December Packing List for Juneau — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Heavy insulated and waterproof parkaEssential

  With an average high of only 35°F and lows of 25°F, a serious winter parka is essential for staying warm during any outdoor activity in Juneau.

• Long underwear (thermal base layer)Essential

  This is a non-negotiable first layer for keeping your body heat in and moisture out in Juneau's frigid and damp winter conditions.

• Multiple fleece or wool sweatersEssential

  You will need significant insulation under your coat to combat the cold, especially when near the windswept Mendenhall Glacier.

• Insulated, waterproof winter bootsEssential

  Your footwear is your most important defense against the cold and wet; good boots are a must for navigating snowy and icy Juneau.

• Thick wool socksEssential

  Pack more pairs than you think you need to ensure your feet stay warm and dry, which is vital when temperatures are as low as 25°F.

• Warm winter hatEssential

  A fleece-lined, wind-resistant hat is crucial for preventing heat loss and protecting your ears from Juneau's biting winter wind.

• Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittensEssential

  Mittens are often warmer than gloves and are a better choice for keeping your hands functional in Juneau's cold, wet environment.

• Ice cleats or microspikesEssential

  These are essential safety equipment for walking anywhere in Juneau in December, as sidewalks and trails are notoriously icy.

Clothing

• Heavy insulated and waterproof parkaEssential

  With an average high of only 35°F and lows of 25°F, a serious winter parka is essential for staying warm during any outdoor activity in Juneau.

• Long underwear (thermal base layer)Essential

  This is a non-negotiable first layer for keeping your body heat in and moisture out in Juneau's frigid and damp winter conditions.

• Fleece-lined pantsRecommended

  To stay comfortable during the 20 days of expected precipitation, whether snow or rain, insulated pants are critical for exploring Juneau.

• Multiple fleece or wool sweatersEssential

  You will need significant insulation under your coat to combat the cold, especially when near the windswept Mendenhall Glacier.

Footwear

• Insulated, waterproof winter bootsEssential

  Your footwear is your most important defense against the cold and wet; good boots are a must for navigating snowy and icy Juneau.

• Thick wool socksEssential

  Pack more pairs than you think you need to ensure your feet stay warm and dry, which is vital when temperatures are as low as 25°F.

• Waterproof gaitersRecommended

  December in Juneau averages 20 precipitation days including snow — gaiters keep snow and slush out of boot tops during visits to the Mendenhall Valley or downtown.

Accessories

• Warm winter hatEssential

  A fleece-lined, wind-resistant hat is crucial for preventing heat loss and protecting your ears from Juneau's biting winter wind.

• Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittensEssential

  Mittens are often warmer than gloves and are a better choice for keeping your hands functional in Juneau's cold, wet environment.

• Scarf or neck gaiter/balaclavaRecommended

  Protecting your face from the cold is important, and a balaclava offers maximum coverage when exploring the outdoors around Juneau.

Gear

• Ice cleats or microspikesEssential

  These are essential safety equipment for walking anywhere in Juneau in December, as sidewalks and trails are notoriously icy.

• HeadlampRecommended

  With less than 7 hours of daylight, a headlamp is a practical necessity for getting around Juneau in the dark.

• Dry bags for electronicsRecommended

  With 20 rainy days in December, Juneau precipitation will find its way into any bag without a waterproof liner — protect your phone and camera on any outdoor excursion.