The End of an Era: Saying Goodbye to the Alaska Aces

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The Alaska Aces – one of this state’s gems. This team let us feel proud of our boys, and geared up to enjoy a good night of hockey and fun. But, unfortunately, now it’s time to say goodbye. After this season, you will no longer be able to bring your Alaska winter car hires to see the Alaska Aces play.

Reasons behind the team’s end

Team owners explained the difficulty behind the decision, citing financial burdens and the economic downturn as the final deciding factor. They explain that deliberations lasted months before a decision was reached.

It’s a sad fact that Alaska’s economy is not up for supporting the costs of a professional hockey team. Owners detailed the severe effects of job losses in Alaska, including $262,000 drop in season ticket sales and 1500 decrease in spectator numbers per game. It’s not just local spectator funding that’s down either. Sponsorship revenue fell $600,000 this year alone. In an age that’s concerned about keeping up with bills and putting food on the table, professional hockey teams need to take a break.

However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. Who knows if the end of the team is permanent? The ownership team applied for Voluntary Suspension of operations – could that mean the team may restart with an upsurge in the economy? We can only hope.

In the meantime, let’s remember the great memories that this team has offered. Feel free to share your stories of taking your Alaska winter car hires to an Aces game in the comments below.

Season ticket refunds

Already put money down on a season? Don’t worry. You’ll get your money back. Owners expressed an apology towards loyal fans who have already placed a deposit on season tickets for the 2017-2018 season. All deposits will be refunded in full.

Catching the last few games

Fortunately, the season doesn’t end until April. That means that you still have a few more chances to take your Alaska winter car hires to see the Aces play before they cease operations.

Their first 7 games of March are unfortunately away games, with the Utah Grizzlies, Colorado Eagles, and Rapid City Rush. However, they come back to Alaska for a home game facing the Cincinnati Cyclones on March 15 at 7:15pm. Following that, they have 5 more home games throughout the month, each beginning at 7:15. These are March 17 and 18 against the Cincinnati Cyclones, and March 24, 25, and 26 against Rapid City Rush.

On March 29 and 30 they are away again to play the Fort Wayne Komets and the Quad City Mallards, respectively. They face off against the Quad City Mallards again on April 1, before finishing the season in their home rink. Their final three games will take place on March 5, 7, and 8 against the Idaho Steelheads.

Buy your tickets now to make sure you catch one of these games in your Alaska winter car hires before it’s too late.

A sad loss for Alaska

The loss is a substantial one for Alaska sports fans. The Alaska Aces held the role of Alaska’s only professional team. With their end, comes also the end of Alaska’s professional sports. Fans across the state are devastated and heartbroken by the news. For these fans, the team offered more than just somewhere to take their Alaska winter car hires on a Friday night – they bolstered state pride.

Stories and photos have been shared, signed jerseys worn with pride and nostalgia, and a small tingle of hope lingers on that this isn’t really the end – just a little road bump. Only time will tell.

For now, we honor the 15 year long history of the Alaska Aces. We thank this team for bringing Alaskan pride throughout the Southern 49 and to our own community.

Don’t miss the final games of this great team. Reserve your Alaska winter car hires from Avis today.

Potential Changes in the Dipnetting Agenda 2017

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Alaska is known for its fishing industry. It’s a state pastime to head out onto the Kenai to fill the freezer with red salmon and maybe even keep a few for dinner that night. After all, there’s nothing better than fresh caught fish for dinner. And we just love hearing the stories our Alaska SUV rentals clients have about fishing in Alaska’s numerous rivers.

This year, however, there may be some changes to the dipnetting regulations around the Kenai. Before you panic – don’t worry, this practice will still be enjoyed and encouraged around the river. But regulations may shift to prevent 24-hour fishing and boat use, among other things. What are these regulations? And how will they affect you and your Alaska SUV rentals? Let’s find out.

Extended season

Let’s begin with the good stuff. When the proposal goes before Alaska’s Board of Fisheries, with it will be presented a proposal to extend the dipnetting season until August. Currently the season is from June until July. The extra month may benefit those who are also spending the summer hunting or fishing in other regions.

This proposal stems from a concern from dipnetters who claimed that last season, runs weren’t as strong as they’d like. Because of this, they believe that an extension of the season would help both their own need for fish to last the winter and to help manage fish population.

Increased bag limit

Present regulations allow fishers to bag 25 salmon and 10 flounder per household in the Upper Cook Inlet personal use fishers: Kenai dipnetting, Fish Creek dipnetting, Kasilof dipnetting, and Kasilof set gillnetting. The increases by 10 salmon for every additional household member. However, if the proposals are passed, the household bagging limit for salmon would increase by 10 fish. Now you really will be able to fill up your Alaska SUV rentals!

Use of boats and motors

There are several proposals that may ban or restrict the use of boats when fishing on the river. One proposal would entirely eliminate boat use on the river, while another focuses purely on the use of motors on the Kasilof River. The latter would allow boats with motors that do not exceed 10 horsepower.

Extension of territory

The Kenai River Sportfishing Association is looking to extend dipnet boat fishing boundaries. This proposal would see the boundaries move upstream towards Cunningham Park at river mile 6.6.

Elimination of the 24-hour emergency order

Regular fishing hours on the Kenai are the same daily, regardless of tides, and are from 6am until 11pm. But, these times may change in the instance of an emergency order for 24-hour opening. These orders follow the “Kenai River Late-Run Sockeye Salmon Management Plan” as outlined by the Board of Fisheries.

However, the City of Kenai has put forth a proposal that would eliminate the use of these emergencies orders due to safety risks to fishers. Their reasons rest in the difficulty of ensuring safety during the hours when heavy machinery are cleaning the beach.While fishers may not like this new elimination, it certainly makes sense in the overall consideration of civilian safety.

Shore-based dipnetting

Finally, a proposal has been put forth to allow landowners to fish from the shore. This would affect mainly those property owners who have property directly on the Kenai River. And their friends of course!

Mainly, these proposals shouldn’t too heavily affect our Alaska SUV rentals clients – except perhaps for the better. We are personally hoping for an increase in the bagging limit and extension of territory!

This is by no means a comprehensive outline of the nearly 200 proposals that will be put forth in the 14-day long public meeting. The meeting is currently in action, having begun on February 23 and will run until March 8. Only time will tell which of these proposals will be put into action.

In the meantime, start thinking now about your own fishing trip. It’s never too early to start planning! Reserve your Avis Alaska SUV rentals early to make sure you get the vehicle you want.

The Iditarod is Back! The Ins & Outs of Alaska’s Favorite Dog Sled Race

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Spring may be around the corner, but Alaska’s winter sports are still in full swing. After a successful Fur Rondy (congratulations again to winner Roxy Wright!) it’s time for the 2017 Iditarod to take center stage. This annual event is a favorite among our Alaska winter SUV rental clients, and for good reason! The Iditarod is a thrilling attestation to the love of winter sport in Alaska.

Never heard of the Iditarod? Or maybe you’re out of touch with the information and schedule for this year’s race? Either way, we’ve got the details you need. All you need to worry about is booking your Alaska winter SUV rental before it’s too late! In the meantime, read on to find out about the 2017 Iditarod.

What is the Iditarod?

There’s no point knowing the wheres and whens of the 2017 Iditarod if you don’t know what it is! The Iditarod is a great dog sled race that is held annually in Alaska. Mushers come from, not only all over Alaska, but often from all over the world for this great race. After all, it’s on its 45th year – it must be quite the spectacle!

Each year the race alternates between 3 different routes: the Northern Route; the Southern Route; the Fairbanks Route. All three routes begin in Anchorage and finish off in the safety and quiet of Nome. Each one is nearly 1000 miles long.

This year, 2017, the mushers will be traveling the Fairbanks Route. This route spans roughly 979 miles. Quite the distance! As you can see, the mushers who take part have the highest levels of intensity, passion, adrenaline, stamina, and determination of any mushers in the world.

When does the Iditarod begin and end?

The Iditarod 2017 race begins on Saturday, March 4 at 10am. You can see the start for yourself at 4th and D in downtown Anchorage. Make sure to arrive early in your Alaska winter SUV rental in order to find parking. There’s a restart that takes place in Fairbanks on Monday, March 6 at 11am. That means you’ve got plenty of time to relax and tour around before getting to Fairbanks to meet the mushers.

The Iditarod ends in Nome on Sunday, March 19. The awards banquet is held that day at 3pm. Mushers may be pouring into Nome in the 24 hours prior. Be ready to see tired mushers and their dogs as you drive your Alaska winter SUV rental into town!

Events in the meantime

The Iditarod is a marathon in every sense of the word. Events surrounding the race began on January 10 and stretch until the race ends, as well as meetings for those involved in organization.

The end of February sees the Jr. Iditarod Race and awards. This is where the young and up-and-coming mushers get to practice for their future Iditarod, and gain recognition for their own hard training.

If you want to meet the pros, head on to the IditaRider Meet & Greet and Pizza Lunch on Thursday, March 2 at 12 noon at the Lakefront Anchorage Hotel. Here you may get the chance to ask questions and speak to the mushers.

A full list of the events surrounding the Iditarod can be found here.

Booking accommodations and your Alaska winter SUV rental

The Iditarod is an important, and therefore busy, time of the year for Alaska. If you plan on tracking the race at all you’ll want to book your accommodations now – if you haven’t already.

There are a variety of options, and it’s tough for us to say which is best for you. All our Alaska winter SUV rental clients are looking for something different. This late in the game, you may just want to find the one with availability. Here are the top accommodations around Nome as ranked by TripAdvisor reviewers.

Anchorage may be a little easier. It’s a larger city, and therefore has a wider variety of lodging options. Here are TripAdvisor’s top hotels in Anchorage with pictures and reviews to help you find the best one for you.

Only one thing left to do – book your Alaska winter SUV rental! Reserve from Avis today.

Plan Your Trip to the World Ice Art Championships

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While many places slump in winter, Alaska booms and blossoms. It’s one of those times of year that we really shine as a unique force in these 50 states. One festival of which we are extremely proud is the Ice Art Championship held in Fairbanks, Alaska. You’ll certainly want to bring your Fairbanks car rentals to catch this spectacle.

The Ice Park

The Ice Art Championship takes place in the Ice Park of Fairbanks. This park is open throughout the season with sculptures for viewing. You can buy a season pass or simply a day pass if you’re interested in seeing these gorgeous pieces of art.

Day passes are $15 per adult, and $8 per youth. A full list of admission prices can be found here. Group tours are available for booking if you’re traveling in a party of 10 or more.

Events at the Park

The big competitions that you’ll want to take your Fairbanks car rentals to check out begin in February.

The Single Block Competition runs from February 27 until March 1. The Awards and Lighting Ceremony will take place on March 2 at 7:00 pm. Throughout that time, you will be able to wander the grounds to view the sculptures. The exhibits will be formally and officially judged on the evening of March 1 after 9:30 p.m.

The Multi Block Competition is next, running from March 4 to March 9. Judging takes place on the evening of the 9 after 10:00 p.m. Until that time, you can examine the sculptures for yourself. Why not have fun with it? Judge for yourself and bet in your group who you think should win. Though you may have a tough time! These sculptures are always breathtaking.

The Annual Kids Ice Park will also be open during these periods. It runs from February 20 until March 26. The Kid’s Park is open from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day.

Ice sculpting classes at the Park

Have you ever wondered how the ice sculptors create their masterpieces? Now you can learn. The Ice Park offers ice-sculpting classes. The classes provide an opportunity to learn the techniques involved in sculpting in a safe environment with the guidance of an expert. They will provide the equipment and the space. You’ll want to dress warmly, with hat, gloves, and warm coat. They’ll provide the hot drinks, and full day classes will provide lunch.

Classes offered are the introductory and beginners’ courses for $80 and $140, respectively. Once you’ve completed the beginners’ course, you are eligible to register for the “Amateur Open” or “Youth Classic” competitions that take place during the World Ice Art Championship season.

Full information on the classes can be found here.

Dog sled rides

The Ice Park is a never-ending stream of winter thrill. Once you’ve seen the sculptures, head on out for one of their dog sledding rides. Rides range from 1 to 2 miles. They take you over the dog-mushing trail beside the Ice Park. If you’ve never been dog-mushing then this is the perfect time to try! You aren’t trapped into a long ride and can get a taste of it – perfect for helping you decide if you want a longer trip at a dog-sledding company.

You’ll likely find yourself bringing your Fairbanks car rentals back for more than just a day here! There’s so much to do and see that a few hours is not enough.

Reserve your Fairbanks car rentals from Avis today to guarantee a vehicle for the Ice Art Championships 2017.

Alaska’s Iron Dog Race: The World’s Longest Snowmobile Race

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Snowmobiling has always been one of Alaska’s most popular sports. We love it here, and the minute snow hits we get out on our snow machines to tear up the trails. That’s why we’re so excited for the Iron Dog Snowmobile race to arrive. You’ll want to take your Alaska winter car rentals out to see this one, that’s for sure.

Have you heard of the Iron Dog? If not, but you like snowmobiling, you’ll definitely want to read on. It may be worth a trip in your Alaska winter car rentals to catch a glimpse of the winners.

What is the Iron Dog Race?

The Iron Dog Race is the world’s longest snowmobiling race. It stretches across 2,031 miles of Alaskan terrain, making it both intensive and scenic. Rookies and pros alike race across the Alaskan white plains.

As the Iron Dog website outlines, the intent of the race is “to provide reliable, consistent, safe and honorable cross-country snowmobile racing and recreational riding” (2017). It’s about education on safe winter sport, while also recognizing and celebrating the endurance of humans and machines alike. This is particularly true of the Pro Race Class who will face difficult terrains in subzero temperatures, strained visibility, heavy snow and potentially ice, and a confrontation with their own endurance.

Cash prizes range for teams ranging from a whopping $15,000 to $102 for a total of $112,496 total contingency prizes for 2017.

Rookies play in the Recreational Class, which is not a race. The Recreational Class rides for 5 days for a total of 1,098 miles. Teams in the Recreational Class include two or more people, each of whom has their own snowmobile.

Pro teams are engaged in a race, after which the top 5 teams must attend the Sponsors’ Reception for prizes. All rookies (first time pro racers) must attend the Rookie Workshop. Teams must include two or more snowmobilers, each on their own machine to complete the 2,031-mile race.

For both the Recreational Class course and the Pro Race Class, checkpoints will be provided throughout for rest and refueling.

The basics

The race kicks off with its first pre-race event on February 14 at the Hotel Captain Cook in Anchorage for the Racer Drawing & Hall of Fame Banquet. Next is the Donlin Gold Safety Expo at Cabela’s in Anchorage on February 15. Two days later on February 17, take your Alaska winter car rentals on down to Anchorage’s Downtown center for the Flying Iron Freestyle Show. This is sure to knock your socks off! You won’t want to miss it.

The next day is race day. February 18 begins the official start of the Iron Dog, while there’s a race day kick-off Flying Iron Freestyle Show in Anchorage Downtown.

Halfway Ceremonies will take place in Nome on February 22. Finally, the race officially ends on February 25 in Fairbanks.

Taking your Alaska winter car rentals from Anchorage to Fairbanks

If you plan on attending any of the events for the Iron Dog Snowmobile Race, you’ll want to book your accommodations soon if you haven’t already. If you already have, great! If not, you may want to book your rooms for the few days leading up to the pre-race events in order to ensure a room, and also to allow yourself relaxation before the fun begins!

Keep in mind also that if you’re going from the opening ceremonies to the closing ceremonies in Fairbanks, you may want to give yourself a few days. The journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks in your Alaska winter car rentals is 360 miles, which is roughly 6 hours of driving.

However, you need to accommodate for adverse weather. If you plan on attending the Halfway Ceremonies in Nome, it may be wise to arrive a day or two early in case the weather takes a turn for a worse. The same rule applies for making it up to Anchorage. This has the added benefit of letting you rest between drives, and hopefully ensuring you a room.

Don’t miss out on your opportunity to have Alaska winter car rentals for the Iron Dog race this February. Reserve your vehicle from Avis today!

Celebrate Super Bowl Sunday in Alaska

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On Sunday, February 5 millions of Americans will congregate to celebrate one of their favorite past times – the Super Bowl! Super Bowl Sunday is one of the best days of the year. It’s filled with food, friends, family, and of course, football. If you’re in Alaska for this Super Bowl Sunday, there are plenty of ways to get out and socialize in your Alaska car rentals or stay in and celebrate.

The Best Sports Bars in Anchorage

If you’re just visiting for business or otherwise, and don’t have a place to go outside your hotel, then you’ll be looking for a good sports bar to watch the Super Bowl. Anchorage is full of them. Please make sure to leave the Alaska car rentals at home and walk or take a cab for these celebrations!

One of the best sports bars in Anchorage is Crossroads Lounge. This place is exactly what you want from a pub! Food including hot dogs and chili (great for Super Bowl Sunday!) and a range of beers on tap you can settle in to watch the Super Bowl on one of their numerous TVs surrounding the bar. Bored at a commercial? Strike up a game of pool on one of their tables.

Chances are, Crossroads Lounge may be a little full. Why not try Steve’s Spenard Sports Pub? Steve’s is reasonably priced with affordable pub food to keep you nourished throughout the Super Bowl. You definitely won’t have trouble finding a good viewing spot in this pub – TVs surround the main seating area so you won’t miss the winning touch down.

Finally, we’d recommend Bootleggers, particularly if you’re traveling with someone who may not be as interested in the Super Bowl as you. On top of having TVs for sports, there is a dartboard, shuffle board, and pinball machine to keep other patrons occupied. The bar shares a menu with the restaurant Flattop, and therefore offers delicious pub and late night food. They also offer craft beer, canned and bottled beer, wine, and a range of tasty cocktails so you have plenty to choose from.

Super Bowl Party Recipes

Are you hosting the Super Bowl party this year? Driving around in your Alaska car rentals, trying to buy groceries but not sure what you want to make? No one wants to go through huge amounts of work on Super Bowl Sunday. You want to be able to settle in, watch the game, and enjoy. Here are a few ideas that will help you make great food without going through the hassle.

Have you been out hunting in your Alaska car rentals this year and looking for a way to use up some of that store of meat? What about slow cooker venison chili! This delicious dish is perfect for Super Bowl Sunday and is easy as pie to make. Hint: Buy some jumbo dogs and American cheese for chili cheese dogs! For an example recipe of slow cooker venison chili go here.

Who doesn’t love nachos and some chicken on game day? What about a combination of the two of them! The Buffalo Chicken Nacho Bowl is easy to whip up. On top of that, your guests will love you! Buffalo sauce, chicken, black beans, jalapeno peppers, two types of cheese – what’s not to love?

Speaking of chicken, wings are a must have at Super Bowl Sunday. Why not make your own? Chicken wings are quite easy to make and once you’ve got the hang of it, you can produce a variety of flavors to suit the whole house. Food and Wine reveals how to make 37 different types of wings quickly, easily, and with a satisfactory dish at the end.

You’re almost there. All you need now is some good Alaskan craft beer to wash the meal down. Take your Alaska car rentals out before the big game to grab some brews from Arkose Brewery, Alaskan Brewing Co., Anchorage Brewing Co., Baranof Island Brewing Co., Denali Brewing Co., Haines Brewing Co., Midnight Sun Brewing Company, Odd Man Rush Brewing, or Hoodoo Brewing Co. for a classic Alaskan experience.

Reserve your Alaska car rentals from Avis today to make sure you’re celebrating Super Bowl Sunday in style!

New Year’s Resolutions to Enjoy Alaska

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New year, new resolutions! The typical resolutions involve working out, eating healthier, and experiencing life to the fullest. Fortunately, Alaska is the perfect place to fulfill these activities in an enjoyable manner. Our Alaska winter car rentals have the cargo space and offer the freedom to let you experience all of Alaska and we’ve outlined ways to maximize your resolutions with the sources of the state.

Exercise more

This is probably the most common and typical New Year’s resolution. If you don’t like exercise, though, it can be tough to keep this resolution. With Alaska’s wilderness, you can use the landscape as a natural gymnasium.

The mountains offer prime ground for hiking and climbing, offering a workout for your legs and a cardio activity. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are other great activities for getting your workout while having fun.

Spend more time outdoors

The activities mentioned above take care of this resolution, as well as exercising. Two birds with one stone, you could say. This is also the perfect way to spend more time with your family. Group hiking trips are not only fun, but will make sure the whole family remains active. Who knows? You may even see a moose or other wildlife while out and about.

Ice fishing, while a more sedentary activity, will get you out of the house in a relaxing setting. Take your Alaska winter car rentals out on the lake for some good ol’ fashion RnR with your fishing rod.

Try new things

Alaska is filled with activities that will keep you busy and interested in any season. Have you ever been ice climbing? What about glacier trekking? Dog-sledding? Well, in Alaska, you can try all three.

Our blog outlines the way you can begin ice climbing in Alaska. We’ve listed the equipment, and other tips you’ll need to know before you set out. We also explore dog-sledding in Alaska. Both are easy to get into with the right guides and companies. Most equipment is rentable so you won’t need to buy anything, or pack your Alaska winter car rentals to the brim.

Eat healthier

Since you’ve been fishing, you have already begun to fulfill this resolution. Fish is a healthy source of protein and fats to get you through the cold winter. Add more fish to your diet to improve your lifestyle, and cut down on red meat.

The activity itself will also help reduce your blood pressure, which fish in your diet will help to keep it down. Fill that Alaska winter car rentals with fish for your winter dinners.

Relax more

In North America, we tend to overwork ourselves. It’s time to relax a bit, and let yourself have some fun. The activities and sports mentioned above can help you relax, but the Chena Hot Springs are particularly perfect for RnR. Never been in a hot spring? Then this knocks both resolutions off your list.

The hot springs offer a nice escape from the chilly winter days. These are not only a great way to relax, but also good for fending off any flus or colds that may be on their way. The hot springs are only open to those 18+. The resort offers a variety of activities, massages, pools, the Aurora Ice Museum, and a number of other winter activities to enjoy. The smell found in the hot springs is from the minerals found in the water, but don’t let that dissuade you. Those same minerals are said to have healing properties.

Reserve your Alaska winter car rentals today to begin the fulfillment of your New Year’s Resolutions.

SUV vs. Sedan: Which is Best for Winter?

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The number one question that drivers ask themselves over the winter season is whether or not to go with an SUV or sedan. The Alaskan winter is rough on drivers. The roads are slick, and vision is reduced by snow and sleet. What you need to get through it is the right car, but how do you know which winter Alaska car rental is right for you?

Furthermore, is AWD/4WD necessarily better than 2WD car? The Avis fleet has it all. What winter Alaska car rental should you get?

AWD vs. 2WD

One of the benefits of AWD and 4WD is an added sense of security and safety. AWD/4WD provide better traction control and quicker acceleration. In the winter months, these are major added benefits that can’t be ignored in the tough inclement weather. You’ll still need to leave plenty of space behind vehicles to stop, but you’re less likely to slide on the slick roads. 2WD doesn’t offer the same traction that 4WD/AWD do.

Improved traction means increased towing capacity. If you’re planning on taking trips around the states for winter sports, improved towing is a definite benefit.

However, the downside of 4WD/AWD is its heaviness, and therefore decreased fuel efficiency. This is only worsened in tough weather. You’ll be spending more money on fuel than you would with 2WD. On top of this, the added sense of security can cause collisions. When you feel too safe you may not leave enough space while stopping, or take risky moves that can end in an accident.

That being said, we would recommend the AWD/4WD option for your winter Alaska car rental. Keep in mind the continued danger of winter driving, and you’ll avoid the risk that comes with overconfidence.

SUV or Sedan?

While choosing between an SUV or sedan, there are a number of factors to consider. If you’re planning on engaging in winter sports around Alaska, then you’ll probably want to go with the larger vehicle for the cargo space. Otherwise, you may be better off with a midsized vehicle.

SUVs will keep you safe in collisions, but the added weight increases your stopping time. Even with a AWD and 4WD winter Alaska car rental that has improved traction, you’ll want to leave more space behind vehicles, know your route in advance to avoid surprises, and reduce your speed.

The weight of SUVs reduces fuel efficiency, as well. With a 4WD/AWD SUV, your fuel costs are going to be quite expensive. With small cargo and only two passengers, you may be better off with a sedan to prevent exorbitant costs.

If you’re traveling with children, keep an SUV as an option to ensure their safety. Sedans won’t protect them in a collision to the same degree. Crossovers may also be a smart choice to increase the comfort of you and your family.

So which is the right choice?

Again, the answer to this question depends on what it is you’re looking for in a vehicle. While an AWD SUV winter Alaska car rental is safer, you’ll be paying for the reduced fuel economy and need to watch longer stop times.

Sedans or midsized are right for adult passengers who do not have large cargo to haul. Our sedans are large enough to fit basic gear for a variety of winter sports in the trunk as well as any luggage you may have. They’re comfortable, and will give you the flexibility you need for traveling the state.

Stay safe this winter with the right winter Alaska car rental. Reserve your vehicle from Avis today to begin on your safe, secure, and fun winter adventure.

Take Your Alaska Winter Rental Car Ice Climbing

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Our favorite season is finally here and it’s time to enjoy some of our favorite sports. That means that ice climbing is back in Alaska. Take your Alaska winter rental car out for a spin to go ice climbing. You’ll want one of our SUVs or trucks to carry all the equipment you’ll need for ice climbing around the state.

If you’re new to Alaska or to ice climbing, we’ll outline the ins and outs of ice climbing for you. It can be a dangerous activity if you don’t know what you’re doing. We’d recommend getting a guide before starting, and making sure that you have or rent the proper safety equipment in your Alaska winter rental car.

Equipment list for ice climbing

As we said, you’ll need the proper equipment for ice climbing to make sure you stay safe and warm. The clothing list is long, but it’s to make sure you stay toasty warm in the cold Alaskan winter.

  • Wool underwear, and long underwear tops and pants
  • Wool socks, and a replacement pair
  • Quick-drying t-shirt and lightweight fleece shirt
  • Softshell and shell pants and jackets
  • Insulated coat for negative temperatures with a helmet-compatible hood
  • Lightweight and mediumweight gloves
  • Heavyweight waterproof gloves and hat
  • Balaclava for wind protection
  • Ski goggles
  • Waterproof, insulated, full-shank mountaineering boots and gaiters

For mountain and ice climbing, you’ll need a wide variety of equipment for rent or buying. We’d advise you rent the equipment for your first few times to make sure you like ice climbing before spending the money.

  • Ice Axe, 50-65 cm
  • Climbing helmet
  • Climbing harness
  • Crampons
  • Carabiners, 2 locking and 1-non-locking
  • Climbing pack
  • 48” sewn sling rappel extension
  • Belay Device
  • Spinner leashes
  • Trekking poles with snow baskets
  • Technical ice tools

As you can see, our SUV Alaska winter rental car are probably your best choice. In your pack, you’ll also want to bring a headlamp in case of dark. You’ll be in the direct glare of the sun on the mountain, so bring SPF 30 or higher sun block, sun or glacier glasses, and SPF 15 lip balm. Pack yourself water bottles, high-energy foods, and biodegradable toilet paper. Finally, bring along a first aid kit in case of emergency. Your kit should include moleskin, aspirin, antacids, bandages, any proscriptions you may have, antibacterial cleaning wipes, and ibuprofen.

Check weather conditions

As with any outdoor sport, you need to check the conditions before setting out in your Alaska winter rental car. Knowing the ice conditions will help you decide where to climb. You’ll also want to check temperatures to bring the appropriate clothing, and to make sure the ice will be sturdy enough.

The Alaska Ice Climbing Conditions Forum will help you plan your trip. Here, other ice climbers write reviews of nearby climbing regions. Most recent reviews explore the regions that can be climbed and where to avoid.

There are more than hundred climbs across the state. With your Alaska winter rental car you have the freedom to drive to any of the mountains with all of your equipment, and find one with guides or group climbs. Go to the online index of climbs to choose the mountain nearest you.

You’ll need a car with plenty of cargo, so choose one of our SUVs, like our Toyota Rav 4 or Ford Expedition. Begin the greatest hiking trip of your life when you reserve your Alaska winter rental car from Avis today

Avoid Accidents on Alaska Highways this Winter

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Driving in Alaska comes with its own share of surprises and quirks – particularly throughout the winter. You have all the usual concerns: ice, snow, darker days, longer nights, obscured vision, and reckless drivers. But on top of this, you’ll want to look out for moose and other wildlife while driving your Alaska car and van rentals.

None of this is to scare you. Driving in this state is merely unique. And if you’re well prepared, you’ll find that driving your Alaska car and van rentals can be quite enjoyable. After all, we have some of the most beautiful scenery in the nation. There are ways to keep yourself safe and our wildlife safe.

In 2013 it was estimated that as many as 700 to 800 moose are reported to die a year in Alaska from collisions with motor vehicles, according to the Alaska Dispatch News. While not all moose die from collisions, its more likely that they will be injured than you will – particularly with the increasingly advanced safety systems in today’s cars.

Many attempts have been made in recent decades to reduce the risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions, particularly in December and January where the risk is greater. However, what precautions the government enacts are quite out of your hands. What you can control, though, are your own precautionary techniques to avoid hitting moose, elk, and deer in your Alaska car and van rentals.

High beams

While seeing moose can be difficult when they’re on the shoulder of the road, or in dark or stormy conditions, using high beams can help increase your chances of seeing the moose in time to stop. If the road isn’t busy – which is likely isn’t if moose are brave enough to cross – and there’s no one coming at you, use your high beams. Low beams won’t offer you the distance you need. Avoid distractions, and scan both the shoulders and center of the road regularly.

Slow your Alaska car and van rentals down

Given that it winter, you’ll likely be driving a little slower as it is. Don’t let a quiet, isolated road trick you into thinking you can drive a little faster. Keep your speed slow to increase your braking time in case you see a moose, deer, or elk.

Remember also that the faster you’re going, the more likely you are to harm the animal. Even in the unfortunate instance that you do collide, the slower the speed, the less likely you are to destroy your vehicle and kill the animal.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that speeding up with scare the moose into moving. It won’t, and you’ll increase odds of casualties.

Be alert, especially around forested areas

Moose, deer, and elk are more likely to cross the road in forested areas of the highway. It’s a good idea to slow down a little more, and be extra alert in areas where forests are largest. Be particularly mindful of the shoulders of the road. Be prepared to brake slowly, and avoid distractions in these regions. Make sure the kids have something to entertain them, the pets are in the backseat, the radio is low, and your high beams on to increase your vision.

Dawn and dusk are popular times

Though you’ll still see moose throughout the day and at night, the more likely times are dawn and dusk. Between 4 and 6 am, and 6 and 11 pm, be especially alert. Keep an eye out for animals and watch the shoulders.

Honking helps

When you’re slowing down for a moose, give your horn a little honk. Sometimes this will scare the moose, deer, or elk away from the road. Not always, though. At the very least, it will alert the animal to your presence, which could benefit both of you.

Keep an eye out for babies

Where there’s a mother, there are babies. If you see a female moose (without antlers), watch out for her calves. The chances are that if she’s crossing, they’re following – even if they aren’t following closely. So just because she’s crossed don’t speed up again. Stay still for a few minutes and watch the shoulders to make sure there aren’t more coming.

Start your trip off on a safe note. Our Alaska car and van rentals will ensure you get to all of your holiday parties in style and with reliability. Reserve your vehicle from Avis today to stay safe this winter.