Check List
— Socks – take extra’s in case yours get wet
Underwear
Pajamas
Clothes to dress in layers- This key in Alaska is to dress in layers
Water Proof Shoes – examples
- Hiking Boots
- Rain Boots
- or waterproof tennis shoes
Water-resistant clothing- Jacket, shirt, and pants
Long-Sleeved Fleece
Short-Sleeved Shirts
Long-Sleeved Shirts
Pairs of Pants
Sunglasses
Sun Hat
Scarf
Bug Spray – This is very important as the mosquitos can be nasty
Sunscreen
Small Backpack for Hiking
Binoculars
Toiletries
Camera
Contact our team via this quote request link if you want more personalized expert planning for your next Alaskan adventure. We would love to use our expert knowledge to help you plan it.