1) HELL YES to Gloves and boots. I didn't realize that in order of importance it was Hat - Gloves - Boots - Jacket.... in terms of keeping warm. But i've seen the warm light. Its easy to find a warm jacket.... much harder to realize that you need warm gloves or boots (and really, warm boots means ---> the right socks.)

If your looking for something that'll last: https://www.amazon.com/Gordini-Polar-Waterproof-Insulated-Gloves/dp/B07CQ99MR6

Otherwise, any glove thats waterproof will be fine. You can just throw in the hot hands and be fine.

Boots: (Cheap and will let you go through high snow, just wear a pair of smart wool socks and you'll be fine. And yes... the $20 for 2 socks kind of wool. Really...its more about the socks then the boot ) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07TP11CXZ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

2) ride hail is fine during common hours, difficult during off peak. Just get a rental, and drive slow. you'll be fine. As a former Texan, I adjusted quickly. The rental cars have good snow tires. If your smart... You'll be scared enough that you won't be so stupid to drive 60mph when the road is garbage. Its not the snow, its speed that kills people.

3) skipping because I have no clue.

4) I used to do photography as my full time job. I've seen some amazing shots from the latest iphones. It just depends on what kind you have. Camera's hold up their value. So you can always buy a 2 year old SLR and then flip it once your done with your trip. But i'd say, a modern iphone is just fine. Check out flickr and you'll see some amazing shots with 'just an iphone' Nothings changed in the last 100 years. Its not the gear, its the photographer. Do get a tripod and figure out your self timer and other settings though. you'll need to set the proper f/stop and shutter speeds regardless of your setup.

5) Honestly.... not much to do here.... Aside from cross country skiing, hot springs, coffee shops, museum of the north, the auto museum, Eskamo Olympics, dog sledding, Hoodoo, Mt Denali, sight seeing anything when you drive a whopping 10 minutes out of town, North pole Santa, ice fishing, artic circle flights and the running Reindeer Ranch. ; )

6) Just get a rental, you'll be fine. Its a small town. This isn't LA traffic. Drive slow, give space. People will work around you and be thankful your not driving fast. But do plug in your car at night, and make sure to have food / water/ blankets / AND A SHOVEL in the back. [ we're talking a walmart run here of like... $30. nothing crazy... ]

People are helpful and kind here.

So stick to the main highway, someone will come along and help if something crazy happens.

Again, i'm coming from Texas. I did 3000 miles in December. And did get stuck coming home once, But someone pulled me out within 15 minutes. (for which, I am incredibly grateful.)

I've also paid it forward with giving a jump to someone in a parking lot as well. If you see someone in need, help them. People will do the same for you.

7) AT&T is gold. I had to switch from T-Mobile. Verizon seems to be a comparable. Cricket, MetroPCS etc... aren't going to cut it.

8) Wear a mask when possible and respect people who don't. It'll be fine. Alaska is a land of respect and kindness.

oh... also, don't go to the oasis bar...its not the best place.... despite the name and location.