Packing Guide: Edmonton

Summer Gear

Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Pack shorts, t-shirts, and light dresses.

Outdoor Ready

Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat.
Comfortable Walking shoes or sneakers, or Sandals.
A packable, Waterproof rain jacket for sudden summer showers.

Winter Attire

Layer for insulation, covering all exposed skin.

Cold Weather Layers

Thermal base layers made of Merino wool or synthetic materials.
A Warm hat (Fleece-lined beanie), Warm gloves or mittens, and a Scarf.
Waterproof, insulated Winter boots with good grip, like Sorel Caribou boots.

Footwear Guidance

Summer/Shoulder Seasons

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are perfect for city exploration. Sandals are suitable for warm days.

Light & Versatile

Winter Grip

Waterproof, insulated Winter boots with good grip are essential to protect your feet from snow and ice.

Warm & Secure

Specialized Needs

Sturdy hiking shoes or boots for more rugged trails. Ski boots for slopes, which you can rent locally.

Activity-Specific

Documents & Data Safety

Important Papers

Prepare both physical and digital copies of your essential documents.

Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry valid passport, eTA or visa if applicable.
Travel Insurance Policy Information: Policy number, coverage, emergency contacts.
International Driving Permit: If your home country's driver's license is not in English or French.
Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: For routine vaccinations and medical conditions.

Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flights, accommodation, rental car, tours.
Emergency Contact Information: Family, friends, country's embassy/consulate.
Student/Senior/Press IDs: For potential discounts at attractions or on public transport.
Backup Solutions for Important Data: Use cloud storage for photos and documents.

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Adapters

Canada uses Type A (two flat parallel pins) and Type B (two flat parallel pins with a round grounding pin) outlets. The standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz.

Travel Ready

Travelers from North America generally do not need an Adapter or Voltage converter.
International travelers from regions with different outlet types will need a Universal travel adapter.
Check your devices' voltage compatibility; most modern electronics are dual-voltage.

Mobile & Apps

Most modern smartphones are compatible with Canadian GSM (850/1900MHz), 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G networks. Your phone must be unlocked to use a local SIM card.

Stay Connected

Local SIM cards can be purchased from major Canadian carriers like Telus, Rogers, Bell.
Recommended apps: Google Maps, ETS App, Uber/Lyft, SkipTheDishes/DoorDash, Weather Network.
Use cloud storage services for backing up photos, videos, and important documents.

Digital Security

VPN Service

NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.

Offline Maps

Download maps for offline use on Google Maps to navigate without data.

Photo Storage

Cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for backing up photos and videos.

Health & Well-being

First Aid & Meds

Pack a basic Travel first aid kit for minor issues.

Essentials

Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen).
Prescription medications in original, labeled containers with documentation.
Over-the-counter remedies for common travel ailments like cold/flu, Anti-diarrhea medication, antacids.

Personal Care

Most standard personal hygiene items are readily available in Edmonton stores and pharmacies.

Specific Needs

Hand sanitizer for general hygiene.
Sunscreen (even in winter for snow glare), sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat.
Insect repellent (e.g., DEET-based like Off! Deep Woods) for summer in wooded areas.

Specific Health Needs

Altitude

Edmonton itself does not have high altitude.
If your trip extends to the Rocky Mountains (e.g., Jasper), consider remedies for altitude sickness.
Altitude sickness can be an issue at higher elevations.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness medication might be useful for long bus rides.
Consider it for scenic drives if you are prone to motion sickness.
It's a good idea to bring it if you typically experience motion sickness.

Activity Gear

Hiking Gear

For exploring the extensive river valley trail system or nearby parks.

Quality Hiking boots with good ankle support for rugged trails.
Moisture-wicking Socks for blister prevention.
Layers of clothing for changing temperatures.
A day pack, such as an Osprey Daylite Plus.

Winter Sports

Equipment for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or snowshoeing.

Specific ski/snowboard jacket and pants.
Thermal layers, goggles, and a Helmet.
Ice skates or snowshoes.
Much of this equipment is available for rent at local ski hills or city rinks.

Wildlife Viewing

For enhancing your experience at Elk Island National Park or other natural areas.

A small Pair of binoculars.
Extra batteries for cameras, as cold weather drains them faster.
Small hand warmers like HotHands Hand Warmers for winter comfort.
A Sturdy tripod for northern lights photography.

Gear Decisions

To Rent Saves Luggage Space

Ski/snowboard equipment is widely available.
Ice skates and snowshoes can be rented at local facilities.
Canoes and kayaks are available for rent at outdoor adventure shops.

To Bring Personal Preference

Specialized hiking boots that fit well.
Technical clothing layers (e.g., moisture-wicking base layers).
Personal items like a day pack or a Reusable water bottle.
Any personal items that are hard to find locally.

Miscellaneous Items

Travel Comfort

These small additions often make a big difference in comfort and convenience during your journey.

Long Haul Aids

A Travel pillow (e.g., Cabeau Evolution S3), Eye mask, and Earplugs help with long flights or bus/train rides.
A Money belt or an RFID-blocking wallet (e.g., TRAVANDO Wallet BLOCKED Minimalist Organizer) provides security for valuables.
A small Padlock for hostel lockers or luggage can be useful.
A Reusable shopping bag (e.g., Baggu Standard Reusable Shopping Checkerboard) for shopping.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Support sustainable travel practices and reduce your environmental footprint during your visit.

Green Choices

A Reusable water bottle (e.g., Hydro Flask Stainless Insulated Wide) helps you stay hydrated and reduces plastic waste.
A reusable shopping bag is useful for shopping at markets or stores, reducing plastic bag use.
Generally, most standard items are readily available in Edmonton stores.
If you rely on specific brands or specialized products, bring them to avoid searching.

Eco-Conscious Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated, reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For shopping at markets or stores.

Portable Charger

Keep your devices powered on the go.

Small First Aid Kit

For minor scrapes and cuts during activities.

Cultural Etiquette

General Dress Code

Edmonton maintains a casual and accepting dress code.
Dress for comfort and the local weather conditions.
No specific cultural dress codes or modesty requirements apply for general tourism.

Special Occasions

For fine dining establishments, smart casual attire is appropriate.
For theatre performances, business attire may be fitting.
This is a choice for personal style, not a requirement.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack essentials in carry-on luggage for easy access upon arrival.

Roll clothes tightly to save space in your suitcase and minimize wrinkles.

Packing Guide