Dinosaur Provincial Park Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

A structured timeline for your planning.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Breaking down your trip preparation into manageable stages.

1

-6 Months Ahead

Visas/eTA

Determine if you need an eTA or visa for Canada. Apply early.

Flights

Book international and domestic flights to Calgary (YYC). Prices often increase closer to travel dates.

Park Bookings Required

Book campsites and guided interpretive tours immediately when reservations open (Feb/Mar for summer).

2

-2 Months Ahead

Car Rental

Secure your rental car from Calgary International Airport.

Brooks Accommodation

If not camping, book your hotel or vacation rental in Brooks.

Activities & Itinerary

Confirm your wanted activities and generate a loose itinerary. Note operating hours.

3

-4 Weeks Ahead

Packing & Gear

Review your packing list. Purchase missing items like hiking boots or insect repellent.

Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering medical needs, trip cancellation, and misplaced baggage. Consider World Nomads.

Bank Notification

Let your bank and card issuer know companies of your travel dates to avoid fraud notifications.

Pre-Trip Research

dives into park specifics.

Areas to Explore

Understand park rules, especially "Leave No Trace" principles and fossil collection (strictly prohibited).
Learn about the types of dinosaurs found and the Late Cretaceous period.
Research badlands safety concerns (heat, unstable terrain, wildlife).
This background truly deepens your appreciation for the park.

Home Preparations

Steps before you lock up and leave.

Securing Your Residence

Lock all windows and doors.
Arrange for mail to be held or picked up. Cancel newspaper deliveries.
Arrange for pet sitters or boarding.
Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy. Adjust thermostat settings.

Last-Minute Details

Checking off the end items for smooth departure.

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all flight, accommodation, tour, and car rental bookings.
Download essential apps (Google Maps offline maps, applications for weather forecasts, Alberta Parks info).
Print physical photocopies of necessary documents. Store digital copies.
Check the weather forecast for final packing adjustments.

Packing Essentials

Pack bags, considering weight limits and allowed items.
Consider using packing organizers for efficiency. Eagle Creek offers options.
Ensure all electronics are charged.
Gather all required receipts plus confirmations.

Emergency Contacts

Leave a copy of your itinerary and emergency contacts with a trusted person at home.
Have local emergency lines saved on your phone.
Carry a portable power bank for your phone.
Store copies of important documents in cloud storage.

Reservation Reminder

Campsites and guided interpretive tours book up rapidly, often within minutes of reservations opening (typically in February or March for the upcoming summer season). Book these immediately once they become available.

Arrival Checklist

Your first few hours in Canada and at the park involve several practical steps.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Customs/Immigration:
Follow Border Services Officers' instructions. Have your passport and any required visa/eTA ready.
2
Pick Up Rental Car:
Proceed to car rental counters at Calgary (YYC). Inspect your pre-booked vehicle thoroughly.
3
Obtain Local SIM Card (Optional):
If desired, purchase one at the airport or in Calgary before operating a vehicle to Brooks.

Orientation & Purchases

Drive Directly:
Drive from Calgary (YYC) directly to Dinosaur Provincial Park or Brooks, depending on your accommodation.
Visitor Centre Stop:
Upon park arrival, make your first stop the Visitor Centre. Obtain maps, check alerts, and confirm tours.
Initial Purchases:
Withdraw Canadian Dollars (CAD) from an ATM. Stop at a Brooks grocery store for meals and supplies if camping.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase desired souvenirs from the Visitor Centre gift shop or Brooks local shops before leaving.

Check airline baggage allowances. Inquire about shipping options for large items from local post offices.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time to drive from Dinosaur Provincial Park back to Calgary (YYC), approximately 2.5-3 hours.

Arrive at YYC at least 2.5-3 hours before an international flight and A single.5-2 hours before a domestic flight.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure your rental car is fueled in line with your rental agreement (usually full). Clean out any trash or personal belongings.

Organize your passport, boarding passes, and any other required travel documents for your departure.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Drive your rental car from Calgary International Airport directly to Brooks or Dinosaur Provincial Park. The drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours. Set your navigation accurately.