4 Packing Must-Haves For Visiting Kaktovik In The Winter
With the vast expanse of white snow as far as your eyes can see, and a cold, brisk air grazing your face, there is something truly magical about visiting Kaktovik, Alaska during winter. While the below freezing temperatures might scare some people away from traveling here during the colder months, it is actually the perfect time to do so if you want to experience the surreal beauty of this frozen wonderland. But you need to be prepared with the right essentials to keep yourself warm.
Here are some packing essentials to prepare you for your winter adventure in Kaktovik in the Last Frontier State:
- Jackets
You need to have at least two jackets in hand – one parka and another versatile jacket. Look for lightweight parkas that are made for below freezing temperatures. They do not take much space, making it easy to pack them into your luggage. Additionally, you must also pack another jacket – maybe a fleece number – that you can put on when you go out during the day, when it may feel slightly less cold
. - Warm Boots
If you want to avoid packing your entire winter shoe wardrobe, it is best if you carry a pair of warm, versatile hiking books. They will easily take you from your winter adventures to a nice dinner at fireside. Since Kaktovik sees heavy snowfall during winter, it is best if you opt for shoes that are water-resistent. - Sunscreen
You should never travel to Kaktovik in winter, or any other time of the year, without a trusty sunscreen. Since you will be spending quite some time outdoors, the risk of sun damage on your skin is quite high, especially with the sunlight reflecting off the white snow as well. A sunscreen with a high SPF will protect you from severe sunburn as well as the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays. - Sunglasses
While it may seem like a pair of sunglasses is a no-brainer during a trip, for Kaktovik, you should consider getting high-quality glasses that provide UV protection. In most of Alaska, the sun sits at a low angle during winter, which amplifies the effects of the UVB rays. This can result in a condition known as snow blindness, which is caused by a sunburned cornea. So, proper eye protection is crucial.
Want to book a Kaktovik tour? Get in touch with us at Kaktovik Arctic Tours for custom Kaktovik tours. Bookings are now open for 2021!