What to pack for a winter trip to Canada
Short answer: Canada in winter can bring minus 10 to minus 30 degrees in cities such as Montreal, Quebec City and Banff, while Vancouver is milder and rainy. Pack using the layering principle with a warm base layer, an insulating mid layer and a windproof coat, and bring comfortable clothes for the warm indoors.
Winter from coast to coast
Canada is a vast country, and winter weather varies a great deal. Vancouver and Victoria on the west coast have mild winters around 3 to 7 degrees but plenty of rain. In the Rocky Mountains around Banff and Jasper there is snow and cold, often minus 10 to minus 20 degrees. In Quebec and Montreal the temperature can drop to minus 25, and wind chill makes it colder still. Check the forecast for each destination and pack for the coldest one on your route.
Three layers against the cold
The base layer sits close to the skin and should keep it dry. Wool and synthetic thermal underwear are the warmest choice for long days outdoors. The mid layer can be a fleece or a thick wool jumper, and the outer layer an insulated, windproof coat with a hood. Thermal leggings under winter or ski trousers are essential in hard frost. A hat that covers your ears, mittens and a scarf are crucial.
It is warm indoors
Canadian homes, hotels, restaurants and shopping centres are warm, often above 22 degrees. That means you need to be able to remove layers quickly. A smart polo under your jumper is a good choice, because you still look neat once the coat and knitwear come off. See bamboo polos for men. Viscose made from bamboo breathes in warm rooms, so you do not feel clammy after the cold outside.
Feet and footwear
Winter shoes or boots with insulation, a waterproof upper and a gripping sole are essential on ice and snow. Many locals wear ice cleats on slippery pavements. Choose boots with room for thick socks, as tight footwear leads to cold feet. In private homes it is customary in Canada to take your shoes off at the door, so bring a pair of indoor socks.
Hotel nights in dry air
Heating makes the air very dry in winter, and many people wake with a dry throat. Light sleepwear in a breathable fabric is comfortable in a warm room. See bamboo sleepwear for men. A glass of water by the bed and a humidifier, if the hotel has one, both help. See also sleepwear for other light sets.
Activities in the snow
Skiing, skating on frozen lakes, dog sledding and northern lights tours are popular winter activities. For all of them the rule is to stay dry. Sweat during an activity can chill you when you stop, so take off a layer before you start sweating. Ski goggles protect against wind and snow, and sunscreen matters because the sun reflects off the snow.
Frequently asked questions
How cold is Canada in winter
It depends on where you are. Vancouver is mild, while Quebec, Montreal and the Rocky Mountains often see minus 10 to minus 25 degrees.
What is most important to pack for a Canadian winter
A warm base layer, an insulating mid layer, a windproof coat, winter boots, a hat, mittens and a scarf.
How do I avoid frostbite
Cover your skin, stay dry and go indoors if your fingers or toes go numb. If you notice signs of frostbite, see a doctor.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
