An Alaska vacation is unlike any other for many reasons. Alaska treats all visitors to majestic vistas and warm communities, cultures and cuisines, people, history, wildlife and, well, wacky weather! In Alaska, temperatures can soar to a sweltering 90 degrees and then snow in the same summer month. It can dump a foot of snow and sheets of rain on the same winter day. Fall days often start cool, warm up quickly and then end dark and cold. Even a bright, warm summer afternoon can rapidly turn breezy and chilly.
So while it’s important to pack the usual travel must-haves like identification, money and credit cards, a comfortable daypack, your phone, and camera, it’s equally important to use a comprehensive Alaska packing list to ensure you pack a collection of clothing that will keep you comfortable no matter where you travel around Alaska.
Need a quick answer on what to pack for an Alaska vacation?
- The Golden Rule: Always dress in layers.
- The Material Rule: Avoid cotton. Synthetic materials and wool are essential.
- The Footwear Rule: Pack sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots with good traction.
Here are Alaska vacation packing lists and packing tips for every season that will help you weather Alaska’s crazy climate:
The Secret to Packing: Layers, Solid Footwear, and Handy Accessories
The core strategy for dressing in Alaska is layering. Layers of tops, bottoms and socks allow you to remain flexible and comfortable no matter what Alaska throws at you. A warm day? Get down to the basics – lightweight pants or shorts and a t-shirt can work. A sudden breeze? Pull on a windbreaker and wind pants. A drizzle? Raincoat, check! A cold day? Add a fleece vest or jacket on top, some long underwear or wind-blocking bottoms, and an extra pair of socks. The best part of layering is that it’s easy to quickly add, subtract and adapt to changing conditions. And, as Alaskans say, “cotton kills!” Avoiding this material will make for a much more comfortable trip as the weather varies.
To really see the best of Alaska, you often need to get off the sidewalks, so you want footwear that can adapt to uneven terrain and wet areas. This means multiple pairs of footwear to accommodate your activities. A pair of lightweight hiking shoes or sturdy running shoes can be an excellent base for your footwear. Also, pack a pair of light gloves, even in summer, to keep your fingers warm when handling your camera or phone. Wear hats—a baseball cap is great for bright or breezy days, and a warm winter cap is a nice option to have even in summer. Just think of the chill coming off a tidal glacier you may approach up close on a wildlife cruise. Finally, bring good, polarized sunglasses to enjoy Alaska’s vistas and protect your eyes from the bright midnight sun.
Understanding Alaska’s Seasons
The seasons in Alaska don’t always look like what you might expect from experiences in the Lower 48 states (what Alaskans colloquially call “Outside”). Knowing these differences will help you pack smart and ensure you know what to pack for an Alaska vacation at any time of year.
- Spring: “Break-Up” (April – Mid-May): We call spring “break-up” because it’s when the ice on rivers and lakes breaks apart. This is a messy, wet, and muddy time. Snow melts fast, making things sloppy underfoot. Think of it less as blooming flowers and more as thawing slush.
- Summer (Late May – August): These are the warmest months, with the famous long days of the Midnight Sun. While you might get some hot days, temperatures often range from the 50s to the 70s. Expect rain showers mixed with sun. An exception is the Interior, where temps can rise to the 90s.
- Fall (Late August – Mid-October): Alaska’s fall is stunning but brief. The landscape explodes with color, but the cool weather and darker days return quickly. You get crisp, beautiful weather, but sometimes only for a few weeks before winter hits.
- Winter (Late October – March): Prepare for serious cold and lots of snow. Days are short, and the northern lights can dance across the sky on our long winter nights. Winter packing is all about maximum warmth and insulation.
Packing for Spring (Break-Up)
Spring in Alaska means dealing with mud, melting ice, and unpredictable wet weather. Your goal is to keep yourself dry and your feet protected from the slush and mess.
Spring Clothing:
- Waterproof and windproof jacket: A durable outer shell is vital to repel rain and snowmelt.
- Waterproof pants: Protect your lower body from splashing mud and damp seating.
- Layers: Include fleece jackets, wool sweaters, and long-sleeve shirts for customizable warmth.
- Base Layers (long underwear): Lightweight thermal tops and bottoms to wear under your clothes.
- Durable, dark pants: Jeans or sturdy hiking pants that won’t show the mud instantly.
Spring Footwear & Accessories:
- Waterproof Boots: Insulated, waterproof boots that rise above the ankle are non-negotiable for walking through the “break-up” slop.
- Non-Cotton Socks: Several pairs of thick, moisture-wicking wool or synthetic socks.
- Waterproof Gloves: Keep your hands dry and warm when you need to handle muddy gear or grab a camera.
- Warm Hat: A knit cap or beanie to cover your ears in the damp chill.
Packing for Summer
Summer brings the warmest weather and longest days, but you still need to be ready for sudden cool winds and rain. For an Alaska vacation during the summer, focus on lightweight, breathable layers that can handle a downpour.
Summer Clothing:
- Water-resistant jacket: A lightweight, packable jacket is perfect for sudden showers and breezes. Jackets made with Gore-tex and other waterproof materials are great, but a classic rubber raincoat is another good option.
- Light-to-midweight fleece or sweater: Essential for boat tours, glacier visits, and chilly evenings.
- Convertible pants: Pants that zip off into shorts offer great flexibility as temperatures change throughout the day.
- Short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts: A mix of moisture-wicking and comfortable tops.
- Rain Pants (Optional but recommended): For serious outdoor activities like fishing or extended hikes in the rain.
Summer Footwear & Accessories:
- Comfortable Walking/Hiking Shoes: A sturdy, water-resistant pair is best for all-day exploring.
- Sandals or casual shoes: For relaxing indoors or in town on a warm day.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be virulent. Repellents with 30-40% DEET concentration are recommended, especially near water or in the Interior.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun’s intensity is surprising, given the long daylight hours.
- Daypack: A sturdy bag to carry layers, water, snacks, and your camera gear.
Packing for Fall
Alaska’s fall is a quick transition toward winter, marked by cool, crisp air and a definite chance of frost or early snow. Layering becomes even more important as the daily temperature swing can be significant.
Fall Clothing:
- Warm, waterproof jacket: A heavier coat than summer, capable of insulating against cold wind and rain.
- Insulating mid-layers: Focus on thicker fleece or down vests to trap heat.
- Long-sleeve shirts and turtlenecks: Excellent for maintaining core warmth. (Make sure they are not cotton!)
- Wool or lined pants: To handle the colder ground temperatures and wind.
- Thermal base layers: Start wearing these again, particularly for morning outings.
Fall Footwear & Accessories:
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: With good traction, as trails can be slick from rain or frost.
- Warm Gloves and Scarf: Essential for protecting your extremities from the cold air.
- Knit Hat (Beanie): Keeping your head warm is critical for retaining body heat during colder mornings and evenings.
- Camera Gear: Extra batteries are recommended, as cold weather can drain them faster.
Packing for Winter
Winter is truly cold and snowy, demanding specialized gear. Your focus for a winter vacation in Alaska should be on maximizing insulation, wind protection, and preventing moisture from accumulating.
Winter Clothing:
- Heavy Insulated Parka: A high-quality, windproof, and waterproof coat rated for sub-freezing temperatures.
- Insulated Snow Pants: Necessary for any time spent outdoors, from walking to viewing the northern lights.
- Heavy Base Layers: High-quality wool or synthetic thermals (top and bottom) are the foundation of your warmth.
- Multiple Mid-Layers: Think a thick fleece and a light down jacket worn together under your parka.
- Wool Sweaters: Excellent for trapping heat and providing insulation.
Winter Footwear & Accessories:
- Insulated, Waterproof Winter Boots: Boots rated for very cold temperatures (e.g., -20°F or colder) with thick, non-slip soles.
- Thick Wool Socks: Consider wearing multiple pairs, or have extras on hand in case they get wet from sweat.
- Heavy Waterproof Gloves or Mittens: Mittens are often warmer than gloves.
- Balaclava or Neck Gaiter: Essential for protecting your face and neck from freezing wind.
- Sunglasses/Goggles: To protect eyes from snow glare.
This collection of seasonal Alaska packing lists should provide a solid foundation for a comfortable vacation, but always consider the specific activities on your itinerary. And if you forget something, don’t fret. Alaska’s urban areas and tourism hubs have plenty of shopping options to outfit you in style! And remember, the core rule for a comfortable Alaska vacation is Layers, Waterproof Outerwear, and No Cotton. Use this guide on what to pack for an Alaska vacation as your ultimate year-round resource!