Pre-Trip Checklist: Seward

Essential Preparations

A chronological guide to ensure a smooth journey to Seward.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Plan your trip effectively with these timed recommendations.

-6 Months Before Trip

Book Flights

Secure flights to Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). Prices tend to rise.

Book Major Accommodations

Popular places sell out quickly in summer. Secure your stay in Seward.

Book Major Tours

Reserve Kenai Fjords National Park cruises, fishing charters, or multi-day tours. Limited capacity.

-2 Months Before Trip

Book Car Rental

If you plan to drive extensively, confirm your rental car booking, ideally at ANC.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage.

Review Packing List

Go through recommended packing and purchase any required gear like a Waterproof jacket or Hiking boots.

-4 Weeks Before Trip

Confirm All Reservations

Double-check all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings. Contact providers with questions.

Notify Bank/Credit Card

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans to avoid transaction issues.

Download Essential Apps

Download navigation apps (with offline maps), weather apps, and any specific wildlife guides.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items well in advance, especially for peak season.

Reservations

Flights to Anchorage.
Accommodation in Seward (hotels, B&Bs, vacation rentals, RV parks).
Alaska Railroad or bus transfers from Anchorage to Seward.
Major tour excursions (Kenai Fjords cruises, fishing charters).

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights to refine your itinerary and expectations.

Areas of Focus

Weather Patterns: Understand Seward's maritime climate.
Local Events/Festivals: Check for Mount Marathon Race or Silver Salmon Derby.
Specific Tour Operator Reviews: Read recent reviews.
Trail Conditions: Check for higher elevation trails or snow later in the season.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure peace of mind while you're away by handling these home details.

Mail & Deliveries

Hold mail services.
Stop newspaper delivery.
Manage any recurring package deliveries.
Set vacation hold dates accurately.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet care (sitter, boarding).
Organize watering for house plants.
Ensure automatic watering systems are functional.
Leave clear instructions for caregivers.

Home Security

Secure your home, lock all windows and doors.
Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of travel dates.
Set light timers for a lived-in appearance.
Activate home security systems.

Final Week Preparations

Pack essential medications and travel documents in your carry-on. Fully charge all electronic devices and power banks (Portable power banks are useful). Check the 7-day weather forecast for Seward for final packing adjustments. Complete online check-in for flights and confirm transfers.

Arrival Checklist

Your first few hours in Seward set the tone for your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Collect Luggage
Retrieve all checked luggage from the airport carousel.
2
Locate Transportation
Find your rental car counter, bus pickup point, or train departure area.
3
Confirm Route
Double-check the route and estimated travel time to Seward.

Orientation Strategies

Seward Visitor Center
Make this your first stop for maps, current information, and local advice.
Familiarize Yourself
Spend time understanding the layout of downtown, Small Boat Harbor, and landmarks.
Motion Sickness Medication
If prone to seasickness, take medication before any boat trip after arrival.

Initial Purchases & Transfers

Currency Exchange

Ensure you have some United States Dollars (USD).

Access to an ATM for immediate needs.

Initial Purchases

Buy water, snacks, or any immediate necessities.

Consider items for your accommodation or first activity.

Transportation to Accommodation

Utilize pre-booked transfers (rental car, bus, train shuttle).

Consider taxi or the local summer shuttle to your stay.

Airport Transfer Tip

If flying into Anchorage, the Alaska Railroad (alaskarailroad.com) is a scenic way to travel to Seward.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth exit from Seward and Alaska.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs well in advance of departure, not last minute.
If buying large items or frozen fish, coordinate packaging and shipping with local businesses.
Be mindful of customs regulations for international shipping of goods.
For fish, check specific airline rules for carrying frozen goods.

Tax Refunds

VAT Refund Procedures: This is not applicable in the U.S.
The United States does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.
Prices shown include all applicable sales taxes where they exist (Alaska has no state sales tax, some local sales taxes apply).
Keep receipts for your own records, but no refund process is needed.

Pre-departure Timing

Allocate ample travel time to Anchorage for your departing flight.

Travel Estimates

Drive from Seward to ANC:Approximately 3 hours
Train/Bus journey:4-4.5 hours
Add buffer time:For potential road closures, traffic, or unexpected delays.
Useful:Especially during summer peak season.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm Flight Status: Double-check before heading to the airport.
Luggage Requirements: Check airline weight and size restrictions.
Rental Car Return: Return your rental car with a full tank (unless pre-paid).
Allow time for the return process at the airport.

Document Organization

Use a separate small pouch or envelope for important documents like passports, tickets, and reservations.

Keep it easily accessible but secure, preferably in your carry-on.

Pre-Trip Checklist