Alaska offers some of the world's best views of the aurora borealis, drawing visitors from across the globe for a truly unique and unforgettable experience. However, you must plan and prepare to ensure your safety and comfort when seeing the Northern Lights. From dressing appropriately to packing nourishing snacks like local Alaskan sausages with reindeer meat and Wild Alaskan Smoked Salmon, here are a few tips to help you get started.

A Brief Planning Guide to Seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska

1. Dress Warmly

The aurora is ablaze about 250 nights a year, with peak viewing times between late August and mid-April. This period coincides with the coldest parts of the year in Alaska, so you must dress for freezing temperatures. 

Layering clothing will protect against frostbite and hypothermia. At a minimum, don a warm base layer, followed by a sweater or fleece. Supplement the outfit with an insulated outer garment like a parka or woolen duffle coat. Hats that cover the ears, insulated gloves, scarves, and waterproof hiking boots will also help you remain warm.

2. Bring Your Camera and Gear

Smartphone cameras are surprisingly good at capturing the Northern Lights. Still, given the size, scope, and rapidly changing nature of these displays, a more traditional photography tool will provide better shots. 

To capture the best pictures, pack a digital camera with manual exposure control. This feature lets you set the ISO, aperture, and shutter speed to adjust the exposure and customize the image's brightness level. Also, bring extra batteries and memory cards to ensure you don't run out. A collapsible tripod also makes photographing the lights much easier, as you won't need to hold the camera constantly.

3. Pack Hearty Snacks

Nutrient-rich snacks will give you the fuel necessary to stay warm and energized throughout the journey to the viewing spot and the dazzling lights. For an authentic experience in the Last Frontier, pack local foods like smoked salmon strips and Alaskan sausages made with reindeer meat. When packing these items, check that you can eat them right out of their packages. You should also carry an insulated water bottle to stay hydrated and comfortable.

To include a taste of Alaska in your food supplies, let Alaska Sausage & Seafood provide you with some delicious options. Since 1963, this Anchorage-based game and fish processor has offered a full selection of local delicacies. Treats like Alaskan sausages with reindeer meat and smoked salmon will help make your trip to the Northern Lights even more memorable. Call (907) 562-3636 to place an order, visit the retail store at 2914 Arctic Bvd., in Anchorage or visit them online to browse their products.