ALASKA RV dOCUMENTARY
BEARS, BEATS, BATTLING POTHOLES…
We spend 6 weeks RVing through Alaska in the summer and early fall of 2018. Alaska sounded like the ideal place to RV, camp and get away from it all.
This video combines all our Alaska episodes in to one "bingeable" documentary.
What to Pack:
Even in the summer, Alaska is going to be pretty chilly especially if the sun isn't out. Layers are going to be your best friend! Having to pack for all sorts of weather, and gear as well depending on what your planning to do, it's important to pack smart! Check them out at Tripped Travel Gear! They'll help you stay organized as well as packing for optimal space saving!
BUT IF WE HAD TO PICK JUST ONE, WE WOULD…
Transportation:
Best way to get around-
We opted for transportation that doubled as accommodation as we traveled through Canada into Alaska. If this isn't your cup of tea, look for flights into Anchorage which offers you the best variety of options as well as most likely the cheapest flights. There is also a ship you can take from Seattle right to Alaska if that's more your style! Once in Alaska, there are a variety of ways to get around. Renting a car is always a good option if where you're wanting to head to is a bit off the beaten path. There is also a train system that runs through Alaska and is catered towards tourists! Taxis and rideshares are not going to be as common so we don't recommend relying on that as your form of transportation. Alaska is BIG. Be sure to keep this in mind when planning travel times between destinations.
Language:
English is spoken in Alaska but there are also 20 Alaskan Native languages spoken as well.
Budget:
- backpacker avg. $60
- comfortable avg. $150
- luxury avg. $250+
Don't forget that there are fees to get into most of the parks in Alaska! They're typically around $10 for a pass.
Safety:
If planning on doing a lot of hiking, typical wilderness safety should be practiced. Be sure to read campground and trail rules thoroughly and to have a plan in case of an emergency. Always be sure to tell people when and where you are headed to just in case. While hitchhiking is common in Alaska, we definitely recommend being cautious and staying away from such situations especially if traveling alone.
When To Visit:
Alaska does have quite the tourist season from June to August. This is when the parks will be busiest and the prices for just about everything will raise. The shoulder season in May and September will give you just as optimal weather without the prices and crowds.
What To Eat:
Alaskan fish is incredible! The fresh salmon is the most widely known, but try the halibut and crab as well. If seafood isn't your thing, try the ever-popular reindeer. Wanting to crack open a cold one? You'll be happy to know that a ton of independent breweries have been popping up all over Alaska!
Resources
Having an RV to stay in a was a great way to save money while traveling around Alaska. While there are accommodations, you'll mostly be seeing hotels which can be pricey. Hostels and Airbnbs are becoming a bit more popular, but less reliable if you're looking to stay outside of the main cities. If you're up for the adventure, look into camping! Be sure to make reservations well in advance, though.
There is plenty to do in Alaska especially in the outdoors! Besides the many parks, you'll be amazed at the number of activities you'll find. Fishing, glacier hiking, skiing/snowboarding, just to name a few! Research where you're headed to find the top activities to do in that area.
