Equipment Information

 

Everything you need to know to get ready for your Alaskan Adventure

What to expect...

One thing that you should realize is that Alaska weather can be almost anything during the summer...hot, sunny 80 degree days backpacking; windy, rainy days sea kayaking; cold and snowy mountaineering (even in July). You could possibly have all of these conditions in one day!

What to bring...

You've asked us to help you explore and enjoy Alaska, the first step is to follow our advice on gear. Each of our trips has a specific gear list which you can download here. Ask questions but please bring what's on the list unless we advise you otherwise.

We'll do a gear check at the beginning of each trip and will want to actually see and inspect the critical required gear from your list. This important step helps ensure that people have what they need to be comfortable for the rest of the week.

Shopping & Re-supply

Most of our trips start in the morning of Day 1, which is often a Sunday. Shopping opportunities are limited at that time of day so if you do not have a required item we may be delayed in starting the fun stuff...and the rest of the group may not be very happy about spending part of their vacation waiting to go shopping!

Some trips may include a brief opportunity to at least dry some clothes (though not do a full wash routine). There also may be a chance to buy something during the week, particularly on the Exposed Series Tours.

Our Expeditions will usually have NO chance for resupply during the week.

Rental Gear - With new restrictions on airline baggage, consider renting equipment from us for your trip. Rentals must be arranged in advance.

Sleeping bag (20 degree, synthetic, with liner); 3 Days: $20, 6 - 9 Days, $35.

Sleeping Pad (inflatable); 3 Days: $10, 6 - 9 Days, $25

Backpack (large size for overnight or multi day trips). Extreme Week $40, Expeditions $55

 

Packing - All trips start with a gear check, so you do not have to be thoroughly packed for backpacking (or whatever) on the morning of Day 1. You might want to pack your really essential items in your carry-on bag. We will not be able to delay start of the trip if your checked bags don't make it to Anchorage.

A large duffle bag is often easier for travel than a backpack and can be used for storing your extra gear with us or in the van while we are out in the "bush".

Suitcases are bulky, difficult to load in the van and pretty much impossible to take to your tent. A zip up duffle bag is far superior for this type of trip.

If you have extra clothing, gear or suitcases not needed for the Exposure segment of your trip, please look into storing these at your hotel before your trip with us begins.

Kayak Gear - we provide rubber boots, heavy duty rain gear & dry bags for packing your clothes. You might want to bring cycling or sailing gloves if your hands are prone to blisters.

Cameras - Photo opportunities abound but be advised that conditions may damage your equipment, particularly sea kayaking. There are a lot of options for protecting your gear on the market, shop around and decide how much "insurance" you want to buy.

Valuables - Often, the only option for storing of valuables will be in the van (our "office" is not in Anchorage, where the trips start.) Storage in the van is usually fine but we can accept no responsibility for your valuables. Since you may be staying in a hotel prior to your trip with us, they may be able to store valuables for you.

 

 

Remember:

-- Complete and return the forms as soon as possible.

-- Send in your final payment.

-- Book your flights and Anchorage accommodation.

-- Get your equipment together.

-- Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions.

Click on the link below for the gear list for your specific trip:

"Exposed Series" Tours and Raft, climb & trek

Extreme Week and Xxtreme

Sea Kayak Expedition & 3-day Kayak trips

Wilderness Week & Fly-in Expedition