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What to Pack for Juneau

What to Pack for Juneau

Juneau Alaska, USA Travel Guide

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Juneau's weather remains highly variable and changes rapidly, often within a single day. Layering your clothing always suits comfort, regardless of the season.

Season-Specific Clothing with Layering Guidance

  • Base Layer: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics like synthetic materials or merino wool. Avoid cotton for base layers.
  • Mid-Layer: This layer provides insulation for warmth. Good options include fleece jackets, down vests, or lightweight insulated jackets.
  • Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof shell jacket and pants offer protection for Juneau's climate. A Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket or similar Waterproof jacket is highly advisable.

Seasonal Clothing Breakdown

Specific recommendations for each season to enhance comfort.

Attire for Each Season

  • Summer (June-August): Pack light to mid-weight layers. Long-sleeved shirts and light fleece are useful. Your Waterproof rain jacket and pants retain their importance.
  • Shoulder Seasons (April-May, Sep-Oct): Bring mid-weight layers, heavier fleece, or lightweight insulated jacket. A Warm hat and Gloves are advisable.
  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Heavy-weight layers are for comfort. Thermal base layers, thick fleece or down insulation, and a heavy waterproof/windproof outer jacket and pants prove useful.

Footwear Recommendations

Waterproof Hiking Boots

These suit most trails and wet surfaces you will encounter. Look for good ankle support. A pair of Keen Targhee II Waterproof Hiking Boots or similar is versatile.

Good traction is for safety on wet or uneven surfaces.

Waterproof Walking Shoes

Comfortable options for urban exploration on rainy days. Ensure they have good traction. Consider Walking shoes or sneakers.

Lightweight and breathable options make city walks enjoyable.

Winter Boots

For winter travel, insulated, Waterproof boots with good traction become necessary to handle snow and ice.

Choose boots rated for sub-zero temperatures for maximum warmth.

Essential Documents

Papers for Your Journey

Have your valid passport and any needed visa or ESTA approval. Keep physical and digital copies of these documents separate from the originals. Store digital copies on a cloud service or encrypted USB drive.

  • Travel Insurance Policy: Carry physical and digital copies of your travel insurance policy details, including emergency contact numbers and policy numbers.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Bring an International Driving Permit if your home country's driver's license is not in English.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Carry documentation for any prescription medications you take, along with a copy of your prescription or a doctor's note.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Have copies of flight tickets, accommodation bookings, and tour confirmations.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Create a list of family members or friends to contact in an emergency, along with local emergency numbers (911).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): Bring valid identification if you qualify for discounts on attractions or transportation.
  • Visa/ESTA Confirmation: For international travelers, ensure your U.S. visa or ESTA approval is easily accessible.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.

Technology & Electronics

Power and Connectivity

The U.S. Standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz. Plug types are A (two flat parallel pins) and B (two flat parallel pins with a round grounding pin). International travelers with devices from regions with different voltage or plug types will need a Universal travel adapter. Check your devices for multi-voltage compatibility (100-240V).

Mobile Phone Compatibility and SIM Card Options

  • Most modern unlocked smartphones suit U.S. Mobile networks (GSM and CDMA).
  • Prepaid SIM cards are available from major carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile.
  • Consider an ESIM for convenience if your phone supports it.

Camera and Power Accessories

Juneau presents stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. A good camera for capturing these scenes is advisable. Consider a camera with a Telephoto lens for wildlife photography.

Camera Gear and Portable Power

Data Backup and Security

Backup Solutions

Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an external hard drive/USB drive to back up photos and documents.

VPN for Secure Browsing

For secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi, consider a VPN service like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Recommended Apps

For navigation (Google Maps, AllTrails), weather (NOAA Weather), and ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), specific apps for airline and hotel bookings are also good.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Care & First Aid

A well-stocked health and wellness kit provides peace of mind.

First Aid Kit Contents

Medications and Sun Protection

Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with pharmacy labels. Bring a copy of the prescription or a doctor's note for any controlled substances.

Sun and Water Preparedness

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Remedies for Travel Comfort

Additional Comfort Items

  • A Neck pillow for flights or ferry rides.
  • Personal hygiene essentials are generally available, but pack specific brands if preferred.
  • Portable chargers are for long days of exploring when outlets are unavailable.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Quality waterproof hiking boots, Hiking poles (Black Diamond Trail Trekking Poles) for stability on uneven terrain, a Small backpack for day hikes, and a rain cover for your backpack.

  • Well-fitting, broken-in hiking boots
  • Moisture-wicking socks
  • Layered clothing, waterproof outerwear
  • Daypack with water and snacks

Water Activities Gear

A Dry bag for electronics (Sea to Summit Dry Bag) and a Waterproof phone case keep your devices safe.

  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Dry bag for valuables
  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
  • Water shoes or sandals

Wildlife Viewing Gear

Binoculars assist spotting distant wildlife.

  • High-quality binoculars
  • Camera with a zoom lens
  • Wildlife identification guide
  • Notepad and pen

Rent vs Buy Decisions

Items to Rent

  • Kayaks, canoes, fishing gear.
  • Bear spray is restricted on flights, so purchase or rent it locally.
  • Many tour operators provide needed gear for their activities.
  • Specialized equipment for specific tours is often part of the package.

Items to Bring

  • Well-fitting hiking boots.
  • Personal waterproof outerwear.
  • Binoculars and camera gear are best brought from home for comfort and familiarity.
  • A Lightweight daypack for daily excursions.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comforts and Security

These items contribute to comfort and security while traveling.

Comfort & Safety Essentials

Sustainable Travel Items

Eco-Friendly Packing

Destination-Specific Items

Bear Spray

Purchase or rent locally upon arrival; it is restricted on flights.

Compact Umbrella

Useful for light rain, but a good rain jacket is often more practical.

Local Guidebooks

For insights into Juneau's history, culture, and attractions.

Offline Maps

Download maps for navigation in areas with limited cell service.

Items Difficult to Purchase Locally

Specialty Gear

  • Good quality waterproof outer layers.
  • Well-fitting hiking boots are best purchased beforehand.
  • Specialized camera equipment or binoculars, if you seek specific models.

Considerations for Local Purchase

  • Sizes and selections can be limited in Juneau.
  • Prices may be higher compared to larger retail centers.
  • Plan ahead to avoid needing last-minute purchases.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack for unpredictable weather. Layers remain your best approach in Juneau.

Utilize packing cubes to organize clothing and maximize space. Distribute heavy items evenly in your luggage for easier carrying.