PACKING FOR YOUR ALASKAN TRIP

Alaska is a casual place, formal dress is quite uncommon. The most important factor for visitors and Alaskans is comfort, which can translate into staying warm and dry. The weather can vary greatly throughout the state. Fairbanks will often reach temperatures into the 80s in July; the day before you may be in Juneau and experiencing wet weather in the low 50s. The weather can change quickly; especially the area surrounding Mt. McKinley and the Alaska Range.

The simple solution is to dress in comfort; wear your clothing in layers. Alaskans have found that dressing in layers provides the best protection against the elements and unforeseen changes in the weather patterns. Three layers of clothing will provide comfort for almost any summer day;
A waterproof coat (your shell layer).
A wool or fleece sweater or liner (your insulating layer), and an undergarment such as ultra-light long underwear top,
A turtleneck or a comfortable protective long sleeve shirt (your undergarment layer).
It is worth it to bring a pair of rain-pants that can comfortably fit over your day pants.

Footgear should be suitable for hiking and walking in wet conditions. It is advisable to wear shoes that are comfortable, can sustain a long day on your feet, and provide support and warmth. It is important your shoes are broken in. Wool socks provide warmth and protection for your feet if your shoes should become damp. It is worthwhile to bring a warm hat, rain hat and gloves, especially when on board a ship for protection while viewing wildlife and glacier calving.

You may want to consider bringing insect repellent, sunscreen and a folding umbrella. Unless you plan on spending quite a bit of time out hiking early in the summer, mosquitoes are not a common problem. If you take mosquito repellent with you, and a head-mosquito net you should be comfortable through out the day.There are laundry facilities along the way; there is a laundry facility in every community. Many of the B&Bs have laundry facilities or would be happy to wash and dry several items for you.

Several good websites to look at outdoor gear and clothing are:
www.backpacker.com
www.cabelas.com
www.rei.com