Alaska may seem like it’s only accessible by cruise ship, but that’s far from the truth. There are plenty of amazing tours and activities that you can only experience on land, so it’s time to find out how to plan a trip to Alaska without a cruise ship. From camping trips to guided hikes to cross-country skiing, here are the top 10 ways to plan a trip to Alaska without a cruise ship.
1. Visit during shoulder season
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Alaska. Plus, you’ll get to experience the natural beauty of the state without being crammed onto a cruise ship.
- Do your research. Visit travel websites and read guidebooks to learn about what Alaska has to offer.
- Decide your trip. Are you looking for an adventure? A relaxing vacation? A little bit of both?
- Choose your destination. Will you be visiting Anchorage, Fairbanks, or Juneau?
- Make a budget and start saving up.
2. Book an Airfare and Hotels
Alaska is a big state, and the best way to see it is by booking airfare and hotels. This way, you can explore at your own pace and see all that the state has to offer. Plus, you’ll save money by avoiding the high costs of a cruise ship. Here is a tip for how to plan a trip to Alaska without a cruise ship:
- Decide when you want to go. The best time to visit Alaska is during the summer months when the weather is warm and there are more daylight hours. However, keep in mind that prices will be higher during this time.
- Choose your transportation. Once you’ve decided when you want to go, it’s time to choose your transportation.
3. Check the Weather Forecast
The first step to planning any trip is checking the weather forecast. You don’t want to be caught off guard by cold temperatures or severe weather. Checking the forecast for your planned dates of travel will give you a better idea of what to pack and how to plan your activities.
4. Start Planning Before July
If you want to see Alaska without the crowds, you’ll need to start planning your trip before July. That’s when most of the cruise ships arrive in the state, bringing with them thousands of tourists.
But if you plan and do your research, you can avoid the crowds and have a more authentic Alaska experience.
- Decide when you want to go. The best time to visit Alaska is in the summer when the weather is warm and there are longer days for exploring. However, July and August are also the busiest months, so if you want to avoid the crowds, aim for June or September instead.
- Choose your mode of transportation.
5. Do Your Research
Not only will this help you figure out what you want to do while you’re in Alaska, but it will also help you save money. Look online for travel deals and read travel blogs to get an idea of what others have done on their trips. You can also talk to friends or family who have been to Alaska before.
6. Stay connected
One of the best ways to plan a trip to Alaska without a cruise ship is by staying in touch with friends and family. This way, you can get tips on the best places to visit, where to stay, and what to do while you’re there. Plus, you’ll have someone to talk to about your experiences when you return home.
7. Find Healthy Restaurants
It can be difficult to find healthy restaurants when traveling, but it’s important to make an effort to eat healthy while on vacation. Here are the top ways to find healthy restaurants while traveling:
- Use Google Maps or another mapping app to find restaurants in the area that you’re interested in.
- Look for restaurants that have healthy options on their menus.
- Ask the hotel staff or concierge for recommendations on healthy restaurants in the area.
- Check out online food blogs or forums for recommendations on where to eat in the area that you’re visiting.
- Look for restaurants that specialize in healthy cuisines, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
8. Take Supplements for the Cold
Start by taking supplements for the cold. Vitamin C, zinc, and echinacea are all great options that can help reduce the severity and duration of your cold symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated is key when you’re sick, so make sure to drink lots of water, herbal tea, and soup.
Apply heat. Applying heat to your chest or back can help relieve congestion and muscle aches. Try taking a hot shower, using a heating pad, or drinking warm beverages like tea or soup.
9. Pack Light
Planning a trip to Alaska doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by packing the light. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not lugging around a heavy suitcase. A good rule of thumb is to pack clothes that can be layered.
That way, you can adjust to the changing weather conditions without having to pack for every single possibility. And don’t forget the basics: a sturdy pair of shoes, a raincoat, and plenty of sunscreens! Once you’ve got your packing list sorted out, it’s time to start planning your itinerary.
10. Educate Yourself on Alaskan History
Before you travel to Alaska, it is important to educate yourself on the state’s history. This will help you understand the culture and appreciate the land.
The Official History of Alaska
- Alaska History: A Captivating Guide to the Land of the Midnight Sun
- Alaska: A History of the 49th State
Plan Your Itinerary: Planning your itinerary will help you make the most of your trip. Decide what you want to see and do, and then research the best way to go about it.
