Driving an RV Through Alaska

Driving through Alaska in a recreational vehicle (RV) is a fun and interesting way to see the state. Renting an RV is also usually cheaper than paying for hotel rooms and restaurant food. Of course, remember that the area is mostly wilderness, so there are a few precautions to take when driving through Alaska in an RV.

Driving an RV through Alaska: Where to rent

Most flights into Alaska will bring you into Anchorage, so it is usually easier to rent your RV there than to travel to another city to pick up the vehicle. This can also save you money on airline tickets if your final destination is somewhere other than Anchorage because your flight will probably be routed through the city anyway.

Driving an RV through Alaska: Plan ahead

Be sure to make your reservations in advance so you do not get caught without transportation on arrival in Alaska. Even if you are able to find an RV rental on short notice, you might get stuck with a more expensive or larger vehicle than you want. These days, it is easy to compare rates online, so shop around to make sure you get the best possible price for your Alaska RV vacation. Ask whether there is a mileage fee in addition to the daily rate, so you do not get caught off-guard when it is time to return the RV and pay.

Driving an RV through Alaska: Stock up your refrigerator

Driving an RV on your Alaska trip will also allow you to save money on food because you have access to a kitchen and refrigerator. Instead of paying for expensive restaurants or fast food, stop at a grocery store before leaving town to stock up on supplies. Anchorage is your best bet for shopping, especially if you will be driving through some of the more remote parts of Alaska. Grocery stores are not as easy to find in Alaska as they are in most parts of the United States.

Driving an RV through Alaska: Keep your fuel tank full

Just like you should always keep your refrigerator stocked up, be sure to fill up your fuel tank whenever possible. In Alaska, you will not find a gas station on every corner the way you would in a more settled area. Cell phone service is also spotty in many parts of Alaska, so you do not want to get stranded with no gas and no way to call for help. Walking through the Alaskan wilderness is not a good idea, especially since you will not know how far you must walk to find the next town. It can be quite a long distance between settled areas in Alaska.

Driving an RV through Alaska: Stay at RV parks

It can be dangerous to park along the roadside in most parts of Alaska, so try to find an RV park when you are ready to call it a night. Again, make reservations ahead of time so you are sure to have a spot. Remember that everything is scarce in Alaska, including RV parking spaces. During certain times of the year, the RV parks can fill up very quickly, especially if you show up later in the day.