What to Pack: Alaska in a Carry-On

Packing for Alaska in August—especially with only a carry-on—means preparing for variable weather, layering wisely, and making sure you have the right gear for outdoor activities. Here’s a detailed carry-on only packing list for Anchorage, Denali, and Seward:

Luggage

✅ Carry-on suitcase (lightweight, durable, weather-resistant)
✅ Personal item (backpack or tote) – for day trips & essentials

Clothing (Layering is Key!)

☁️ Base Layers (for warmth & moisture-wicking)

  • 2-3 moisture-wicking short-sleeve shirts

  • 2 long-sleeve lightweight base layers

🌤 Mid Layers (for insulation)

  • 1 fleece or lightweight down jacket

  • 1-2 sweaters or hoodies

🌦 Outer Layer (for wind & rain protection)

  • Waterproof & windproof jacket (GORE-TEX recommended)

  • Lightweight packable rain pants (optional for hikes)

👖 Bottoms

  • 2-3 pairs of hiking pants or leggings

  • 1 pair of jeans or casual pants (for Anchorage/Seward dining)

  • 1 pair of comfy joggers or travel pants

🧥 Warm Accessories

  • Beanie or warm hat

  • Lightweight gloves

  • Buff or scarf (for wind protection)

👕 Other Essentials

  • Pajamas

  • 5-7 pairs of underwear (quick-dry if possible)

  • 4-5 pairs of wool or moisture-wicking socks

  • 1-2 sports bras (if needed)

Footwear

🥾 Waterproof hiking boots (for Denali & trails)
👟 Comfortable sneakers (for casual walks & travel days)
🩴 Sandals or slip-ons (for lodges, boat tours, or spa days)

Gear & Essentials

🎒 Daypack (for hiking & day trips)
🕶 Polarized sunglasses (for glare on water & glaciers)
🧴 Sunscreen & lip balm (even on cloudy days)
🦟 Bug spray or wipes (mosquitoes can still be active)
💦 Collapsible water bottle (hydration is key)
🦺 Small first-aid kit (blister care, pain relief, motion sickness pills)
🔦 Headlamp or small flashlight (for late hikes)
📷 Camera or phone with extra storage (Alaska is stunning!)
📖 Binoculars (for wildlife & glacier viewing)
🎧 Earplugs & eye mask (for light sleepers)

Toiletries (Travel-Sized)

🪥 Toothbrush & toothpaste
🧴 Shampoo & conditioner
🚿 Body wash or bar soap
🧼 Travel laundry detergent (for washing small items)
💊 Medications (including motion sickness pills for boat tours)

Extras (Depending on Activities)

🛥 Waterproof phone case (for Kenai Fjords boat tour)
🦺 Dry bag (for keeping items dry in the rain)
📖 Book or Kindle (for travel days)
🗺 Printed itinerary & maps (some areas have limited service)

What NOT to Bring

❌ Heavy or bulky clothing (layer instead)
❌ Too many jeans (slow to dry, heavy)
❌ High heels or dressy shoes (casual dress is fine everywhere)
❌ Large toiletries (stick to TSA-approved sizes)

This list keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable while fitting everything into a carry-on. Would you like recommendations for specific activities (like a glacier hike or a fjord cruise)?