Summers in Alaska look great on Instagram. Sunlight stretching until midnight, bald eagles on standby for photo ops, cruise ships gliding through glassy water. But those of us who have actually lived there know that The Last Frontier can be equal parts breathtaking yet, will present some mild challenges. The trick is packing gear that keeps you warm, dry, bug-bite-free, and at least somewhat dignified.
Here are six items you’ll thank yourself for having when your summer trip in Alaska doesn’t go quite as “Disney nature film” as you expected.
1. Binoculars
If you plan to spot bears, whales, or your own dignity after a wet hike, a solid pair of binoculars is mandatory. Alaskan wildlife doesn’t exactly pose for close-ups. They’re usually a respectable hundred yards away (and that’s exactly how you want it). Good optics let you “oooh” safely from a distance without becoming part of the food chain.
What we use: Maven C.1 – www.mavenbuilt.com
Budget friendly option: Nikon Prostaff P3 – www.nikonusa.com
2. Bug Headnet
The Alaskan mosquito is less insect, more lifestyle. There are days when you’ll swear they’re carrying tiny tool belts and union cards. A headnet may not win you any fashion awards, but it will keep you from swatting furiously like a malfunctioning wiper blade. Pro tip: Get one that has the smallest mesh. You can still see, but it keeps all the bugs away from your face, including the smallest ones.
What we use: Sea to Summit Mosquito Head Net with Insect Shield – www.seatosummit.com
3. Gloves
Summer days can go from sunburn to frostbite faster than you can say “Where’d I leave the coffee?” Whether you’re gripping an oar, a fishing rod, or a camera, lightweight gloves keep your hands comfortable and slightly more Instagram ready than purple and chapped. Go with something quick-drying, and malleable gloves. You’ll use them more than you think.
What we recommend: REI Flash Power Stretch Gloves – www.rei.com
For the Fly Anglers: Simms Windstopeer Flex Fishing Glove – www.simmsfishing.com
4. Sunscreen
Yes, sunscreen. Despite the whole “Arctic” thing, summer sun in Alaska is relentless, especially when it bounces off snow, water, or cruise-ship decks. Nothing says “novice traveler” like a bright red nose in your bear-viewing photos. Apply liberally; you can thank me when your face doesn’t glow under the midnight sun.
What we use: Sun Bum Roll On Lotion – www.sunbum.com
5. Lightweight Puffy, Windproof Jacket
Alaska has a special skill, making 55°F feel like 30°F when the wind picks up. A light, windproof puffy will be your best friend during these conditions. They pack small, warm fast, and can double as a pillow when you’re trying to nap through a bush plane flight. Bring one, even if you think you won’t need it. You will.
What we use: Patagonia Nano Puff Insulated Hoodie – www.patagonia.com
6. Yeti Tumbler or Rambler
Whilst on a fishing boat, float plane, or glacier cruise, hydration is important, whether it’s coffee during early fishing mornings or something “warming” for those long glacier sunsets. A Yeti tumbler keeps your drink at just the right temperature and subtly signals to every outfit around that you came prepared. Also, there is something about always having your own mug that is very satisfying. The 20 oz Tumbler or Rambler seems to be the perfect size for travel, and they fit in cup holders well.
What we use: Yeti 20 fl. oz Tumbler or Rambler Stackable cup – www.yeti.com
Pro Tip: Reasons You Should Buy Your Gear In Alaska, Not Before
Local Staff, Local Knowledge – Whether fly fishing or Bear Viewing, or both, all the items mentioned above can be sourced locally in Alaska shops. Staff at these shops aren’t just salespeople, especially at the independent outfitters. They’re hunters, fishers, hikers, and mountaineers who know firsthand what works and what fails in Alaskan terrain and weather. So, they know. If you’d like a list of shops we recommend, feel free to get a hold of us. If ordering over the phone, make sure to do it plenty of time in advance, in case they have to order.
No Sales Tax – Another benefit to purchasing in Alaska, particularly in Anchorage, is that there is no sales tax. Buying gear can get pricey. Why not save a few bucks where you can? Anchorage, Alaska is home to many small businesses that are outfitters and carry the gear mentioned, so check there first. If not, then you can check local box stores.
Pre-Order and Have Them Hold it For You – Many local shops will allow you to preorder and they will hold it, and will call for you until you arrive. This saves on luggage space (at least on the way up to Alaska). Just remember you’ll need space to bring gear back home.
So there you have it, six essentials that stand between you and either a successful adventure in Alaska or an embarrassing cameo on a “When Nature Wins” compilation. Alaska rewards the prepared, punishes the overconfident, and laughs silently, like a glacier calving at anyone who thought “it’s probably fine.” Pack smart, stay warm, and remember: there’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad planning (and really smug locals).
Leave a Reply