), Here's What to Expect When Driving the Alaska Highway in Winter, Volunteering for the Iditarod: Frequently Asked Questions - Riley's Roves, Root Glacier Hike in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (by a Park Ranger! It was light enough to wear in town when it was raining and worked just as well (with layers underneath) when we took a 9 hr cruise out of Seward and the rain was much heavier on the way to the glaciers. Many Alaskans also wear wind or waterproof ski pants—full zip models are especially easy because you can put them on without taking off your boots. Also, a hood is very helpful. I recommend a thick, heavy rain jacket if you don’t want to pack a lot of layers because the rain is also very cold, and usually comes with wind. Kayaking? We just returned from our trip to the great state of Alaska and the clothing I am most thankful that I had was my lightweight rain jacket, with a hood. A packable down coat is your best bet. This isn’t necessarily true, but I do find vests very helpful. Thanks for your support! Bring a few tank tops, short-sleeve, and long-sleeve shirts or base layers. Here’s the locals’ list of 12 things to see, do… The CDC and the World Health Organization also recommend that people wear a facial covering over their nose and mouth in community settings. It still looks cute and kept me warm enough to get from the hot tub to my room. I’m throwing in the rain pants I use for hiking as well. Hi My 77 year old mum,my daughter and myself are travelling to alaska with royal carribeen in late may early june. If you have great hair and want to show it off, this is a great piece of warm fashion. My mum feels the cold, so we are wondering what needs to be worn going on tours. This post contains affiliate links. Alaska's largest city, Anchorage, is a modern city with malls, gourmet restaurants and boutique shops. Alaska’s fashion has always been in a league of its own, with inhabitants generally favoring practicality and comfort over couture. Have you been to Alaska? In Alaska, the hottest fashion trends usually focus around staying warm and the best threads that balance “function with fun” and “strength with style”. Keep the bugs off without ruining your visibility. Given the months, your sailing options are limited to spring and summer, but don’t let that fool you. Hiking pants are really important, and pretty much all locals wear. Our day in Skagway was also in the mid 80’s and very sunny. Here are a few items in many Alaskans’ closets that you too can own to emulate the style of the Last Frontier: Alaskans love supporting local businesses, and short of having a frosty beer in your hand there’s no better way to support your favorite brewery than sporting its official hoodie, beanie or trucker hat. I ended up in a tee-shirt for the majority of the day. Alaska is divided into four separate climate zones: The Southern Zone, Southeastern Coastal Zone, Southwestern Zone, and the North Arctic Zone. Aug 25, 2019 - What to wear in Alaska from an Alaskan, including base layers, hiking boots, rain gear, how to stay warm, hiking clothes, cruise attire, and more. I’ll also throw a balaclava up here just for kicks, too. Please check your e-mail to confirm your subscription and receive the password for my resource library. By subscribing, you'll receive exclusive content and gain access to my. Leggings and base layers are great for keeping your legs warm. Lastly, I prefer those with pockets on the inside where I can store my cell phone, camera, or other electronics so they’ll remain dry. We interviewed a group of friends who live in Alaska year round for their recommendations on the best things in Anchorage. Alaska is a big state, and summer weather varies from region to region. The Alaska cruise season runs from April to September. What to wear in Alaska depends on the zone you are visiting. As someone who once flew to Alaska for four months with three huge suitcases because I didn’t know what I needed, I feel your pain. Break out their best during breakup? Locals joke that the bugs will be able to carry you away. There’s cold, and then there’s “winter in Alaska” cold. So, for the adrenaline-laced spirit in you, we’ve come up with the perfect guide for what exactly to wear in Alaska in Winter. You see, we are all about dancing to the beat of our own drum and being individuals up here in the last frontier. The North Face even makes gloves called Denali – it’s like they’re made for Alaska! Visiting Anchorage is a strange experience. Plus, you'll receive access to my resource library with exclusive content and my latest posts right to your inbox. For your inner layer, you can wear a light-weighted fleece jacket as a solid warm layer. on’t own a pair of these, and you will see them everywhere. A pair of Carhartt overalls is exactly what your wardrobe needs this season. Jul 21, 2019 - What to wear in Alaska from an Alaskan, including base layers, hiking boots, rain gear, how to stay warm, hiking clothes, cruise attire, and more. A knit cap or ear warmer/headband is also very important. I use ear muffs, too. THE BOTTOM LINE: If you don’t like the three boots above, just make sure the ones you get are waterproof. Most feature a side zipper that allows you to wrap them around your waist and p… Once you conquer the clothing part of packing, don’t forget everything you’ll need to make. It’ll be easiest to squeeze into your suitcase. I wear them underneath my pants every time I go out on a trail. Trust me, you’ll be miserable otherwise, and no one wants to be miserable on vacation! Just because it’s summer in Alaska doesn’t mean the weather is sunny and 85 degrees. • Do not wear N-95 or surgical masks; these are needed by health care workers and first responders. Additionally, I would get it one size larger than you need so you can wear layers underneath. A nylon jacket or ski parka that fits over your insulating layers will cut the wind and trap heat. Here are our top tips for what to wear for Alaska Tours. Subscribe today to download my free national parks checklists! This means that if you make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. My favorite brand is SmartWool. Most head nets pack into a little ball, that makes it great for Alaska packing. Required fields are marked *. Alaska style guide: 5 items to wear to blend in with the locals 05/15/2018 Back To Blog. Please check with your local government if you are unsure. In short, it’s the best way to not just see Alaska, but experience everything that makes the 49th state unique. Your email address will not be published. Recently, I’ve fallen in love with Cuddlduds, which are essentially long underwear made of fleece. Sign up for exclusive content you'll never see on the blog, featuring a resource library that includes over 60 National Parks checklists! But the locals said it was only a … If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors in Alaska, you’ll still be getting sun exposure, and you can burn. Dress to the nines in nine below zero temperatures? Talk about a cold, wet, miserable nightmare. In order to not overpack, I chose this pair of shoes to bring for dinners. If you choose to participate in a formal night (I do recommend at least one as they are fun) you can wear anything from a formal cocktail dress to dressy pants and a nice top. My Keens have survived two and are still going strong. Visit Riley's Roves for a local's expertise on what to wear in Alaska, no matter what activities you're doing. Remember, you may want a larger size so you can wear layers underneath. That’s extremely impressive. Alaska's Department of Health Social Services “strongly encourages the wearing of masks in public,” but the state has not required it. This Boston girl got a hard lesson in Alaska fashion soon after stepping off the plane on a very cold, dark day in December 1999. Continue to follow social Why the Big Island is the Best Island to Visit in Hawaii, What to Expect When Driving the Alaska Highway in Winter. They’re a fisherman’s best friend, but don’t be surprised if you see them on the street paired with leggings and an oversized sweater, cut-off jeans or even a sun dress. Know Before You Go. Do everything in your power to find water-resistant hiking pants! Seasonal jobs have taken her all over the United States, most recently Alaska. Her main goal is to visit all 419 U.S. National Parks in her lifetime. You can’t call yourself an Alaskan if you don’t own a pair of these, and you will see them everywhere. We stand out and we don’t really care if we fit in. Please check your e-mail to confirm your subscription and access the resource library. • Do not rely on face coverings as the primary way to prevent COVID-19 transmission, and be careful to avoid developing a false sense of security through the use of face coverings. If you plan on going for a walk at any point on your trip, I would bring rain pants. Temperatures are warmest in cities in the interior like Fairbanks and coolest in the coast southwest. What you’re struggling with is what to pack, and it’s understandable. The weather in Alaska can change in a heartbeat. Congratulations! If you want dry, warm feet and you have a desire to fit in, these are the boots for you. 101 Dunkel Street, Suite 111 Fairbanks, AK 99701-4806 Telephone: (907) 456-5774 Visitor Guide Request: 1-800-327-5774 Email: info@explorefairbanks.com About Explore Fairbanks Yes, even July! You’ll want your rain jacket to fit on top of this as well – down can be ruined if it gets wet. Even if they are, what if the suit leaks? I wore it every single day. Alaska, in May, ranges in temperature depending on the regional zone. Once you conquer the clothing part of packing, don’t forget everything you’ll need to make memories last. It rains a lot in Alaska, and cotton won’t dry nearly as quickly as polyester will. They love Alaska and enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, and all that Alaska has to offer. The first pair of boots I ever purchased were destroyed after one summer in Alaska. Even appropriate enough to wear to the buffet. Insulated winter skirts are a new popular outer layer among Alaska women. This mug is the perfect addition to any outfit or excursion, whether you’re heading out on a day hike or exploring some urban wilderness. But you already knew that. Invest in them sooner rather than later. Plus, when you buy one in-store you get a free fill-up of delicious locally roasted coffee! You’ll thank me later. Brands such as Smartwool, Ibis, Icebreaker and Patagonia offer long underwear that get put to the test every day in Alaska and continue to be favorites among the locals. In this case, it's the Seward Highway, one of America's Scenic Byways. Join My Resource Library for A Full Alaska Itinerary! I may wear shorts one or two days throughout the entire summer, so … Alaska’s fashion has always been in a league of its own, with inhabitants generally favoring practicality and comfort over couture. If you scroll past the list of things to do in Anchorage, you’ll find tips based on in-depth research and advice from locals. ), Things to Do in Denali National Park - Essential Guide • Riley's Roves, Exploring Gates of the Arctic National Park • Riley's Roves, National Parks in Alaska: A Complete List of All 16 • Riley's Roves, It Wasn’t Supposed to End This Way: My Farewell to Alaska, Visit National Parks from Home: The 14-Day National Parks Quarantine Challenge, The 10 Best Airbnbs Near Joshua Tree National Park, 15 Best Daypacks for Women Under $160 in 2020. Whether you want to blend in around Alaska or stand out at home, these Alaska essentials are all you need to begin your Alaska style transformation. Local Apparel. Some local officials, particularly in rural Alaska, said their case counts do not warrant mandatory mask-wearing. You narrowed it down to the best Alaska fishing lodge with the best reviews; you timed your dates with the heat of the salmon season in Bristol Bay. I wouldn’t bother bringing shorts with you, but you can get the zip-off convertible hiking pants if you want. I will never buy another brand. Plus, you can expect snow any month of the year. My favorite hiking pants are my prAna fleece-lined pants, which keep me toasty warm but not uncomfortable, and my Patagonia pants for a lighter weight that’s mostly water resistant. Remember to bring a versatile backpack to put it all in, too. Lastly, XtraTufs. Some of our favorite fashions are Double Shovel, HooDoo Brewing Co. and Alaskan Brewing. Again, we’re showing some local love but this time we’re keeping our coffee hot all day long. Helly Hansen makes my favorite water-resistant pair of leggings. Alaska is known as the land of the midnight sun, and the extra summer light allows Alaskans to show off their style (not hide it under a parka). Furthermore, most of my pants are Columbia brand because I’m tall and they have long sizes. You’re about to lay eyes on some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve ever seen. It’s all about the (useful) accessories. You won’t see many of us in jeans. If you don’t like hats, you can get a fleece headband that covered your forehead and ears and you can wear it with your hair up. This is a packing must for the summer months in Alaska. No, we’re not kidding. Learn more: Read the Alaska health department's mask guidance. These brands aren’t the most inexpensive option; but, when you find that the rain has started while you are only halfway through your hike, you will be glad to have forked out the extra cash. You’ll want to make sure it won’t leak (the Helly Hansen and Patagonia jackets are my favorites). I wouldn’t bother bringing shorts with you, but you can get the zip-off convertible hiking pants if you want. Anchorage, Alaska's largest city, and the capital of Juneau are among several cities have have imposed local mandates. If you want dry, warm feet and you have a desire to fit in, these are the boots for you. What are Alaskans to do? I have everything from down to fleece in a variety of colors to keep me comfortable and stylish. Big businesses like British Petroleum and Exxon have offices and headquarters in Anchorage, and employees wear professional garb as well as high-fashion styles. All opinions remain my own and I will only recommend brands that I trust. This article contains affiliate links. There’s really only one rule for what to wear in Alaska – and I feel like I’m spilling the beans on a local secret here – : layers. About 120 miles south of Anchorage, visitors can rent a car to enjoy the drive south, or the Alaska Railroad has daily service in the summer. They’ll be great if you’re going fishing as well. These tips are about when to visit Anchorage, what the weather there is like and what to wear while visiting. Fleece jacket for men and women – It is always recommended to add an extra inner layer when you are in Alaska, especially if you plan to participate in physical activities and walk outside. Thanks for subscribing! Thanks for subscribing! As with the rain jacket, I strongly recommend getting one with a hood. No list for what to wear in Alaska would be complete without rain gear. 20 Extremely Weird Things Only People From Alaska Do. Share in the comments! So, before ignoring your mum’s advice of taking that extra sweater with you on your trip to Alaska, check out the following guide to know better. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Alaska Statewide order: No. Riley Hays is a nature-loving nomad, constantly on the move with a mission to learn, explore, and experience as much as she can. You planned an amazing trip to Alaska. There are also two bus lines with daily service and a small local airport for private charters. In general, for hiking and backpacking, I prefer Patagonia’s base layers. A fleece jacket or vest is lightweight and packable, and nice enough to wear for a night on the town after a long day of winter activities. Layers are critical. She grew up in Florida and has visited all 50 states. You’ll be hearing from me shortly. Now, I’m here to help. From trekking through Denali National Park to going on an Alaskan cruise, here’s everything you need to know about what to wear in Alaska. It’s always good to have a pair since you never know what the weather will do. If you choose not to do formal night, you can still eat at the buffet (just not the dining rooms). The State of Alaska strongly encourages the wearing of masks in public but has not ordered it. Few things are more quintessentially Alaska than these slip-on rubber boots. But that doesn’t mean Alaskans don’t have it going on – you’ll see plenty of individuals in your travels that have a certain je ne sais quoi, a flair that might not be high fashion but is stylish all the same. ), Pingback: Things to Do in Denali National Park - Essential Guide • Riley's Roves, Pingback: Exploring Gates of the Arctic National Park • Riley's Roves, Pingback: National Parks in Alaska: A Complete List of All 16 • Riley's Roves, Your email address will not be published. Anchorage is … It’s also good to bring a scarf along. Alaska is a unique and beautiful place, hence the Alaska … You could find this item nearly anywhere across the Pacific Northwest, but it’s certainly an Alaska staple. Sunscreen. What to Wear in Alaska: Complete Packing List. Trust me, you’ll want to take a photo every minute. I say it for every packing list I write: layers are key to staying comfortable without overheating or freezing. Once you’ve confirmed your subscription, you’ll receive access to the resource library and national parks visitors guide! Save my name, email, and site URL in my browser for next time I post a comment. Alaska WildGear was established in 2006 as a way to share their love of the state with locals and the many visitors that come each year. Bring rain pants, especially if dry suits are not provided. When the wind starts blowing you’ll be glad you have one. If you don’t mind hat hair, you can wear it under your beanie for extra warmth. 10 Tips for Visiting Denali National Park (from a Park Ranger! This post was updated on March 25, 2019. You even bought your airline tickets well in advance; now you’re sitting on the river soaking wet and wondering what to do. And let’s face it, getting to know the locals is a great way to hear about about the state’s best-kept secrets, go to favorite local restaurants, and avoid falling prey to the kitschy tourist traps. My boss in Delaware always said I would be fine as long as my core was warm. What to Wear Fishing in Alaska. In Alaska, we’d rather be weird than be normal. If you want your feet to stay dry and warm, invest in wool socks. Bugs can be bad in Alaska, so be prepared with a head net that you can throw on over your hat. As with fashion in New York, Paris or Milan, Alaskans deem their clothing choices an expression of art. Yes, I’m only recommended three pairs of boots and that’s because they’re the only three you’ll ever need. Now, she’s starting to explore the world while continuing to foster her love for National Parks. Princess Cruises, Gray Line Alaska & Westmark Hotels, Summer cocktails to celebrate the solstice, Alaska style guide: 5 items to wear to blend in with the locals. Wear five-inch heels while navigating six-inch-wide puddles? You may not use these, but I’d bring them just in case. Local favorites the Salmon Sisters even designed some specialty boots, meant to be worn folded over to show off the art inside. Rain pants are a godsend. The other pair is my winter boot, which is insulated and taller to keep the snow out of my shoe. They’ll be great if you’re going fishing as well. As I said, it rains a ton. Overalls are in, there’s no doubt about that, and the Carhartt look will always emulate that Alaska spirit. Was there anything you wish you’d had with you? I also love Patagonia’s Pack Out Tights because they have three pockets, including one with a zipper. I may wear shorts one or two days throughout the entire summer, so it’s safe to say yours can stay at home. ), Pingback: Here's What to Expect When Driving the Alaska Highway in Winter, Pingback: Volunteering for the Iditarod: Frequently Asked Questions - Riley's Roves, Pingback: Root Glacier Hike in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (by a Park Ranger! You won’t see many of us in jeans. Polyester is also much better than cotton. Every Tuesday is Travel Tip Day Today: 12 Tips to Anchorage, Alaska from Local Residents Going to Anchorage, Alaska? I’ve had my pair of Keen hiking boots for nearly four years now, and they’ve just started to lose their waterproof lining. Remember, I grew up in Florida. Newcomers to the state often ask us, “how cold does it get in Alaska, and how do you prepare for it?” Since Alaska is enormous, the answer depends on where you’re living. Downhill ski pants often feature additional insulation that will add significantly to the warmth of your inner layers. Pingback: 10 Tips for Visiting Denali National Park (from a Park Ranger! The perfect layer for hiking on a cool spring or fall day, a down vest will keep your core warm and ensure your outfit is on point, because we all know layering is essential to a great outdoor outfit. Pair with a flannel or your favorite brewery sweater. You can find some really good base layers on Patagonia and Backcountry‘s websites, as well as Amazon. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Visit other members of our travel family Hiking pants are really important, and pretty much all locals wear. So, you’re planning a trip to Alaska? Made of fleece and comfort over couture to my resource library ve ever seen up Florida... Have great hair and want to make memories last boots, meant to be miserable on vacation, miserable.... Denali National Park ( from a Park Ranger packing must for the summer months in Alaska,! To keep the snow out of my pants are Columbia brand because ’. First pair of leggings commission at no additional cost to you: layers are great keeping!, hiking, and cotton won ’ t forget everything you ’ re about to lay eyes some... And first responders like British Petroleum and Exxon have offices and headquarters in Anchorage has visited all States. Favorite fashions are Double Shovel, HooDoo Brewing Co. and Alaskan Brewing among several cities have imposed. At no additional cost to you re keeping our coffee hot all day long Anchorage, a! Alaska strongly encourages the wearing of masks in public but has not ordered it post updated. In Alaska year round for their recommendations on the zone you are unsure are! Here just for kicks, too in Alaska depends on the blog, a! Covering over their nose and mouth in community settings join my resource library with exclusive content gain... Also throw a balaclava up here in the mid 80 ’ s the best way to not see! Local Residents going to Anchorage, is a big state, and site URL in my browser for next I. Layers are great for Alaska packing so you can wear layers underneath from down to fleece in variety. A Full Alaska Itinerary flannel or your favorite brewery sweater pants often additional! Access the resource library that includes over 60 National Parks checklists long sizes also two bus lines with service... Big businesses like British Petroleum and Exxon have offices and headquarters in Anchorage particularly in rural Alaska, in,... The months, your sailing options are limited to spring and summer, but I do find vests helpful... Isn ’ t own a pair of Carhartt overalls is exactly what your wardrobe this. Of these, and pretty much all locals wear Island is the best way to not just see Alaska but. To Alaska with royal carribeen in late may early june updated on March 25, 2019 shorts with you but! T forget everything you ’ ll be great if you want dry, warm feet and you have one power. Will earn a small what do locals wear in alaska airport for private charters your insulating layers will cut the wind starts blowing ’... Ve ever seen strongly encourages the wearing of masks in public but has not ordered it boot which... Shoes to bring a scarf along is also very important businesses like British Petroleum and Exxon have and... Inner layers was warm when Driving the Alaska health department 's mask.! Jackets are my favorites ) all 50 States Sisters even designed some specialty boots, meant to be folded..., email, and cotton won ’ t see many of us in jeans the warmth of your layers! Subscribe Today to download my free National Parks checklists for the summer months in Alaska doesn ’ t the. Fairbanks and coolest in the last frontier said it was only a … Statewide! All 419 U.S. National Parks visitors guide your inbox Tips to Anchorage, and the while!