Vancouver Spring Packing List

A stunning view of Science World in Vancouver, Canada, with modern high-rises surrounding the iconic geodesic dome.

Welcome to Vancouver in the Spring!

Travel Dates: March, April, May

Spring in Vancouver means unpredictable weather, so be ready for anything! You’ll want to pack layers—a light jacket or sweater for cool mornings and evenings, and short sleeves for sunny afternoons. It rains often, especially in March and April, so a rain jacket or travel umbrella is essential. As the weather gets warmer in May, you can swap out heavier layers for lighter clothes, but it’s always a good idea to have an extra layer handy for those unexpected cool breezes. And don’t forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing!

Dress Code

Vancouver is a casual city with an active, outdoorsy vibe. For daytime exploring, comfortable and practical clothing is key—think jeans, leggings, or athletic wear for hikes. If you’re going out for dinner in Gastown or Yaletown, smart casual is perfect—nothing too fancy but put together. Vancouverites love their layers, especially in spring, so bring a mix of stylish yet practical items that you can easily adjust as the temperature changes throughout the day. For outdoor activities like walking the Seawall or hiking, go for casual, breathable, and comfortable clothes.

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MARCH

40 – 52F (4 – 11C)

Cool, rainy, cloudy, some sun

5.1 inches

APRIL

44 – 58F (7 – 14C)

Mild, cloudy, with occasional showers

3.7 inches

MAY

50 – 64F (10 – 18C)

Pleasant, sunny, with light rain

2.6 inches

Tops & Layers

1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for the occasional warm afternoons spent walking through Stanley Park. I loved having these for those rare sunny days!

2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for layering during cooler mornings and evenings.

3. Light Jacket: A must for mild spring weather, especially when exploring Granville Island or taking a ferry ride.

4. Rain Jacket: Essential for Vancouver’s spring rains—keep this handy for those inevitable showers.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Comfortable for walking around the city and exploring the parks. I liked having these for visiting outdoor spots like Grouse Mountain.

2. Skirt: Perfect for warmer days in May when you want to enjoy outdoor dining or walking the Seawall.

3. Dress: A versatile option for a nice dinner in the city’s trendy neighborhoods like Yaletown.

4. Jumpsuit: Stylish and practical for both day activities and evenings out.

5. Leggings: Great for casual days or active adventures like hiking or biking around Stanley Park.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: A must-have for exploring Vancouver’s many outdoor areas and urban trails. I found these really practical for long walks in the city!

2. Flats: A comfy yet stylish option for evenings out in Gastown or Granville Island.

3. Flip Flops: Ideal for relaxing at the beach or by the water at English Bay.

4. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days when you’re enjoying the city’s parks or walking the Seawall.

5. Hat: Perfect for sun protection during outdoor activities like visiting Queen Elizabeth Park.

6. Swimsuit: If you’re planning a visit to the pool or a day at one of Vancouver’s beaches.

7. Pajamas: Comfortable for winding down after a day of exploring the city’s parks and neighborhoods.

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Ideal for a short spring getaway with enough space for layers and casual outfits.

2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying essentials like a water bottle, snacks, and an extra layer while hiking or exploring Stanley Park.

3. Purse: A practical option for carrying your essentials while exploring downtown Vancouver or heading to a café.

4. Tote Bag: Handy for carrying extra layers, snacks, and sunscreen for a day at Granville Island or Stanley Park.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. 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.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. 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.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. 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.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. 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.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. 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.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. 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.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Layers are your friend: Vancouver’s weather changes quickly, so pack light layers you can add or remove as needed.
  • Rain gear: Spring is still rainy in Vancouver, so bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella to stay dry.
  • Comfortable shoes: Whether you’re walking through Stanley Park or exploring the city’s neighborhoods, you’ll want comfortable shoes for lots of walking.
  • Casual vibe: Vancouver’s style is laid-back and practical, so casual outfits and activewear will suit most activities.
A scenic view of the Stanley Park Seawall in Vancouver, Canada, with the city's skyline reflecting on the calm water.

Vancouver Spring Travel FAQs

WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT VANCOUVER?

May is the best month to visit Vancouver in spring, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer rainy days.

WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN VANCOUVER?

March: Vancouver International Wine Festival – A week-long event celebrating wines from around the world with tastings, dinners, and events. 🍷

April: Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival – A celebration of cherry blossoms, with events like bike rides, walks, and concerts throughout the city. 🌸

May: Vancouver International Children’s Festival – An annual festival with performances, workshops, and family-friendly activities. 🎭

March: CelticFest Vancouver – A lively celebration of Celtic culture with music, dance, and parades. 🎶

April: Earth Day Vancouver – A citywide event celebrating sustainability and environmental awareness with community activities. 🌍

May: Doors Open Vancouver – Free access to over 30 unique buildings and architectural landmarks across the city. 🏛️

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN VANCOUVER IN THE SPRING?

Spring is the perfect time to explore Vancouver’s outdoor spaces and cultural attractions. Start with a walk along the Seawall in Stanley Park, where you can enjoy views of the ocean and the city. Visit Granville Island for shopping, local art, and food markets, or take a ferry to Vancouver Island for a day trip. Don’t miss the Capilano Suspension Bridge for breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. The Vancouver Art Gallery and the Museum of Anthropology are must-sees for culture lovers, and you’ll find plenty of vibrant cafés and restaurants in neighborhoods like Yaletown and Gastown.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT VANCOUVER IN THE SPRING?

A 4-5 day trip is ideal to explore Vancouver’s parks, cultural sites, and outdoor activities in the spring.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: Day 1: Start with a walk through Stanley Park and along the Seawall, then explore Granville Island and enjoy dinner in Yaletown. Day 2: Take a morning hike at Grouse Mountain, visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and enjoy a scenic drive around the city.

5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery in the morning, then take a stroll through Queen Elizabeth Park and have lunch on Granville Street. Day 4: Spend the day at the Vancouver Aquarium and take a walk around English Bay. Day 5: Take a ferry to Vancouver Island for the day, explore the Butchart Gardens, and enjoy dinner by the waterfront.

1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Explore the Museum of Anthropology, then take a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler for the day. Day 7: Take a bike ride through Stanley Park, visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, and enjoy a final dinner in Gastown.

10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Take a day trip to the Okanagan Valley for wine tasting and scenic views. Day 9: Visit the Vancouver Maritime Museum, then walk along Kitsilano Beach. Day 10: Spend your last day revisiting your favorite spots or taking a whale-watching tour from the harbor.

2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Visit the Richmond Night Market for local food and shopping, then explore Steveston Village. Day 12: Spend a day hiking in Lynn Canyon Park, then visit Capilano River Regional Park. Day 13: Enjoy a relaxing day in VanDusen Botanical Garden, then take a sunset walk along the beach at Spanish Banks. Day 14: Spend your last day revisiting favorite spots or shopping in downtown Vancouver.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN VANCOUVER?

2 Days

  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

5 Days

  • 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 1 Dress
  • 1 Jumpsuit
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

1 Week

  • 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 1 Dress
  • 2 Jumpsuits
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

10 Days

  • 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 1 Skirt
  • 2 Dresses
  • 2 Jumpsuits
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

2 Weeks

  • 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Light Jacket
  • 1 Rain Jacket
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Skirts
  • 2 Dresses
  • 2 Jumpsuits
  • 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
  • 1 Pair of Flats
  • 1 Hat
  • 1 Pair of Sunglasses
  • 1 Swimsuit
  • 1 Pair of Pajamas

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR VANCOUVER IN THE SPRING?

Heavy Winter Coats: Vancouver’s spring is mild, and a light jacket or raincoat is enough.

Thick Sweaters: You’ll want layers but nothing too heavy.

High Heels: Vancouver’s a walking city—comfy flats or walking shoes are better for exploring.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO VANCOUVER IN THE SPRING?

Airfare: $300 – $700, depending on your departure location and booking time.

Accommodation: $150 – $250 per night, depending on location and hotel class.

Transportation: $30 – $70 for local travel, including Ubers or public transit.

Meals: $50 – $120 per day, depending on whether you choose casual or fine dining.

Activities: $50 – $150 for entries to museums, galleries, and outdoor tours.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN VANCOUVER? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Yes, tipping is common in Vancouver. Around 15-20% is expected in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on the venue.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VANCOUVER BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Public transit: Vancouver has an efficient public transit system, and the SkyTrain is a convenient way to explore the city.
  • Rain: Spring showers are frequent, so always carry a rain jacket or umbrella when out exploring.
  • Outdoor culture: Vancouverites love the outdoors, so take advantage of the city’s parks, hiking trails, and waterfront areas.
  • Bike-friendly: Vancouver is a great city to explore by bike—consider renting one to see the city like a local!

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