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What to Pack for Calgary

What to Pack for Calgary

Calgary Alberta, Canada Travel Guide

Summer & Fall Clothing

Calgary’s weather can be dynamic, so wearing layers is a practical approach in any season. This strategy allows you to get used to to temperature fluctuations and Chinook winds, which bring sudden warmth in winter. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add insulating mid-layers (fleece or wool), and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer shell. This method is beneficial for most conditions.

Seasonal Tips

  • Summer (June-August): Lightweight, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts, light pants). Pack a light sweater or a Fleece jacket for cooler evenings. A lightweight, Waterproof and windproof jacket (Columbia Watertight II / Arcadia II) comes in handy for rain or mountain trips. Long-sleeved shirts offer Sun protection.
  • Fall (September-October): Medium-weight layers (long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, fleece jackets). A waterproof and windproof outer shell is still needed. Durable pants or jeans. A Light scarf and Gloves come in handy because temperatures drop.
  • Spring (April-May): Similar to fall, with emphasis on adaptable layers. Prepare for a mix of mild days, rain, and potential late-season snow. A well-made Waterproof jacket remains a good idea.

Winter & Cultural Attire

Winter (November-March) calls for serious layering. Cultural dress codes are relaxed in Calgary; casual attire is generally acceptable. For fine dining or theatre, smart casual attire might be suitable.

Winter & Activity Attire

Footwear Recommendations

City Exploration

Wear Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers (Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23) for navigating the city center and walkable neighborhoods.

You will do a lot of strolling.

Hiking

Sturdy hiking boots (Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof) with good ankle support come in handy for rugged trails in the Rockies. Ensure they are broken in.

Important for mountain excursions.

Winter

Insulated, Waterproof boots with good traction (Sorel Caribou Boot) are needed for snow and icy conditions, offering warmth and preventing slips.

Essential for cold conditions.

Essential Documents

Papers for Your Trip

Ensure you have both physical and digital copies of important papers.

  • Passport and Visa Papers: Valid passport, eTA confirmation or TRV.
  • Your Travel Protection Details: Printed and digital copies of policy details and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): Advised if your license is not in English/French.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Useful for emergencies or chronic conditions.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flights, accommodation, car rental, tours.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Family, embassy/consulate, bank/credit card company.
  • Concession Cards (if relevant): Valid identification cards (e.g., ISIC, AARP).
  • Store digital copies in secure cloud service and offline on phone.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Bringing the right electronics and ensuring compatibility keeps you connected and your devices powered during your trip.

Power Essentials

Photography & Apps

Calgary features stunning cityscapes, and the nearby Rocky Mountains feature incredible landscapes. A versatile camera is recommended. Secure your photos and important documents with backup solutions.

Tech Tools

Digital Safety

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox to automatically sync photos and documents. This offers off-site backup.

Physical Backups

Carry a small external hard drive or USB drive for an additional layer of data protection, especially for photographs and video clips.

Offline Access

Download maps and important documents for offline access on your phone, in case internet service is limited.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A small, well-stocked personal health kit gives reassurance and handles minor issues quickly, enabling you to focus on your trip.

Kit Contents

Protection & Hygiene

Calgary's altitude and climate mean defense against the elements is important. Basic hygiene items are easily found locally, but bring travel sizes of preferred brands.

Protection & Water

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Considerations

  • Calgary's altitude does not cause sickness for most.
  • Higher elevations in Rockies (Banff, A Glacial the body of water in banff national park) can provoke mild symptoms.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol on first day at higher altitudes.

Motion Sickness

  • Winding roads to the mountains towns can trigger motion sickness.
  • Over-the-counter remedies are available locally.
  • Plan for go on curvy mountain roads if you are prone to sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

If you intend to hike, a comfortable Daypack (Osprey Daylite Plus) for water, snacks, plus layers is good. Hiking poles (Black Diamond Trail) offer stability.

  • Bear spray is available to rent/purchase locally.
  • Learn how to use bear spray safely and legally.
  • Pack quick-dry clothing; denim is not ideal.
  • Bring well-fitting, broken-in hiking boots.

Skiing/Snowboarding

Bring goggles, warm base layers, and waterproof outer layers. Skis, snowboards, and boots are readily for hire at resorts or in Calgary, simplifying travel and luggage.

  • Rent equipment locally to save space.
  • Consider rental if you don't travel with gear often.
  • Ensure outer layering clothes is waterproof for snow.
  • Goggles are needed for bright snow conditions.

Cycling Gear

A Helmet is by law mandatory for bikers under 18 and highly recommended for all. Have appropriate cycling clothing if you intend to do a lot of rides around the city or on pathways.

  • Helmets are for safety and often a legal requirement.
  • Local bike shops offer various bike rentals.
  • Rent high-end mountain bikes locally.
  • Cycling gloves enhance comfort for lengthier rides.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Good to Rent

  • Ski/snowboard equipment: Readily available in holiday resorts, saves luggage space.
  • Snowshoes: Available for rental at a lot of open-air gear shops.
  • Bear spray: Can be hired or purchased locally and returned.
  • High-end off-road bikes: Shops that are experts in offer quality rentals.

Better to Bring

  • Well-fitting hiking boots: Comfort and fit are of utmost importance.
  • Specialized clothing: Items for specific personal preferences or fits.
  • Your preferred daypack: Familiarity for organization and comfort.
  • Prescription medications: Cannot be rented and are highly personal.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items enhance your comfort, security, and convenience throughout your trip. Beyond general travel essentials for a temperate climate with distinct seasons, Calgary does not have specific one-of-a-kind goods. Preparation for varied weather is the most crucial advice.

Personal Comfort & Security

Sustainable Travel Items

Small choices can make a difference in your travel impact.

Eco-Friendly Choices

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Minimize plastic waste by refilling your bottle.
  • Collapsible Coffee Cup: For your daily caffeine fix without disposable cups.
  • Solid-form Toiletries: Shampoo bars and solid soaps reduce plastic packaging.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Avoid plastic bags for souvenirs or groceries.

Conscious Packing

Bamboo Toothbrush

An eco-friendly alternative to plastic.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

If checking out aquatic environments, protect marine life.

Packing Cubes

Optimize space and keep organized, reducing over-packing.

Solar Charger

For small devices, harnesses sustainable energy.

Destination-Specific Items

General Calgary Travel

  • A good map of downtown Calgary and river pathways.
  • Earbuds for public transit or walking tours.
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing in the Rockies.

Mountain Day Trips

  • Snacks and drinks, as options can be limited and pricey in the mountains.
  • Backup camera batteries or memory cards for scenic photography.
  • Insect repellent, especially for the summer season evenings near water.

Packing Pro Tips:

Layering is your top friend when packing for Calgary, allowing versatility for changing conditions.

Most general travel items are available locally, but specific preferences or sizes mean bringing specific items is better.