Alaska Packing List | Alaska Bear Camp Itinerary

The following packing list contains general recommendations for a trip to Lake Clark National Park from May to August. If you are currently booked on Nat Hab's Alaska Bear Camp with Nat Hab, please consult your pre-departure materials for the most comprehensive and up-to-date packing list for your trip. You will receive these pre-departure materials 60–90 days before your departure.

Adventure Guidelines

• Since the weather in Alaska can change by the hour, we recommend layering your clothing (i.e., wearing a T-shirt, fleece, and jacket) so that you can be comfortable throughout the day, regardless of the temperature. Remember that during the adventure, rain is always a possibility, and proper rain gear is a must.
• Avoid brightly colored clothing to blend in with the landscape and draw less attention from bears. We recommend muted earth tones for outerwear.
• Avoid jeans and cotton as they get wet and stay wet.
• It’s a good idea to bring an extra pair of socks and underwear in your carry-on as the weather can cause unexpected flight delays.
• Be sure to pack warm clothing, including hat, gloves and rain gear in your carry-on bag when traveling by air.
  
  

Clothing

The packing list below is based on seasonal norms and average high and low temperatures. Please alter your packing needs based on the most up-to-date weather forecast.

• Waterproof rain gear 
  —You will need both a waterproof jacket with a hood and waterproof pants (GORE-TEX fabric or similar is highly recommended). It is extremely important your rain gear be fully waterproof, not just water-repellent, as it can rain frequently and quite heavily in the areas we will be visiting. Plastic ponchos are not allowed as they will not provide sufficient protection from the elements.
• Warm jacket or fleece 
• Lightweight down vest 
• Comfortable rubber-soled or slip-on walking shoes will be available for your use while in the confines of Bear Camp, unless you prefer to bring your own.
• Light hiking shoes
• Socks
  —We suggest socks made of wool or synthetic material; cotton socks are not recommended for hikes.
• Warm hat and gloves 
• Silk or polypropylene thermal underwear
  —Bring both tops and bottoms, as they are great for layering.
• Sun/rain hat, with brim and string so it won’t blow away.
• Lightweight neck gaiter (included in your pre-trip package)
  —Provides sun, wind and/or dust protection.
• 1–2 pairs of long pants (or zip-off pants)
• 1 pair of shorts
  —You may not need extra shorts if you are bringing zip-off pants.
• 2–3 long-sleeved shirts 
• 1–2 short-sleeved T-shirts 
• Warm sleepwear (nights can be chilly)
  
  

Additional Items

• Cash 
  —For discretionary gratuities (you may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation)
  —For personal spending (souvenirs, or food and beverages not included in your trip fee)
• Water-resistant daypack 
  —To carry gear during outings.
• Waterproof daypack cover
  —Rain is always a possibility in the summer in Alaska.
• Reusable water bottle (included in your pre-trip package)
  —In our continuing effort to operate our adventures with as little impact on the environment as possible, you will receive a reusable water bottle (unless you opted out on your Booking Form) to take with you on your adventure. We will provide drinking water throughout the adventure for you to refill your bottle. By doing this, you will avoid using multiple disposable plastic bottles.
• Binoculars
  —Binoculars will be provided at Bear Camp. 
• Waterproof gloves
  —These are not required but can be very helpful in operating camera equipment in damp or wet weather.
• Sunglasses (with UV filter)
• Prescription glasses/contact lenses
• Earplugs
• Sleeping mask (it stays light quite late in Alaska!)
• Non-scented and biodegradable toiletries in reusable bottles to minimize waste 
  —Soap, shampoo, conditioner and lotion are provided at Land’s End Resort and at Bear Camp.
• Anti-itch ointment
  —Insect repellent is provided at Bear Camp. 
• Sunscreen and lip balm (at least SPF15)
• Hand sanitizer (included in your pre-trip package)
• Dry bags or reusable waterproof bags 
  —Bring several sizes. These are great for wet or dirty clothing and to protect camera equipment from the elements.
• Head nets will be provided to ward off mosquitoes and gnats.