15 August 2011

Packing for Alaska, Part I: Shoes and Bags

When the Mister and I got married in May, I'd only started my new job a few months beforehand, so I hadn't accrued enough vacation time to take a honeymoon yet. We spent a weekend in Ithaca, but booked our "real" honeymoon to take place as soon as my vacation days kicked in.

And they're almost here! So in a couple of weeks, we're heading to Alaska for some dog-sledding, whale watching, glacier exploring, wildlife spotting, etc. I CANNOT WAIT to get there!

Usually, when we take a trip, I'm up till midnight the night before, frantically throwing everything I own into my suitcase. Then, when we arrive, I realize that I've horribly overpacked and I end up wearing less than half of what I brought. But not this time, this time, I'm going to be one organized mama.

The good news is that Alaska isn't the most fashionable place on the planet, and I don't really care what I look like while I'm there. I'll be dressing for comfort and utility, not style, although I don't want to look like a total slob. We'll probably go out to a handful of nice meals, but I don't need to worry about being a fashion plate.

The bad news is that, while we're going in summer, the high temperature will only be about 60 degrees. The nights could be in the 40's. That's not bad news in itself (I loooooove cooler temps) but the fact is, when packing for cooler temperatures, you have to pack bigger, bulker items, which fill up your suitcase very quickly.

So, here's what I'm thinking of packing for our nine days up north. Today, we'll start with shoes and bags.

1. A sturdy neutral satchel that will transition from daytime to casual evening.
2. A lightweight pair of comfy sneakers that will work for the long plane ride and for non-strenuous walking.
3. Simple flats that can be dressed up or down.
4. Warm, waterproof hiking boots for nature trails and glacier exploration
5. A canvas backpack for when I'd like my hands to be free.


I think - I hope - that this scant list of items will get me through nine days. Can you think of any shoes or bags that I'm missing for this trip?