Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Ketchikan, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ketchikan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America by month

January

January in Ketchikan is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Ketchikan can be very chilly. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Ketchikan is frosty. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

Traveling to Ketchikan in April, you will notice that it is brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Ketchikan is chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Ketchikan, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

In June, Ketchikan is crisp. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Ketchikan, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Ketchikan can be chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and regularly jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Ketchikan, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Ketchikan is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Ketchikan, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Ketchikan during September, you are likely to see that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October here is cold. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

In November, Ketchikan is brisk. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Ketchikan, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you go to Ketchikan in December, you will notice that it can be brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ketchikan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you visit the Tongass Historical Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Ketchikan, Alaska, United States of America

Ketchikan, Alaska, is a gem of a tourist destination. As a cultural, commercial and economic hub, the small city offers a host of must-visit attractions for avid travellers. Located on the southeastern coast of Alaska, Ketchikan boasts incredible scenery, fishing opportunities, boat tours, and historic landmarks. Here are the top tourist attractions in Ketchikan, Alaska.

1. Misty Fjords National Monument: Located 22 miles east of Ketchikan, Misty Fjords National Monument is a massive expanse of wilderness covering over 2.3 million acres. The incredible fjords are carved by glaciers, and the crystal clear waters and towering cliffs make for a stunning sight. Hiking and kayaking are popular activities.

2. Saxman Native Village & Totem Park: This is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian tribes who have called this area home for thousands of years. The Totem Park houses a fascinating collection of totem poles, each telling a different story. Visitors can also watch live carving demonstrations.

3. Creek Street: Take a stroll down Creek Street, a historic boardwalk built over Ketchikan Creek. This was a former red-light district, and you can still see the original bordellos and bars that once lined the street. Today, Creek Street is a charming spot for shops, restaurants and art galleries.

4. Tongass National Forest: This is the largest temperate rainforest in the world, and it borders Ketchikan. The forest is full of hiking trails, fishing streams, and stunning scenery. Adventurers can take a guided zip-line tour of the forest or go bear-watching from a boat.

5. Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary: This 40-acre forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears and bald eagles. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary to learn about the ecology of the area and observe the animals in their natural habitat.

6. Dolly's House Museum: Dolly's House was a famous bordello that operated on Creek Street. Today, it's a museum that gives visitors a glimpse into the life of a prostitute in the early 20th century. The museum is a fascinating insight into the city's history.

7. Totem Bight State Historical Park: This 33-acre park is home to dozens of totem poles, and visitors can stroll through the forest, admiring the incredible craftsmanship of the carvings. The park also has an interpretive centre where visitors can learn more about the history and culture of the area.

In summary, Ketchikan, Alaska has something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes and fascinating history to unique cultural experiences. Visitors to Ketchikan can look forward to a unique and unforgettable vacation filled with adventure, history and stunning natural beauty.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Bourbonnais, Illinois, United States of America, Brikama, Gambia, Karur, India, Metro New York, New York, United States of America, Wilmington, Delaware, United States of America, Tarfaya, Morocco, New Carrollton, Maryland, United States of America, Poughkeepsie, New York, United States of America, Lapua, Finland, Goondiwindi, Queensland, Australia, and San Luis Obispo County, California, United States of America.