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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Canada

Spring & Fall Attire

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-November) bring variable temperatures. Layering is for comfort.

Layering Essentials

Summer & Winter Wear

Summer (June-August) means lighter clothing. Winter (December-March) calls for serious cold weather gear.

Seasonal Specifics

  • Summer: Light, breathable clothing (t-shirts, shorts). A swimsuit for beaches. A warm sweater for cool evenings. Swimwear.
  • Winter: Heavy, waterproof, insulated winter coat. Thermal base layers for warmth. Waterproof winter pants. Winter coat.
  • Winter Accessories: Warm hat, waterproof gloves or mittens, and a scarf. Warm hat.

Footwear Essentials

General Walking

Comfortable walking shoes are useful for towns and easy trails.

Casual & Urban

Hiking Specific

Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended for trails, especially in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Columbia Men's Boot, Merrell Women's Shoe.

Trails & Terrain

Wet/Winter Conditions

Waterproof footwear or rain boots are useful for spring and fall. Insulated, waterproof winter boots with good grip are necessary for snow and ice. Winter boots.

Weather-Ready

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Papers

Keep important documents organized and secure. Have original and backup copies.

  • Valid Passport: Carry original. Include eTA or TRV confirmation.
  • Copies: Store photocopies or digital copies separately.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of accommodation, car rental, ferry, and tour bookings.
  • Emergency Contacts: List family, embassy, and travel insurance numbers. Use a Travel Document Organizer Wallet.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If home license is not English/French. Carry original license.
  • Health Documentation: Relevant vaccination records, prescription copies, doctor's notes for medications.
  • Travel Insurance: Printout or digital copy of policy details, including emergency contact.
  • Discount IDs: Student/senior/press IDs for potential savings.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices are powered and connected throughout your journey.

Charging & Mobile

  • Power Adapter: Canada uses Type A/B outlets, 120 V at 60 Hz. Bring a Universal travel adapter.
  • Mobile Phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked for Canadian SIM cards (Bell, Rogers, Telus). eSIM options are available with Airalo.
  • Portable Chargers: Anker Power Bank for long drives or hikes.

Tools & Apps

Enhance your travel with essential apps and data solutions.

Navigation & Data

  • Navigation Apps: Google Maps/Apple Maps (download offline maps for limited cell service areas). AllTrails/Gaia GPS for hiking.
  • Camera Gear: Versatile camera, extra batteries, memory cards. B&H Photo for equipment. Nikon Binoculars for wildlife.
  • Data Backup: Cloud storage for photos/documents. A Small external hard drive for large files.

Online Security

VPN Usage

Use a VPN for secure public Wi-Fi. NordVPN or ExpressVPN are options.

Password Management

Employ strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager.

Two-Factor Authentication

Activate 2FA for important accounts.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Pack a basic first aid kit and personal health items.

Kit Contents

  • Basic First Aid: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen), allergy meds, blister treatment (Moleskin). Johnson & Johnson Kit.
  • Prescription Medications: In original containers with labels. Prescription copy and doctor's note for large quantities.
  • Over-the-Counter: Pain relievers, antacids, anti-diarrhea medication (Anti-diarrhea medication), motion sickness pills.

Sun & Insect Protection

Protection from the elements is a must for outdoor activities.

Climate-Specific

Travel Comfort

Motion Sickness

  • Cape Breton has no high altitudes.
  • Motion sickness may be a concern on boat tours or winding roads.
  • Bring your preferred remedy if prone to motion sickness.

Personal Hygiene

  • Most standard hygiene products are available locally.
  • If you have specific preferred brands or specialized items, bring them.
  • Travel-sized versions save space in luggage.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Your planned activities dictate some of the gear you need.

Water Activities

For kayaking or canoeing on the lake or coast.

  • Waterproof bag for electronics and valuables.
  • Quick-dry clothing.
  • Life vest (often provided with rental).
  • Renting kayaks or canoes is easy; many local options.

Camping Gear

If planning to camp, certain items are necessary.

  • Tent.
  • Sleeping bag appropriate for the season.
  • Sleeping pad for comfort.
  • Basic cooking gear.
  • Renting Camping gear locally is convenient.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Advantages of Bringing Your Own

  • Familiarity with your own gear.
  • Ensures proper fit and comfort.
  • Ready access upon arrival.
  • Cost-effective for frequent travelers.

Advantages of Renting Locally

  • Reduces luggage weight and fees.
  • Convenient for infrequent campers or specific activities.
  • Access to local knowledge on gear.
  • Ideal for short trips where buying is not justified.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond clothing and activity-specific gear, some items improve comfort and security.

Travel Aids

Sustainable & Daily Use

Eco-friendly items and everyday conveniences make a difference.

Reusable Options

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and cut plastic waste. A Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: For groceries and souvenirs.
  • Reusable Utensils: Reduce single-use plastic.
  • Offline Maps: Download for areas with spotty cell service.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Canvas Tote

For shopping & souvenirs.

Solar Charger

Eco-friendly power.

Biodegradable Soap

Minimize environmental footprint.

Activity-Focused Items

Outdoor Comfort

  • Beach Towel: For relaxing on sandy shores like Ingonish Beach.
  • Bug Net/Head Net: During peak insect season (June-July), especially in wooded areas.
  • Binoculars: For wildlife viewing (moose, bald eagles, seabirds) in the National Park.

Photography & Exploration

  • Physical Map: Useful for the Cabot Trail, where cell service can be intermittent.
  • Extra Camera Batteries: Long days of sightseeing mean quick power drainage.
  • Small Backpack/Daypack: For day hikes and carrying essentials.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for organization.

Create a checklist to ensure you don't forget anything .