1. Alaska Is Bigger Than You Think (And Takes Time to Explore)
Many visitors underestimate Alaska’s size. The state is over 663,000 square miles—twice the size of Texas! Here’s a really awesome image of Alaska fitting overtop the United States and it helps show the size of the state. Driving from Anchorage to Fairbanks takes about 6–7 hours, and getting to remote areas often requires flights or long ferry rides.
Unlike in the Lower 48, you can’t just hop in a car and expect to reach your destination quickly. Roads are limited, weather conditions can change suddenly, and travel delays are common. Plus, stopping to view wildlife, the mountain scenery and enjoying the Alaska sun are mandatories for your vacation.
If you're visiting multiple regions, consider booking flights on Alaska Airlines or Ravn Alaska rather than driving long distances. Planning accordingly will help you avoid spending too much of your vacation in transit.
2. Weather Changes Constantly—Pack for All Conditions
Alaska’s weather is fairly unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can range from 40°F to 80°F in the same day. Rain showers can appear suddenly, even when the forecast looks clear.
As mentioned in my ultimate packing article here, I would highly recommend dressing in layers and including a waterproof jacket. There’s a difference between the coastal, ocean front Southeast Alaska towns and Fairbanks during the heat of the summer (Southeast Alaska tends to be cooler, breezier and often rains). If you’re hiking, pack extra socks and gloves in case of unexpected rain or wind.
Winter travelers should prepare for extreme cold, especially in places like Fairbanks and the Arctic, where temperatures can drop well below -40°F. A good rule of thumb: consider types of clothing for every season, no matter when you visit.
3. Wildlife Is Everywhere—Give Animals Their Space
Moose standing in a stream on my way to Denali
You have probably seen videos online of people getting too close to wildlife. I get it. Wildlife is majestic and wanting to be close to them almost feels like a calling. However, wildlife is still wild, unpredictable and requires space (even as humans, most of us feel uncomfortable when someone is in our ‘bubble’, aka the immediate space around us). Keeping your distance is a safety mechanism not only for yourself, but for the wildlife as well.
Tourists often get too close to bears, moose, and other wildlife for photos, sometimes with dangerous consequences. A moose is as dangerous as a bear, as they are territorial and can charge at high speeds. Bears, despite their bulky appearance, can run faster than a racehorse. Always follow the 100-yard rule for bears and keep at least 25 yardsaway from moose. Never feed wildlife, and always store food properly while camping or hiking. If you see a bear on a trail, back away slowly—never run.
Carry bear spray if you're hiking in bear country as well as bear bells - and know how to use it properly. Respecting wildlife means ensuring both your safety and the well-being of the animals.
4. The Midnight Sun & Long Winter Nights Are No Joke
In summer, some parts of Alaska up North get 24 hours of daylight, which can make it hard to sleep if you’re not used to it. Bring an eye mask even if the hotel / lodge / etc. have blackout curtains. The extra daylight also means many businesses stay open later, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed well into the night. In winter, some areas barely see the sun for weeks.
If you're visiting during December or January, be prepared for short daylight hours (as little as 3–4 hours in some places). The darkness can impact mood and energy levels, so plan accordingly by getting outside as much as possible and adjusting your sleep schedule.
5. Tipping & Prices Reflect Alaska’s Higher Costs
When I first moved up here, there were 3 things I used to look at to compare prices in Alaska to the lower 48: Peanut Butter, Gas and McDonalds. Each of these items in Alaska fluctuated overtime and each of them remained higher than down south. As I would travel through Southeast Alaska, the cost of peanut butter would increase (over $15 for a small jar of Jif!) and McDonalds are nonexistent.
Alaska imports most of its goods, making things more expensive than in the Lower 48. A gallon of milk can cost $6–$10, and restaurant meals are pricier than you might expect. Gasoline, groceries, and souvenirs all come at a premium, especially in remote areas.
When dining out, expect to tip 15–20%, just like in the rest of the U.S. Guides, drivers, and lodge staff often rely on tips, so budget accordingly if you’re booking excursions. If you're looking to save money, consider buying groceries in larger towns like Anchorage or Fairbanks before heading to more remote locations.
6. Not Every Town Is a Tourist Attraction
Many visitors expect every Alaskan town to be a charming village filled with log cabins and sled dogs. The reality is that some places, like Anchorage and Fairbanks, are more urban and industrial. While these cities offer conveniences like shopping, museums, and great restaurants, they aren't necessarily the picture-perfect Alaskan wilderness people imagine.
If you want remote wilderness and scenic small towns, visit places like Wrangell, Talkeetna, Haines, or Kodiak. If you’re on a cruise, stick to Southeast Alaska for picturesque port towns like Sitka and Skagway. Knowing what to expect can help set the right travel expectations.
7. Cash Is Handy—But Credit Cards Work Almost Everywhere
Major towns accept credit cards, but some remote areas (like small fishing lodges, rural villages, or certain ferry services) may be cash-only. Many places in Alaska also have limited ATMs, and some charge high withdrawal fees. If you’re traveling off the beaten path, bring some emergency cash. In smaller towns, having $100–$200 in small bills can be useful for tipping guides, buying local crafts, or paying for unexpected expenses.
8. Bugs Can Be Worse Than the Bears
Mosquitoes in Alaska are relentless, especially in June and July when the wetlands and tundra are teeming with them. These aren’t just minor nuisances—Alaska mosquitoes are aggressive and abundant, sometimes forming thick clouds in heavily wooded areas. DEET-based repellent, bug nets, and light-colored clothing help keep them at bay. If you’re hiking, watch out for biting flies and no-see-ums, which can be just as bothersome. Bring anti-itch cream or hydrocortisone to help with bites, and if you're camping, choose windy areas or places away from standing water to minimize exposure.
9. The Northern Lights Aren’t Visible in Summer
Northern Lights from my balcony
Many visitors expect to see the aurora borealis in June or July, but Alaska’s long daylight hours make that nearly impossible during the summer months..
Generally speaking, the best time to see the northern lights is September through March, with peak visibility on cold, clear nights. When there’s cloud coverage, the chances for spotting them decrease significantly. There are quite a few apps that you can download to your phone that will notify you if they come out (depending on your geo-location).
For the best chance of seeing them, head away from city lights, check aurora forecasts, and stay up between 10 PM and 3 AM. In places like Fairbanks and Coldfoot, the aurora is visible on most clear nights in winter. If you visit in summer, consider booking a winter trip to experience the lights properly.
At the base of the tallest totem pole in Alaska -Kake, Alaska
10. Leave No Trace—Respect the Land & Indigenous Cultures
Alaska is home to rich Native cultures, protected lands, and fragile ecosystems. Many areas are part of tribal lands, and it’s important to be respectful when visiting. Follow Leave No Trace principles, which means packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and avoiding picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Don’t take souvenirs from nature—rocks, driftwood, and even antlers are part of the ecosystem and should be left behind. Before taking photos of indigenous art, people, or villages, ask for permission. Supporting local businesses and respecting tribal lands helps preserve Alaska’s unique heritage.
Final Thoughts
Alaska is an incredible place to visit, but it requires preparation and respect. Just like most things in life, you get out of it what you put into it. Read up. Talk to friends who have been to Alaska. Probably the best piece of advice I can give is to embrace every moment you have here - come rain or shine.