Alaska is a dream destination for many travelers, but this beautiful state comes with its own set of challenges. From my perspective, these challenges can be overcome with the right amount of planning.
Each year, I talk to seasoned travelers who would have preferred to make slight tweaks when navigating Alaska’s vast landscapes and rugged conditions.
So I thought writing a post about their feedback could help ensure a smooth and rewarding journey as you head up this way to Alaska and help avoid these common mistakes that visitors often make.
1. Underestimating the Size of Alaska
One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is assuming that they can cover vast distances in a short period of time. Alaska is massive—larger than Texas, California, and Montana combined. Even seasoned adventurers used to road-tripping through large states often misjudge travel times here. Driving from Anchorage to Fairbanks alone takes around 7 hours on the highway (it takes me a lot longer since I often find myself pulling over to take photos of the beautiful mountains or want to spend some time observing wildlife), while smaller towns and national parks can take much longer to reach.
It’s worth mentioning that many remote locations are only accessible by small plane, boat, or ferry, and some flights are highly weather-dependent.
Pro Tip:
Plan your itinerary carefully and focus on one or two regions instead of trying to see everything in one trip. If you're used to fast-paced travel, consider slowing down and savoring the scenery rather than rushing from one destination to another.
2. Not Packing for Unpredictable Weather
Alaska’s weather is highly unpredictable. Even in the peak of summer, temperatures can range from the mid-30s to the 70s (°F) in a single day, and rain is common, particularly in coastal areas like here in Juneau and Ketchikan. Wind chill can make temperatures feel much colder, especially on boat excursions or in mountainous regions.
You’re also more likely to be out and about hiking or viewing Alaska’s gorgeous mountain peaks. Therefore, you’ll be more exposed to the weather conditions (vs. being inside somewhere). Having more exposure to these conditions may make for more discomfort if you’re not dressed in layers.
Pro Tip:
Dress in layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and pack sturdy, waterproof footwear. I pulled together a blog post about what to pack for a more in-depth view of how to pack for your Alaska vacation. Even in the summer, gloves and a hat can be useful in coastal or mountainous areas. Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-dry fabrics rather than cotton. If you plan to hike or camp, pack a high-quality down jacket and a lightweight yet durable rain shell.
3. Assuming You Can See the Northern Lights Anytime
Many travelers arrive in the summer expecting to see the northern lights, only to be disappointed. The aurora borealis is only visible when the sky is dark enough, typically from September to early April. Even during the prime aurora season, cloud cover and solar activity play major roles in visibility.
Pro Tip:
If seeing the northern lights is a priority, plan your visit for the fall or winter months and monitor aurora forecasts. Stay in locations with minimal light pollution, such as outside of Fairbanks or remote lodges. Use apps like Aurora Forecast or NOAA’s space weather prediction center to track solar activity.
4. Not Booking Popular Excursions in Advance
While some activities are great for last-minute travelers, many of Alaska’s most sought-after excursions—like bear viewing at Brooks Falls, multi-day glacier trekking, and Denali bus tours—sell out months in advance. Even flights to smaller towns such as Gustavus (for Glacier Bay National Park) can book up early, making last-minute changes difficult.
In this article: Best Last-Minute Tours and Activities that Don’t Require Reservations might be a helpful resource for you as you plan your adventure in Alaska.
Pro Tip:
If there's an excursion you’re set on experiencing, book it as early as possible to avoid disappointment. For high-demand tours like bear viewing, consider flexible dates and book backup excursions in case of cancellations due to weather.
5. Ignoring the Importance of Bug Protection
Alaska’s mosquitoes are legendary, often referred to as the “unofficial state bird.” In the summer, especially in inland and forested areas, they can be relentless. Even travelers who have experienced buggy destinations like the Amazon or Canada’s north can be surprised by the sheer number of mosquitoes in the Alaskan wilderness.
Pro Tip:
Bring insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin, wear long sleeves and pants, and consider a bug net if you plan to hike in mosquito-heavy areas. Treat your clothing with permethrin for added protection, and avoid hiking near stagnant water sources in peak mosquito season (June–July).
6. Not Researching Wildlife Safety
Alaska is home to bears, moose, wolves, and other large wildlife. Many visitors, even experienced hikers, don’t realize how dangerous these animals can be when approached too closely. Moose, for example, can be aggressive and unpredictable, especially during calving season in spring and the rut in fall. Bears are common in both backcountry and urban areas, particularly near salmon streams.
In most of the National Parks and commonly sought out locations, there are quite a few signs and reminders about wildlife and keeping your distance.
Pro Tip:
Learn proper wildlife safety before your trip. Carry bear spray when hiking, make noise on trails to avoid surprising animals, and always keep a safe distance. If camping, use a bear-proof food container and follow Leave No Trace principles to avoid attracting wildlife.
7. Overpacking or Underpacking for Outdoor Adventures
Some travelers bring too much gear, weighing themselves down, while others underestimate the essentials they need for Alaska’s rugged conditions. Even seasoned outdoor enthusiasts can struggle with what to pack for Alaska’s unique terrain and climate.
Pro Tip:
Pack smart—bring high-quality outdoor gear but avoid unnecessary bulk. Consider renting specialized equipment (like crampons for glacier hikes or extra layers for winter excursions) instead of carrying it with you. Always bring a satellite communicator or GPS if heading into remote areas.
8. Skipping Travel Insurance
Alaska’s remote nature means that medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost baggage can be more complicated and costly than in other destinations. Medivac evacuations from remote areas can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Pro Tip:
Invest in comprehensive travel insurance, especially if you plan on adventure activities or traveling to remote areas where medical services are limited. Ensure your policy covers emergency evacuation and adventure sports.
9. Not Taking Advantage of the Alaska Marine Highway
Many visitors don’t realize that Alaska has a ferry system that connects coastal towns, offering an affordable and scenic alternative to flights. Ferries provide access to places like Ketchikan, Sitka, and Haines, which may not have road access.
In my personal experience, the Marine highway is an awesome way to move from one small port town to another. However, there have absolutely been times when the ships stop working and you get stranded at a town until they get the ship up and running. One major lesson I learned was that where the ferry stops is often not within walking distance of the ‘town’ itself (and requires a transfer which sometimes only takes cash).
Pro Tip:
Check ferry schedules in advance and consider using the Alaska Marine Highway for a unique and relaxed way to explore coastal Alaska. Walk-on passengers usually don’t need reservations, but if you’re bringing a vehicle, book in advance.
Final Thoughts
To help make the most of your time here in Alaska, truly consider a thorough planning phase before heading up here. While it may seem like an easy state to navigate from a quick glance at a map, there are several intricacies and nuances that may throw a bump in your experience.
My goal for you is to have the best Alaska experience when you head up this way. I want you to love your time here. I want you to love your experience here (and of course, I want you to come back time and time again!).
Alaska is an incredible destination, but it requires careful planning—even for seasoned travelers. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can focus on making unforgettable memories in the Last Frontier. Whether you’re road-tripping, hiking, or wildlife spotting, smart preparation will help you get the most out of your journey.
If you have any questions about your itinerary, feel free to drop me a line here and I am happy to discuss.