We spent two years planning our trip. We left Indiana May 20 and returned August 4. I used Mike and Terri Church's "Alaska Camping" as a guide on routes and days to stay, etc. I found it very well organized and a big help. Going by yourself means you can decide to stay a couple extra days or longer in areas that "strike your fancy." We met some people for whom that was their main complaint. . . they felt rushed and didn't get to explore areas they wanted. . . the sad part being they would probably never be able to make the trip again.
Since we travel with DH's serious medical problems, I opted for a satellite phone. It was great security for us, although we never used it.
We bought a small used motorhome specifically for this trip. We had our mechanic go over it and put new filters, belts, hoses, etc., on it. New tires also because they were 9 years old. Nary a problem. MinnieMee made the trip without complaint.
One big suggestion. . . if you go through Whitehorse, take a side trip to Sue.T's. She let us boondock in her front yard. We met her and Steve and the two dogs. She also offered assistance through her extensive contacts if we had any trouble on our journey. Although we never had any trouble, it was comforting to know help was just a phone call away.
Also, we booked the ferries on the Alaska Marine Highway System. That was our route out of Alaska. So when we saw our fill, we ferry hopped down through the inside passage. The ferries are very comfortable, they help you get your "low slung" RV's on without damage, and you an explore the towns at your leisure. We saw only a handful of RV's doing this. What an incredible experience. We booked state rooms on the long hauls and those that were overnight.
It was a great trip. I still can't believe we did it! I did blog daily, so if you like, you can read my blog.
Dale
