What to Bring to Alaska

What to Put on Your Alaska Packing List

To ensure that you’re comfy no matter the conditions, your basic Alaska summer packing list should include:

  • Layered synthetic clothing (short sleeved shirts, long sleeved shirts, thermal/long underwear, fleece or packable down jacket)
  • Rain jacket
  • Walking or hiking shoes
  • Hat and gloves

Packing for any vacation can be tricky. Packing for Alaska can be especially challenging thanks to our diverse climates and unpredictable weather. In the summer you’ll need to be prepared for all types of conditions, ranging from rain and 50 F to sunny and 80 F.

There’s one key that unlocks what to pack for your Alaska trip: Layers.

This just means pack clothes you can comfortably layer up or down. A short sleeve shirt and long sleeve thermal shirt or sweatshirt topped off with a fleece jacket and rain jacket does the trick. You may not wear it all at once, but you’ll be covered for most every condition. Synthetic or wool blend clothing is preferred over cotton, since cotton doesn’t retain heat when wet and takes forever to dry.

You’ll also want to be strategic packing your footwear.  Overall, Alaska is very casual and tennis shoes are acceptable everywhere. Bring a comfortable pair of sturdy walking shoes you don’t mind getting a little dirty. If you plan on more strenuous hiking, you may want to pack a good pair of water resistant hiking shoes.

Here is a list of important items to bring when packing:

  • Layered synthetic clothing (short sleeved shirts, long sleeved shirts, thermal/long underwear, fleece or packable down jacket)
  • Rain jacket that you can comfortably wear over layers
  • Hat and gloves
  • Sturdy walking or hiking shoes
  • Backpack
  • Binoculars (great for bus tours in Denali National Park)
  • Passport (only if you’re taking a cruise)

In case you were wondering, the Alaska Railroad baggage policy allows for one reasonably sized carry-on and two checked bags up to 50 pounds. See our FAQ for more details.

BEST MONTHS TO VISIT ALASKA ALASKA WEATHER