How To Plan a Trip to Alaska

Accounting for about 20 percent of the total area of the United States, Alaska is vast and largely unsettled. Due to its location and sheer size, travel to Alaska requires special planning.

When planning a trip to Alaska, follow these steps:

1. Carefully plan when to go. Summer is the most popular time for a trip to Alaska, as the days are long, with moderate daytime temperatures. May and September are the least busy months. Winter brings sub-zero temperatures and limited daylight.
2. Plan transportation to, and within, Alaska. To reach Alaska, you can drive, fly, and take a ferry or cruise, or some combination thereof.  Alaska is at least a thousand miles from most points in the United States, so unless you have a few weeks on your hands driving may not be the best choice.
3. Decide where to stay. Depending on the area, Alaskan lodging choices range from campgrounds to luxury hotels. Research your options and make reservations early.
4. Plan what to see and do while visiting Alaska. Make a list of sightseeing priorities and then research what is available at the time of your visit. During summer, take advantage of the midnight sun; in winter, you can enjoy the northern lights. And if Juneau is on your list, keep in mind that Alaska is the only state whose capital cannot be reached by land.
5. Choose what you will take. Temperatures in Alaska vary greatly and the weather can change suddenly.  Carry appropriate clothing for the season and plan to dress in layers. If driving to Alaska, carry water, food, blankets, and a first-aid kit.
6. Plan for emergencies. While most Alaskan cities and major highways are covered, cellular service is not available in much of the state and along much of the Alaska Highway, especially in Canada.

A road trip to Alaska can be several thousand miles. If driving to Alaska, ensure that your vehicle is in top condition and be familiar with rules and restrictions at Canadian border crossings.

If flying, Alaska has four international airports with regular service from many cities. Make RV or car rental reservations when booking your flight.

By sea, the Alaska Marine Highway System provides ferry service from southern ports in Washington and British Columbia. Tour the Inside Passage, along the Alaska Gulf and on to the Aleutian Chain - and take your vehicle with you! Also, several cruise lines offer a wide variety of Alaskan vacation packages.

Within Alaska, rail and/or bus service is available in various areas.  In some instances, biking or walking can be a great way to see the sights.  However, for travel to remote locations, a chartered plane is often the only option.