Are there any "must pack" items we need to bring?
 

We are flying to Anchorage for a two week auto trip the end of July and visiting Denali, Fairbanks, Valdez, Seward, and Homer. Are there any items we should be sure to pack (or buy once there)?

The one thing I kept wishing I had was eye covers to sleep in. You just can't keep out the 24 hour light and it bothered my sleep.

We were hardly ever close to a store that would have them in Alaska. I'd buy them before you go and put them in your carry on bag. They might come in handy on the long flight.

Most of our hotel rooms had darkening shades, you may want to ask where you're staying. Make sure if you take any day cruises that you bring sweaters and gloves;even in July it can get very cold on the boats. Because you're going in July, I'd highly rommend bug spray.

Yes bring a wide range of attire. I also always bring a small cooler. binoculars are a must for each person.

We took sea bands etc in case of seasickness for the boat trip out of Seward. Warm hats. Last summer was hot. We should have brought sunscreen. No matter where we travel I always carry throat lozenges and herbal teas etc in case of sore throats and colds.

A rain jacket with big pockets and a hood was our MVP.

travel lite and hit a fred meyers (the walmart kmart of alaska) and get your gear although i definately agree on the eye shades have them at the get go. buy a cheap soft side cooler when you get there and the bug spray ,snacks, batteries film etc. may pay a little more but you aren't dragging all the extras there are stores in anchorage and fair banks and if you buy stuff you don't use, return it at either store. i am assuming you'll have a rental car so you can load it up. i had a head net but didn't use it, (low bugs when i was there). if you go on a glacier day cruise that takes you into the arctic ocean you may need some seasick medicine. my gortex jacket was my favorite (it also has big pockets and is good in windy contidions) trekking poles would also be a good thing to have. good luck hope you see the mountain.

You should get a MilePost guide now and read up on the areas you want to visit, lay out your routes and maximize your time.

July 18, 2003 we were in Denali when it started snowing. I was very glad to have my hat and gloves shoved in my jacket pocket.

Rain gear, camera and binoculars

The two things that are worth the investment, a good gortex but lightweight jacket for wind and rain and good binoculars, a pair for each of you (we spend $200 for waterproof ones recommended for birders, not that we are birders but they have the range and stability and clarity for animals and whales and such). For eye shades I recommend using one of those polar fleece headbands that are for skiers they are soft, washable, strechy to fit your head, some are a tube and some are a strip that fastens with velcro, they can double to keep your ears warm outside if necessary. I have used them for traveling all over (Europe, South America, Asia and yes even Alaska). Enjoy Alaska!