Van Rental
Alaska

Upon a late arrival at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC), the most straightforward approach is to collect your van from the on-site rental car center. Before leaving the airport, take a few minutes inside your parked vehicle to program your hotel's address into your GPS or phone. Consider booking accommodations for your first night at a hotel near the airport to minimize driving while tired. This allows you to get settled quickly and start your Alaska adventure fresh the next morning after a good night's rest, rather than navigating an unfamiliar city in the dark.

For van travelers seeking a strategic base in Anchorage, the Midtown and Spenard areas are excellent choices. These neighborhoods offer a great balance, situated conveniently between the downtown core and the main arteries like the Seward Highway (south) and the Glenn Highway (north). You'll find a variety of hotels with more spacious parking lots compared to the tighter options downtown. This location allows for easy morning departures for day trips without navigating heavy city-center traffic, while still being just a short drive from downtown restaurants and attractions in the evening.

While the direct drive from Anchorage to Seward can be done in about 2.5 to 3 hours, it's best to plan for a much longer journey to fully appreciate the experience. Factoring in stops at iconic viewpoints like Beluga Point, a detour to Girdwood, and potential wildlife sightings, a comfortable one-way trip can easily take 4 to 6 hours. During peak summer weekends, traffic can add significant delays, especially through the narrower sections of the Seward Highway. We recommend starting early from Anchorage to enjoy a relaxed pace and make the most of one of the world's most scenic drives.

The drive along Turnagain Arm is famous for its stunning scenery, and several pullouts are well-suited for larger vehicles like vans. Look for Beluga Point and Windy Corner, which have relatively large, dedicated parking areas designed for many vehicles. Further south, the Bird Point viewing area is another excellent, spacious stop with restrooms and viewing scopes. These locations provide ample room to park safely off the highway, allowing you to get out and enjoy the dramatic views without the stress of a tight or precarious parking situation.

The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is a unique, one-lane tunnel shared by cars and trains, operating on a strict schedule. Before you go, you must check the official Alaska DOT website for the current schedule, as access is directional and timed to the minute. Plan to arrive at the staging area at least 15-20 minutes before the scheduled opening for your direction of travel. This ensures you have a spot in line, as waiting for the next opening can cause a significant delay to your plans in Whittier.

To minimize parking stress for a glacier cruise, especially with a van, aim to arrive in Whittier or Seward at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure. This provides a comfortable buffer to locate the designated oversized vehicle or day-parking lots, which can be a short walk from the docks. Arriving early allows you to find a good spot before the lots fill up with last-minute arrivals. It also gives you plenty of time to check in for your tour, use the facilities, and board without feeling rushed.

A realistic drive day from Anchorage to the Denali National Park entrance requires an early start, ideally leaving Anchorage no later than 8 a.m. The drive itself is about 4 to 5 hours without major stops, but you'll want to budget time for places like Talkeetna or scenic viewpoints. Plan your main meal stop in advance, perhaps in Talkeetna or Cantwell, to break up the journey. By planning for a 6- to 7-hour travel day, you can ensure you arrive at your lodging near the park entrance with plenty of daylight to get checked in and oriented for the next day's adventures.

When visiting Denali National Park in a van, the most efficient strategy is to drive directly to the Denali Visitor Center or the Wilderness Access Center upon arrival. These areas have large parking lots designed to accommodate oversized vehicles. Once parked, you can leave your van for the day and rely on the park's excellent free shuttle system to get between the visitor centers, sled dog kennels, and trailheads in the entrance area. This approach saves you the hassle of trying to find parking at smaller, more congested lots throughout the day.

An excellent 2-3 day van itinerary from Anchorage is a loop around the Kenai Peninsula. On day one, drive the scenic Seward Highway to Seward, enjoying the Turnagain Arm views and perhaps a glacier cruise. Spend the night in Seward, then on day two, explore the Exit Glacier area before driving to the charming town of Girdwood for your second night. On day three, you can ride the Alyeska Tram or explore local trails before making the short, one-hour drive back to Anchorage, completing a memorable and manageable loop.

For safe wildlife viewing, it's crucial to use designated, large pullouts rather than stopping on the shoulder. Along the Seward Highway, Bird Point and Beluga Point offer spacious, safe areas to park and scan for whales and Dall sheep. In the Mat-Su Valley, the Palmer Hay Flats State Game Refuge has dedicated viewing areas and boardwalks. Another outstanding option is the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage, which guarantees safe, up-close views of Alaska's iconic animals in a natural setting, completely removing the risks of a roadside encounter.

First-time drivers in Alaska should be extremely vigilant for moose, which are very common on all roads, including in Anchorage itself. They are most active at dusk and dawn, and their dark coats make them incredibly difficult to see. Always drive below the speed limit during these times and constantly scan the sides of the road. If you see a moose, slow down immediately and be prepared to stop, as they can be unpredictable and may step into your path without warning. Never assume a moose will yield to your vehicle.

Summer road construction is a certainty in Alaska, and it can be highly unpredictable, with projects causing significant delays on major highways. The best way to plan is to check the Alaska 511 website or app before you depart for the day for the most current information on closures and delays. Always build extra time into your travel schedule, especially when heading to a tour or the airport. Having extra snacks and water in your van is also a wise precaution in case you find yourself in a long, stationary backup.

Driving the Seward Highway in heavy rain or fog requires increased caution, as visibility can drop dramatically, especially at higher elevations near Turnagain Pass. In these conditions, you must reduce your speed significantly and increase your following distance from other vehicles. Some of the grand scenic views may be obscured, so it's often better to continue safely to your destination rather than stopping at exposed, windy pullouts. Be prepared for the drive to take longer than anticipated and focus on safe driving over sightseeing until the weather improves.

When visiting Girdwood, especially for activities at Alyeska Resort, the best strategy for parking a van is to use the resort's main parking lots. These are located a short distance from the tram and hotel and are designed to handle high volumes of traffic, including larger vehicles. Avoid trying to park in the smaller lots directly adjacent to the daylodge or local businesses. Parking in the main lot and taking a short walk is the most stress-free option and ensures you won't have difficulty maneuvering in a tight space.

The Portage Valley and the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center are extremely popular destinations, and their parking lots can fill up quickly. To secure a good parking spot for a van, especially on a sunny summer day, it's best to arrive before 10 a.m. Arriving early not only guarantees you a space but also allows you to experience the area with fewer crowds. If you arrive later in the day, you may have to park in overflow areas farther from the visitor center or the Byron Glacier trailhead.

The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is designed for driving, which is perfect for a van. During peak hours, the 1.5-mile loop can get congested, so the best strategy is to take your time and use the numerous pullouts to let faster traffic pass. Don't be afraid to make a second loop, as animal activity changes throughout the day. You can also park your van in the main lot near the entrance and walk a portion of the loop, which often provides a more relaxed viewing experience away from the flow of traffic.

For those taking an Alaska Railroad day trip, the most convenient option is the long-term parking offered by the railroad itself at the historic Anchorage depot. There are also several large, public parking garages and surface lots located within a few blocks of the depot downtown. Arriving downtown with some extra time will allow you to easily find one of these lots, park your van, and enjoy a short walk to the station without any last-minute stress. Be sure to note the lot's payment instructions for all-day parking.

Planning your stops between Anchorage and Seward is key to a comfortable journey in a van. The town of Girdwood, about an hour from Anchorage, is an excellent first stop with gas stations, cafes, and public restrooms with ample parking. Further south, the Hope Junction area offers another reliable stopping point. For a final break before Seward, the town of Moose Pass has facilities. By targeting these small towns instead of just scenic pullouts, you can ensure access to services and larger parking areas suitable for your vehicle.

The best strategy for exploring downtown Anchorage in a van is to park once and walk. Choose a large, centrally located public parking garage, such as the JC Penney garage or the 5th Avenue Mall garage, which have clear height indicators and can accommodate most passenger vans. Once you've parked for the day, you can easily explore the Anchorage Museum, visitor center, and various shops and restaurants on foot. This approach is far more efficient and enjoyable than trying to navigate city streets and find new parking for each attraction.

When booking a hotel in Anchorage, it's wise to call ahead and ask specific questions about their parking situation for a van. Inquire about the height clearance for any covered garages and ask if they have designated surface-level parking for oversized vehicles. It's also helpful to ask about the location of their loading and unloading zone to ensure you have adequate space when you arrive with luggage. Clarifying these details in advance can prevent logistical headaches and ensure a smooth check-in process upon your arrival.

Navigating downtown Anchorage in a van requires extra attention due to its grid of one-way streets and some specific turn restrictions. It's highly recommended to use a GPS navigation app, which will account for these traffic patterns. Be particularly mindful of your vehicle's length when making turns to avoid clipping corners. Planning your route to a parking garage in advance and reviewing it on a map can help you feel more confident and avoid the need for sudden, last-minute lane changes on unfamiliar streets.

Anchorage hosts numerous summer events, such as the Saturday Market, the Solstice Festival, and various races, that can lead to significant road closures and parking restrictions, especially downtown. Before heading out, check local news outlets or the municipality's website for any planned event-related traffic changes. If a large event is happening, it's often best to park your van on the periphery of the downtown core and walk or use a ride-share service to get to the event. This helps you avoid getting caught in traffic jams or finding all the larger parking lots full.

A day trip to Hatcher Pass is a fantastic option, but it requires some planning with a van. The paved portion of the road from the Palmer side up to the Independence Mine State Historical Park is generally fine for vans, with stunning views. However, the unpaved section of Hatcher Pass Road over the summit is very narrow, steep, and has tight switchbacks, making it unsuitable for larger vehicles. The best plan is to drive up to the mine, explore the beautiful basin, and then return the same way you came, rather than attempting the full pass-through.

To keep your van organized, use a system of soft-sided duffel bags and plastic storage bins. Designate the rear cargo area for the bulk of your gear, separating it by activity or by person. Use one bin specifically for muddy hiking boots and wet rain gear to contain messes. Keep a daypack for each passenger in the main cabin with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera, ensuring the main seating and floor areas remain clear and comfortable for travel between destinations.

For a smooth start with kids, it's best to install and check car seats right at the rental facility before you even load your luggage. This gives you plenty of space and good light to ensure everything is secure according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once the seats are in, do a quick check to make sure all passenger seatbelts are working correctly and that doors are easy to operate. Taking care of these safety steps first allows you to then focus on getting everyone and everything packed for a comfortable and secure departure.

The Glenn Highway National Scenic Byway offers incredible views, and there are several large, well-maintained pullouts perfect for vans. Look for the pullouts near the Knik River and Matanuska River bridges, which provide expansive, safe parking areas with fantastic glacier and mountain vistas. Further on, the Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Site has a very large parking lot and facilities. By targeting these larger, paved or well-graded sites, you can enjoy the scenery without the stress of maneuvering in a tight or unsafe spot.

Anchorage rush hour, typically from 7:30-9:00 a.m. and 4:30-6:00 p.m., sees the heaviest congestion on the Glenn and Seward Highways leading into and out of the city. If you're driving a van during these times, it's best to avoid these main arteries if possible. Using routes like Minnesota Drive or the New Seward Highway can sometimes be slightly less congested for north-south travel within the city. However, the best strategy is to plan your travel to avoid these peak hours altogether for a more relaxed driving experience.

For multi-vehicle trips, large grocery store or big-box store parking lots are excellent rendezvous points. Locations like the Fred Meyer or Cabela's on the south side of Anchorage offer massive parking lots that are easy to navigate and have plenty of space. These spots are perfect for regrouping, consolidating supplies, and confirming your route before heading out of town. They are typically located just off major highways, making them convenient and low-stress meeting locations for everyone.

It's essential to plan for limited cell service on any drive outside of Anchorage. Before you leave, download maps of your entire route for offline use on your phone's navigation app. The stretch of the Seward Highway through Turnagain Pass and the Parks Highway between Willow and Denali are notorious for spotty or non-existent service. Make sure you have your route planned and any important information saved or screenshotted before you lose your connection, which can happen just 30-40 minutes after leaving the city.

When visiting Talkeetna in a van, the best approach is to park at the large public parking lot located at the entrance to the downtown area. This lot is designed for visitor traffic, including larger vehicles, and is just a short and pleasant walk from the main street. Attempting to drive and park on the narrow, bustling main street itself can be very challenging and is not recommended. Park once at the main lot and enjoy exploring the quirky and historic town on foot for a much more enjoyable experience.

If your Denali trip is altered by weather, there are fantastic backup plans from Anchorage. A drive north on the Glenn Highway towards the Matanuska Glacier offers breathtaking mountain and glacier views, with the option for a guided glacier trek. Another great alternative is a trip south to explore the Portage Valley, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and drive through the tunnel to Whittier. Both of these options provide a full day of classic Alaskan scenery and activities without the long commitment of the Denali drive.

Drivers of larger vehicles like vans need to be particularly aware of strong crosswinds in Alaska. The Turnagain Arm section of the Seward Highway is famous for powerful gusts that can push a vehicle unexpectedly. When driving in windy conditions, it's important to keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel and reduce your speed. Be especially cautious on bridges and open, exposed areas. Paying attention to the conditions and maintaining a slower, steady pace is the key to safely navigating these windy stretches.

Wildlife jams are a common occurrence, and the key is to prioritize safety over getting a photo. If you see traffic slowing ahead, reduce your speed and be prepared to stop, as there is likely an animal near the road. Never stop in a travel lane. If you want to view the animal, only pull over if you can get your entire vehicle completely off the pavement in a designated, safe pullout. Otherwise, it's best to continue on slowly and enjoy the view from your vehicle as you pass.

For a low-stress departure on an early morning flight, the best option is to stay at a hotel located near the airport in the Spenard area. This minimizes your morning drive time and allows you to easily refuel the van at a nearby gas station before heading to the rental car return. Many airport-area hotels are accustomed to travelers with early flights and offer convenient access to the main roads leading directly to the airport. This simple plan helps ensure your trip ends on a calm and organized note.

A smart end-of-trip routine involves a quick stop at a gas station with a car wash and vacuums before heading to the rental return. Take about 15-20 minutes to vacuum out any sand, dirt, or crumbs from the floors and seats. It's also a good time to consolidate all your personal belongings and trash into a few bags for easy removal. This simple step ensures you don't leave anything behind and helps streamline the vehicle return process, making for a smoother conclusion to your trip.

To comfortably visit both Seward and Homer, plan to use each town as a multi-night base. Start by driving from Anchorage to Seward and spend at least two nights there to enjoy boat tours and local sights. Next, drive from Seward to Homer, which will be your main travel day, and plan to stay in Homer for two or three nights to explore Kachemak Bay. This approach allows for deeper exploration of each area and minimizes the feeling of constantly being on the move, with only two major driving days.

When incorporating the Alaska Marine Highway System into your itinerary, it is absolutely critical to book your vehicle spot on the ferry far in advance, especially for a van. Summer sailings fill up months ahead of time. You must also arrive at the ferry terminal well before the scheduled departure time, as they have strict cutoff times for vehicle loading. Carefully review the check-in and loading instructions provided with your reservation to ensure a smooth and timely boarding process.

For popular trailheads like Flattop Mountain or the Eagle River Nature Center, arriving early is the key to securing parking, especially on weekends. Aim to be at the trailhead before 9 a.m. to get a spot in the main lot. If you are dropping off a group, do so in the designated passenger drop-off zone to avoid blocking the flow of traffic. An early start not only solves parking issues but also provides better light for photos and a less crowded experience on the trail.

A common mistake is not getting into the correct lane early enough for the major highway interchanges. When heading south to Seward or north to Denali, the highways split, and the signage can come up quickly. To avoid last-second lane changes in a van, review your route on a map before you start driving and use a GPS app with voice commands. As you approach the junction of the Seward and Glenn Highways, pay close attention to the overhead signs and move into your target lane well in advance.