Guests are responsible for bringing adequate gear.
This packing list will help to ensure that you will have everything
you need for your trip with us. Plan your travel wardrobe around
informal and comfortable clothing. Even at mealtimes, dress
is casual. The weather in Alaska is quite variable so clothing
which can be layered is the most suitable; for example, wear
a light shirt with a wool sweater or fleece and a windbreaker
or jacket. Make sure you bring a high quality rain suit so that
even if it rains, you can stay comfortable outdoors and have
a great experience. Items made of wool or synthetic fabric remain
comfortable and warm even when wet. Cotton is not recommended
for any Alaska outdoor activity as the fabric does not easily
dry and once wet has no insulation. Cotton is suitable for walks
in towns, but not for camping or hiking.
Now, all this talk about weather is not meant to dampen your
enthusiasm about visiting Alaska. Unlike most people's stereotypes,
the Alaskan summer is usually quite mild (sometimes humid) with
temperatures in the fifties and sixties. We liken the Alaska
summer to spring or fall in other parts of the country. The
most reliable advice is to be prepared for any type of weather!
We carry with us an attitude of enjoying whatever comes our
way. We have found that when our gear and spirits are well suited,
the weather is always perfect!
PLEASE
NOTE: This packing list is designed for a trip 10 days
in length. You will need every item on this list, but please
consult your Trip Itinerary and pack according to your trip's
needs.
LUGGAGE:
We recommend you use duffel bags made of materials such as cordura,
canvas or nylon. Due to limited space in our luggage compartments,
please limit your gear to two medium size (24" x 12")
duffels or to one large size bag (30" x 14") and one
medium bag. Duffels are not mandatory, but they do store easily
in our vehicles. You can find some duffel bags with wheels for
easy travel.
HIKING BOOTS
OR SHOES: Comfortable, lightweight, and water repellent.
Many companies make lightweight hiking boots that are moderately
priced. Make sure these are well broken in, especially if all
leather. If you prefer strenuous hiking, you may want to invest
in rugged hiking boots. You may wish to put a coat of waterproofing
compound on your boots before arriving in Alaska.
DAY PACK: This will come
in handy for day hiking and van travel. This is not a frame
pack, but a smaller day pack variety with two shoulder straps
that you carry on your back. Large enough to hold rain gear,
extra sweater, water bottle, lunch, binoculars and anything
else you would take on a day hike.
RAIN
GEAR: During hikes, the rafting trip and the day on the
Kenai Fjords, a good quality rain suit (both top and bottom)
is a must to keep you warm and dry. It should be made of coated
nylon, with factory-sealed seams. The expensive Gore-tex variety
is not really necessary however, you may opt for this if you
think you may have use for it again. Heavy rubberized rain gear
will keep you dry, but it is bulky and heavy to carry. PLEASE
DO NOT BRING a plastic or vinyl rain suit or poncho, these tend
to tear easily and quickly become useless while hiking and rafting.
PANTS: Two to three,
with one pair a quick-drying, synthetic pant. Include a pair
of shorts, just in case!
SHIRTS:
Two to three, mostly long sleeved. A long sleeved, light colored,
tightly woven shirt is helpful for bug and sun protection. Bring
at least one non-cotton hiking shirt, preferably two, one long
and one short-sleeved.
WARM JACKET/SWEATER/VEST: Synthetic fleece or wool jacket
and a sweater make great layers for warmth. A fleece or wool
vest for early morning or late night chills..
WOOL
OR SYNTHETIC FLEECE HAT: You will not be sorry you brought
this item!
WOOL GLOVES: To keep your fingers warm when hiking, boating
or photographing outside. For kayaking, you will want to bring
some water proof gloves.
BRIMMED
HAT: For sun protection. Some who don't enjoy a hooded
jacket prefer a rain hat.
SOCKS:
Four pairs of wool or synthetic socks for hiking, plus adequate
lightweight socks to meet your personal needs.
LONG
UNDERWEAR: Do not bring cotton long underwear, as cotton
will make you colder if wet because it fails to insulate. Two
sets of polypropylene, capilene or thermax tops and bottoms
are recommended. Synthetic fabrics are designed to keep you
warm even when wet, wicking moisture away from the skin.
UNDERWEAR: Enough for
your personal needs.
PRESCRIPTION
MEDICATIONS: Make sure you bring an adequate supply for
the trip. Do not count on having your prescription refilled
during the trip.
INSECT
REPELLENT: Creams and pumps are more environmentally
friendly than aerosols. Mosquito head nets are available for
your use at Kantishna Roadhouse, Kenai Backcountry Lodge and
on the Alaska Camping Adventure.
Optional Items
SUNGLASSES & SUNSCREEN:
We are optimists, and sunshine in Alaska can be strong at
times. We strongly recommend that you purchase a good pair
of sunglasses with UV protection. You will appreciate the
protection from the harmful glare and reflections from the
snow and water.
FIELD GUIDES: For local
flora and fauna. See the recommended reading section for our
recommendations.
SPORT SANDALS: Comfortable
for saunas, lake dips, and van travel.
TRAVEL ALARM CLOCK: Battery
operated.
BINOCULARS: Highly recommended
and some guests feel that these are mandatory!
CAMERA/FILM/BATTERIES:
Don't forget extra batteries for your camera. Some types of
camera batteries can be difficult to find in Alaska. Film
and batteries can be expensive.
HIKING POLES: Wooden hiking
sticks are available at most lodges. If you prefer to bring
your own hiking poles, please bring ones that pack easily
(telescoping).
NECK GAITER: Fleece is
best. Great for protecting your neck from the breeze off the
water.
BOOT GAITERS: The Cordura
variety made by Outdoor Research work well. Gaiters offer
protection for your legs and pants from water, insects and
brush while hiking on the tundra.
LIGHT ROBE AND/OR SLIP-ON SHOES,
BATHING SUITS: For your stay at the Lodges, where the
hot tub is outside. Anything comfortable and packable works,
these items will make your evenings in the lodges just a little
more relaxing.
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