O Canada! The weather can be very variable in the Canadian Rockies, changing from warm summer sunshine to freezing rain and snow in an hour. From -30 in Winter to +30 in Summer, we understand the challenge to know what to pack in bags, so we’ve put together our favourite packing list items for the Canadian Rockies. We hope this will help you to get ready for your favourite vacation!

What to pack/wear for Summer in Canmore?

• Footwear – a comfortable pair of walking shoes for general sightseeing
• A sturdy pair of trail runners or hiking sandals are adequate for lower elevation hiking trails and short walks.
• Get an amazing Rocky Mountain Flannel in Banff
• Lightweight short sleeve shirts and for cooler weather at least one long sleeve shirt which can also come in handy for sun protection and higher hikes
• A pair of long pants for cooler temperatures or to protect your legs when hiking in areas with a brush can act as mosquito protection
• a light fleece jacket, or pullover, hoodie or warmer sweater
• A light waterproof/windproof jacket with a hood or an inexpensive fold up nylon poncho for unexpected rain
• A daypack to use for hiking/outings to carry snacks, extra clothing, camera, etc.
• Sunblock, UV blocking lip balm, a hat with a brim, sunglasses and insect repellent
• bathing suit, there’s only a handful of lakes warm enough for summer swimming but you may want to spend time in one of the hot springs or our pools or hot tubs
• refillable water bottle. In Canmore there a secret natural spring water. Some people say that it’s a “magical hungover cure”.
• a small collapsible cooler can be handy for driving outings in warmer weather, fill it with sandwiches, snacks and drinks for lunch stops. Inexpensive ones can be purchased at places like Canadian Tire.
• And of course your favourite tuxedo or dress for a nice dinner.

What to pack/wear for Winter in Canmore?

• A pullover or sweater
• Get an amazing Rocky Mountain Flannel in Banff
• Pants made of wool or cotton and if you are going to be doing a lot of outdoor activities or be out for extended periods of time you will want a pair of insulated snow pants
• An outer jacket that is insulated and wind and waterproof is best, a parka style longer jacket keeps you warmer in extremely cold weather when going for walks.
• If you are not visiting during the extreme cold a waterproof pair of shoes might suffice, but chances are you will need to navigate through snow somewhere, so you will want a warm pair of waterproof boots. For the extreme temperatures you will need well-insulated boots, make sure they are rated for temperatures down to at least -30C. or lower.
• In colder temperatures, mittens are a much better choice than gloves. You want the air space between your fingers, it makes a big difference in keeping them warm.
• You may want to purchase a few disposable warming packs that can be activated and put into boots and gloves.
• A warm scarf or a neck warmer or both. A neck warmer is a long tube that can be worn around your neck and folded under to make it smaller or pulled up over the lower half of your face when needed.
• A warm hat is another important clothing element for the winter if your head’s warm you’ll be warm. A toque is a preferred choice in the mountains. Get one with a band of fleece that runs around the lower inside edge, it keeps you warmer and stops any wind from getting through.
• Long sleeve shirts or turtlenecks and a warm sweater
• Sunglasses and Sunblock, when the sun reflects off the snow it’s incredibly bright and can be dangerous for the skin
• Chapstick or lip balm, to keep your lips from chapping and cracking from the dry air. Carmex lip balm is one that works well and is very popular with skiers.
• warm socks, we like the ones made with merino wool called smart wool
• thin fleece jacket for under a heavier coat
• bathing suit, you may want to spend time in one of the hot springs, spa or our heated swimming pool or hot tub.
• In winter do not forget to have a small pack of tissues in your pockets, you’ll likely find your nose running from the cold air
• And of course, your favourite tuxedo or dress for a nice warm dinner.

Our accommodations provide a washer, dryer and iron in case you need them. In winter, the best way is to add layers, like that you create good isolation, and you can enjoy the outdoor.

Do not forget your camera and your bear spray in any season. Beautiful landscape means amazing pictures but be careful with the wildlife.