Take Your Alaska Truck Rentals Caribou Hunting This Fall!

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The hunt is on! Alaska is known for its supreme hunting. Anyone who has a license and follows regulation can take part. Of course, now you just need an Alaska truck rental to get you there!

Hunting regulations are important. They’re not just for teetotalers, but ensure that the species that we hold so dear for our subsistence are maintained rather than depleted. Regulations are not arbitrary laws decided by paper pushers, but rather a carefully constructed mandate set out by those who understand the ecosystem, the species within it, and their breeding and living cycles. With these, officials can create a regimented limitation on hunting that ensures the growth of a species at the same rate its being hunted. After all, you can’t hunt if all the caribou disappear!

As you may know, August and September creates the prime caribou-hunting season. You may have already taken your Alaska truck rental out for a hunt! But unless you’re following regulations, you will come across hefty and unwanted fines.

So, to help you avoid that, we’ve outlined some important tips and rules to remember about hunting to let you stay worry-free in your Alaska truck rentals.

Types of hunts

The date that you’re allowed to begin hunting depends on the type of hunting license you have. Subsistence hunters began on August 1 in the Nelchina region Unit 13, while Tier I followed on August 10. The rest of us who decided to try our hands at the drawing hunt had to wait until August 20. Fortunately, caribou is good for hunting throughout September, as well.

Don’t forget also to reapply for a draw hunt next year if that’s the route you choose to take. Application period, as you may already know, is November 1 until December 15.

Where to find caribou

Hunting caribou can actually be quite relaxing and leisurely, if you know what you’re doing. Unlike many animals, caribous like a little sleep in. That means that early afternoon, with the sunning beaming, is the best time to find caribou roaming the plains. You’ll find them picking at cotton, forbes, fireweed, and dwarf birch leaves. So that means you can pack proper camp breakfasts in your Alaska truck rentals for lazier than normal mornings.

On particularly warm days, look up. Caribou are not fans of bugs and flies, and will move up towards windy ridges in order to avoid them.

Regulations for hunting in Alaska

Regulations on both state and federal levels can be confusing. Your best decision is to read through the regulation handbook carefully. It’s printed annually every June. In this you can find bagging limits, season dates, information on registration hunts, tag types, and information about which hunts are residents only or nonresidents allowed.

This last point is particularly important to pay attention to. If you’re unfamiliar with hunting regulations in the state and you’re a nonresident then it’s important always to check to see if you’re legally admitted to hunt in that region at that period. Because subsistence hunting is common in Alaska, it’s important, as a nonresident, for you to follow these regulations to ensure residents have the food they need.

There are several different types of hunts in Alaska: Tier I and II subsistence permits; drawing permits; federal hunts; registration permits; general season hunts. The best way to figure out which hunt suits you best is by visiting the Alaska hunting regulation website or by reading the regulation handbook. Online information can be found here.

If you need Alaska truck rentals for your caribou hunting trip, look no further than Avis Alaska. Find out more at one of our branches or reserve your vehicle directly with our website.

Bears, Fish, and Hiking: Experience Brooks Camp to its Fullest

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Brooks Camp in Katmai National Park is known as the bear place. Visitors and residents of Alaska alike visit the park to get a taste of these great creatures in the wild. It’s always been a wonderful way to see bears outside the confines of a zoo or without the risk that comes with accidentally running into one while camping! Take your Alaska SUV and car rentals to Brooks Camp to experience bears, fishing and much more.

Getting to Brooks Camp

Getting to Brooks Camp will take more than just driving out in your Alaska SUV and car rentals. Many people arrive at the camp via aircraft, however you can also access the camp by boat.

Plane services can begin in many of the surrounding towns, including Homer, King Salmon, Kodiak, Anchorage, and Dillingham.

For more information on getting to Brooks Camp, see their webpage on transportation. This will help you plane the route that’s best for you.

Bear safety

If you’re staying at the camp, it’s important you know about bear safety. All newcomers must take a brief training lesson on how to behave in the case of a bear encounter, and how to ensure both yours and our bears’ safety. This is true of even those visiting for a couple of hours. Particularly when the salmon runs plentiful, the odds of seeing bears are quite high. So we need to make sure everyone stays safe and happy.

Though you’ll have your training session when you arrive, it doesn’t hurt to do some research in advance. Brooks Camp has page on bear encounter that is informative and helpful. You need to be aware that you are more likely than not going to have a bear encounter. But it’s up to you to decide how that encounter goes, and how close the bear comes to you. These tips can help you with that. After all, running back to your Alaska SUV and car rentals won’t be an option! So be smart, be safe, be vigilant.

Plan your trip

How long will you be staying at Brooks Camp? Plan your trip, and research the best options for you. If you’re planning on staying a couple nights you’ll have to make the decision between camping and lodging. There are numerous lodges within the park that offer shelter and a bit of glamping. This may be ideal if you don’t want to lug around much camping equipment to and from your Alaska SUV and car rentals.

After that, decide what you want to do. There’s plenty to see in the park besides bear watching – though that’s certainly a must-see!

Fishing is also a major sport within the camp. Here you can find salmon, rainbow trout, and arctic char. After all, why do you think there are so many bears! But remember to stay alert for bears. It isn’t unusual for bears to move toward the sound of splashing fish. That means they may go on investigating your line if you’ve caught on. Cut the fish free, and move to safety on land until the bear continues on their way.

If you’re interested in hiking, there’s definitely plenty around Brooks Camp. Dumpling Mountain, for instance, offers a spectacular view of the area. Hikes range from easy to difficult, so make sure you know your experience level. Speak to one of the guides in the camp to find out which route is best for you. Brooks Camp is big on the safety of their visitors, so they’ll make sure to offer you appropriate guidance.

This is just a taste of Brooks Camp. If you really want to experience the peace and quiet that comes with this natural bear habitat, get on out and enjoy.

Explore the great outdoors with your Alaska SUV and car rentals this summer. Reserve your vehicle today from Avis Alaska for good deals, great cars, and excellent service.

Take Your Alaska SUV Rentals for a Canoe Trip Through the Wild

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Alaska is a place where people can truly experience the great outdoors. We connect with ourselves out in the wild. Discover things about nature and about our own spirits that we wouldn’t have in the hustle and bustle of the city. And there’s nothing more tranquil than a canoe trip in silent waters, listening to the call of the birds and the jumping fish. Sounds ideal right? With your Alaska SUV rentals, you can escape to the canoe trip of a lifetime.

Plan your trip

Of course, you can’t just head out on a canoe without an idea of where you’re going. You need to plan your trip accordingly.

First thing to do is decide where you want to go, and how long you’d like to be out for. For some, you may decide that a canoe trip without a guide is daunting. Maybe you’ve never been out in Alaska before, or maybe you don’t want to deal with the difficulty of planning the trip yourself. Whatever the reason, there are canoeing tours that will be perfect for you!

These trips are guided, and often go around well-known sites that you won’t want to miss. Often they’re only a few hours so you still have time after to go back out on your own if you so choose, or to head back into town in your Alaska SUV rentals for a hearty lunch to revive yourself. Here’s a brief list of some canoe tours available.

Otherwise, get out a map and start planning! Many outfitting stores around Alaska will offer maps that can help you plan your route and destination. We’d recommend a waterproof one, or else a waterproof packet for it. After all it’s going to be your only guide. If you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, it’s probably better to start off easy. Know your own limits, and speak to someone at the outfitter who may be able to help you choose a route that suits your skill level and knowledge.

Balance the boat

Now you need to pack your bags. Make sure you pack accordingly. Canoes can handle a lot of weight, but how much can you handle? If you’re going out for a few days, you’ll need all of your camping supplies and food. And a quick reminder – don’t leave any food in your Alaska SUV rentals! You may come back to damaged door from bears trying to get in.

But the rest you need to carry on your back when you stop for the day, or during portages. Pack nutritious, filling foods like nuts, energy bars, dried fruit, and trail mix to ensure you have plenty of energy for the trek ahead. And don’t full rely on a stove! Remember anything can happen in the wild, so pack foods that don’t always need to be reheated as well as fireproof pans in case your stove fails you.

Research the area

Next, you need to research the area you’ll be canoeing. As mentioned above, maps help with this. However, guidebooks can be helpful and speaking to the guide at the canoe rental shop will help you get tips about the area that the guidebook may not tell you. It also isn’t a bad idea to speak to local rangers and authorities, who want you to get out safe and treat the area with respect.

Once you’ve done that, the next step is to have your proper gear. This can include bear-proof food barrels and any wilderness tools you may need. Also make sure to have comfortable water shoes for any shallow water. Know the area – know if there are plentiful fish in the river, and what kind. That way you know what fishing equipment to pack. Research the tinder situation for your fires, and if there have been bear attacks recently. Finally, know if there are edible berries around. Alaska is rich in berries and food that is ready to be foraged. Do some research on how to forage and how to know what’s edible.

And don’t forget the first aid kit! That could be crucial on your trip. Anything can happen!

Tell someone where you’re going

Even if you’re going with several friends, it’s a good idea to tell someone else where you’re going. Perhaps your hotel clerk and some friends or family back home. Tell them the dates of your trip, and emergency numbers. After all, you may end up just leaving your phone in your Alaska SUV rentals – there isn’t much use for it in the wild! Often, you can’t get reception in the wilderness.

You’re almost ready to go. Just one last thing – book your Alaska SUV rentals! Reserve yours from Avis today to begin your canoe trip.

The Benefits of Getting your Alaska Vehicle Rentals from Avis

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We know that every Alaska vehicle rentals agency will tell you they’re the best. The best service, the best prices, the best vehicles. But can they back it up? Here at Avis Alaska vehicle rentals, we know that our fleet is top quality and that our community is one of a kind.

A family company

Though we’re an offshoot of Avis, our company is actually an Avis system licensee, which means that we still have much of the flexibility of an independent company. And it shows! We have been family owned and operated since our inception.

To this day, family continues to a play major role in the Avis Alaska business. We see our staff as our family, and that family community has continued for decades. Look no further than this to understand why so many of our staff members have remained with us for decades.

Because of our family history, we believe in community creation. When you rent from Avis, you’re not just gaining Alaska vehicle rentals. You’re also gaining a community that will be here to support you throughout your journey.

Years of experience

Here at Avis, we know Alaska. We know its rhythms, its heart and soul, and its people. That’s because we have more than 60 years experience renting out vehicles to its residents and visitors alike. In fact, we’re the state’s most experienced Alaska vehicle rentals company. We have spent decades molding our service to match the needs of Alaska and its people.

Because of this, we’re also able to offer sound advice on what to do and see around Alaska. We can help you plan your day, and are more than happy to share our experiences of this great state.

Rental convenience

A convenient rental is a great rental. When you’re picking up your Alaska vehicle rentals, you want convenience, flexible policies, and efficiency. We strive to offer all of these things for our clients.

We believe rental companies should enhance your visit, rather than hinder it. That’s why we’ve expanded to include 12 locations across the state of Alaska. You have the flexibility to pick up and drop off your Alaska vehicle rentals at any of these locations. Not just staying in Anchorage or Juneau? We understand. You want to see the state! Offices are available in Fairbanks, Kenai, Kodiak, Petersburg, Sitka, Skagway, Haines, and Whittier. Never worry about inconvenient rental locations getting in the way of your travel opportunities.

Preferred renter’s program

Speaking of convenience, we are always looking for new ways to offer our clients an advantage. Our preferred renter’s program does just that.

If you’re a frequent renter, you may want ways to save a bit of money and increase the flexibility of your Alaska vehicle rentals options. Our preferred renter’s program offers improved rates as well as plenty of discounts for those involved. Furthermore, our agents will work personally with you to help you save money in other ways. One instance of this includes a 5 rental reward program. If you rent from us 5 times, you’ll be offered a free day on your next Alaska vehicle rentals. On top of that, you’ll be offered free upgrades, including free GPS unit rentals.

We truly value our clients at Avis. We understand that without you, there would be no us. That’s why community values are so important to us. We believe that when you’re happy, we have truly succeeded in our commitment to bringing the best Alaska vehicle rentals to our community. Loyalty, trust, and service – that’s what Avis Alaska brings to the table.

Do you want a friendly face behind the counter when you pick up your Alaska vehicle rentals? Then don’t hesitate – reserve your vehicle from Avis Alaska today.

Tips for Hiking Before Heading Out in your Alaska Summer Car Rentals

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Hiking is a big sport in Alaska. We just love it – and how could you not? In a state with so many national parks, glaciers, forests, mountains, tundra – you name it! Whether you’re new at hiking Alaskan terrain, or a seasoned pro, it’s nice to be reminded of some fundamental hiking tips to keep you safe. So before you head off in your Alaska summer car rentals looking for a prime hiking spot, read on for our hiking tips.

  1. Be careful on river crossings

One of the most important things to remember is to not drag your friends down with you when crossing a river. For deep waters, crossing arm in arm is your best bet, but for shallow rivers cross one at a time.

If you take your hiking partner down with you, who will be there to help you both up? Arm in arm is good for support, and hopefully steady enough to ensure no one falls. But for smaller rivers that are easily forded on your own, having the other person watch you from the other side will ensure you have someone to help in times of trouble.

And of course, never cross in a storm. Always wait the storm out as the current will become a lot more aggressive with high winds and rain. You may also want to unclip your pack from around your body. That way the weight of the pack can be shrugged off it begins to take you downriver in the event you’ve fallen in a heavy current.

Finally, look for the river crossing. There are always marks on the river directing towards the best route to cross the river.

  1. Choose footwear carefully

Do you want quick-drying hiking shoes so you don’t have to change your shoes when crossing a river? Or a separate pair of water shoes or river sandals to keep your socks and hiking shoes clean and dry?

Either way, make sure you think carefully about what might be most comfortable for you. There’s nothing like having uncomfortable feet in the interior! It can turn a relaxing, albeit challenging, hike into an unpleasant one. If you’re not sure, bring both and you can always leave one pair in the Alaska summer car rentals if you change your mind when you get to the trails.

  1. Know the signs of hypothermia

Whether you’re going on a quick trip or a weeklong venture, make sure you know the signs of hypothermia. Common symptoms include shivering, slurred speech, paled skin, decreased motor functions, and disorientation. If you catch these signs in someone in your group, change their clothes into dry, thick clothes with multiple layers. Keep them active, hydrated, warm, and fed. If you can stop to build a fire, do so. It is important that they keep moving, though, and stay warm.

At this point, you’ll likely want to call your trip and get back to your Alaska summer car rentals to get your friend help as soon as possible.

  1. Choose an appropriate level of hiking

It’s important to know your skills and your limitations. When you’re setting off in Alaskan terrain, choose your hike carefully. If you’re a beginner, or with beginners, here is a list of 10 easy hikes across Alaska. These hikes will still offer you the beauty and challenge of Alaskan wilderness, without threatening the safety or enjoyment of anyone in your group.

  1. Know how to handle the wildlife

Alaska is full of wildlife. It’s important to know how to deal with it, particularly with bears. We have a blog on dealing with bears effectively and safely that will be helpful to those unfamiliar with these parts. Furthermore, forest fires are a real issue in Alaska. Stay safe this fire season with our tips on fire safety.

All you need now is your Alaska summer car rentals for a great hiking trip. Reserve your Alaska summer car rentals from Avis today!

How to Cooperate and Co-exist Peacefully with Alaska’s Wolverines

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Wolverines tend to get a bit of a bad wrap. These little guys are native to Alaska, and contrary to much lore surrounding them, are actually quite innocent. In fact, you may have never seen a wolverine even if you’ve been in Alaska for several years (or your whole life!). While it’s highly unlikely you’ll come across one of these little guys in your Fairbanks Alaska rental car, we still thought we’d debunk some myths.

Myth: Wolverines will attack

In all honesty, it’s improbable that a wolverine would attack you unless they feel threatened. They’re actually quite small creatures with thick bodies and short legs and would be hard pressed to attack a larger predator.

Wolverines are great at climbing trees and travelling long distances. This is all in the name of foraging for food for themselves and their families. While they have been known to kill moose, caribou, or Dall sheep, these require supreme circumstances and are quite uncommon. Generally, their food comes from carrion and smaller prey, such as voles and birds.

Wolverines habitat

Wolverines spend a majority of their adult lives travelling around looking for food, or else in their den with their families and litter. They will defend their food and territory from smaller predators. Unless you’re treading on their den and going near them in a threatening way while they eat, you’re safe. That being said, you still may want to see these beautiful creatures from the interior of your Fairbanks Alaska rental car to offer them a sense of safety.

You’ll recognize a den in the snow. It will be visibly a small hole in the snow, carved right in and stretching up to 60 yards in length (though, of course, you probably won’t be able to see that). Snow is needed for the wolverines to nurse their young and build their dens.

Studies have shown that dwindling snow patterns across the state of Alaska could be troubling for wolverines. Earlier melts have an impact on the safety and habitat of wolverines. This means that we need to be particularly careful when hunting and trapping these creatures.

Hunting and trapping wolverines

If you’re an experience hunter or trapper, then you understand that each species has its limitations. We can’t overhunt or trap, because that would cause the population to dwindle quicker than it can be replenished. The same goes for wolverines.

Wolverine fur is used to line coats and hoods. While this is partially because of its elegance and beauty, wolverine fur is also highly durable and incredibly frost-resistant. In colder climates, where the wind chill can freeze your face, wolverine fur can be an important resource in maintaining health and safety throughout the winter.

But it must be done properly. Unless you’re an experienced trapper with all of the proper legal documents, we’d highly dissuade you from taking your Fairbanks Alaska rental car out to track wolverines. Approximately 550 are hunted in Alaska every year.

If you do feel confident to try your hand at trapping wolverine, make sure to read into the regulations. Hunting regulations in Alaska can be found on the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website, here. You can find bagging limits, seasons, and information on where to find wolverine.

However, we’d also just like to encourage you to simply enjoy the sight of a wolverine if you happen to be lucky enough to see one in your Fairbanks Alaska rental car. These myth-inducing creatures are absolutely gorgeous and relatively harmless – particularly in comparison to the other wildlife we have in the area!

Get a premium wildlife experience this summer in Alaska. Open up your possibilities for exploration – reserve your Fairbanks Alaska rental car from Avis today.

 

June and July Events in Alaska This Year

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In Alaska, we’re never bored. There’s always something to do, whether its snowmachining, skiing, or ice fishing in the winter, or camping, hunting, or hiking in the summer (to name just a few!). But if you’re new to Alaska and unsure of where to start, or if you’ve been here your whole life and just want to try something different, there are plenty of events across the state over the summer season to help keep you entertained. And, when you’ve got your Anchorage Alaska SUV rentals, the world is your oyster!

Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby

The Homer Jackpot Halibut Derby has been a grand tradition here in Alaska. In fact, it’s the longest running halibut derby in the state, and is definitely still going strong. Beginning on May 15, you may have missed the first month but you’ve got until September 15 to buy your tags and take part.

There are numerous opportunities to win the more than $90,000 in cash prizes available. Prize categories are the Jackpot Prize, Major Tagged Fish Prizes, Tagged Fish Prizes, Released Fish Prizes, Kids Prizes, and Catch a Lefty. The smallest prize available is Catch a Lefty for $100 – think of how much you could win!

So, what are you waiting for? Pack some food and your fishing gear into your Anchorage Alaska SUV rentals and head on up to Kachemak Bay!

Potter Marsh Bird Walk

Alaska is full of wildlife. Unless you’re a resident here, you may not be familiar with the names and species of each one, or aware of how to see them. The Potter Marsh Bird Walk in Anchorage is completely free and family friendly, as well as wheelchair accessible.

The walk runs through July 29 every Saturday from 8-10 am and Tuesday from 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm. You can find the guide at Potter Marsh Boardwalk. From there, your guide will bring you along for a leisurely stroll to help you identify the species of plants and animals around Anchorage. Guidebooks are available, and binoculars are free to borrow.

Make sure to check the weather though! Walks run regardless of weather, so you’ll want to dress accordingly. Not sure if it will hold off on rain? Pack an umbrella in your Anchorage Alaska SUV rentals for a judgment call when you get there.

Music in the Park

Are you looking for some musical entertainment? Check out Music in the Park in Soldotna Creek Park’s band stage. The event takes place every Wednesday, from June 7 until August 30 and features local and regional bands.

On top of music, you’ll have the choice of food vendors and a beer garden to really get out and relax on Hump Day. The middle of the week can be tough – let Music in the Park help you stay stress-free.

But don’t forget to pick a DD for your Anchorage Alaska SUV rentals if you’re taking advantage of the beer garden!

Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival

Music in the Park not enough? Then head on up to Fairbanks for their annual Summer Arts Festival. It runs from July 16 until July 30. There are a range of events including workshops, a salmon bake, Celtic ensemble, Flamenco, lunchtime chamber music, comedy, improve, art classes, readings by creative writers in the area, children activities, and more!

There really is something for everyone, so head on up to the Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival in your Anchorage Alaska SUV rentals!

Tickets can be purchased here.

Fourth of July

And of course, it wouldn’t be July if there weren’t a few Fourth of July celebrations! These take place across the state, and are usually right in the city centre. They’re easy to find, with delicious American classics and a proper fireworks show.

These will often take place the Sunday before the fourth. For instance, in Whittier, a BBQ, parade, fireworks, and kids events takes place on Sunday, July 2. So keep an eye out!

Don’t wait to start your perfect Alaskan summer holiday. Reserve your Anchorage Alaska SUV rentals from Avis today!

Take Your Alaska Summer Car Rental on a Tour of Farmers’ Markets Around the State

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Spring has sprung! It may be slightly chilly, but the summer up ahead is set to be a warm one. And farmers are already preparing by bringing out their goods for sale. Farmers’ markets have begun popping up around the state, and it won’t take long for you to come across one in your Alaska summer car rental.

What better way to go camping than with fresh, local granola and fruit? These markets have everything from fresh produce to artisanal jams and jellies, honey and baked goods, homemade crafts and more. It won’t take a local to find them, either. Here are only a few (but don’t be scared to hunt for your own!).

Anchorage Farmers’ Markets

Many of our Alaska summer car rental clients stick around Anchorage, so you may have already seen this one. In fact, there are quite a few to be found.

From May 13 until September 10, the Anchorage Market and Festival runs every Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm or 10 am to 5 pm, respectively. It’s the largest open-air market in the state.

The South Anchorage Farmers’ Market begins on May 13, as well. It is open every Saturday from 9 am until 2 pm, and Wednesdays from 10 am to 4 pm. This market runs a little longer, as well, as it closes October 7.

Mountain View Farmers’ Market is also open in Anchorage, but offers different times from what is available in others. Its hours are slightly more convenient for working individuals, running from 3 pm until 7 pm every Thursday. The market opens June 15 and runs through September 14.

Center Market again offers hours that are a little more convenient. Open three times a week from 10 am until 6 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays, and 10 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, you’ll have plenty of options to bring your Alaska summer car rental.

Finally, Spenard Farmers’ Market is another Saturday affair, running from 9 am until 2 pm weekly.

Fairbanks Markets

Fairbanks is another popular visitor spot for our Alaska summer car rental clients. The Birch Hill Market opens mid-May and runs through September each year. Open Thursdays and Fridays, this 1 pm open time market offers late closing hours at 8 pm.

The Market Festival Fairbanks opens this month early June, and runs until September 7. It’s open throughout the week, Monday through Friday, from 12 noon until 8 pm.

Southside Community Farmers’ Market opens on June 2 and lasts until September 29. While it’s only open one day a week – Thursdays – its 4 pm until 7 pm open times are convenient still.

Finally for Fairbanks, the Tanana Valley Farmers’ Market opened May 9 and runs until September 20. Head down between 9 am and 4 pm for bustling Saturday shopping. Or, between 11 am and 4 pm on Wednesdays or Sundays for something more relaxed.

The Haines Market

There may be only one major market in Haines, but it certainly holds its own. Head on down to the Southeast Alaska State Fair Grounds from June until mid-September for some great local goods. The fair opens from 10 am until 1 pm every Saturday.

Homer Markets

Two markets can be found in Homer, Alaska. Homer Farmers’ Market runs from May 23 until September 30 (a late run!). You can find it at Ocean Drive across from the Washboard every Wednesday from 3 pm until 6 pm and Saturdays from 10 am until 3 pm.

The second is Meadow Drive Market. This market opens on June 15 and has a very late run until November 1 – so you can get fall shopping in, too! Market times are Wednesday and Thursdays from 12 noon until 6 pm.

The Kenai Saturday Market

Taking your Alaska summer car rentals up to Kenai for a spot of fishing? Nothing goes better with fresh catch than fresh local produce! From May 23 until September 19, grab a few nice sides to your salmon every Saturday from 10 am until 5 pm.

This is just a taste of what Alaska has to offer. The farmers’ markets in this state are abundant, and beautifully supplied.

Reserve your Alaska summer car rental from Avis today so you can load up on local goods!

Keeping You – And Alaska’s Bears – Safe in your Summer Alaska SUV Rentals

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If you’re traveling around Alaska in your summer Alaska SUV rentals, you’re likely going to see a bear. While many people speak of bears as scary creatures, they’re beautiful and, if you know what to do, will do you no harm. Unfortunately, there’ve been a great number of incidents of bear deaths by those who are scared. However, we want to stress that bears don’t need to be a threat. They’re part of our wildlife, and should be loved and protected.

That’s why we’ve put together a little list to keep both you, and our bears, safe from harm this summer. As long as you do everything right both you and our bear population should be able to co-exist peacefully! After all, if you want a truly Alaskan experience, that comes with living alongside these animals.

Remain calm

Remain calm. That is the most important thing to remember. If you have kids, this is the first thing you should stress to them before setting off in the wilderness. Remain calm, don’t run. Stay still and stay relaxed.

If you can, begin to back up slowly. But if the bear follows, don’t begin to run. Just stop, hold your ground, and avoid seeming threatening.

Let them know what you are

It’s good to let the bear know you’re human. This may sound silly, but speaking calmly to a bear can actually put the pressure off. That first moment of contact can be startling, but a calm voice to remind the bear you’re human may actually relax them enough to set them off in the opposite direction. Many bears in Alaska are more used to humans than you may think, and, hopefully, understand that we won’t hurt them.

Give them some space

If you see a bear while in your summer Alaska SUV rentals, and waiting for them to clear off your campsite, give them a minute. Just remain in the car, or find a new spot.

If you’re out and about, just give them some space. Bears will only attack if they feel threatened. They have no desire to attack humans. So if you see a bear, keep your distance (but you probably don’t need that reminder!) and let them do their own thing. Female bears and cubs need a little extra space. Mama bear doesn’t want her cubs to feel threatened, so show you’re no risk by leaving them plenty of personal space.

Move along

If you see a bear at the side of the road, some people will stop to take a picture. While this may be tempting if you’re just visiting and have never seen a bear, it’s best to move your summer Alaska SUV rentals along. Heavy crowds can be agitating and frightening – imagine how you’d feel!

Remember also to keep an eye out at night. Turn your lights up around bends with low traffic, and be aware of the shoulders. Any movement on the sides of the road should activate further response, like slowing down.

Avoid areas with animal smells

Fish and animal carcasses, areas with lots of berries, and areas with large, round balls of dung (bear dung most likely!) are best avoided. While it may seem appealing to camp near a berry patch, you’re also more likely to have a visitor at night.

Other areas to avoid are those with thick brush. In here it’s a lot harder to see bears or for them to see you.

Make noise and walk with the wind

When walking through the woods, make noise. Bears will be less startled if they know you’re coming. Speak loudly, sing, tromp on the twigs – whatever you need to let nearby animals know you’re on your way. Walking in groups is always best to help alert bears, as well. More likely than not, they’ll clear out to get their space and give you yours.

If possible, walk with the wind. When the wind blows across your back, it carries your smell in front of you. This helps alert the bear to your presence.

Keep your food to yourself

First, don’t feed bears. This only gives them reason to come back, and could cause protectionist behaviors around food. This means also that you should never give bears in the river any of your food. If you see a bear coming, stop fishing, or give your line slack in case there’s a fish on it.

Second, invest in a bear-proof food barrel. These can be found in most outfitter shops, perhaps even for rent, and will protect your campsite from unwanted nighttime scavengers.

In the case of attack, if bears come close despite your calm and assertive stance, make some noise. Bang pots or speak loudly. Always drive the bear away from you rather than run from it. If a brown bear looks ready to attack, play dead. Black bears are often scared off. If you’re really concerned of attack and playing dead isn’t working, finally you may bring out bear deterrent.

Bears are beautiful creatures, who are, generally, quite harmless. Don’t threaten them and they shouldn’t threaten you! Our summer Alaska SUV rentals clients rarely have close encounters with bears, and bear attacks in Alaska are quite rare. Remember, stay calm, and when in doubt, stay inside.

Reserve your summer Alaska SUV rentals today!