Outdoor Pursuits
If you plan to venture into the water, you will need a life jacket, even if you're a good swimmer. Rivers in Fairbanks are colder and run faster than in the lower 48 states, so the risk for accidents increases. Even in the summer, bring blankets, gloves, a change of socks and a long-sleeve undershirt, as nights can get colder out in the open. Warm boots and waterproof clothing are essential for the winter, when temperatures can reach as low as -40 F. Hiking boots may not be a good option unless you can secure a pair that is completely waterproof. Otherwise, rubber boots might be better, especially in cold weather, when the last thing you need is to get your feet wet.
Enjoy the City
For more urban activities, bring clothing to dress in layers. Indoor heating can run pretty high when the temperatures dip into the minus scale outside. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must if you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing. Alaska is significantly more expensive than other states, so bring along essentials, such as sports equipment, medical prescriptions and video or camera equipment. If you plan to swim in a hotel pool, bring your swimsuit; for outdoor swimming, you'll need a wetsuit, even in summer.
Some Essentials
The Fairbanks area has lots of mosquitoes in spring and summer, so bring a bug spray with DEET to protect yourself, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors. The summer in Fairbanks has 22 hours of sunlight, so sunscreen is also a must. If you're planning to camp out during the summer, consider using a sleeping mask to block out the light. Telephoto lenses are essential if you plan to take wildlife photographs; the parks are large, and many of the animals tend to shy away from humans.
