Packing and Moving
Tips & Tricks
Moving to a new place is both scary and exciting! We've put together some tips, tricks and packing lists that we hope helps you with this process.
New Teacher Overview
Initial Arrival Logistics
May 2026
Packing & Moving
Things to Keep in Mind
One thing at a time
You don’t need your winter gear right away- it’s the rain gear that will be most useful in the fall months
Leftover Goodies
Check with your SA about what previous tenants may have left behind (bedding, cookware, etc)
Pack Food
Mail can be slow and food selection at village stores can be quite limited, which is why we recommend you keep an “emergency” storage of food in your pantry
The most important shopping tip you'll ever need
When in doubt, select waterproof and/ or wind resistant jackets
We've put together a brief collection of what we believe are some "must haves" when moving up here in the fall months. This packing list is not comprehensive, so please feel free to add to it and ask questions as they arise.
Daily dress at work is casual, with an air of professionalism. You'll notice people generally dress a little more casually in the villages. You may wish to bring one or two more "formal" outfits for special occasions such as holiday programs, local events and school graduations.
Click here if you'd like to download a pdf copy.
Packing and Shipping
We recommend using USPS to ship your belongings.
**Be wary of UPS shipping, unless you are willing to spend a lot of extra money. UPS ground shipping is not always available in remote parts of Alaska.
Pro Tip: Parcel post is the cheapest when mailing from outside of Alaska while Priority is *usually* the quickest.
Click here if you'd like to download a pdf copy of the Packing Totes guide.
Many companies will not ship without a physical address. Since there are no home deliveries in villages, many people will use a fictional address, for example, "202 Teacher Housing Rd." Your package will not be delivered to the address, but will arrive at the local post office for pick-up.
You should use the appropriate address below until you get to site and can open a post office box.
*Double check this address with your Site Administrator before you mail anything!
Our Favorite Brands & Stores
