Here are the top ten lessons I learned from this OCONUS move to Alaska, which, by the way, is still technically connected to the continent via Canada! Crazy, right? 

1. From Sunshine to Snowstorms: Wild Weather 

The weather was the biggest shock. I had never seen snow before and was about to be surrounded by it for nine months every year. One lifesaver? Winter tires. Make sure to switch when temps hit 45 degrees. 

2. Groceries in the Last Frontier: Cost of Living 

Alaska’s cost of living is higher since many goods are imported. Luckily, the Army provides a Cost of Living Allowance (COLA), which, along with budgeting and a Costco membership, really helped us adjust.

3. Sponsorship 101: What You Need to Know Before You Go 

Before moving, my husband had to get me command-sponsored, which allows family members to join service members overseas with full benefits. This also ensures that the location can provide any necessary medical care. Military One Source has some great information about command sponsorship.

4. Catch Flights, Not Feelings: Planning Flights to Visit Family 

With family so far away, we made sure to budget for annual flights home. Living far from loved ones was tough, so saving for Christmas trips became a priority.  Check to see if you can utilize and Space-Available Travel (Space-A Travel) to help cut costs!

5. Find Your Tribe: Making Friends in The Frontier

Finding friends was a game-changer. I joined Chi Alpha at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and found more connections through work. Putting myself out there kept me from feeling isolated. 

6. Stay Strong: Prioritizing Your Physical and Mental Health 

With long winters and the potential for isolation, it’s essential to prioritize mental and physical health. During the winter, the gym became my best friend, while summer hikes and bike rides with friends helped me stay active and connected. 

7. #OOTD: Winter Wear and Breakup Season

Alaska’s extreme seasons taught me to dress in layers. Wear a fitted base layer under a loose shirt to block the wind, and keep your hands and feet warm. For the breakup season, get XtraTufs—they’re essential for keeping your feet dry and warm. A good rain jacket is also a must for hiking! 

8. Alaskan Wildlife: Staying Safe Outdoors

From bears to moose, wildlife encounters are common in Alaska. My husband and I invested in bear spray protection and educated ourselves on what to do when encountering these majestic creatures. 

9. Summer Bummer: Adjusting Your Home for Better Sleep 

With almost 24-hour sunlight in the summer and long, dark winters, optimizing your home for sleep is essential. Get black out curtains and put foil on your windows if you have to, it will make a huge difference. 

10. Home Sweet Home: On vs. Off-Post Living 

Choosing between on-post convenience and off-post freedom? Consider what matters most to you. Without kids, my husband and I opted for a cheaper studio in North Pole, AK, prioritizing being closer to nature. This choice allowed us to frequently enjoy moose sightings and the aurora borealis!

I learned all these lessons during our three years in Alaska. While I wish I had known them sooner, we loved our time OCONUS and would return any day especially knowing what we know now!

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