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Traveler FAQs: Alaska

Alaska, Education, Traveler FAQ

Updated over 2 weeks ago

We offer several trips to Alaska, with different itineraries. However, we are often asked frequent questions regarding what to prepare. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!

Click on the question you're interested in to view the answer. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our Customer Support team here.

Accommodations

What size are the tents?

The tents are standard 4-person tents, shared by 2 people, offering plenty of space. Please note that all luggage must be stored in the trailers to ensure it is bear-proof. However, you’re welcome to keep a backpack or daypack with personal items in your tent.

Are single tents allowed?

All tents are twin tents, shared by two travelers. If there is an odd number of travelers, a single tent will be assigned by default.

What type of sleeping pads and bags are provided?

You will be provided 1.5-inch foam pads.

Some trips also include a sleeping bag—be sure to check the "Other Inclusions" section on your trip page to confirm. If a sleeping bag is not included, you’ll see a note stating, "All camping equipment (except sleeping bag and pillow)." If included, the sleeping bags are rated for 40+ degrees.

Be sure to pack merino wool layers and socks, and bring a sleeping bag liner for added warmth—these can be found at any REI or outdoor gear supply store.

Will there be a place to charge my camera or phone?

You’ll be able to charge your devices on the bus—just be sure to bring the appropriate adapters. Additionally, some campgrounds have bathrooms with wall sockets available. If your itinerary includes the Discovery Cabins, you’ll also have access to outlets at the main lodge on in your cabin.

Are the showers equipped with hot water?

The Discovery Cabins feature two shared full bathrooms, each equipped with a toilet, sink, and shower with hot water access.

At Miller's Campground, token-operated hot showers are available at a rate of $1 for every 2 minutes of use.

Will there be an opportunity to do laundry during the trip?

There isn’t much opportunity to do laundry during the trip, as the days are quite packed and none of the campgrounds have laundry facilities. While there may be a laundromat in Seward, the schedule is tight, and it would be difficult to find time to do laundry there. We recommend packing enough clothes to last for the week.

What else is included at the Discovery Cabins?

  • Each cabin has its own deck facing Bear Creek.

  • The main lodge is shared by all 5 cabins. It features 2 baths, full kitchen, and a big sunny deck. There is also a communal fire pit in the yard.

  • Both bathrooms have a toilet, sink, and shower. Towels and washcloths are provided in each cabin.

  • The kitchen has everything, sink, gas oven, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker with coffee and creamer. It also has enough dishes and cookware to feed a small army. There are toys, games, and books for both kids and adults.

  • Each cabin features heat, electric, and a small desk in the front window. Bed configuration is single bunks and a double bed for three beds total. Each room sleeps four. All five cabins share the bathrooms in the main lodge located just behind the cabins.

  • The cabins are managed year-round by a local family who is available to assist with any questions or needs.

Visit here for more information about the Discovery Cabins.

Activities

For the Exit Glacier Hike, what alternatives are available if I choose not to participate?

If you decide not to join the Exit Glacier Hike, you can either explore the town or take a glacier cruise with various vendors available in Seward. The cruise option depends on availability. While visiting Kenai Fjords, the guide can offer a shorter hike for those who may not feel up to reaching the Harding Icefield, while others can continue on the full hike in a separate group.

Arrival

What happens if I miss the arrival pick up transfer at the airport due to a flight delay or cancellation?

If you're unable to make the arrival pick-up transfer, you'll need to take an Uber from the airport to the campground. A couple of days before the trip begins, we'll add the guide to the TrovaTrip app group chat and provide you with their contact information, so you can reach out to them as needed.

Will there be a chance to purchase bug spray, drinks, or other essentials prior to heading to the campground on Day 1?

Yes, the guide will take the group to a shop first to pick up any necessities before heading to the campground. Additionally, the campgrounds where you'll be staying sell bug spray.

Is there a place to rent gear like trekking poles or sleeping bags?

There is an outdoor gear rental shop in Anchorage where you can rent items on Day 1. Please let the guide know in advance which travelers need to rent gear so they can plan accordingly.

Equipment

What camping gear and equipment is included?

Tents, chairs, sleeping pads, stoves, a canopy, lanterns, and all essential cooking equipment (pots, pans, dishes, etc.) are provided. Some trips also include a sleeping bag—be sure to check the "Other Inclusions" section on your trip page to confirm. If a sleeping bag is not included, you’ll see a note stating, "All camping equipment (except sleeping bag and pillow)." Please note that pillows are not provided on all trips.

What camping gear will I need to bring?

If you're camping, some trips may not include a sleeping bag, so you may need to bring your own. Check the "Other Inclusions" section on your trip page to confirm. If a sleeping bag is not provided, you'll see a note stating, "All camping equipment (except sleeping bag and pillow)." Pillows are also not included on all trips, so be sure to bring your own.

We recommend bringing at least a 30-degree sleeping bag and a lightweight, packable pillow. If you forget any essentials, your guide will make a stop at a large store on the first day of the trip for any last-minute purchases.

Luggage

How much luggage can I bring and where will it be stored?

You can bring up to 20 kg (44 lbs) of luggage, which can be either hard-sided or soft-sided. All luggage will be stored in a locked trailer during the day and overnight to ensure the campsite is bear-proof. However, you’re welcome to keep a backpack or daypack with personal items in your tent. Feel free to use your backpack or daypack throughout the day as needed.

Meals

Will there be access to water?

The Trip Operator does not provide water, so be sure to bring a reusable container. You can refill it for free at rest stops along the way or at the campgrounds—no purification tablets are needed.

Please refer to the Trip Prep guide here for additional information about Alaska.

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