Moving to AK with toddler. (Anchorage, Fairbanks: for sale, how much, buy)

[schfamily]

We are moving to Alaska in Decemer. Most likely Soldotna, but Fairbanks is also a possibility (waiting on final word from hubby's employer). I have read a lot of helpful posts on moving, winterizing vehicles etc. But we have a 2 year old I need to keep warm. I can get most of what my husband and I will need here in the southeastern US. But, what do I need for a toddler as far as boots, coat, etc. Is there a good brand I can order online?

[stiffnecked]

Everything you'll need can be purchased once you get here. Big honkin' stores in Fairbanks and Anchorage. Are you flying or driving up? I wouldn't get too carried away buyin' lots of name brand catalog stuff for a two year old. They grow fast at that age.

[Metlakatla]

I'd get some warm outerwear from someplace like Cabella's and shop for the rest when you get here, unless you're driving up. In that case I'd get the basics and maybe more, depending on how much room you've got in your vehicle.

[schfamily]

Yeah, I just felt ill prepared not coming with at least the basics. I know anchorage, where we will fly into, has a couple of second hand stores that will be my best bet. I was just a little intimidated by the thought of December in Fairbanks. Around here people buy North Face etc. just for the fashion statement. What really works for kids in an Alaskan winter? Base layer like capilene then clothes and a one piece snow suit? I don't want to feel like we are trapped indoors all winter.

[warptman]

You can always stop in at Big Ray's on Second Avenue.

Big Ray's Classic Alaska brand parkas and jackets. Designed for the Alaskan Climate.

[DannyL]

Make sure you have a good car-seat. Other than that, buy what you need up here for the winter.

Just ask, you will get more answers as to what you need than you can handle.

[1stimestar]

The Active8 brand from Big Rays is the best outer gear for kids that I've ever seen. I have two kids and they do a lot of sledding and sliding on knees (my son). But this brand is simply made for kids in Alaska. Reinforced butt and knees, magnetized closure flaps over the zippers, big zipper pulls that are easier for kids with mittens to grab onto, just several little things that you don't ever think about until you see them. Your 2 year old will not wear out a suit in one winter and growing too fast to be able to wear one two years in a row probably, but they have good resale value up here as everyone knows how good they are. I don't know if you can buy them online. I looked once a few years ago and couldn't find them.

[schfamily]

Thanks for all the help!!! I can not wait to be part of such a beautiful place. Alaska here we come.

[schfamily]

I did find the active8 online. Big Ray's has them for sale on thier website. I may purchase one. Something about getting off a plane in Anchorage or Fairbanks in December in our typical Tennessee winter clothes feels wrong!!! Especially on the baby.

[warptman]

They do have jetways up here in Alaska in both Anchorage and Fairbanks, unless you come from a bush town like Bethel, you actually walk outside the jet and into the terminal.