Will i need winter clothing when visit alaska in sept/oct?

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David in Kenai

No (at least not what we call winter clothing). But it ain't summer anymore either.

For Southeast Alaska (Inside Passage)?, figure days in the 50s, nights around 45F. Potentially wet and windy (but hope for sun).

Most compact and functional would be fleece or wool sweaters, one light, one heavy and a Goretex parka. A warm hat (fleece or knit cap) and, ideally, a "Seattle Sombero" as well.

Wear cotton clothing in your cabin if you want, but not outside if you might get rained on.

Most people completely ignore their legs and bring only jeans. If you must, then make one pair flannel-lined jeans (carhartts and LL Bean have them). Better is medium or heavy weight polypropylene thermal underwear under loose fitting wool or nylon pants.

Then adjust your layers to match the temps and wind chill of the day. Shed the jacket if you're too hot. Put on the hat if you cool off.

Bring a few fancier things if you are dining at the Captain's table. But you don't need anything fancy for going into town. The more casual and scruffy, the more you will look like a local.

If you're going to Fairbanks - Yes, it could be full-on winter with snow on the ground. Have enough warm clothes for 20F. But be ready for wet and windy, too.

In Anchorage and Kenai, snow is unlikely that early, but there will be freezing nights (which is great because it knocks down the mosquitos). Figure most days are around 45F. We often get our most stable and consistently sunny weather then. And most all tourists have gone home so we tell relatives to only visit us in May or September. Or during the 7 months of winter.

Wizzard2

Alaska is a big State, Souther ALaska is actually warmer than NYC in th winter, I suggest you bring heavy shirt and nylon shells to break the wind. You definately need to dress in layers

kingsgirl

Here, decide for yourself with these this temperature chart.

http://www.destinationoceans.com/alaska_cruises.asp?pageID=248

It also depends if you're going far inland or just staying on the coast. You don't need your full winter attire like you would in the dead of winter at home. Pack for easy layering. I doubt you will need boots, but a warm coat might be in order.

TINKERTOY ..... the 1 & only

If you are going on a cruise, the weather is generally warmer in June, July and Aug, but it can also be pleasant in May and Sept. When we went a few years ago in May it was shirt sleeve weather (70's) in Anchorage and Fairbanks. The odd thing was, it was cooler further south in Juneau and Skagway than it was up north. It was rainy and cloudy in Ketchkan. I

t will be cold, like coat, hat and gloves weather, when you get close to the Glaciers. Otherwise they would melt. When you pack, think layering of your clothes. A couple long sleeve shirts/tops, a sweater/sweatshirt, a light jacket, maybe with a hood. The later you go into October, the colder it will be everywhere.

Lizzy-tish

Oh yeah! Mitts and a warm winter jacket, snowboots or good mukluks to keep your feet warm. Snow in alaska and the nwt , even some parts of alberta can occur any time from now on. You'll love alaska though, beautiful country!

simplicityisalreadytaken

gee, i dunno is it cold in alaska?

traveler

It would depend on where in Alaska you are going, but Yes, it can snow that time of year.

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