Planning a trip to Alaska can seem like an expensive undertaking due to its size, reputation as a costly destination and distance from a good portion of the rest of the country. However, according to an annual survey of vacation costs by AAA, Alaska falls somewhere in the middle of the rest of the country in regards to travel costs (www.travelalaska.com), making it less expensive to visit than states like Hawaii, New York and Florida. And with a little research and planning, it's very possible to plan an Alaskan visit on a budget.
Visit during off-peak months. Peak travel time is during the summer months, from early June through late August. If you travel during what is called the "shoulder season," either in May or in September, you can still benefit from better weather conditions and take advantage of discounts that are offered by many lodging and travel related companies. The shorter daylight hours during late spring and early fall may even bring better opportunities to see the local wildlife, as animals like moose tend to come out earlier in the evening as the sun goes down.
Focus your trip on one particular area. Travel between regions can be costly; cities such as Anchorage can offer an excellent overview of the state without the extra travel costs. Anchorage has plenty of local wildlife, and on a clear day during the shoulder season, a good view of Mt. McKinley. If you do travel throughout the state, car rental may be cheaper than the bus or train, especially if there are more than two people traveling together.
Take a cruise. A cruise can actually be a money-saver because all of your costs are often built in to one package, and cruises can be a great way to see the coastal parts of Alaska and the glaciers. There are a number of cruise options and online specials on Web sites like www.cruisealaska.com.
Book ahead and over the Internet. According to Travel Alaska, you can take advantage of discounts for booking early (in January or February), or by searching the Web for online-only specials. If you are over 65, you may also be eligible for senior rates. In addition, there are a number of sites that can help you estimate the cost of the activities in which you may participate, as well as the lodging rates and options.
Travel Alaska (www.travelalaska.com) and www.alaska.org both offer general information about the average prices of activities and lodging as well as offer suggestions as to how to reduce your overall cost and still see the sites. Some money-saving tips they offer include visiting a roadside glacier instead of taking a helicopter tour and staying in a bed & breakfast instead of a larger hotel. If you plan out your entire trip ahead of time, chances are you'll be less likely to go over your budget due to unexpected expense.
Enjoy the adventure! Alaska offers an opportunity to see landscapes and animals not present throughout most of the country. If your budget only allows for a limited stay, make the most of the experience. Consider putting most of your funds toward scenic tours rather than higher-end lodging and dining. And don't forget to bring a camera.
