Tips for Driving in Alaska

There are a few things to keep in mind when driving in Alaska. The weather and roads can be quite different from what you’re used to. This state is also home to a lot of wild animals, so it’s important to stay vigilant at all times. Make sure you know the dos and don’ts of driving in Alaska before you leave.

(1) What driving in Alaska is like

Alaska is the land of extremes. The highways in Alaska are often long and remote, so pack plenty of food and water and make sure your car is in good working condition before you leave. During the winter, driving in Alaska can be dangerous since many roads aren’t plowed or sanded, making them very slippery. If you plan on driving during winter, check the weather beforehand. In addition, drivers should be aware of the road conditions in Alaska. Many of the roads in the state are unpaved and can be quite bumpy, so drivers should take it easy when driving.

(2) Wildlife to be aware of while driving

There are a lot of wildlife in Alaska, and they often wander onto the road. Keep an eye out for the unexpected and always be prepared! There are a lot of Moose in Alaska, and they can be very dangerous if you hit them. A collision can result in significant damage to your car as well as serious injury or death to the driver and passengers. You should therefore keep a lookout for moose while driving and take evasive action if you see them. It is also common to see Caribou and Bears in Alaska, which are just as dangerous as moose if you run into them.

Here are some facts about Alaska to keep in mind when driving:

• Each year, road accidents kill about 1,000 moose in Alaska.
• Moose attacks injure 10 people in Alaska each year.
• Moose, caribou, and bears outnumber humans in Alaska by more than a factor of two.

(3) DOs and DONTs

When driving in Alaska, it’s important to be aware of the different conditions you might encounter. Here are some DOs and DONTs while planning your road trip to Alaska:

DOs:

• Check the weather conditions before driving, and be prepared for changing conditions.
• Drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings.
• Use caution when driving on icy or snow-covered roads.
• Make sure your vehicle is properly equipped for winter driving.
• Familiarize yourself with driving laws and the speed limit in Alaska.
• In remote areas, gas stations are few and far between. Fill up whenever you can.

DON’Ts:

• Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Drive recklessly or carelessly.
• Ignore road signs or fail to yield to oncoming traffic.
• Rush through intersections or drive on icy roads too quickly.
• Stop on the highway for taking pictures unless there is a designated camera road sign.
• Overtake a vehicle on a two-lane highway until there is a passing lane.
• Drive your rental car on unpaved roads unless your rental agreement permits you to do so.

(4) Safety tips for driving in Alaska

The experience of driving in remote parts of Alaska is nothing short of an Alaskan adventure. It’s important to be aware of the different conditions you might encounter. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure your car is in good working order before you start driving.
• Pack plenty of food and water for your journey.
• Drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings.
• Use headlights year-round.
• Don’t stop your car and intimidate wildlife to take pictures.
• Never overspeed even on a long stretch of empty road.
• Break every two hours – there are more driving hours even though the distance is not great.

(5) What to do if you encounter a problem while driving in Alaska

If you encounter a problem while driving in Alaska, there are a few things you can do. It is important to note that mobile phone coverage and 911 emergency service are inconsistent in the remote parts of the state. If you have an international SIM card, make sure 911 service is enabled while you are in the United States.

• Pullover to the side of the road and call for help.
• If you’re stranded on the side of the road, put up your hazard lights and wait for help to arrive.
• If you’re driving in a remote area, try to find a gas station or another populated area where you can get help.
• If you have rented a car in Alaska, please contact your rental company for on-road assistance.

How to enjoy driving in Alaska (despite the challenges)

Despite the challenges, driving in Alaska can be a fun and rewarding experience. The scenery is beautiful, and there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. Driving in this state is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Alaska.

So if you’re prepared for the challenges and know what to expect, driving in Alaska can be a great way to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Just make sure you take it slow and drive defensively, and you’ll have a safe and enjoyable journey.

Disclaimer:

This blog may contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may get a small commission if you buy anything. All products and services we endorse have been personally used or come highly recommended to us. These incomes allow us to keep the community supported and ad-free.