faqs

You will receive email reminders prior to these dates to ensure you don't miss any deadlines:

Week of Nov 10, 2025 • Initial Itinerary App will be ready featuring the basic outline of your trip

Wed. Apr 15, 2026 • Remaining trip balance due and last chance to purchase travel protection.

Week of June 29, 2026 • Finalized Itinerary App updated with exact times, meeting locations, emergency numbers, and confirmation documents. Travel Packets with hard copy documents will be mailed out.

Guideline for average temperatures for early to mid-July:

Alaska is spectacular—but it is also wild, remote, and wonderfully unpredictable. Here are a few notes to help you prepare for your journey with the right mindset.

OVERALL FEEL

• Casual and outdoorsy: Even in Alaska’s best hotels and fine-dining restaurants, the dress code is relaxed. Locals often wear hiking pants, fleece layers, and waterproof jackets. Comfortable, practical clothing will serve you best.

• Rustic charm: Many lodges and hotels are well-kept but simple, with a focus on comfort rather than luxury. Think “refined wilderness” rather than “urban five-star.”

• Friendly and down-to-earth people: Alaskans tend to be warm, independent, and practical. Service can feel less formal but is usually very genuine.

WEATHER & ENVIRONMENT

• Highly changeable conditions: You might experience sunshine, rain, fog, and wind—all in one day. Temperatures can vary dramatically between morning and afternoon, or between coastal and inland regions. DRESSING IN LAYERS IS KEY.

• Rain is common, particularly along the coast (Anchorage, Whittier, Seward). Light waterproof jackets, rain pants, and waterproof shoes are well worth packing.

• Extended daylight: Expect 18+ hours of daylight in July. Hotels will have blackout curtains, but if you are very light sensitive, consider a sleep mask to block out all light.

TRAVEL REALITIES

• Distances are vast. Travel between destinations often involves several hours by train, motorcoach, or transfer. Roads may be winding or under repair, so motion-sickness medication can be useful.

• Wildlife and weather can affect schedules. Sightseeing and flightseeing tours may be delayed or adjusted due to fog, rain, or animal activity (like bears near trails). This is normal in Alaska, and guides are skilled at adjusting plans safely.

• Internet and cell service can be limited in national parks and smaller towns. You may want to download maps, entertainment, or reading material ahead of time.

CLOTHING

To accommodate transfers, please limit luggage to no more than 1 checked bag (not to exceed 50 lbs), 1 carry-on, and 1 personal item per person.

These are guidelines only — tipping is discretionary and should reflect the level of service and what feels right for each situation.

Private Airpot/Hotel Transfer • $5 - $10 pp

Private Half-Day Tour (3 - 4 hrs) • $10 - $15 pp

Private Full-Day Tour (6 - 8 hrs) • $15 - $25 pp

Bellhop / Porter • $1 - $2 per bag

Housekeeping • $3 - $5 per night left in the room each day

DATA PLANS
Before your trip, check with your cell phone provider to learn about rates and coverage options so you can stay connected no matter where you are.

WI-FI
Hotels will have complimentary Wi-Fi, though it may be unreliable in some areas.

WHATSAPP
This is a free messaging and calling app that works over Wi-Fi instead of traditional SMS or voice minutes. So long as you are logged into Wi-Fi, you will be able text, call, and share photos while using this app.

Travel protection is highly recommended.

Days Prior to Arrival

91 days or more

• Entrée Alaska's Policy • Loss of Deposit (50% of total cost)

• Dogwood Travel's Policy • $500 cancellation fee

90 days or less

• Entrée Alaska's Policy • 100% of total trip cost

• Dogwood Travel's Policy • $1,000 cancellation fee