Essential Gear to Bring for Your Alaska Boat Adventure

Essential Gear to Bring for Your Alaska Boat Adventure

Essential Gear to Bring for Your Alaska Boat Adventure


At Alaska Wild Rentals, we provide the boats, motors, life vests, and the basic tools you need to hit the water. But every successful trip requires personal preparation. Alaska’s rivers and backcountry don’t forgive oversights — having the right gear can be the difference between a smooth adventure and a hard lesson.


Here’s your checklist of items to bring on your own:



---


Clothing & Protection


Waders or Hip Boots – Crucial for launching, beaching, and loading gear in shallow water.


Rain Gear – A durable waterproof jacket and bibs; expect wet weather at some point.


Layered Clothing – Base layers, fleece, and outer shells to handle warm days and cold mornings.


Warm Hat & Gloves – Even midsummer mornings on the river can sting.




---


Footwear


Waterproof Boots – Rugged and comfortable for gravel bars, mud, and portages.


Camp Shoes – Dry shoes or sandals for relaxing once the day is done.




---


Safety & Navigation


Garmin inReach or Satellite Communicator – Cell service is nonexistent in most hunting and fishing areas. Having a sat device lets you message family, get weather updates, or call for help in an emergency.


GPS or Offline Maps – A handheld GPS or a downloaded topo app (OnX, Gaia, etc.) is a must.


Headlamp or Flashlight – Essential when shorter days set in during fall.


First Aid Kit – Compact but ready for cuts, burns, or emergencies.




---


Fuel & Logistics


Gas Cans – Always bring extra fuel cans sized for your trip length.


Plan Ahead for Fuel – Estimate motor consumption (usually 3–5 gallons/hour depending on load and current). Factor in distance, current, and a 25% reserve. Running out of gas on a remote river can be dangerous.


Funnel & Siphon Hose – Makes refueling safer and cleaner.




---


Fishing & Hunting Essentials


Rod & Reel / Rifle / Bow – Whatever your trip calls for.


Game Bags – Breathable bags to keep meat clean and cool.


Coolers – For fish, game, or just camp food.


Sharp Knives & Sharpener – Breaking down game or filleting fish requires good steel.




---


Camp & Comfort


Dry Bags – Protect clothes, electronics, and sleeping gear.


Sleeping Bag & Pad – Rated for chilly nights, even in August.


Stove & Fuel – Hot meals make a big difference after a long day.


Bug Dope or Thermacell – Mosquitoes and no-see-ums are no joke in Alaska.


Tarp & Rope – Rain cover or quick shelter over camp or meat pole.




---


Extras That Make Life Easier


Binoculars – Spotting moose, caribou, or hazards on the river ahead.


Multi-Tool – Quick fixes for gear or outboard hardware.


Snacks & Hydration – High-energy food and plenty of clean water.


Notebook & Pencil – Jotting GPS notes, recording fuel use, or writing a hunt log.




---


Final Word


When you book with Alaska Wild Rentals, you’re already ahead — we provide boats, motors, life vests, pumps, and basic tools. But a safe, successful trip depends on what you bring: fuel planning, clothing, sat comms, and personal gear that keeps you ready for anything.


👉 Don’t just rent a boat — prepare for the full adventure. Reserve your boat today at AlaskaWildRentals.com.

Back to blog