Packing for an Alaska Train Ride

Traveling around Alaska by trail is one of the most memorable ways to experience the 49th state – you’ll travel through Alaska’s famous mountain valleys and likely spot wildlife from the rails. You’ll want to keep your camera – as well as a few essentials – at your side to have the most comfortable train ride across the Great Land.

Pack light

We know. Everyone says that, and no one does it, right? Your train tour includes luggage handling, so you can pack the big suitcase and not worry about it. But you’ll also want to have certain things readily accessible, so think about the carry-on bag you’ll have with you in the train car. You’ll want to have easy access to your camera, for instance. You don’t want to miss that perfect mountain vista, the eagle soaring over your domed window, or the bear browsing on the mountainside. If photography is your thing, consider a nice camera bag that can fit both your camera gear and your other essentials, too.

Pack for your comfort and health

You already know what your essentials are: Keep them with you. Don’t leave prescriptions you need in your big suitcase since you might not have easy access to it. Tuck those in an easy-to-reach compartment of your carry-on bag. Don’t forget sunglasses, lip balm, tissues, wet wipes, headache medicine, cough drops, a water bottle and anything else that you need to take care of the basics. Travel is awesome, but it also can be a stressor in even the most comfortable of circumstances.

Pack for the weather

Alaska summers can be toasty – even up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, just like “outside” (what Alaska residents call the lower 48). But of course, it’s Alaska – polar bears live here for a reason. You’ll be traveling through various terrain, and if your train tour takes you to Denali National Park, you might plan for an excursion that takes you near glaciers or the mother-of-all-North-American-mountains, Denali. It’s best to plan for anything – so that means layers. Wearing convertible pants allows you to switch easily to shorts and back. Keep a jacket or a warm sweatshirt with you. Wear your hiking boots or a good pair of walking shoes to be ready to explore as soon as you step off the train.

Pack for the kids

As enchanting as the Alaska scenery is for you, your kids might need a break. Think about the essential items they’ll need to be content for the hours in between Anchorage and Denali or Denali to Fairbanks. A tablet is a great item to pack – books, games, movies all in one slim device. Stock up on a few packaged snacks to hand out in between meals. Depending on your children’s ages, having them bring their carry-on with cameras and wildlife books can help them feel engaged in the action. And, of course, having a few activities like “I Spy” ready doesn’t take up any space in your bag.

Pack for you

OK, maybe you won’t want to gaze out the window at the spectacular scenery for the entire train trip. Why not bring along a novel or non-fiction book about Alaska, or use a guidebook to scope out fun things to do at your destination?

Pack handy information

Want to double-check the train schedule and itinerary? Keep it handy. Make sure you have your identification and any travel documents like your boarding pass. Keep hotel check-in information and other travel resources at your fingertips.

Now that you have your packing list for the train ready, the hard part’s over – just hop aboard and let us take care of the rest! All that’s left to do is enjoy your train tour across Alaska.