It's a good idea to be prepared for any vacation, but especially a luxury Alaska vacation. Alaska is a state filled with awe-inspiring nature and incredible excursions that you'll want to be dressed properly for, so you won't miss a minute.
That being said, you'll want to bring some of the following essential items before you head off to one of America's most extreme, but extremely wonderful, climates.
Your Ultimate Checklist For An Authentic Alaska SUMMER Vacation
When you choose to vacation in Alaska, you're choosing one of the top nature vacations you could ever hope for. Compared to other states, Alaska 33,000 miles of coastline and boasts 100,000 glaciers, 29 volcanoes and the largest population of brown bears in the world.
Here's what you need to be prepared for trekking this amazing and wild state to your heart's content:
1. Your financial necessities.
It may seem obvious to bring your credit and debit cards with you when you head out for vacation, but it's necessary to point out that you'll also want to bring along cash. It is customary to tip bush pilots and guides, and cash is still king in Alaska! Carry your cards and money in a traveler's wallet for easy, but secure, access.
It's also a good idea to contact your bank to let them know you're traveling so they won't freeze your account once you've made a purchase in another state. Many remote lodges are so safe that you won't even have locks on your doors, but you can request a personal safe for your own peace of mind.
2. Clothing layers.
Whether it's early, mid or late summer, you'll want to be sure you're ready for the Alaskan weather. Rain and wind are common, as are LONG sunny days. Dress in layers and avoid cotton. Synthetic and lightweight merino wool blend fabrics wick away chilling moisture and insulate even when wet. Bring along short sleeve and long sleeve thermal shirts and a waterproof jacket.
You'll also want to bring along a hooded fleece, sun hat, warm headband and quick-dry pants. You can always add on or remove layers as the weather changes, but only if you bring them. Guests at Stillpoint Lodge can borrow backpacks to carry all your layers plus rain jackets, rain pants, rubber boots, and paddling gloves, but you'll need something for the rest of your travels around the state.
3. Sturdy footwear.
Many walkways, trails and roadways in Alaska are not paved, so sturdy footwear is a must even if you're not planning on hiking. But, you'll want to bring more than hiking shoes when you plan your Alaska vacation.
Wool or wool blend socks are great for keeping your feet warm and feeling dry while walking through the state and national park hiking trails and on boats. Always carry an extra change of socks in your backpack, especially if your shoes aren't waterproof. The last thing you want is your feet getting wet while trekking around Alaska.
Also, plan to take your shoes off inside... it is customary to remove your shoes at the door and leave the dirt outside... it's the Alaskan way! Hiking boots are great if you're planning to do some moderate to challenging terrain, check with the guide in advance for what they recommend for the trips you have planned. Guests at Stillpoint Lodge can borrow trekking poles and backpacks for our day hikes.
Alaska is known for its fresh air, wildlife, glaciers and glorious wilderness. When you stay in one of the beautiful luxury all-inclusive resorts like Stillpoint Lodge you get to enjoy the wonder of Alaska with all the comforts of home. To book your own vacation at one of Alaska's luxury lodges, contact Stillpoint Lodge!
