Know Before You Go

The following packing list contains general recommendations for a trip to Brooks Falls in September. If you are currently booked on a Bears of Brooks Falls Photo Expedition with Nat Hab, please consult your pre-departure materials for the most comprehensive and up-to-date packing list for your trip. You will receive these pre-departure materials 60–90 days before your departure.Items indicated in color below are typically available in the Nat Hab Gear Store. Please note that due to global supply chain issues beyond our control, we cannot guarantee that every item will always be in stock.
 

Adventure Guidelines

• Since the weather in Alaska can change by the hour, we recommend layering your clothing (i.e., wearing a T-shirt, fleece, and jacket) so that you can be comfortable throughout the day regardless of the temperature.

• Remember that during the adventure, rain is extremely likely, and proper rain gear is a must. Snow is also possible, and there may be days where you are standing in near-freezing water for hours at a time, so you will want warm pants under your waders.

• Be sure to pack warm clothing, including hat, gloves and rain gear in your carry-on bag when traveling by air.

Clothing

The packing list below is based on seasonal norms and average high and low temperatures. Please alter your packing needs based on the most up-to-date weather forecast.

• Lightweight neck gaiter (included in your pre-departure package)
  —Provides sun, wind and/or dust protection.

• Lightweight, breathable, waterproof rain gear 
  — You will need a rain jacket with a hood and rain pants. It is extremely important for your rain gear to be fully waterproof, not just water repellent, as it can rain frequently and quite heavily in the areas we will be visiting. Waterproof shells that can be layered over fleece, should temperatures be chilly, are ideal. Flimsy, plastic rain gear is easily torn, rendering it useless for the remainder of the adventure, so we recommend you avoid these items when possible. Your rain gear may be your most useful pieces of clothing.

• Chest waders and boots (provided)
  — Chest waders are worn directly over your clothes (our guests often prefer a fitted pant underneath), and wading boots are worn over the neoprene bottom of the waders. When wearing chest waders, most people find they need a boot one size larger than their traditional size. You absolutely cannot participate in this adventure without chest waders!

• Sport sandals or other comfortable, rubber-soled or slip-on walking shoes 

• Light hiking shoes

• Socks
  — We suggest socks made of wool or synthetic material; cotton socks are not recommended for hikes.

• Warm hat and gloves 

• Warm coat or fleece jacket 

• Wool sweater or sweatshirt

• Silk or polypropylene thermal underwear
  — Bring both tops and bottoms as they are great for layering.

• Sun/rain hat with brim and string so it won’t blow away.

• 3–4 pairs of long pants (or zip-off pants)
  — Including one pair to be worn under waders

• 1 pair of shorts
  — You may not need extra shorts if you are bringing zip-off pants.

• 2–4 long-sleeved shirts 

• 2–3 short-sleeved T-shirts 

• Warm sleepwear (nights can be chilly)

Additional Items

• Cash
  — For discretionary gratuities (you may want to bring envelopes for discreet presentation)
  — For personal spending (souvenirs, or food and beverages not included in your trip fee)

• Water-resistant daypack 
  — To carry gear during outings. A pack cover or waterproof liner is highly recommended since this bag will likely get wet anytime you set it down.

• Reusable water bottle (included in your pre-trip package)
  —In our continuing effort to operate our adventures with as little impact on the environment as possible, you will receive a reusable water bottle (unless you opted out on your Booking Form) to take with you on your adventure. We will provide drinking water throughout the adventure for you to refill your bottle. By doing this, you will avoid using multiple disposable plastic bottles.

• Hairdryer (optional)

• Binoculars
  — A good, quality pair will enhance your wildlife-viewing experience, and you will get the most out of them if you practice using them at home and make a habit of having them with you regularly on the adventure. Waterproof binoculars work well but are not required.

• Waterproof gloves
  — These are not required but can be very helpful to more easily operate camera equipment in damp or wet weather.

• Sunglasses (with UV filter)

• Prescription glasses/contact lenses

• Earplugs

• Sleeping mask

• Toiletries

• Sunscreen and lip balm (at least SPF15)

• Small first-aid kit

• Battery-operated alarm clock or wristwatch

•  Dry bags or reusable waterproof bags
  — Bring several sizes. These are great for wet or dirty clothing and to protect camera equipment from the elements.