What to Pack for Canada in Winter

PRACTICAL WANDERLUST

Canada in winter is a pretty freakin’ magical place, whether you’re soaking in thermal hot springs in Banff or eating poutine (the ultimate winter comfort food) in Quebec City.

We’re laying out all of our favorite, field-tested essentials for visiting Canada in the winter, from gear to clothing.

Carry-On Pro Tip

Wear all of your heaviest stuff on your travel days – like your bulkiest jacket, that scarf that’s as big as a blanket, and so on.

START WITH A BASE LAYER

Merino wool is a travel miracle fabric. It keeps you warm when it’s cold out, but it keeps you cool when it’s hot out – and it wicks and regulates moisture too, so that even if you do get a lil’ sweaty inside, you’ll dry quickly.

FROM THE WAIST UP

The MerinoLux flannel button-downs from Royal Robbins are stretchy, cozy, blended with merino wool, and most importantly, warm AF.

FROM THE WAIST DOWN

My favorite travel jeans have 6 POCKETS. 6!! And 2 of them are zipped and hidden inside other pockets, for extra pickpocket protection.

TOP LAYER

We each bring two jackets each on our winter trips: a heavy/bulky coat, and a lightweight, travel-friendly packable down jacket. The down jacket is extremely warm and insulating, and perfect for days when I want the freedom of not wearing a big heavy coat.

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Swipe up to learn more about what to pack for Canada in winter!