Cute and Comfy: The Ultimate Alaska Summer Packing List
This post is all about Cute and Comfy: The Ultimate Alaska Summer Packing List
Whether it’s your first time having an Alaska summer, or you’ve been here before, it can be challenging to figure out what to pack for Alaska, how many outfits you need, if it’s going to be cold, and all the Alaska travel essentials you’ll need.
I remember our first time here, it was both hot and cold, rainy and snowy, we had no idea what we were in for. Luckily, we learned our lessons on exactly what to pack for Alaska, the best Alaska travel essentials you’ll need, and how to make a great Alaska summer outfit. Here is everything I learned below!
If you’re looking for more things to do, check out my post here for the 5 most fun things to do in Anchorage, Alaska
This post is all about Cute and Comfy: The Ultimate Alaska Summer Packing List
Alaska Summer Packing List Essentials You Need To Know:
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.
What To Pack For Alaska: 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.
This puffer jacket kept me so warm throughout the day!
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 and avoid getting super sick.
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.
What To Pack For Alaska: Accessories
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is SO important to bring, Alaska summer has 24 hours of sunlight! On a glacier, sun exposure increases dramatically because of the reflection in the ice. So to avoid getting sunburnt, add a baseball cap, sunscreen with a high SPF, and some sunglasses to your Alaska summer packing list.
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 SHOCKED by the amount of mosquitos that are in Alaska in the summer 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 and make sure to add these to your Alaska summer packing list.
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 lifesaver as they kept me super warm, and while still looking super cute under all my clothes, definitely add these to your Alaska summer packing list!
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:
What to pack for Alaska? 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 eye mask so you can grab some shut eye in case there are no blackout curtains.
What To Pack For Alaska: Miscellaneous:
In addition to the essentials, don't forget to pack a few extras to enhance your Alaska adventure! Add 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 to your Alaska summer packing list for the best time.
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. Add a mini compact umbrella for exploring or grab a rain jacket with a hood to your Alaska summer packing list to avoid getting SOAKED and wet.
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 Alaska summer packing list. With these essentials in your bag, you'll have the best Alaska summer outfits and be ready to tackle any adventure that comes your way.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in the breathtaking landscapes of Alaska!
Related Post: 5 Incredible Things To Do In Anchorage Alaska That Will Change Your Life
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