In March of this year, I decided to hitch up my trailer and embark on a new adventure—this time, to Alaska. For the past eight years, I’ve been living in my 16-foot trailer, traveling across the country for seasonal jobs. I spent the 2023-2024 winter working at an Amazon facility in Washington—the fourth Amazon warehouse in my seasonal work journey.  When I realized that I was closer to Alaska than ever before, and I had no other commitments, I seized the chance to make the drive a bit shorter.

My mom and I boarded a ferry from Washington to Haines, Alaska, and from there, we drove 17 hours to Seward. After an amazing summer in Seward, I wasn’t ready to leave Alaska just yet. But to stay through winter, I needed the right gear to handle the cold. Whether you’re living in a small camper or a cozy cabin, from Alaska to Wyoming, here are my top 6 must-haves for surviving winter comfortably.

1. A good jacket: Columbia Women's Suttle Mountain Long Jacket

I absolutely love this jacket from Columbia. The extra long length keeps my thighs nice and warm! Their patented OMNI Heat design radiates your body heat back to you.  It is water and wind-resistant. I love the extra high neckline that helps keep my face and neck warm in the wind. An absolute must-have. 

2. Snow boots STQ Womens Winter Duck Boots Waterproof Cold Weather Snow Boots

These boots have been a lifesaver for me! They are super warm with microfleece insulation. And they stay dry even in wet snow. The bottom outsoles feature a wave pattern for extra traction and they are designed to stay soft in cold temperatures for better grip on snow and ice. 

3. Cozy hats  Britt's Knits Hat 

I am obsessed with Britt's Knits hats and headbands. I have two pom beanies and a fleece headband. I love the cute colors and the fleece lining makes them super warm. The headbands are so easy to wear with a high pony. So cute!

4. Waterproof gloves THE NORTH FACE Women's Shelbe Raschel Etip Glove

In order to survive winter, you need a good water-resistant glove. Nobody likes shoveling snow, or clearing snow off their cars when their fingers are wet and cold. I love these gloves with their extra synthetic insulation and water-resistant design. Their flexible fit and touch-screen compatibility make them a winner. 

5. Traction Cleats Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats

If you have dogs, or you just enjoy a walk in nature, I highly recommend adding some ice traction to your winter boots. I love being able to go for an afternoon walk to break up my day while working from home. With these traaction cleats, I feel much safer on the slippery snow and ice. 

6. Space heater Dreo Space Heater

When you are done playing outside, make sure to warm up with this little space heater. This baby kicks out a lot of heat. With it's user-friendly remote and easy-to-read temperature gauge, you can keep any room nice and cozy. I love turning this space heater on in the morning to warm up my bedroom before I have to get out of my comfy bed.

Stay tuned for more stories of Alaska, my travels, and gear recommendations for your small campers!

Happy Travels!

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