BTW, is there really much value in a compass if you have a PLB and help will come to you? It seems Alaska is so big and rugged that traveling on foot to rescue yourself would seem almost impossible.

If self-rescue is a possibility, then I'd suggest carrying a map of the area, a GPS (and know how to use it with your map!!), and a compass.

I would also think some form of minimal shelter would be vital - even some large bright plastic bags.

Would a metal cup to dig and melt snow be useful too? Of course, there probably isn't much of a fuel source on a glacier, but then again, Alaska isn't all glaciers.

Maybe also a bandanna to sop up water, swat flies, and act as a sunshield?