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What to Pack for Anchorage

What to Pack for Anchorage

Anchorage Alaska, USA Travel Guide

Summer Clothing

Even in summer, temperatures can change significantly, especially during evenings or near glaciers. Prepare for variations.

Layering Guide Summer

Winter Clothing

Winter calls for robust cold-weather gear to stay warm and shielded from extreme temperatures and heavy snow.

Layering Guide Winter

  • Base Layer: Thermal underwear, heavyweight wool or synthetic.
  • Mid-Layers: Fleece jacket, thick wool sweater, or packable down/synthetic insulated jacket.
  • Outer Layer: A heavy, waterproof, and windproof Parka (Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka).

Footwear Essentials

Hiking Boots

Needed for any trail use, especially in Chugach State Park. Choose Waterproof boots with ankle support and good traction. Merrell Moab 3 Waterproof.

Break them in before your trip.

City Walking Shoes

Comfortable, Supportive walking shoes are good for exploring downtown Anchorage and urban areas.

Comfort for city exploration.

Winter Boots

Insulated, Waterproof winter boots with deep treads are needed for navigating snow and ice. Sorel Caribou Boots.

Warmth and grip on slippery surfaces.

Documentation Checklist

Travel Document Must-Haves

Keep all your important documents organized and accessible. Carry both physical and digital copies for good measure.

  • Passport & Visa Documentation: Physical passport, printout of U.S. Visa or ESTA approval for quick reference.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Printed copy of policy details, emergency contact numbers, and policy numbers.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If your home country driver's license is not in English, carry with your original license.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Bring any needed vaccination records and doctor's notes for prescriptions.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flights, accommodation, and tour bookings for verification.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Family/friends, bank's lost card number, and your country's embassy in the U.S.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts: May provide small savings at some attractions.
  • Prescription Medications: In original containers with clear labeling.

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Connectivity

Bring the correct electronics and accessories to stay connected and capture memories of your trip.

Electrical Needs

  • Power Adapter: The U.S. uses Type A and B plugs, 120V at 60Hz. An Adapter is needed.
  • Voltage Converter: Potentially for any non-dual-voltage electronics (check device).
  • Consider a Universal Travel Adapter for convenience.

Mobile & Photography

Most GSM unlocked phones work in the U.S. Major U.S. Carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) have coverage in Anchorage. Cell service can be limited or absent outside major population centers.

Device Readiness

Data & Digital Safety

Recommended Apps

Google Maps (navigation, offline maps), Uber/Lyft (ride-sharing), Aurora Forecast (northern lights activity), AllTrails (hiking trails), Local Weather Apps.

Backup Solutions

Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and documents. A Seagate Portable External Hard Drive offers a physical backup.

Device Security

Protect devices with passwords. Be mindful of public Wi-Fi. A VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Health & Personal Care

Personal Health Kit

Prepare a personal health and wellness kit adapted for your Anchorage trip. It is wise to carry these items.

First Aid & Meds

  • Destination-Specific First Aid Kit: bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, blister treatment (e.g., Moleskin).
  • Prescription Medications: In original containers with clear labeling. Carry a copy of prescription or doctor's note.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: For common issues like headaches, stomach upset, colds, and flu symptoms.

Environmental Protection

These items are essential for summer travel. Pack them carefully for comfort outdoors.

Outdoor Safety

Travel Wellness

Altitude Sickness

  • Anchorage is at sea level, so altitude sickness is not a city concern.
  • No specific remedies needed for city visits.
  • High altitude matters only for mountain expeditions outside the city.

Motion Sickness

Activity Gear

Hiking Essentials

Gear for your outdoor journeys in Alaska's wild.

Wildlife & Photography

Capture Alaska's stunning scenes and its inhabitants.

  • Nikon ProStaff 3S Binoculars to spot distant animals.
  • A telephoto lens for your camera to get close-up shots without disturbing wildlife.
  • Extra camera batteries, as cold weather drains them faster.
  • A protective camera bag to shield gear from elements.

Winter Sport Gear

Specific items for snow activities in the Alaskan winter.

Gear: Rent or Bring?

Rental Items

  • Skis, snowboards, fat bikes: Generally easier and more practical to rent in Anchorage or Girdwood.
  • Bulky winter sports equipment is often rented locally.
  • Specialized gear like crampons for glacier walks are typically supplied by tour operators.
  • Consider renting heavy or specialized gear for convenience.

Items to Bring

  • High-quality rain gear for a good fit and performance.
  • Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots to prevent blisters.
  • Bear spray: Cannot be flown on commercial planes; purchase Sabre Frontiersman Bear Spray upon arrival.
  • Prescription medications are often better brought from home.

Other Travel Items

General Essentials

Do not forget small items that add to comfort and security throughout your journey.

Comfort & Security

Traveler's Smart Choices

Certain items are better to bring from home, as they might be harder to find or more expensive locally.

Pack from Home

  • High-quality rain gear for unexpected weather.
  • Specific Hiking footwear that is already broken in.
  • Any unique prescription medications or personal hygiene essentials.
  • These items might be more expensive or harder to find in Alaska compared to your home region.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Minimizes plastic waste; tap water is safe to drink.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Good for purchases and avoiding plastic bag fees.

Portable Utensil Set

Practical for picnics or self-catering meals.

Sustainable Mindset

Support local and eco-conscious businesses.

Tailored for Your Trip

Summer Adventure Focus

  • Fishing gear if planning to angle.
  • Strong insect repellent for summer outings.
  • Maps for specific hiking trails you plan to explore.

Winter Experience Focus

  • Extra warm layers for outdoor winter activities.
  • Ice cleats for navigating icy sidewalks.
  • Car emergency kit if driving in winter conditions.

Smart Packing Reminder

Pack light but smart. Consider roll-packing clothes to save space. Make a checklist to avoid forgetting items.

Layering is fundamental for Alaska's climate. Be ready for sudden weather shifts.