Vancouver Packing List for Every Season: What to Pack, and Why!

The combination of scenic photos and using your phone for navigation will drain your battery faster than you think, especially while you’re out exploring Stanley Park. Keep a power bank handy so you’re never caught with a dead phone mid-tour.

Staying hydrated is absolute key during those active Vancouver days. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to save money and ensure you have enough water while you’re out exploring the steeper parts of the city.

The Pacific Northwest sun can be surprisingly intense, even during those cooler mountain moments. A good sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is absolute key for protecting your skin while you’re out exploring.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages and pain relievers in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for a pharmacy when you have a minor issue while exploring the city streets.

A dedicated wash pouch keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky bottle won’t ruin your favorite clothes. I love the ones that hang up for easy access in those varied Canadian accommodations.

Whether you’re staying in a lively city center or a hotel near a busy restaurant, a pair of ear plugs is absolute gold for ensuring you get some quiet rest between all those days of exploring Vancouver.

Rain is frequent in Vancouver, so a sturdy, compact umbrella is an absolute necessity for staying dry while you’re out exploring. It’s an easy thing to keep in your daypack for those quick Pacific Northwest showers.

Separating your damp coastal laundry from your clean clothes is a simple way to stay organized, especially when you’re dealing with different types of itineraries.

I honestly can’t travel without these anymore because they make organizing varied climate gear so easy. They’re perfect for keeping your city clothes separate from your hiking and rainy-day gear in your bag.

Choosing the right size and type of luggage is key for navigating Vancouver’s varied terrain and local transit. You’ll want something durable that can handle a bit of rain and being the only bag you carry for a few weeks.

A lightweight daypack is absolute key for carrying your essentials while you’re out exploring the city or wandering through the coastal markets. Look for something that fits well and offers quick access to your gear.

A reliable waterproof jacket is an absolute necessity for those breezy Pacific regions or for protection from a quick coastal rain shower. Look for something that offers both protection and breathability.

Vancouver can have breezy, rainy days any time of year, so a reliable lightweight rain shell is an absolute necessity for staying comfortable and dry while you’re out exploring.

I always pack at least one long-sleeve shirt for providing extra protection from the Pacific breeze and for staying comfortable in air-conditioned spaces. It’s an easy piece that provides so much extra versatility for your trip.

A comfortable sweater or fleece is perfect for staying warm during those cooler coastal evenings or for layering under a rain jacket. You’ll definitely want a piece that feels Great and keeps you cozy.

I always pack at least one cardigan or hoodie for those cooler transitions or for staying comfortable in air-conditioned cafes and trains. It’s an easy piece that provides so much extra warmth when needed.

I always pack a few comfortable t-shirts or tank tops for those warmer moments when the sun clears during your visit. They’re also perfect for layering under a light jacket if the city breeze picks up.

I find comfortable walking pants to be some of the most versatile things I pack because they work for long bus or train rides and as extra sun protection during the day. You’ll definitely want a pair that quick-dries!

Versatile and comfortable, leggings or joggers are perfect for those more active days or for staying comfortable during your travel plans. They’re an easy piece that provides so much extra comfort throughout the day.

A classic pair of jeans is absolute key for staying stylish and relaxed while you’re out exploring the city or enjoying a casual day in the village. You’ll definitely want a pair that fits well!

A pair of comfortable shorts is absolute key for staying cool and relaxed while you’re out exploring the coastal areas or enjoying a casual day in the city. You’ll definitely want a pair that fits well!

You’ll probably be showering and changing more than usual after those long days of exploring the city. Bring plenty of extras so you always have a fresh pair throughout your trip.

Choosing a comfortable and supportive bra is key for those long days of exploring and sightseeing in Vancouver. You might want to pack an extra one or two for the trip just in case.

I’ve learned the hard way that good socks are just as important as the shoes themselves when you’re navigating varied terrain. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy even during those long walking days.

Believe me when I say you’ll be doing a lot of walking through city streets and up park steps. Your feet will definitely thank you for choosing a sturdy, comfortable pair that’s already well broken in before you arrive.

A reliable pair of waterproof boots or shoes is absolute gold for navigating the rainy coastal regions. They provide much more support and stability for those longer days on the trails or walking in the city.

If you plan to hike the Grouse Grind or any of the other incredible trails around Vancouver, a sturdy pair of hiking boots is absolute gold for navigating the varied terrain. They provide much more support and stability for those longer days on the trails.

Choosing a comfortable and breathable pair of everyday socks is key for those long days of walking through Vancouver’s neighborhoods. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy even in the humidity.

I’ve learned the hard way that good socks are just as important as the shoes themselves when you’re out on the trails. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy even during those longer Vancouver hikes.

A lightweight and comfortable daypack is absolute key for carrying your essentials while you’re out exploring Vancouver’s beautiful mountain trails. Look for something that fits well and offers quick access to your gear.

A compact quick-dry towel is a total lifesaver for managing sweat or managing a quick coastal rain shower in the Pacific Northwest. It’s an easy thing to pack and so useful for staying fresh while you’re out on the trails.

Providing some extra shade with a hat or cap is absolute gold for staying comfortable while you’re out enjoying the Pacific Northwest sun or protection from a quick rain shower. It’s a simple way to stay cool during those longer sightseeing days.

Protecting your eyes from the bright coastal glare is absolute key, especially when you’re out exploring the coastal areas or the snowy mountains. A good pair of sunglasses will keep you comfortable and stylish throughout your visit.

I find a fanny pack to be one of the most versatile things I pack because it works for city walks and keeps my most important things right at my chest during my travels through Vancouver’s urban hikes.

Providing some extra warmth with a stylish hat is absolute gold for staying comfortable while you’re out enjoying the city’s parks and harbor views. It’s an easy way to stay cozy during those longer sightseeing days.

Protecting your eyes from the bright coastal glare is absolute key, especially when you’re out exploring the neighborhoods during those longer sunny days. A good pair of sunglasses will keep you comfortable and stylish.