Cute and Comfy: The Ultimate Summer Packing List Alaska Guide
Welcome, Adventurous Souls! Your Ultimate Alaska Packing List Guide
If you're gearing up for a summer trip to Alaska, get ready for an experience like no other. I'm here to ensure you're equipped with everything you need, while still looking cute for an unforgettable journey in the Last Frontier.
So grab your packing list and let's dive in! If you’re looking for more, check out my post here for the 5 most fun things to do in Anchorage, Alaska
Essential Packing Tips You Need To Know for Alaska:
Don’t bring your best clothes or anything black tie-worthy, grab things you’re comfortable in, outfits that are easy to move around in, and clothes you wouldn’t mind getting a little dirty.
Bring packing cubes so you can separate your layers to wash and dry, your clothes will get muddy, sweaty, and dirty. Don’t forget a cube for your shoes!
Think layers. One minute it can be pouring rain, the next scorching hot. Bring everything from short sleeves to a rain jacket, to a sleeveless puffer.
It WILL Rain. Bring a rain jacket, mini umbrella, or waterproof jackets.
Clothing Essentials
Lightweight Layers: Alaska's weather can be as unpredictable as it is breathtaking. One minute it’s raining, one minute the sun is shining.
Think breathable t-shirts and tank tops for sunny days, cozy long-sleeve shirts for cooler evenings, and a trusty waterproof jacket or sleeveless puffer for when the temperature drops unexpectedly.
This jacket was so lightweight, easy to move in, and a great layering piece.
Especially if you’re planning to climb a glacier or go dog sledding, make sure to pack warm and waterproof layers so you don’t end up catching a cold!
On my glacier trip, it poured rain and sleet the entire time, but thanks to my waterproof jacket, I was able to stay dry on the 5-hour hike.
Outdoor Gear: Whether you're hiking through glaciers, going on a dog sled ride, or simply strolling through charming Alaskan towns, having the right outdoor gear is key to staying comfortable and dry.
Pack quick-drying pants, comfortable bike shorts for warmer days, and a trusty waterproof jacket for those inevitable rain showers.
Footwear: Your footwear can make or break your Alaska adventure, so choose wisely!
Opt for sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, water shoes for kayaking or jetskiing adventures, and a pair of casual shoes for dinner or exploring the town.
I brought a pair of great combat boots with good grip to hike multiple glaciers, and they became a lifesaver.
Pack a pair of great sneakers for casual days like exploring the wildlife conservatory so it’s easier to move around.
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Accessories
Sunscreen: Sunscreen is SO important to bring, in the summer Alaska has 24 hours of sunlight! On a glacier, sun exposure increases dramatically because of the reflection in the ice. Grab a baseball cap, sunscreen with a high SPF, and some sunglasses. These two are my FAVORITES for lightweight, non greasy, non whitening formulas.
We were amazed by the beauty of the midnight sun, but quickly realized we needed to apply SPF multiple times a day. On a helicopter tour, we got even closer to the midnight sun and I ended up burning my cheeks. If there’s one thing not to forget, it’s sunscreen.
Insect Repellent: Alaska's stunning landscapes are home to some not-so-friendly critters, including mosquitoes and biting flies.
I was completely shocked by the amount of mosquitos that are in Alaska and this is the one thing we forgot on our trip. During a hike to a glacier, mosquitoes climbed in through my pants, hoodies, and shirts. Needless to say, I ended up with more than 30 bug bites that one day and it was truly one of my biggest regrets.
Opt for a good mosquito repellent or grab these easy repellent bracelets, a travel size bug spray, and some after bite cream too to soothe any unexpected bites.
Winter Knitted Beanies: Cute beanies can be a great way to stay warm during your Alaska trip while still looking cute for pictures! These beanies from Amazon were such a life saver as they kept me super warm, and while still looking super cute under all my clothes.
Outdoor Essentials: When you're exploring Alaska's glaciers or going on a helicopter ride, it's essential to be prepared for anything. Pack a lightweight, water proof backpack for glacier hikes, a collapsable water bottle to stay hydrated on the trail, and a portable charger for your electronic devices to capture every moment of your adventure.
Eyemask: With 24 hours of sunlight, chances are it’ll still be super bright by the time you get home or to your hotel room. Pack a nice eyemask so you can grab some shut eye in case there are no blackout curtains.
Miscellaneous:
In addition to the essentials, don't forget to pack a few extras to enhance your Alaska adventure! Consider packing travel-size laundry detergent for handwashing clothes on the go, a all in one travel adapter for charging devices in different outlets, and a great portable charger for all of your outdoor activities!
Packing Cubes: Packing cubes will not only make it easier to pack, but it’ll be a great way to separate your clothes that are dirty or damp in your suitcase. Make sure to grab an extra cube for your sneakers as they might get muddy!
Mini Umbrellas and Rain Jacket: During our 5 day trip to Alaska in the summer, it rained 2 different times. Opt to bring a mini compact umbrella for exploring or grab a rain jacket with a hood so you don’t get soaked!
Compact Camera: Whether you want some cute photos or want to vlog the trip, this is my favorite compact camera that shoots in 4k 60 and has some amazing flash photography. It’s lightweight and can fit into your pocket making it the perfect vlogging or photo camera to bring.
And there you have it – the ultimate summer Alaska packing list. With these essentials in your bag, you'll be ready to tackle any adventure that comes your way while looking cute and creating memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska!
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