An Alaska road trip is one of the ultimate travel adventures. Whether you are driving the Alaska Highway through Canada, exploring Denali National Park, or heading up to the Arctic Circle, the journey requires planning. Distances are long, services can be sparse, and weather conditions can change quickly.
Packing the right gear makes all the difference between a smooth trip and a stressful one. This guide highlights 13 essentials for driving to Alaska, along with practical tips for making the most of your adventure.
1. Reliable Navigation Tools
Cell service is limited once you leave major towns, so do not rely only on Google Maps.
- Paper maps: Milepost Guidebook or official highway maps are invaluable.
- GPS device: A standalone GPS with offline maps helps when signals drop.
- Offline apps: Download maps in advance on apps like Maps.me or Google Maps.
2. Emergency Kit
Remote highways in Alaska and Canada can mean hours between towns. Be prepared for breakdowns.
- Jumper cables
- Tire repair kit and spare tire
- Flares or reflective triangles
- First aid kit
- Flashlight with extra batteries
Many travelers also carry a small toolkit for basic repairs.
3. Extra Fuel and Water
Gas stations can be far apart, especially on the Alaska Highway and remote routes.
- Fuel: Carry an extra gas can (safely secured).
- Water: At least one gallon per person per day for emergencies.
Running out of fuel or water in the middle of nowhere is one of the biggest risks of the drive.
4. Warm Clothing
Even in summer, Alaska weather is unpredictable. Nights can be cold, and mountain passes may bring sudden chills.
- Layered clothing: base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket
- Warm hat and gloves
- Insulated jacket for higher elevations or shoulder seasons
Pack for all seasons, even in July.
5. Food and Snacks
Do not expect to find restaurants or stores at regular intervals.
- Non-perishables like granola bars, trail mix, and canned goods
- Cooler with fresh items for picnics
- Camping stove or portable grill if you plan to cook
Food security is also about flexibility — you may not want to drive an extra hour just to find a meal.
6. Bear Safety Gear
Alaska is bear country. If you plan to camp or hike along the way, come prepared.
- Bear spray (know how to use it)
- Bear-proof food containers or coolers
- Knowledge of bear safety practices (store food away from tents, make noise on trails)
7. Camping Gear
Even if you plan to stay in hotels, having camping gear adds flexibility when accommodations are full or too far away.
- Tent, sleeping bags rated for cold weather, and pads
- Portable stove, fuel, and cookware
- Headlamp and lantern
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes can be intense in summer)
Many road trippers mix camping with lodge stays to save money and enjoy nature.
8. Binoculars and Camera
Wildlife sightings are part of the Alaska experience.
- Binoculars: Great for spotting moose, eagles, bears, and caribou.
- Camera: A good camera or phone with zoom helps capture landscapes and wildlife.
Keep gear handy — animals often appear without warning.
9. Important Documents
Crossing into Canada and Alaska requires the right paperwork.
- Passport or approved ID for border crossing
- Driver’s license and vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance (check if your coverage extends to Canada)
- Copies of reservations or permits for campgrounds and parks
Keep documents organized and accessible.
10. Cash and Credit Cards
While most towns accept cards, small businesses or remote gas stations may prefer cash.
- U.S. dollars for Alaska
- Canadian dollars for travel through Canada
- Emergency stash of cash hidden securely in your vehicle
11. Insect Protection
Alaska’s mosquitoes are legendary. Some areas have thick swarms in summer.
- Strong repellent with DEET or picaridin
- Mosquito head net (especially for camping or hiking)
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants for evenings outdoors
12. Entertainment for the Road
Driving to Alaska means long hours behind the wheel.
- Audiobooks or podcasts
- Offline playlists
- Travel journals or guidebooks for planning stops
Entertainment helps break up stretches between towns.
13. Patience and Flexibility
Perhaps the most important thing to pack is not physical. The Alaska Highway and other routes are long, remote, and subject to delays from weather, construction, or wildlife on the road.
- Be flexible with your schedule
- Allow extra time for detours or scenic stops
- Accept that part of the adventure is the unpredictability
Optional but Useful Extras
- Portable power bank or solar charger
- Folding chairs for campsites
- Compact shovel in case of snow or mud
- Travel insurance covering car breakdowns and medical emergencies
Pros and Cons of Driving to Alaska
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Freedom to explore remote landscapes | Long driving distances |
| Wildlife sightings along the way | Limited services in some areas |
| Scenic routes like the Alaska Highway | Unpredictable weather |
| Flexibility to camp or stay in towns | Border crossing paperwork required |
Suggested Itinerary Example
Day 1–2: Drive from Dawson Creek, BC (start of Alaska Highway) through scenic northern British Columbia
Day 3–4: Cross into Yukon, stop in Whitehorse, explore nearby trails
Day 5: Continue along the Alaska Highway to Tok, Alaska
Day 6–7: Drive to Fairbanks or Anchorage, with optional detours into Denali National Park
This is just one variation — many travelers mix in side trips to Dawson City, Wrangell-St. Elias, or Kenai Peninsula.
Conclusion
Driving to Alaska is not like an ordinary road trip. It requires preparation for remote stretches, changing weather, and limited services. By packing essentials like navigation tools, warm clothing, food, and bear safety gear, you will set yourself up for a safe and memorable journey.
The key is flexibility. Pack well, plan ahead, and embrace the adventure. The reward is one of the most beautiful drives in the world, filled with wildlife, mountains, and the wild spirit of the north.
FAQs
Do I need a passport to drive to Alaska?
Yes. You will pass through Canada, so a valid passport or approved ID is required for border crossing.
Is it safe to camp along the Alaska Highway?
Yes, but always follow bear safety practices and use designated campgrounds when possible.
How many days does it take to drive to Alaska?
Most travelers spend 5–7 days driving the Alaska Highway from Dawson Creek, depending on stops.
Are gas stations far apart on the Alaska Highway?
Yes. Fill up whenever possible, especially in remote stretches where stations may be 100 miles or more apart.
What is the best month to drive to Alaska?
June through September offers the best weather and open services. May and October can be riskier with snow and closed facilities.
