Alaska is a dream destination for many travelers, but a trip to Alaska can often come with a hefty price tag. However, not every Alaska vacation needs to break the bank. With careful planning and some insider tips, you can still embark on an unforgettable Alaskan journey, without the need to sell a kidney.
In this guide, we'll explore ways to save money by traveling, such as exploring during the off-season, picking remote destinations, combining housing and transportation, and more budget-friendly tips.
Travel in the Off-Season
The peak travel season in Alaska typically runs from June to August when the weather is the warmest and most predictable. However, traveling during this time also means higher prices for flights, accommodations, and activities. Hotels in Anchorage can easily triple in price in the summer and demand for rental cars can send rental prices skyrocketing.
To avoid these higher prices, consider visiting during the shoulder season (May and September), before the summer crowds have arrived. By mid-May, many destinations will be open and the snow will be gone from most of the lower elevations, allowing you to still experience most of the sightseeing opportunities, at a lower cost. Additionally, early May and September offer the opportunity to witness the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) and see the Milky Way.
Explore Less-Visited Locations
While popular Alaska destinations like Anchorage, Juneau, and Denali National Park are undoubtedly worth visiting, venturing off the beaten path to less-visited areas can save you money and provide a more authentic experience.
Consider exploring charming small towns, such as Talkeetna or Valdez, where you'll find a welcoming community, beautiful scenery, and unique local attractions. If you're up for a more adventurous experience, head to remote areas like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, which both offer unparalleled wilderness experiences at a fraction of the cost of more touristy destinations.
To save bear viewing adventures, opt for destinations that have a high bear density, such as Kodiak Island, so you can save on a professional guiding experience but still witness these majestic animals in the wild. While this will still require a flight from the mainland, the price of an airline ticket is significantly less than a personal charter to Katmai National Park (and you can use airline miles to reduce the price even further).
Stay Longer in Each Location
While it may be tempting to pack your itinerary with numerous stops, taking the time to fully immerse yourself in a few locations can be more cost-effective and rewarding. By spending several days in one place, you'll save on transportation costs and have the opportunity to explore local attractions more deeply. Additionally, many accommodations offer discounts for extended stays, such as Airbnbs offering weekly discounts.
Pick a location that offers numerous activities, such as Valdez or the Kenai Peninsula. By staying longer in one spot, you also get the chance to explore the area more fully than if you were only there for one or two nights. This can give you a great chance to experience the local’s verison of Alaska and have unique stories to bring back home!
Combine Housing and Transportation
Renting an RV or taking a cruise are excellent ways to combine your accommodation and transportation costs (two of your largest expenses). With an RV, you'll have the flexibility to explore Alaska at your own pace, while saving on both lodging and dining expenses by cooking your meals. Moreover, numerous campgrounds are available throughout the state with affordable nightly rates, many of which are situated in prime locations.
Cruises are another popular way to explore Alaska, with the advantage of having your accommodations, transportation, and meals all in one place. To save money, book your cruise during the off-season or look for last-minute deals. While onboard, take advantage of free entertainment and activities to keep your budget in check. This is also a great way of easily budgeting your entire vacation, as most of the large costs will be upfront and the remaining smaller costs will just be excursions or souvenir shopping.
Utilize Public Transportation and Carpooling
Alaska has a relatively limited public transportation system, but there are still options to save money on getting around. The Alaska Railroad offers scenic train rides between Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks, while various shuttle services connect popular tourist destinations. The Alaska Marine Highway offers ferry services between coastal communities, allowing you to experience a scenic boat ride combined with transportation. Check out the ferry between Homer and Seldovia for a local favorite.
If you plan to rent a car, consider sharing the cost by traveling with a group of friends. Not only will you save on expenses, but you'll also have the chance to share your experience with others. Car prices dramatically increase in the summer months, so this is even more incentive to visit during shoulder season. Also explore alternative car rental options, such as Turo, for opportunities to save on pricing.
Save on Food and Activities
Eating out can quickly add up, so consider shopping at local grocery stores and preparing your meals to save on food expenses. Look for farmers' markets for local produce at lower prices, and sign up for free rewards programs at the major grocery chains (such as the Safeway rewards program). This will allow you to take advantage of the cheaper deals for members and collect rewards to get further discount.
When dining out, opt for lunch instead of dinner, as prices are often more affordable. Picnics are also great opportunities to experience the beautiful outdoors, while saving on price.
For activities, research free or low-cost options, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, or visiting local museums and cultural centers (check for multi-day or seasonal passes for museums). Many national parks and forests offer free or inexpensive ranger-led programs, which can provide a wealth of knowledge and unique experiences.
Download apps to help you find hiking trails in the area, such as the AllTrails app, and invest in an annual state park pass if you plan on spending several days hiking or adventuring in the state parks.
Look for Discounts
Before booking any accommodations, flights, or activities, spend some time researching available discounts. Many businesses offer deals for seniors, military personnel, or students, so be sure to inquire about any relevant savings.
Consider joining a travel rewards program or using a credit card with travel benefits to earn points and discounts on your trip. Alaska Airlines is one of the main operators in the state, and they often offer an excellent miles bonus for new card holders. By signing up for their card, you may be able to get a free flight to and from Alaska or multiple free flights within the state.
Enjoying the Last Frontier – On a Budget
With a little research, creativity, and flexibility, planning an affordable Alaskan adventure is entirely possible. By traveling in the off-season, exploring less-visited locations, staying longer in each place, combining housing and transportation, and employing other cost-saving strategies, you can experience the wonders of Alaska without breaking the bank. Just be sure to stay flexible on what you want to do, and try to stay away from the popular destinations and experiences. This will not only save you a few bucks, but will also get you off the beaten path and on a unique adventure.
