How Much Does It Cost to Travel to Alaska? A Comprehensive Budget Guide for 2025

Planning a trip to Alaska sparks excitement—visions of towering glaciers, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife come to mind. But one question looms large for most travelers: How much does it cost to travel to Alaska? Whether you’re dreaming of a budget-friendly adventure or a luxurious getaway, understanding the expenses involved is key to crafting your perfect itinerary. Alaska’s remoteness, seasonal fluctuations, and diverse travel options mean costs can vary widely. In this guide, we’ll break down the numbers—flights, accommodations, transportation, food, activities, and more—so you can plan with confidence. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in practical tips and insider insights to stretch your dollars further in the Last Frontier.

The Big Picture: What Impacts Alaska Travel Costs?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s set the stage. Alaska’s travel expenses hinge on several factors:

• Season: Peak summer (June–August) commands higher prices, while shoulder seasons (May and September) or winter (December–March) offer savings.
• Travel Style: Are you a budget camper or a luxury lodge enthusiast? Your preferences shape the bottom line.
• Duration: A 7-day trip costs less than a 14-day odyssey, but longer stays can unlock better per-day value.
• Starting Point: Where you’re traveling from affects airfare or driving costs.
• Activities: Excursions like flightseeing or bear viewing add up fast.

On average, a 7-day Alaska vacation costs around $3,000 per person (about $428 per day), according to data from Alaska.org. But with smart planning, you can spend less—or splurge strategically. Let’s explore each cost category.

Flight Costs: Getting to Alaska

For most visitors, flying is the first expense. Alaska’s major hubs—Anchorage (ANC), Fairbanks (FAI), and Juneau (JNU)—connect to the Lower 48 and beyond. Here’s what to expect:

• From the West Coast (e.g., Seattle, Portland): Round-trip tickets range from $300 to $600, with Alaska Airlines and Delta offering competitive fares. Booking 6–8 weeks out or using airline miles (e.g., Alaska Mileage Plan) can drop this to $200–$300.
• From the East Coast (e.g., New York, Boston): Expect $500–$900 round-trip, though flexibility with dates or stopovers can shave off $100–$200.
• International Travelers: Flights from Canada, Europe, or Asia vary widely—$600–$1,500 round-trip—depending on seasonality and mileage redemptions.

Pro Tip: Shoulder seasons (May, September) yield cheaper flights and fewer crowds. Use tools like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track prices, and consider Anchorage for the most options.

Accommodation Costs: Where to Stay in Alaska

Where you rest your head in Alaska depends on your budget and comfort level. Here’s a breakdown:

• Camping: $25–$30 per night at state parks or private campgrounds. Free dispersed camping is an option on public lands, cutting costs to zero if you’re equipped.
• Budget Hotels/Motels: $100–$175 per night in cities like Anchorage or Fairbanks. Think basic but clean—perfect for cost-conscious travelers.
• Mid-Range Hotels: $200–$275 per night during summer, dropping 10–20% in shoulder seasons. These offer comfort without breaking the bank.
• Luxury Lodges: $350–$600+ per night, often in remote areas like Denali or Kenai Fjords, including perks like guided tours or gourmet meals.
• RV Rentals: $150–$300 per night, plus campground fees ($30–$50). Ideal for road trippers wanting flexibility.

Value Hack: Book hotels via Expedia or use Worldpackers to volunteer for free stays with locals. Winter lodging rates plummet—think $100–$150 for mid-range options.

Transportation Costs: Getting Around Alaska

Alaska’s vastness means transportation is a significant expense. Your options:

• Car Rental: $50–$100 per day for a standard sedan, plus gas ($4–$5 per gallon, higher in remote areas). A 10-day trip covering 1,100 miles might cost $700–$1,000 total with fuel.
• RV Rental: $1,500–$2,500 for a week, plus gas (expect 7–10 MPG). Great for groups splitting costs.
• Alaska Railroad: $100–$250 per person for scenic routes (e.g., Anchorage to Seward). Luxury GoldStar class doubles that but includes meals.
• Ferry (Alaska Marine Highway): $50–$200 per person for coastal routes, plus $100–$300 if bringing a vehicle. A budget-friendly alternative to cruises.
• Intra-State Flights: $150–$400 one-way (e.g., Anchorage to Juneau). Essential for reaching roadless regions.

Money-Saver: Stick to a rental car for flexibility and pair it with shoulder-season rates. Gas prices sting, so plan routes efficiently.

Food Costs: Eating in Alaska

Dining in Alaska reflects its remoteness—everything’s shipped in, so prices climb. Here’s the scoop:

• Self-Catering: $10–$15 per day per person if cooking (groceries like bread, meat, and veggies are 20–30% pricier than the Lower 48). Campers thrive here.
• Budget Eats: $15–$25 per meal at diners or food trucks—think burgers or fish tacos.
• Restaurants: $30–$50 per meal for fresh seafood (salmon, halibut, crab). A dinner splurge might hit $60–$80 with drinks.
• Daily Average: $60 per person if mixing self-cooking with occasional dining out.

Insider Tip: Stock up at Costco in Anchorage for road trips. Limit restaurant meals to 1–2 per week to savor local flavors without overspending.

Activity Costs: Exploring Alaska’s Wonders

Alaska’s allure lies in its experiences—glaciers, wildlife, and wilderness. These come at a price:

• Free Activities: Hiking trails, scenic drives (e.g., Seward Highway), and wildlife spotting cost nothing but time and gas.
• Day Tours: $70–$150 per person for boat trips or guided hikes.
• Premium Excursions: $200–$600 per person for flightseeing, helicopter tours, or bear viewing. A Glacier Bay cruise might hit $250, while dog sledding tops $500.
• National Park Fees: $10–$15 per person (e.g., Denali entry). Annual passes ($80) save money for multi-park visits.

Budget Boost: Prioritize one bucket-list activity and fill the rest with free hikes. Book tours early for discounts.

Cruises: A Different Way to See Alaska

Cruising is a popular alternative, bundling lodging, food, and transport. Costs vary by cruise line and cabin:

• Inside Cabin: $500–$1,000 per person for a 7-night trip (budget lines like Norwegian).
• Balcony Cabin: $1,500–$3,000 per person, ideal for Alaska’s scenery.
• Luxury Cruises: $4,000–$6,000+ per person for small ships or premium lines (e.g., Princess).
• Extras: Add $300–$600 for excursions, drinks, and tips.

Cruise Hack: Book shoulder-season sailings (May or September) for 20–30% savings. Skip pricy add-ons by enjoying onboard views.

Sample Budgets: 7-Day Alaska Trip Costs

Let’s crunch some numbers for two adults on a 7-day land-based trip from Anchorage (flights from Seattle):

Budget Traveler ($1,800–$2,200 per person)

• Flights: $400
• Camping: $210 ($30/night)
• Car Rental + Gas: $500
• Food: $350 (mostly self-cooked)
• Activities: $350 (hiking + one tour)

Mid-Range Traveler ($2,800–$3,500 per person)

• Flights: $500
• Hotels: $1,400 ($200/night)
• Car Rental + Gas: $700
• Food: $420 ($60/day)
• Activities: $600 (two premium tours)

Luxury Traveler ($5,000–$7,000 per person)

• Flights: $600
• Lodges: $2,800 ($400/night)
• Car Rental + Gas: $800
• Food: $560 ($80/day)
• Activities: $1,500 (flightseeing, fishing)

Hidden Costs to Watch For

• Travel Insurance: $100–$200 per person—worth it for cancellations or emergencies.
• Gear Rentals: $20–$50 per day for camping or fishing equipment.
• Souvenirs: $50–$100 if you resist the trinket temptation.

How to Save Money on Your Alaska Trip

• Travel Off-Peak: May, September, or winter slash prices across the board.
• Cook Your Own Meals: Grocery stores beat restaurant bills every time.
• Use Miles/Points: Redeem for flights or hotels to offset costs.
• Group Up: Split car rentals, RVs, or lodging with friends.
• Book Early: Lock in rates 6–12 months out for flights, tours, and cruises.

Why Alaska’s Worth the Investment

Alaska isn’t cheap, but it’s a once-in-a-lifetime destination. The Northern Lights dancing over Fairbanks, a bear snagging salmon in Katmai, or the silence of Denali’s wilderness—these moments justify the expense. With costs ranging from $1,800 to $7,000+ per person for a week, you can tailor your trip to fit your wallet.