This outfit article was written by our Alaska resident, who has lived there for years and has visited almost every region in Alaska in the summer months!
💡 If you are visiting earlier and are looking for June tips, check out our early summer article: Alaska June Guide
Want to enjoy the best hotels and tours in Alaska without spending a fortune? You’re in luck! Below, you’ll find our hand-picked links to unbeatable deals on top-notch stays and exciting adventures — all within your budget:
🎟️ Best Alaska Tours | GetYourGuide
🛥️ Kenai Fjords Cruise | GetYourGuide
More essential resources:
All of these links open in a new tab. They are incredibly useful for your trip in July and August.
Our guide provides essential packing and outfit tips for your Alaska Adventure during the summer!
Outfits/Packing for July and August
Layering is essential, even in the summer months. The weather can change fast at any time, and the conditions vary across Alaska. At higher elevations and during morning and evening hours, it will be chillier.
Also, keep in mind that extremely windy locations (see our list at the end of the article) have an effect on the perceived temperature. All of these areas and the different times of the day require layering.
💡 Even in August (we went during the last two weeks) we kept several layers of clothing in the back seat of the car and used them all! We visited Anchorage, Denali, Girdwood, Seward, and Homer.
During Alaska’s summer, in July and August, you should wear moisture-wicking fabrics such as nylon and spandex. They are great for this climate and are easy to layer. For cooler summer days or mornings, wool/fleece sweaters and socks keep you warm and work well in layering. For sunny days, pack shorts and short-sleeved shirts.
Waterproof Clothing
Waterproof clothing as the top layer is an important factor when being exposed to Alaska’s unpredictable weather.
Our pants tips on Amazon:
Shoes
Insulated, durable waterproof/resistant shoes/boots with good sole traction will provide travelers with a cozy and dry experience during any excursion. Some boot suggestions are Baffin or BOGS brands (check prices on Amazon.com).
- 【Waterproof and Insulated】5mm lightweight neoprene rain boots give you comfort and flexibility, along with...
We also highly recommend the above ones. They have numerous designs and are perfect for Alaska’s environment.
Jacket
A fleece or nylon blend jacket with a hood or any waterproof/resistant jacket should be your outer (shell) layer. Even if your jacket has a hood, bringing a toboggan, scarf, and waterproof/resistant gloves are essential. However, lightweight gloves are fine in the summer.
Our jacket tips on Amazon:
How many jackets? Depending on the length of your trip, we recommend bringing two (or even three) light jackets for your Alaska summer adventure.
Short/Shirts
For July and August, we always add shorts and summer shirts made of moisture-wicking materials as well as closed-toed sandals with durable, good traction soles.
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When it does get hot, wearing lighter-colored clothing absorbs less heat. That allows you to stay cooler and also helps to repel mosquitoes.
- Nylon/Spandex shirts, shorts, pants/leggings – skin layer or top layer
- Wool/Fleece Sweaters – mid-layer
- Waterproof/Resistant pants – outer layer
- Waterproof/Resistant coat with hood
- Waterproof ball cap
- Toboggan
- Scarf
- Waterproof/resistant lightweight gloves
- Merino wool socks or any warm moisture-wicking socks
- Waterproof/Resistant shoes closed-toed sandals, and or boots
*Cotton clothing is not preferable due to its ability to absorb moisture
Item List
- Travel First Aid Kit
- Paracord Bracelet – If going to remote areas
- Sunglasses
- Bug Spray
- Sunblock
- Mosquito netting for your head
- Windproof umbrella
- Eye mask
- Portable charger
- Chapstick – Alaska’s climate is dry
- Lotion, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner
- Reusable Water Bottle – Tap water is ok to drink
- Binoculars (some tours may provide them as well)
- Cash – In some areas, vendors may not take credit/debit cards or digital payments
- Hand and Toe warmers for colder days
Weather
The climate in July and August varies across the three main regions of the state: Arctic, Interior, and Coastal. The amount of daylight differs along with the average daily temperatures, with the northern region having the longest days and coolest climate.
July
July has the warmest temperatures of the year in Alaska. The average highs range from 61°F (16°C) to 73°F (23°C) in the interior and coastal regions. The days are long with over 19 hours of daylight in many regions.
July is also one of the driest months with a 27% chance of rain on average. All trails and roads are accessible and snow-free.
August
Alaska is mostly mild and warm in August with average high temperatures from 60°F (15°C) to 67°F (20°C) in the most-visited areas. Temperatures are dropping 5-10°F towards the end of the month. The average rainfall is between 1.8 and 3.1 inches in Anchorage and 6.8 to 10.9 inches in Juneau.
💡 It doesn’t snow in August.
We always wear waterproof, breathable rain gear during the summer months in Alaska, as you may hit rain anytime. Read more details about rain and what to wear below.
Temperatures by Region
In the Arctic region, July renders nearly 24 hours of daylight and high/low temperatures of 45°F(13°C)/33°F(6°C). By August, the daylight has subsided to 20 hours but the temperature highs have only lowered by 4ºF(-16ºC) and lows stay in sync with July.
The Interior region’s daylight lasts about 19 and 18 hours respectively for July and August allowing for high/low temperatures in July of 70ºF(21ºC)/50ºF(10ºC). Then dropping only by 5ºF(-15ºC) for both temperatures in August.
The Coastal region can boast about the warmest temperatures with 18 hours of daylight in both months resulting in July high/lows of 65°F(18°C)/50°F(10°C) and August highs less by 5ºF(-15ºC) and lows equal to July. Cloud cover and wind conditions can affect daily temperatures in all regions.
Temperature increases in July & August:
- Arctic: 2°F(-17°C) increase – highs from 45°F(7°C) to 47°F(9°C)
- Interior: 10°F(-12°C) increase – highs from 70°F(21°C) to 80°F (27°C)
- Southern Coastal: 5°F(-15°C) increase – highs from 65°F(18°C) to 70°F(21°C)
Average high temperatures in July & August:
- Anchorage: 67°F(19°C) – South Central
- Denali National Park: 65°F(18°C) – Interior
- Fairbanks: 71°F(22°C) – Interior
- Katmai National Park: 64°F(18°F) – Southern Peninsula
- Homer: 61°F(16°C) – Southern Kenai Peninsula
- Juneau: 80°F (27°C) – Southeast
- Seward/Kenai Fjords National Park: 61°F (16°C) – Southern Coastal
Mornings/Evenings:
- Arctic region – 35°F(2°C)/42°F(6°C)
- Interior region – 53°F(12°C)/65°F(18°C)
- Southern Coastal region – 53°F(12°C)/60°F(16°C)
Wind
The wind in Alaska depends upon the topography of a location as well as the weather conditions. Across the state, wind conditions vary greatly. Average wind speeds below:
- Aleutians Islands – 26 mph
- Denali – 20 mph
- Fairbanks – 18 mph
- Haines – 16 mph
- Nome – 16 mph
- Juneau – 13 mph
- Anchorage – 7 mph
Find the windiest locations at the end of this article.
Rain/Snow
July and August are the warmest and some of the driest months in Alaska. Find the average amount of rainy days below:
- Arctic Fairbanks area (July/August) – 9/11 days
- Southcentral Anchorage area (July/August) – 12/14 days
- Inside Passage Juneau area (July/August) – 17/18 days
- Southwest Kodiak/Aleutian Islands area (July/August) – 15/14 days
When it rains in the summer, it can be quick showers or all-day downpours. Always check the weather forecast and be prepared for anything.
In one year, we experienced a whole week of rain in Alaska and in another year, we had three weeks of sunny weather with no rain at all.
Snow is rare in July and August in Alaska but always remember anything is possible in this climate. Being the summer season, the snow seen in the state will mainly be in the upper mountainous elevations at the summit and glacial areas.
At all other elevations, the snow has melted, and summer is in full force.
July and August average snowfall amounts:
- Far North Barrow area (July/August)- 0.0“/0.0cm
- Interior Alaska – Fairbanks area (July/August) – 0.0”/0.0cm
- Southcentral Anchorage area (July/August) – 0.0”/0.0cm
- Southeast Juneau area (July/August) – 0.0”/0.0cm
- Southwest Kodiak area (July/August) – 0.0”/0.0cm
Daylight
During July and August, the daylight hours are at their maximum, giving tourists the longest amount of time for sightseeing. Civil Twilight is about one hour of time before sunrise and after sunset when the sun drops just below the horizon, but there’s still enough light for activities.
Daylight hours in July/August around the state are listed below:
- Fairbanks: July/August – 21/18 hours (July No Civil Twilight)
- Anchorage: July/August- 19/17 hours (July No Civil Twilight)
- Juneau: (July/August) – 18/17 hours
- Seward: (July/August) – 18/17 hours
- Nome: (July/August) – 21/18 hours (No Civil Twilight)
12 BASIC PACKING TIPS
These are our 12 basic packing tips for Alaska!
1. Layer Clothing (General)
When you’re in Alaska, the weather can change in a heartbeat. That’s why layering is your best friend and absolutely key during any season!
- Why it’s necessary: Layering allows you to add or remove clothing based on the temperature and your activity level. This way, you’re always comfortable, whether you’re hiking a glacier or watching whales.
- Tip: Start with a light base layer and add more as needed. Remember, it’s always easier to remove a layer than to wish you had packed more.
2. Base Layer
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Think of the base layer as your second skin. It’s the first layer you’ll wear, and it’s essential for keeping you warm.
- Why it’s necessary: A good base layer wicks away sweat and keeps you dry. This is super important because wet skin loses heat way faster than dry skin.
- Tip: Opt for materials like merino wool or synthetic fibers. They’re great at moisture management. Cotton? Not so much.
3. Jackets (Waterproof)
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- Waterproof & Windproof & Breathable: Outer fabric is treated to resist water while maintain breathability....
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In Alaska, you’ll encounter rain. And when it rains, it pours. That’s where a waterproof jacket comes in.
- Why it’s necessary: A waterproof jacket ensures you stay dry during sudden downpours. Plus, it acts as a windbreaker, shielding you from those chilly Alaskan breezes.
- Tip: Look for jackets labeled “waterproof” and not just “water-resistant.” There’s a big difference. And trust me, in Alaska, you’ll want the former.
Of course, the season and month you plan to visit Alaska will determine the thickness of your jacket. From May until September, we typically recommend the following:
The suggested inner layers (see above), in combination with rain jackets, are usually fine during these months. Our tips:
However, we advise packing a medium winter jacket for the second half of September and for early May. In early spring (April) and late fall (October), we recommend a heavier winter coat, as well as for the winter months, of course.
It gets cold in the morning and in, particular if you go on a day cruise or stay outdoors for longer. Most locals recommend packing wool socks, mittens or gloves, and a hat for any time in spring and fall.
How many jackets? We usually suggest bringing a light jacket and a thicker one (yes, two jackets) in May and during September. During the summer, two light jackets are sufficient. In the winter months, bring a heavy coat (we would recommend two, but two heavy ones take up too much space in your luggage).
Buy Waterproof Jackets on Amazon
4. Pants (Waterproof)
Just like the jacket, waterproof pants are a lifesaver. Especially if you’re planning any outdoor activities.
- Why it’s necessary: Waterproof pants will keep your legs dry, which is essential for staying warm. Wet legs can quickly lead to hypothermia in cold conditions.
- Tip: Consider pants with zippers on the sides. They’re easier to put on and take off, especially if you’re wearing boots.
Our pants tips:
Shorts (Summer): For July and August, we always add shorts and summer shirts made of moisture-wicking materials, as well as closed-toed sandals with durable, good traction soles.
5. Insulated Boots
Your feet deserve some love, too. Insulated boots will keep them warm and cozy.
- Temperature rated to -13°F/ -25°C.200 grams insulation with polar fleece.
- Why it’s necessary: Cold feet can make any trip miserable. Plus, Alaska’s terrain can be rough, so you’ll need sturdy boots to tackle it.
- Tip: Make sure your boots are also waterproof. Wet feet in cold weather? No, thank you.
6. Warm Socks (Moisture Wicking)
Socks might seem trivial, but in Alaska, they’re a big deal. Bring plenty!
- Why it’s necessary: Warm socks provide an extra layer of insulation for your feet. They also wick away moisture, keeping your feet dry.
- Tip: Like with the base layer, go for merino wool or synthetic materials. And pack extras. You’ll thank me later.
Buy Moisture Wicking Socks on Amazon
7. Gloves
Your hands are exposed to the elements, so they need protection.
- Why it’s necessary: Gloves keep your fingers from freezing. And trust me, you’ll want to snap lots of pictures, so you’ll need warm fingers.
- Tip: Mittens are warmer than fingered gloves. But if you need dexterity, go for gloves with touchscreen capabilities.
8. Hat and Scarf
Your mom was right; you lose a lot of heat from your head.
- Why it’s necessary: A hat and scarf combo will keep you toasty and protect against windburn.
- Tip: A hat that covers your ears is a winner. As for the scarf, make sure it’s long enough to wrap around your neck a couple of times.
9. Sunglasses and Sunscreen
Yes, even in Alaska.
- Why it’s necessary: Snow reflects sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn. Plus, the glare can be blinding.
- Tip: Go for sunglasses with UV protection. And always reapply sunscreen, especially on your face.
10. Backpack
You’ll need something to carry all your stuff, right?
- Why it’s necessary: A backpack is perfect for holding snacks, water, and extra layers. Plus, it keeps your hands free.
- Tip: Choose a waterproof backpack. It’ll keep your belongings dry, no matter the weather.
11. Binoculars
Alaska is all about the views.
- Why it’s necessary: From spotting eagles to watching whales, binoculars bring Alaska’s wildlife up close and personal.
- Tip: Go for compact binoculars. They’re easier to pack and carry.
12. Camera
You’ll want to capture every moment.
- Why it’s necessary: Alaska is a photographer’s dream. From majestic mountains to incredible wildlife, there’s always something to snap.
- Tip: Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards. Cold weather can drain batteries quickly.
Packing for Alaska might seem daunting, but with this guide, you’re all set. Remember, it’s all about staying warm and dry. So, pack smart, and enjoy your Alaskan adventure! Safe travels!