If you’re wondering what to pack for Alaska, you’re not alone. Alaska’s weather is unlike anything else in the United States. It’s unpredictable, unforgiving, and packing the wrong gear can turn a dream trip into a cold, wet nightmare.
We’ve spent years filming in Alaska for shows like Deadliest Catch and Life Below Zero, working through everything from coastal rainstorms to freezing interior winters. This Alaska packing list is built from real-world experience. We’ve suffered through the elements and figured out what actually works, so you don’t have to.
Whether you’re visiting in summer, winter, or somewhere in between, this guide breaks down exactly what to pack for Alaska so you stay warm, dry, and ready for anything.
Table of contents
- What to Pack for Alaska by Season
- Essential Clothing for Alaska (The Layering System)
- Rain Gear for Alaska (Don’t Skip This)
- Best Shoes to Pack for Alaska
- Accessories You’ll Wish You Packed
- What Camera Gear to Pack for Alaska
- What NOT to Pack for Alaska
- Alaska Packing Checklist (Quick Reference)
- Final Thoughts on What to Pack for Alaska
- Plan the Rest of Your Alaska Trip
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend gear we actually use or trust.
What to Pack for Alaska by Season
One of the biggest mistakes people make when figuring out what to pack for Alaska is assuming the weather behaves like the rest of the U.S. It doesn’t. I’ve experienced sun, wind, rain, hail, and snow all in the same afternoon.
The key is packing for your specific season while still being ready for quick weather shifts.
What to Pack for Alaska in Summer
Summer is the most popular time to visit Alaska, but it’s not “hot” in the way most people expect. Temperatures are usually mild, but mornings and evenings get chilly, and rain is always a factor.
What to pack:
- Lightweight base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Fleece or light insulated jacket
- Waterproof rain jacket (non-negotiable)
- Hiking pants (avoid jeans)
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- Hat and light gloves (yes, even in summer)
👉 Pro tip: Coastal areas like Southeast Alaska are wet and windy, even in peak summer. Check out our full guide on: Summer in Alaska.
What to Pack for Alaska’s shoulder seasons
The joke goes, “Spring and fall are the best weeks of the year in Alaska.” And it’s true. They’re short and beautiful, but they’re also some of the most unpredictable times to visit. You can get a mix of conditions—rain, snow, wind, and the occasional warm sunny day—all within a few hours.
What to pack:
- Full layering system
- Heavier rain gear
- Waterproof boots
- Warm mid-layers
- Beanie and gloves
- Insulated boots
The old adage I constantly hear from old-timers is, “Cotton kills.” If you get wet, you don’t want to stay wet. So skip the cotton.
What to Pack for Alaska in Winter
Winter in Alaska is no joke—especially if you’re heading inland. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, and staying warm isn’t just about comfort—it’s about staying alive.
What to pack:
- Heavy insulated winter jacket
- Thermal base layers (top + bottom)
- Insulated snow boots
- Thick wool socks
- Gloves, hat, and face covering
- Hand warmers
👉 Reality check: Interior Alaska can hit -60°F in winter. That’s not “cold vacation” weather—that’s dangerous. Your gear matters. Honestly, if you don’t absolutely have to visit Alaska in the dead of winter, don’t. It’s easily the Worst Time to Visit Alaska.
Remember to always check the latest Alaskaweather forecast.
Essential Clothing for Alaska (The Layering System)
If there’s one thing to understand when figuring out what to pack for Alaska, it’s this: layers matter more than anything else.
Alaska weather changes fast. You might start your day in the sun, hit cold wind by the water, and end up in the rain—all within a few hours. The layering system is how you stay comfortable through all of it.
Instead of packing bulky clothes, you’ll want a few versatile pieces that work together.
This is what I do when I’m working in Alaska and it’s what the National Park Service also recommends.
Base Layer (Moisture Management)
Your base layer sits directly against your skin, and its job is to keep you dry. Once you get wet in Alaska—whether from sweat or rain—you’ll get cold fast, and you won’t warm up until you dry out.
What to look for: Basically “long underwear”
- Moisture-wicking material (merino wool or synthetic)
- Lightweight and breathable
- Long sleeves for cooler temps
Avoid:
- Cotton: It traps moisture and stays wet. Remember, “Cotton Kills!”
👉 This is one of the easiest upgrades you can make to improve comfort in Alaska. I basically live in my long underwear up there. Outside of winter, I run hot, so half the time I’m just wearing a solid merino wool base layer and shorts—basically bush leggings.
My favorite brand is Minus33. Their merino wool gear is super comfy and holds up well.
Mid Layer (Insulation)
Your mid layer is what keeps you warm. This is the piece you’ll constantly be adding or removing throughout the day depending on conditions.
I usually wear a T-shirt under mine. It adds another layer of warmth, and I’m not just standing around in my skivvies whenever I peel my fleece off.
What works best:
- Fleece jackets
- Lightweight down or synthetic insulated jackets
Why it matters:
- Traps body heat
- Easy to adjust as temperatures change
Outer Layer (Weather Protection)
Your outer layer, or “shell,” is what protects you from wind and rain—and in Alaska, that’s everything.
What to look for:
- Fully waterproof (not “water-resistant”)
- Windproof
- Breathable if possible
Best option:
- A quality rain shell you can wear over your other layers
👉 I personally like Arc’teryx, Fjällräven, and The North Face. But production usually pays for my gear, so I know those brands aren’t realistic for everyone. If you’re on a tighter budget, Columbia still makes solid rain gear that’ll get the job done.
Not sure what kind of weather you’ll be dealing with? Check out our guide to Alaska weather to plan ahead: Alaska Weather Guide (coming soon)
Rain Gear for Alaska (Don’t Skip This)
f you get one thing right when deciding what to pack for Alaska, make it your rain gear.
I don’t think most people realize Alaska has rainforests because they don’t picture cold rainforests—but yeah, Alaska has literal rainforests. It gets wet. And not “light drizzle” wet. Think steady rain, wind, and mist that soaks through to the soul.
We’ve spent long days filming shows like Port Protection and The Deadliest Catch, where shutting down because of bad weather isn’t an option—it is the story. So trust me when I say we know what works, what keeps you dry, and what doesn’t.
Don’t mess around with cheap rain gear up here.
Waterproof Jacket (Your Most Important Item)
A solid rain jacket is the single most important thing in your Alaska packing list.
What to look for:
- Waterproof and breathable — Alaska rain gear needs to keep heavy rain and wind out while still letting heat and sweat escape so you don’t get soaked from the inside. Features like pit zips or side vents are a huge bonus during hikes or long days outside.
- Built for movement — Look for lightweight, flexible jackets that won’t restrict movement while hiking, fishing, climbing into boats, or layering underneath.
- Adjustable hood and cuffs — A solid hood, adjustable cuffs, and a drawcord hem help seal out wind-driven rain and keep warmth in.
- Durable enough for real weather — Alaska weather is hard on gear. Look for a tough outer shell that can handle constant moisture, abrasion, and long days outside.
- Water-resistant zippers and secure pockets — Wet gear ruins phones and cameras fast. Quality zippers and protected pockets make a big difference in Alaska.
What to avoid:
- Cheap “emergency” rain jackets
- Anything labeled only as “water-resistant”
👉 I mentioned it earlier, but it’s worth repeating. Arc’teryx, Fjällräven, The North Face, and Columbia are all great options.
Rain Pants (Underrated but Clutch)
It took me way too long to commit to rain pants. They’re clunky, uncomfortable, make getting boots on a pain—I hate rain pants.
But if I’m working on a boat, hiking in Southeast Alaska, or spending long days near the water, I wear them. Because a wet ass sucks. Honestly, it’s the worst.
By all means, don’t wear them if you don’t have to. But if you think you might need rain pants, you probably do.
Now, you don’t need the heavy-duty Grundéns bibs we wear on crab boats for The Deadliest Catch—those are overkill for most travelers unless you’re heading out in serious weather. But good lightweight rain pants are absolutely worth packing.
Why Rain Pants Matter
- Keep your legs dry during prolonged rain
- Block wind (huge on boats and coastal trips)
- Let you sit or kneel in wet environments comfortably
- Add an extra layer of warmth on cold, windy days
👉 Not always necessary for casual trips, but if you’re doing anything outdoors or on the water, they’re a game changer.
Planning to spend time on the water? Check out our guide to what to wear on an Alaskan boat for more specifics. What to Wear on an Alaskan Boat: Full Breakdown (coming soon)
Best Shoes to Pack for Alaska
Choosing the right footwear is a big part of figuring out what to pack for Alaska. Between rain, uneven terrain, and long days on your feet, your shoes can make or break your trip.
Rubber Boots (The Alaska Staple)
If it isn’t raining in Alaska, it just finished raining, it’s snowing, or the snow is melting. All of that turns into mud.Add in wet docks, endless coastline, and rivers to fish, and you need a boot that can handle pretty much everything.
Instead of owning five different pairs of boots, just buy the Xtratufs.Xtratufs are to Alaska what skinny jeans and oat milk lattes are to LA—they’re baked into the culture.
Everyone owns a pair, and there isn’t a place in Alaska where it would feel weird to see someone wearing them.
There are all kinds too: insulated ones for winter, low-cut slip-ons (not exactly practical, but my personal favorite), and some even have marine artwork printed on the inside.
Xtratufs are the boots of Alaska—functional and fashionable. Get yourself a pair and you’ll stay dry while buying yourself a little bush cred.
Why they work:
- Completely waterproof
- Built for wet, slippery conditions
- Easy to clean
When you need them:
- Fishing trips
- Docks
- Rainy towns
- Muddy trails
- Beach hikes
- Questionable dive bar bathrooms
- Alaska
👉 If your trip involves water at all, remember to check the Marine weather forecast, weather changes in a hurry out here.
Waterproof Hiking Boots
A good pair of hiking boots is a must if you’re doing any serious trails in Alaska. Rubber boots are great, but hiking long distances is about the only thing I wouldn’t prefer them for.
Why they work:
- Ankle support
- Keep your feet dry in light rain and mud
- Provide support for long days exploring
Casual Shoes (For Town + Travel Days)
You’ll want something comfortable to change into after a long day outside. Nothing feels better than taking off boots at the end of the day and slipping into something comfy.
What works:
- Sneakers
- Lightweight walking shoes
- I’m a socks and sandals guy
👉 Good for:
- Restaurants
- Travel days
- Hanging out in town
Accessories You’ll Wish You Packed
Once you’ve got your main gear sorted, it’s the small things that make a big difference. These are the items people forget when deciding what to pack for Alaska—and the same ones they end up buying (or wishing they had) once they’re there.
Most of these don’t take up much space, but they can seriously improve your trip.
Bug Spray + Head Net (Don’t Underestimate This)
Alaska mosquitoes are basically the state bird. I’m joking… but the mosquitoes aren’t—especially in the summer and anywhere near water.
The first summer I spent in the Interior, the mosquitoes formed black clouds at dusk, almost like the bats in Austin, Texas.
Yeah, you’re gonna want bug spray.
What to bring:
- Strong bug spray (DEET or similar)
- Head net for heavy bug areas
👉 If you’re hiking or spending time outdoors, this goes from “nice to have” to essential fast.
Dry Bags (Keep Your Gear Safe)
Between rain, boats, and general moisture, keeping your stuff dry is a constant battle in Alaska. I always have one for camera batteries and cards, and maybe a sandwich.
Why they’re useful:
- Protect phones, cameras, and extra layers
- Great for boat trips or kayaking
- Lightweight and easy to pack
👉 You don’t need anything big, just get one for the group. Earth Pak’s are great.
Sunglasses (Glare is Real)
This one surprises people, but Alaska can be incredibly bright—especially around water, snow, or glaciers. On sunny days, the glare can be downright blinding.
Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t like wearing sunglasses?
Why they matter:
- Reduce glare off water and ice
- Improve visibility while driving or boating
- Better chance at looking cool.
👉 Polarized lenses are a solid upgrade here.
Gloves + Beanie (Even in Summer)
It doesn’t have to be winter for Alaska to feel cold—especially early mornings, evenings, or on the water. It can and does snow in the summer.
👉 Small, easy to pack, and you’ll be glad you have them.
Binoculars (Totally Worth It)
Alaska is all about wildlife—whales, bears, eagles—and a lot these critters won’t be super close.
👉 This is one of those items people don’t think about until they wish they had it. I have a pair of these and love them. Nocs Provisions makes a super small and powerful bino.
QUICK ACCESSORY CHECKLIST
Easy wins to throw in your bag:
- Bug spray
- Head net
- Dry bag
- Sunglasses
- Gloves + beanie
- Binoculars
👉 These are lightweight, inexpensive, and high impact.
Looking for a trail to hit? Homer has some great options. Check out our full guide: Hiking in Homer, Alaska: FULL GUIDE & Trail Suggestions
What Camera Gear to Pack for Alaska
There’s a reason why National Geographic kept me working in Alaska for so long. It’s beautiful, Alaska is one of the most photogenic places on earth—glaciers, wildlife, mountains, and endless coastline. But it’s also one of the hardest environments on gear. Cold, moisture, and long days will test your setup fast.
After years filming in Alaska, we’ve learned that bringing the right camera gear—and protecting it properly—makes all the difference.
Camera (or Smartphone—Just Be Ready)
They say the best camera is the one you have on you. Most people aren’t trying to shoot magazine-worthy photos—they just want to capture special memories and once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Honestly, what you already have in your pocket is probably enough camera gear for your Alaska trip. Most modern smartphones are incredible. Don’t overthink it.
With that said, if you do want a more serious setup, I’ve got you covered. DSLR Cameras today are insanely powerful, and choosing one usually comes down to personal preference and what you’re trying to achieve. Do you need super high resolution, video, slow-mo? There’s a lot to consider.
Personally, I shot Canon for years, and I still think Canon produces a superior image straight out of camera. The colors just look better to me. But the documentary television industry has largely shifted toward Sony, and these days I shoot on a Sony A7R V.
It’s an incredible camera, and if you’re serious about photography, it’s a fantastic option for Alaska.
Extra Batteries (Cold Kills Them Fast)
Cold weather drains batteries way faster than normal. The colder it is, the faster they die. This catches a lot of people off guard.
So bring extras!
Pro Tip: Rubber band some hand warmers around you’re batteries, it’ll keep them from dropping so fast.
Lenses (If You’re Bringing a Camera)
Alaska has a mix of wide landscapes and distant wildlife, so versatility helps. If you only have room for one lens, make it a versatile one, like a 24-105mm. It’s not the sexiest option, but you’ll be able to do the most with it
If you have more room, prioritize these:
👉 A doubler is a great way to extend your lens without taking up alot of space.
Tripod (Optional but Worth It)
A tripod isn’t essential for everyone, but it’s a massive upgrade if you’re serious about photography. It’s basically mandatory for northern lights photography. If you’re shooting long exposures, you’re gonna want a tripod.
Why bring one:
- Stability for low-light and long-exposure shots
- Better landscape photography
- Time-lapses
- Selfies and group shots
Dry Protection
Most good DSLR cameras are water resistant, but you still want to keep your gear dry. Rain and spray are constant in Alaska, especially on boats or near the coast.
What to bring:
- Dry bag (from earlier section 👀)
- Microfiber cloths for lenses
We’ve spent years filming in Alaska for shows like Bering Sea Gold and The Last Alaskans. You can read more in our complete guide: Filming in Alaska: Everything You Need to Know.
What NOT to Pack for Alaska
I hate checking a bag, but when you’re packing for an Alaska trip—especially in the winter—it’s almost impossible to avoid.
That said, there’s still plenty of stuff you can leave behind.
Skip These
- Heavy cotton clothing – Holds moisture, stays wet, and gets cold fast
- Umbrellas – Wind and sideways rain make them basically useless
- Too many outfits – You’ll rely on layers, not variety
- Cheap rain gear – If it’s not truly waterproof, it won’t hold up
- Bulky single-purpose items – They eat up space without adding flexibility
👉 Pro Tip: Buy your Xtratufs after you land and wear them home. You’ll save a ton of luggage space not packing bulky boots.
Alaska Packing Checklist (Quick Reference)
Here’s a simple Alaska packing checklist you can use before your trip:
🧥 Clothing
- Base layers (wool or synthetic)
- Mid-layer (fleece or insulated jacket)
- Waterproof outer layer
- Hiking pants
- Extra socks
🌧️ Rain Gear
- Waterproof jacket
- Rain pants (optional)
- Rubber boots (buy there)
👟 Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Casual shoes
🎒 Accessories
- Bug spray
- Head net
- Sunglasses
- Dry bag
- Gloves + beanie
- Binoculars
🎥 Camera Gear
- Camera or smartphone
- Extra batteries
- Optional tripod
- Dry protection
Want a simple, printable version of this list? Download our Alaska packing checklist PDF so you don’t forget anything before your trip.
Final Thoughts on What to Pack for Alaska
Packing for Alaska isn’t about bringing more—it’s about bringing the right gear.
The biggest mistake people make is underestimating how wet and unpredictable it can be, especially along the coast. If you focus on layering properly and invest in solid rain gear, you’ll be comfortable in almost any condition.
After spending years working and filming in Alaska, we’ve learned that preparation makes all the difference. The gear in this guide is what actually holds up when it matters.
No matter when you’re visiting, knowing what to pack for Alaska will set you up for a better trip—so you can focus on the experience instead of the weather.
Plan the Rest of Your Alaska Trip
Now that you know what to pack for Alaska, here are a few more guides to help you plan your trip:
- 👉 Plan Your Alaska Trip
- 👉 Best Time to Visit Alaska
- 👉 Best Shoes for Alaska
- 👉 What to Wear on an Alaskan Boat