"Dust" in Alaska is not really "dust" but volcanic grit. This grit can wreak havoc inside anything with moving parts. Even a digital camera or electronic lens has some moving parts. Keep your equipment protected from this by putting it inside a ziplock-type bag until you are ready to use it.
Important, too, is to remember that during inclement weather, a micro climate can form inside the bag. From time to time, open it up and allow an exchange of air to take place to avoid condensation.