"Bring layers!  The schools can be warm, while outside is cold. So think about layering clothes to switch out during the day."

"REI is great because you have up to a year to return items if you are a member. This is great for pricier purchases you are unsure of. Items can be returned or exchanged while you are at the store in Anchorage as well. REI also has store brand items which are generally less expensive than name brands and in my experience have been just as tuff."

"Buying some frozen treats is a really great idea. Also freezing bananas and blending them with nutella makes a really good substitute for ice cream."

"Hardware supplies!  Get a drill, screws and/or a hammer and some nails.  Nothing ridiculously large or industrial is necessary, but you'll be thankful to have a drill and/or hammer when you need it."

"Get an AK airlines credit card.  Don't forget to sign up for mileageplanshopping.com before doing any online shopping.  Earn TONS of Alaska Airlines miles. Some sites offer 8 miles for every dollar!"

"Do not stress about shopping! Mail can take extra weeks due to our flight services, so expect things to say they are delivered when they are not. Most important is to talk to returning staff in the summer before and learn what is really needed." 

"Buy lots of comfort food. Amazon is your friend!"

"Projectors and a white bed sheet is larger and more portable than a TV.  Also, you won't regret getting a GCI cell phone for connectivity in the village - other cell providers don't work out here."

"Get Netflix! It's a great, cheap source of entertainment!"

"Make sure you pack an awareness that there will be many things beyond you're control.  I find this liberating."

"I have literally been able to get everything off of Amazon as long as it's not freeze/chill."

"Splurge a little, buy ‘fun’ things you will enjoy while you are in a rugged rural environment that does not have access to all the typical

amenities and/or activities!

"Plan months in advance! Mail takes time to be delivered. Order early and often!"

Advice from the LPSD Team

"​I went to the thrift for my winter coats and pants! If you go right after the Ski Slopes close - most slopes donate items from the lost and found.  So, some of the name brand stuff is there and it's a lot cheaper than buying brand-new. I got lucky with one of the snow pants too. They were name brand and had been very lightly used - almost brand new."

"Have fun with your shopping and make sure you pick things that you might, maybe want in 3 months... And there's nothing to be ashamed of; if you buy your chocolate chips in 10 lb. bags, and your flour in 50 lb. bags...that just means more cookies for everyone!"

Lake and Peninsula School District

"If you can make the commitment, staying for 5 years is very beneficial, long-term, for many reasons - ask the business department for specifics.  If you are going to stay for 5 years (as above) you will not regret purchasing a brand new Honda ATV from Anchorage and getting it shipped to your village."

"Don't spend too much money before you get here.  Just come with what you have and copy the locals when it comes to specialized gear.  Also, pack in your carry-on bedding.  Your boxes probably won't be here and if they are, you won't have time to open them all up to find your sheets for your new bed.  P.S.  Sweatshirts and coats can be stuffed into a pillowcase to be used as a pillow until your "real" pillow arrives."

"Get a PO Box at the post office when you get to the village. Until then, give your family and friends the school's address and have them send you care packages once a month.  It's seriously like a holiday every time you get something in the mail!"