Alaska is a very large, diverse and wonderful state. Looking to better prepare yourself before your Alaskan holiday? Use the frequently asked questions below to better understand our geographies, climates and travelling customs.
All our lodging, attractions and sightseeing experiences will be open for the summer season with ongoing enhanced cleaning and social distancing protocols. Learn more by reading our Safety Promise.
A valid passport is required for all non-U.S. citizens travelling in Alaska.
U.S. citizens flying from another state to Alaska do not require a passport. However, if a U.S. citizen is driving through Canada or traveling on a ferry or cruise ship with stops in Canada are required to carry a valid passport.
If you have more questions, please check with U.S Customs and Border Protection as you plan your trip.
Visitors to the United States may bring in duty-free all personal effects (wearing apparel, jewelry, hunting and fishing equipment, cameras, portable radios, etc.), household effects (furnishings, linens, dishes, books, etc.), and vehicles for personal use and are not for resale.
Non-U.S. residents who are at least 21 years of age may bring in, duty-free, up to 1 litre of alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, liquor) for personal use. Quantities above 1 litre are subject to duty and internal revenue tax. Tobacco products included in your personal exemption are 200 cigarettes (one carton) or 50 cigars or 2 kg. (4.4 lbs.) of smoking tobacco, or proportional amounts of each.
The U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) requires that travelers entering the United States from a foreign country declare all fruit, vegetables, plants and plant products, meat and meat products, animals, birds and eggs. This includes agricultural products of U.S. origin. Fruits, vegetables, meats, and birds taken out of the United States cannot always be reentered into the country. APHIS offers traveler tips for facilitating inspection at the international border.
Other restricted or prohibited items may include: Cuban cigars, liquor-filled candy; firearms and ammunition; hazardous articles (fireworks, dangerous toys, toxic or poisonous substances); lottery tickets; exotic pets; pet birds; obscene articles and publications; switchblade knives; trademarked items; wildlife and endangered species, including any part or product.
Personal exemptions for U.S. residents depend on how long you have been out of the country. There are limits on the amount of alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products that may be included in a resident’s personal exemption.
The Alaska Collection strongly recommends purchasing travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may interrupt your travel plans. You may have access to travel insurance through your medical, auto or homeowner insurance policies, through your credit cards, or by purchasing directly from a travel insurance company.
Even if you don't know much about Alaska, you know it's big, exactly 663,268 square miles! That's 1,717,854 square kilometers.
No, you will not see any igloos in Alaska. Igloos were commonly used by the Inuit people of Greenland and Canada's Central Arctic.
For those interested in finding out more about the Alaska Natives and their traditions, Anchorage has a wide array of cultural museums that explore their heritage.
The climate in Alaska varies across the state according to the region. There are four distinct seasons in all regions, but actual temperatures and humidity vary.
Denali National Park & Interior: The average temperatures range from 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months to 0 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter. However, when visiting Interior Alaska be sure to have layers of comfortable clothing available in case of a sudden change in weather conditions. If you are planning on walks or hikes, bring sturdy shoes and a warm jacket.
Anchorage & Southcentral: The subarctic temperatures of Anchorage and Southcentral Alaska range from an average high of 65 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer to an average low of -10 degrees Fahrenheit in winter.
Juneau & Inside Passage: Average temperature highs in the Inside Passage range from 60 degrees Fahrenheit in summer to 12 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. It's best to dress in layers and be prepared for rainy days in the summer months of May through to September.
Katmai & Lake Clark: Average temperature highs in Southwest Alaska range from 62 degrees Fahrenheit in summer to 32 degrees Fahrenheit in winter.
The Arctic: Average temperature highs in Far North Alaska range from 45 degrees Fahrenheit in summer to -12 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. It's best to dress in long warm layers and be prepared for nearly 24 hours of sunlight in the summer months of May, June and July.
The weather and climate can vary depending on the region of Alaska you are visiting. However, majority of Alaska experiences temperatures ranging from 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit within the summer months with occasional wind and rain.
The key to comfort in packing the right clothes to Alaska lies in layers. Whether chilly, wet, hot or cold, wear comfortable layers that you can peel off and put on should the weather change. Be sure to pack a good pair of comfortable shoes or hikers with good traction that will be fitting for exploring the outdoors.
Travellers with disabilities in Alaska have more options and resources for exploring the state than ever before. For details about accessible transportation in Alaska and more information for travellers with special needs, contact our Alaska travel experts by calling 1.800.808.8068.
As of January 1, 2014, Alaska does not levy a sales tax.
Driving is on the right hand side of the road. Pedestrians have the right of way and you can turn right on a red signal. There is also a 4-way stop. This is a cross road intersection where the right of way is given to the first to arrive at a complete stop at the cross road intersection.
A valid drivers license is required to drive in Alaska.
Yes. Tour and transportation operators in Alaska work very closely with one another to plan and coordinate schedules so our guests can focus on making the most out of their time here.
Every cruise line has its advantages — our Alaska travel experts are knowledgeable about all of the major cruise lines and can help you select the cruise that will fit best with your interests, schedules and budgets.
Although we cannot guarantee it, there are good opportunities to spot marine wildlife while on a cruise. Several species of whales, porpoises, stellar sea lions, otters and puffins are just a few of the species that call Kenai Fjords National Park home.
A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).
