How to Plan a Trip to Alaska for First-Timers

Alaska feels like a different country. It’s massive, wild, and intimidating to plan. My first trip, I tried to do too much. I learned you have to pick a region. You can’t see all of Alaska in a week. If you want mountains and glaciers, go to Southcentral (Anchorage, Kenai Peninsula). If you want wildlife and coastal views, head to Southeast (Juneau, Ketchikan). Also, book your car rental early—like, months early. They run out. And be prepared for the midnight sun in summer; pack a sleep mask. Alaska is worth every penny, but it requires more planning than a trip to the lower 48.