Before You Leave

Here are some essential tips to help you properly plan your trip and ensure a safe and comfortable experience. With the right preparation, you can set yourself up for success.

Money

Contact your bank and credit card companies to let them know where and when you will travel. We recommend traveling with some cash and at least two major credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, so you’ll have a backup if your card is not accepted or is lost. When carrying cash, travel with recently issued currency in smaller denominations. Some merchants won’t accept wrinkled, defaced, or torn bills.

Getting online

Most hotels and many public places here in Alaska have Wi-Fi, and you’ll usually be able to stay connected while in town. However, Internet access may be poor to nonexistent while we are at sea.

Weather

Many smartphone apps allow you to check the weather forecast for a specific destination. We recommend weather.com. Upon arrival, the time on most smartphones will automatically adjust to the local time.

Health considerations

Carry your prescriptions and over-the-counter medications in their original containers in your carry-on luggage. Pack a simple first-aid kit and medicines for motion sickness and mild upset stomach. As a precaution, use only bottled water and avoid foods from street vendors. If you feel unwell at any point in your journey, please inform the captain. Take care to observe safe health practices when traveling.

• wash or sanitize your hands frequently
• avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing

Secure your valuables

We strongly recommend leaving valuables such as jewelry at home, as Alaska Wilderness Charters cannot be responsible. Take appropriate steps to secure the valuables you travel with, especially passports, money, jewelry, electronics, and medications. Replacing a lost or stolen key is much easier if you have a copy. Take a photo of your driver's license and passport and keep a copy on your phone.

Smart shopping

If you are interested in shopping, we may be able to recommend local shops; however, Alaska Wilderness Charters is not responsible for the quality or value of the merchandise. Any purchases and shipping are at your sole discretion.

Review your credit card receipts before signing. We recommend taking items with you instead of shipping them whenever possible.