What to Pack for Alaska: All the Essentials

There's a lot to consider when you're packing for your trip to Alaska.

The weather can be extremely variable, changing from warm summer sunshine to freezing rain and snow in an hour. You're hoping to be active and outdoors as much as possible while you're here. So, it's wise to bring clothes that you can layer, that are quick-drying and that fit nicely into your day pack.

Your Checklist for What to Bring to Alaska

Gear

Small backpack or daypack
Hiking poles
Binoculars
Camera
Waterproof bag
Waterproof phone case
An extra charging cord in case you lose one in a hotel room.
Spare batteries, etc
Extra SD card for camera storage

Personal Items

Sunblock
Sunglasses
Bug spray
Water bottle
Travel mug
Sleeping mask
A good book

Clothes

Gore-tex or similar rain jacket and pants
Lightweight down vest
Fleece jacket
Quick-dry pants
Quick-dry shorts
Long-sleeve wool or flannel shirt
Short-sleeve wool or cotton shirt
Wool socks
Hiking boots or shoes
Casual shoes
Gloves
Sun hat
Warm hat
Buff™

Download and print our Alaska Packing Checklist

Two hikers stand on some rocks before a glacier.

Book Your Experience

Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge

Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge

Denali Backcountry Lodge

Denali Backcountry Lodge

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge

More Stories Like This

Pursuit is a collection of inspiring and unforgettable experiences in iconic places including Alaska, Montana, the Canadian Rockies, Vancouver, Reykjavík, Las Vegas and Chicago.

About Us Inspiration Sustainability Safety Careers Travel Trade Media