What Should You Pack for Canada?
Canada’s weather varies significantly by season and region, so layering is key! For spring and fall, pack a mix of long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket. Summers are warm in most places, so short sleeves and breathable fabrics are ideal, but bring a light sweater for cooler evenings. Winters are very cold, so you’ll need a heavy coat, thermal layers, and snow boots to stay warm in many regions.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Banff National Park, hiking in the Canadian Rockies, exploring Vancouver, skiing in Whistler, and touring Toronto and Quebec City.
Dress Code
Canada is generally casual when it comes to dress code, especially in the outdoor adventure spots like Banff and Whistler, where hiking gear is the norm. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, people dress in smart-casual outfits. A nice pair of jeans, comfortable shoes, and a stylish sweater or jacket will work well. If you’re dining out at upscale restaurants, consider dressing up with a nice dress or slacks.
*Note: I’m not paid to place any links, and all my recommendations are based on my own experiences and research.
That said, this article contains affiliate links from which I may earn a commission and that help run this site at no cost to you.
Spring
32 – 60°F
(0 – 16°C
)
Summer
60 – 85°F
(16 – 29°C
)
Fall
35 – 65°F
(2 – 18°C
)
Winter
-10 – 32°F
(-23 – 0°C
)
Spring: Cool and often rainy
Summer: Warm, but coastal areas can be cooler
Fall: Crisp, quickly cools in northern areas.
Winter: Cold, with snow and freezing temperatures
Spring
2.0 inches of rain
Summer
1.8 inches of rain
Fall
2.5 inches of rain
Winter
3.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for summer days in cities like Toronto and Vancouver—I loved having these for exploring!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler days and layering during spring and fall.
3. Sweaters: A must for layering during cool evenings and crisp mornings.
4. Hoodie: Ideal for casual days hiking or visiting national parks.
5. Rain Jacket: Useful for rainy spring days, especially in Vancouver.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Practical for cool weather and casual outings—I really liked wearing these while hiking in the Rockies!
2. Leggings: Comfortable for layering or casual wear.
3. Shorts: Ideal for summer days in British Columbia and Ontario.
4. Dresses: A simple dress is great for dining out or casual city sightseeing.
5. Skirt: A versatile option for warmer days in cities like Montreal and Toronto.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for city exploration.
2. Boots: Great for colder months or outdoor activities like hiking in Banff—I always bring these for winter trips!
3. Flats: Ideal for dressing up without sacrificing comfort.
4. Swimsuit: Perfect if you’re visiting lakes or beaches during the summer.
5. Sunglasses: The sun can be strong, especially in summer, so these are a must!
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for shorter trips or city stays.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while hiking or exploring cities like Vancouver and Montreal.
3. Purse: A stylish option for city outings or casual evenings out.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Pack layers: Canada’s weather can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall, so layering will keep you comfortable.
- Bring weatherproof gear: Rain is common in many regions, so a good waterproof jacket is helpful.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Whether you’re exploring cities or national parks, comfy shoes are a must!
Canada Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CANADA?
The best time to visit Canada is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing are ideal.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN CANADA?
Calgary Stampede (July): A large festival featuring rodeos, concerts, and parades, great for families.
Winterlude (February): A winter celebration in Ottawa with ice skating and snow sculptures. Perfect for couples and solo travelers.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN CANADA?
Canada offers incredible destinations like Banff National Park for stunning mountain views, Vancouver for a mix of urban and nature, and Quebec City for a taste of old-world charm. One of my favorite spots is the vibrant city of Toronto, with its iconic CN Tower and multicultural neighborhoods.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT CANADA?
Plan for at least 7-10 days to fully experience Canada’s diversity, from cities to national parks. For a quick trip, 4-5 days in one region is sufficient.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore Vancouver’s Stanley Park and visit Granville Island. On day two, head to Grouse Mountain for hiking and stunning views of the city.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit Capilano Suspension Bridge. Spend day four exploring downtown Vancouver, and on day five, take a day trip to Whistler.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, take a ferry to Vancouver Island to explore Victoria. Spend day seven visiting Butchart Gardens and enjoying the coastline.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: Spend day eight exploring Banff National Park, and on day nine, take the Icefields Parkway to Jasper. On day ten, explore Jasper National Park.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: Spend day eleven visiting Toronto and Niagara Falls. Day twelve, visit Quebec City, followed by Montreal on days thirteen and fourteen.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN CANADA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR CANADA?
Heavy coats in summer: Canada can be warm in many regions during the summer months.
High heels: Many outdoor activities and walking-heavy cities make them impractical.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO CANADA ?
Airfare: $300-$800 depending on your starting location and season.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night depending on the city.
Transportation: $50-$150 depending on public transport vs. rental car costs.
Meals: $40-$100 per day depending on the type of restaurant.
Activities: $20-$50 per day, depending on whether you’re visiting museums or parks.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN CANADA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is customary in Canada. It’s standard to tip 15-20% in restaurants and $1-2 per drink at bars. Tip hotel staff $1-2 per bag for bellhops and $2-5 per night for housekeeping.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CANADA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Public transport: Canada’s public transport in cities like Toronto and Vancouver is efficient and affordable.
- Nature respect: When visiting national parks, follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment.
- Weather changes: Even in summer, Canadian weather can change rapidly, so always bring an extra layer or rain gear.