Budget Friendly Juneau Alaska Travel Guide: Affordable Stays, Eats & Activities
Visiting Juneau, Alaska doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning, you can explore glaciers, hike rainforest trails, and enjoy fresh local flavors—all while keeping costs low. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or part of a larger Southeast Alaska trip, this guide shares budget-friendly tips for getting here, staying here, getting around, and making the most of your time in Juneau.
How to Get to Juneau, Alaska on a Budget
Some travelers do not realize that Juneau is only accessible by plane or boat. That can make getting here difficult, though it is well worth the effort and cost!
Option 1: Take the Ferry
If you have more time or are planning a trip throughout Southeast Alaska, you could consider taking the ferry to Juneau. You can get to Juneau via Haines, Skagway, or Bellingham. Keep in mind it takes 3 days to ferry from Bellingham to Juneau. If you are a walk-on (with no car) the price will be substantially cheaper. Though, it would be wise to compare prices of bringing your own car on the ferry vs. car rentals in Juneau if you’d like to have your own set of wheels to explore with.
Local Pro Tip: If you travel by ferry, the food is pretty pricey. However, there is a cafeteria with a microwave and hot water access. Pack your own food to save some $$
Option 2: Fly to Juneau
Juneau is just a short, two-hour flight from Seattle. Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines both offer flights to Juneau during the summer months. Flying is the fastest way to get here, though it can be more challenging to find deep discounts. Keep an eye out for seat sales or consider using airline points to help offset the cost.
Local Pro Tip: Red-eye flights are often the cheapest, so if you’re flexible with your arrival and departure times, you can save a significant amount.
Affordable Places to Stay in Juneau, Alaska
With hotels starting at $300/night and Airbnbs starting there or higher, you may be wondering if there are any accommodations in Juneau to fit your budget! The good news is, Glacier Nalu Campground has a variety of options that are all budget-friendly. Check out our blog posts on glamping and comparing accommodations to find the right option at the right price for you!
Budget Transportation Options in Juneau
Juneau is a small town, but depending on how much you want to do and where you want to go transportation is a factor to consider while you are planning your trip. Here are some options:
- Rent a Car– this is the most practical option that will help you experience all Juneau has to offer and get everywhere you want to go. Check out Juneau Car Rental Company or Turo for some good rental options.
- City Bus System– if you want to stay mostly in town and don’t have a tight schedule, the city bus system may be a good option for you. There is a bus stop just a short walk from Glacier Nalu Campground. Check out the routes and schedule on their website.
- Rent a Bike– Bike rentals are a great option for those who are wanting to stay close to the campground, but want the flexibility of having their own set of wheels. Cycle Alaska is a great option for your bicycle rental.
- Ubers & Taxi– There are several taxi companies in Juneau. Be warned, that they are not always as reliable as you’d like. Though, most have a way you can reserve a spot ahead of time. Alaska Taxi & Tours has the best reviews.
How to Save Money on Food in Juneau, Alaska
Saving money on food and drinks can really help make your budget go farther. When you get to Juneau, hit the grocery store and stock up on easy to make foods that will satisfy after a long day exploring. There is a Costco, Safeway, Fred Meyers, and IGA in Juneau for all of your grocery needs.
Some easy ideas:
- Hot dogs, hamburgers, or sausages to grill at the communal outdoor kitchens at Glacier Nalu Campground
- Sandwich ingredients
- Bagels & cream cheese
- Charcuterie board ingredients
- Easy to throw together soup/chili
- Safeway combo meal deal – affordable and you get lots of food!
- Superbear IGA burrito bar – one of the best deals in town!
Be sure to save room in the budget to eat out every once in a while at one of Juneau’s fabulous restaurants.
Local Pro Tip: Fred Meyer often has some of the best grocery prices in Juneau. If you don’t have a car or arrive in Juneau late at night, you can even have your order delivered directly to your accommodations!
Free & Cheap Things to Do in Juneau
Hiking: Did you know Juneau has more miles of hiking trails than roads? And they are all free! Check out our post on our favorite trail recommendations and choose a few to try. Hiking is an amazing way to see all the beauty Juneau has to offer.
Beaches: Being a coastal town, Juneau also has a lot of beaches for you to explore. Check out this listing of our favorite beaches. Pack a picnic lunch, some chairs or blankets to sit on and just enjoy a slow day on the beach. Watch for wildlife, go tidepooling, and just soak in the quintessential Southeast Alaska views.
Looking for some other free or inexpensive things to do in Juneau? Check out this blog with tons of good options!
Local Pro Tip: Download the AllTrails app before heading out—cell service can be spotty on many trails.
Make Glacier Nalu Your Budget Friendly Basecamp
Traveling to Juneau on a budget doesn’t mean giving up comfort or adventure. At Glacier Nalu Campground, you’ll find affordable lodging options, community kitchens, and easy access to Juneau’s top attractions—all in a peaceful rainforest setting. Book your stay today and start planning your Southeast Alaska adventure without breaking the bank!
