Alaska offers an incredible travel experience that combines adventure, nature, and unforgettable wildlife into one unforgettable travel adventure. Alaska’s mountain peaks, glaciers, and breathtaking landscape make Alaska a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts of any sort.
Visiting Alaska by air does not require a passport; however, if driving or taking a cruise are in your plans.
Passport Requirements
As with any trip, Alaska requires certain passport requirements to be fulfilled before you embark on your journey. Chief among them: an up-to-date, valid and official document issued by your government for your entire duration of the journey.
Along with your valid passport, you will also require an official passport photo taken by an accredited agency. They’ll take your picture and scan it into a digital copy that’s easily downloadable – this can then be shown to officials at airport security checkpoints or used as proof of identity when needed.
Foreign nationals planning on staying longer than 90 days must also present a passport and may also require a multiple reentry visa (B-2 Visitor’s Visa). A B-2 Visitor’s Visa may be applicable for some Canadian citizens and other non-U.S. nationals who have to enter Alaska multiple times within 90 days.
Passports have been around since their first mention in the Bible and remain an essential travel document that can help prevent trouble when traveling abroad.
U.S. citizens do not require a passport to visit Alaska; however, beginning October 1, 2020 all travelers aged 18 or above will be required to present REAL ID-compliant identification card or documents when checking-in for air travel.
Alaska may impose additional visa requirements that can impact your trip, such as taking the COVID-19 test and providing proof of vaccinations. As these specifications can change based on factors like your itinerary and travel provider, it’s advisable to check with an expert prior to planning any vacation plans.
Passports have long been recognized as essential travel documents. Their purpose is to facilitate safe travel between countries, and as identification in case of emergencies.
Passports may not always be easy to secure, but with some patience you can achieve this feat. The process usually entails paying a fee and getting signature from someone guarantor who knows about your citizenship status – someone whom can identify you easily through name or other readily verifiable means.
Vaccination Requirements
Before embarking on your road trip or cruise vacation, it’s essential to be properly immunized against Hepatitis B or A viruses. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), two doses of either vaccine should be received – with three in the case of countries where levels are particularly high.
Vaccinations can provide important protection from illnesses like measles, rubella and chicken pox. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises travelers to get their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine at least 14 days before traveling abroad if possible.
Although MMR vaccine is expensive, its cost should not deter you from investing in your safety. According to the CDC estimates that you will require three doses to ensure full protection, although if other vaccinations have already been received you may only require one shot of MMR vaccine.
The CDC also advises taking a molecular-based test for SARS-CoV2 before traveling to Alaska, and uploading your results to your state’s COVID registry online. While not compulsory, taking this proactive measure could save you from potentially fatal influenza virus infections.
Alaska visitors should wear masks if visiting remote or small boat areas, and during public transportation. Some businesses and tour companies also mandate face covering during this process.
Simply stated, these vaccines and health-related items on this list provide you with everything necessary for safe travel while taking pleasure in Alaska’s beauty. Even though Alaska may not be top of everyone’s travel bucket list, one look at its stunning natural wonders and abundant wildlife will leave any visitor longing to experience all that Alaska offers again in a different time and place.
Travel Documents
If you’re planning a visit to Alaska, it is crucial that you know which documents will be necessary in order to ensure a smooth journey. Knowing this information beforehand will ensure your trip goes off without a hitch!
Make a note to bring some form of identification with you at all times when traveling to Alaska; passports are one common example, although other options may exist.
As part of your travel plans, whether flying or driving, it is crucial that you carry with you all of the appropriate documentation at all times. This will prevent delays or issues during your trip and ensure your safety at all times.
Apart from your passport, additional travel documents will also be essential prior to leaving home. For international trips lasting more than 90 days, obtaining a visa may be required; be sure to plan ahead so all paperwork is taken care of prior to departing!
An alien registration receipt card will also be essential when traveling by car or ferry, especially between Alaska and Canada or back into the United States. You’ll use it as identification if traveling in either direction.
Traveling by air to Alaska doesn’t require a passport; alternatively, your Visa Waiver Program entry visa could help get you into the country if coming from one of its participating nations.
Visa waivers allow travelers from certain countries to visit the US for up to 90 days without needing a visa, making travel simpler and faster. Check eligibility on the Department of State website.
For travel to Alaska by air, bring along a copy of your itinerary. This will give the airline or cruise line a better idea of your plans so they can book you on appropriate flights and ships.
Getting There
Booking a trip from the continental US to Alaska may seem straightforward, but there are a few key considerations you need to keep in mind when planning such a journey. Perhaps most notably is whether or not your flight passes over into Canada during your travels – in which case, passport requirements will apply and must be presented when crossing over.
Unfortunately, this needn’t deter you from experiencing Alaska’s breathtaking scenery! First thing’s first: finding transportation.
Cruising Alaska can be an enjoyable way to discover this region, but be sure to bring a valid passport or another document compliant with WHTI as your form of ID.
If traveling with children under 16 years of age to Alaska, passports aren’t necessary as long as they present either their original birth certificate or proof of citizenship (photocopy acceptable, as is notarized statement from parent).
Kids 17 or over may require a passport, though an enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) can also be accepted as long as its word ‘Enhanced’ appears on it and there is a notarized letter of consent from both their parent.
Once you’ve planned out your itinerary, the next step should be transportation. Hire a tour guide or rent a car and plan out your own itinerary!
Alaska offers many free or low-cost options, from walking tours and bicycle rentals to museums!
As you plan your Alaska travel experience, it’s essential that you keep in mind the season that best suits your visit. While summer is by far the most popular time, winter provides opportunities to experience stunning Aurora Borealis displays or try your hand at dog sledding or ice fishing!
Preparing your itinerary before traveling is also key, given Alaska’s remote nature can present unique emergencies that require attention. A solid backup plan including satellite messengers or emergency contact numbers in case you get lost is always advisable when hiking or traveling through remote regions like Alaska.
