For many people, a visit to Alaska is a lifelong dream. Some put it off until retirement while others dream of a destination wedding in The Last Frontier. Alaska is a large state, just about double that of Texas, so when you think of how much ground you have to cover, it’s no wonder you worry about how much it would cost to cover all that territory. In addition, some of that territory is only accessible by air or by sea. Nevertheless, you don’t have to worry about spending a fortune just to get it all in on your visit to Alaska.
What’s Great about the Great Outdoors?
One of the best things about traveling to Alaska is the host of outdoor activities you can find there and many of them are low cost.
Hiking
If you are already a hiker, chances are you will have your own gear and plenty of it. You will already own the perfect pair of hiking boots that are perfectly worn in for your next trekking adventure. Angel Rocks Trailhead is a perfect example of how to explore nature while in Alaska and do it on a budget. Hiking is not an overly expensive sport to enjoy. It’s just you, your gear and nature.
Toss in a Line
Don’t worry if you don’t have your own gear. You can rent most of what you need without worrying about exorbitant expenses. Fishing in Alaska is one of the most rewarding and satisfying ways to spend your time and doesn’t have to cost a fortune either. There are plenty of places to cast a line and even more choices of fish to catch from salmon to halibut in the most pristine and diverse settings, as well.
Camping
In Alaska, you can choose from pitching a tent at the bottom of a mountain or staying in an RV at Denali National Park. There are park grounds and camp grounds all over the state and roughing it is one sure way to go frugal in Alaska.
No matter which of these three outdoor activities you choose, you never have to worry about owning expensive gear because you can rent just about anything and everything you need for your outdoor expeditions.
Travel off Season
Another great way to save money and travel on a budget in Alaska is to travel off season. With all the tourists flocking down to Alaska in the summertime, you can find yourself a great deal during fall or spring. Most tourists visit during the summer, but you can enjoy beautiful clean, crisp weather in the spring and fall seasons and find plenty of savings, as well.
Eat Like a Native/Shop Like a Local
If you don’t want to spend a fortune on meals, stay away from the tourist spots. Eat like an Alaskan and enjoy foods off the beaten path at smaller locales. If you want to do some shopping, again, stay away from tourist traps. If you are staying with a friend or renting a space that has a kitchenette, then get yourself a grocery card at one of the local stores and pay much less than you would at a café or restaurant geared toward tourists. You may spend a few more dollars on a place with a kitchenette, but you will reap that back twofold by buying and cooking your own meals.
Stay and Play
If you have a friend in Alaska, ask if you can come visit. Offer to make the evening meals and make it a barter situation. If you don’t have a friend to stay with, buddy up with another family. Sometimes you can find a rental and share the expenses with another couple or family. Check out Airbnb for great places to stay for reasonable rates.
Airfare
Think about shopping around a few months before to get the best price on airfare you can possibly find. Sometimes booking too far in advance doesn’t allow you to get the best deal. As it gets closer to take-off, sometimes the airline will want to fill up the plane. With empty seats on board, you may just get a bigger discount. Fly with stopovers. Most direct flights are more costly, but when you book with stopovers, you may see a decrease in fare.
There are plenty of places to stay, things to do and see on a budget for your next Alaskan adventure.
