Frequently Asked Question: Clothing & Gear for Alaska

A common question is what clothing and gear to bring to Alaska — and, of course, what the weather will be like.

To imagine summer in Alaska, think of winter in Los Angeles or Israel, for example.
In other words, the weather can be anything.

So it’s important to be prepared for all conditions.

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General rule:

Plan to dress in layers and always prepare for colder temperatures.
If you’re lucky and it’s warm and sunny the whole time — that will be a pleasant surprise 🙂

Our Recommended Summer Packing List

Clothing (minimum essentials)
    •    Lightweight, quick-dry T-shirts (not insulated) — 2–3 pcs
(1–2 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)
    •    Thermal pants or leggings — 1 pc
(especially important if you are sensitive to cold)
    •    Lightweight hiking socks (not winter socks) — 2–3 pairs
    •    Fleece jacket or fleece layer
    •    Light down jacket (recommended)
    •    Hiking pants (quick-dry fabric)
    •    Uninsulated rain jacket
(can be a light ski shell; should fit over fleece or light down jacket)
    •    Rain pants (simple ones are fine)
    •    Swimsuit — for cold lakes or sauna lovers

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Footwear
    •    Waterproof hiking boots
(with a membrane like Gore-Tex or fully leather)
    •    Indoor / camp shoes — slippers or Crocs
    •    Rubber boots
(recommended for fishing and for children)

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Important items 
    •    Sun hat
    •    Warm hat (compact and lightweight)
    •    Gloves
    •    Sunglasses
    •    Flashlight or headlamp
(especially important starting from August)
    •    Sunscreen SPF 35 or higher
    •    Reusable water bottle
    •    Favorite mosquito repellent (optional)
    •    Personal first-aid kit
    •    Binoculars (optional)

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Additional Items for Day Hikes
    •    Trekking poles
(not mandatory, but highly recommended — basic ones are fine)
    •    Small daypack (20–30 liters)
(for extra layers, snacks, and water)
    •    Rain cover for backpack (recommended)

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For Overnight Camping Trips (Group Trips with a Guide)
•⁠  ⁠Comfortable backpack for multi-day hike
    •    Sleeping bag rated to at least –7°C (20°F)
    •    Sleeping pad
    •    Personal kit (cup, spoon, fork, bowl)
    •    Hiking sandals or Crocs
(for river crossings and to rest your feet in the evenings)

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Additional recommended items:
•⁠  ⁠Dry bags or zip-lock bags (to keep clothes and documents dry)
    •    Power bank 
    •    Earplugs 
    •    Lightweight towel
    •    Personal hygiene kit (wet wipes, toothbrush, etc.)
    •    Spare socks
    •    Small trash bag