What to Pack for Vancouver. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Spring/Autumn Layers

Layers work well during spring and autumn.

Items

Pack Long-sleeved shirts and sweaters or fleeces.
Bring a Light jacket.
Include a Waterproof and windproof outer shell.

Summer Attire & Cultural Notes

Light clothing suits summer. Vancouver has no certain cultural dress codes; casual, comfortable clothing is fine.

Summer Essentials

Shorts, t-shirts, and dresses.
A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and a Sun hat.
Comfortable athletic wear for walking/cycling.

Footwear Recommendations

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential for exploring Stanley Park's trails and the Seawall. Seek athletic shoes with good support.

Shop Walking Shoes

Waterproof Footwear

Highly suggested for spring, autumn, and winter due to frequent rain. Keeps feet dry.

Waterproof for Rain

Sandals/Flip-Flops

Work well for summer or beach visits.

Shop Sandals

Essential Documents

Useful Travel Papers

Keep your important papers organized and accessible. Document loss causes significant pressure and delays.

Carry your valid passport at all times.
Store travel insurance policy number and emergency contacts.
International driving permit if planning to rent a car.
Carry immunization records.

Keep printed and digital copies of all reservations.
Compile a list of emergency contacts, including embassy.
Bring concession Cards if applicable.
If required, keep eTA or visa approval with travel documents.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Canada uses 120 V, 60 Hz, with Type A and Type B plugs. The majority of new smartphones work with Canadian networks.

Connectivity Items

Bring a Power adapter; some devices may need a Voltage converter.
Local SIM cards are available from major Canadian carriers.
Consider VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Cameras & Charging

A cameran appropriate for landscapes works well. Bring extra batteries and memory cards. A Portable power bank is highly suggested.

Camera Gear & Power

A Compact mirrorless camera or a good Smartphone camera.
Ensure your phone or camera period of stays charged.
Use cloud storage like Google Drive or an External hard drive for backup.

Recommended Apps & Data Backup

Navigation & Transit

Google Maps, Apple Maps, AllTrails for park trails. TransLink app or Transit App for public transportation schedules.

Ride-sharing & Weather

Uber and Lyft operate in Vancouver. The Weather Network provides local forecasts.

Language & Data Security

Google Translate assists. Protect data with cloud storage or an external hard drive.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A small personal health kit offers peace of mind for minor ailments.

Kit Contents

Pack a Basic first aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.
Bring enough prescription medications (with documentation).
Pack over-the-over-the-counter medicines for common problems like cold/flu, antacids, or Anti-diarrhea medication.

Sun & Water Safety

Water purification is not essential for Vancouver tap water. It is safe to drink. A reusable water bottle maintains hydration.

Protection & Hydration

Insect repellent is useful for certain trails.
Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat.
A reusable water bottle reduces plastic waste.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness

There's no risk of altitude sickness for Stanley Park itself.
This park is at sea level.
No special precautions are needed at in the mountains at the park.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness remedies might be useful for scenic car journeys into the mountains outside Vancouver.
Also look into for ferry travel to British Columbia.
Pack motion sickness pills if you are susceptible.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Cycling Gear

If you plan extensive riding, comfortable cycling shorts are useful.

Most bike rentals provide helmets.
Renting a bike is generally practical.
Helmets are mandatory under the law in BC.
Cycle the Seawall in a counter-clockwise direction.

Walking/Running Gear

Pack appropriate athletic wear for walking and running the park routes or Seawall.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Layered clothing for varying temperatures.
A light backpack for water and snacks.
Consider a rain jacket for erratic weather.

Specialty Items

Some activities call for special equipment, like binoculars for birdwatching.

Binoculars for birdwatching around Lost Lagoon.
Reusable water bottle.
Small backpack for day trips.
Camera for capturing scenic views.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Renting Equipment Pros

Less luggage to carry.
Access to well-maintained gear locally.
Convenient for short excursions.
No hassle of cleaning or storing after use.

Bringing Equipment Cons

Extra baggage fees.
Potential for damage on the way.
Inconvenience of transportation inside the city.
May not be suitable for multi-destination trips.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small items enhance comfort, security, and convenience.

Travel Comfort & Security

Neck pillow and Eye mask for long flights.
A Travel lock for luggage or hostel lockers.
A Money belt worn under clothing.
RFID protection for your wallet.

Sustainable & Local Items

Reusable items aid sustainability. Most standard hygiene items are available locally.

Eco-Friendly & Local Tips

A Reusable water bottle.
A Reusable shopping bag (plastic bag bans exist).
Reusable utensils for street food.
A good Vancouver guidebook.

Sustainable Travel Items

Refillable Bottles

Reduces plastic waste

Reusable Bags

For retail therapy and groceries

Solid Toiletries

Reduces liquid waste

Travel Mug

For a cup of coffee plus tea

Destination-Specific Items

Stanley Park Focused

Park map or digital app for trails.
Repellent for insects evening strolls.
Camera with extra battery for scenic photos.

General Vancouver

Contactless payment methods.
Some Canadian cash for small vendors.
Universal travel adapter for non-North American plugs.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack light and efficiently. Consider rolling clothes to save space. Use packing cubes for organization.

Check weather forecasts closer to your travel date for more precise clothing choices.

Image: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) terminal building.

What to Pack for Vancouver