How to Pack When Visiting Vancouver in the Winter

When someone outside of the area considers visiting Vancouver in the winter: they never know what to expect.  People outside the country usually bring thick winter coats and dozens of sweaters and layers, while those from areas like Quebec might pack shorts and tee shirts.  If you’re stuck in the middle and don’t know what to pack: here’s what to know.

It’s Not A Winter Wonderland

Because of the Rockies and the low elevation: there’s barely any snow in Vancouver. In addition, the warm air from the ocean ensures that the temperatures rarely dip between freezing, and if they do, it’s for less than a week in January.  Although this can be surprising to many people, it means that those packing parkas and other thoroughly warm clothing items are just overdressing.  

It does drop down to the 40s, and it does get windy, but it’s nothing that you’ll need a billion layers for.  Gloves, a comfortable coat, and long pants are all you need.  If you are from an area that snows constantly, you might consider bringing something lighter; just be sure you don’t get yourself sick from the temperatures here.

Bring Something Rain Resistant

Although there’s hardly any snow, there can be a lot of rain in Vancouver.  This rain takes up most of the season and usually comes down in thin mists. Unfortunately, no locals carry umbrellas, but if you want one, you can use it!  Otherwise, the good idea is to bring rain and water-resistant coats that will keep you warm and dry without the rain soaking into the fabrics.

Your Boots Matter The Most

Vancouver may not get much snow, but the rain can turn into ice on the streets at night. So it’s a good idea to pack good boots that have great traction on them when you’re visiting.  This traction will ensure you can go about your day looking at Vancouver homes for sale instead of constantly worrying about whether you’re going to slip and fall or not.  These should also be waterproof to some degree, just in case.  Although you won’t need these every day of your visit, they’re important to have on hand for your safety.

You Can Still Get Some Snow In!

If you still want some snow, and you’re just realizing now that a couple of inches aren’t enough, consider making a trip to Whistler from Vancouver!  Whistler is just a couple of hours away and lets you live out your winter wonderland dreams without having to spend your whole vacation buried in the snow!  When you’re done skiing or enjoying a snowy spa day, you can slip back to Vancouver and enjoy the city lifestyle instead.

The general rule for Vancouver is to dress to keep warm but don’t go overboard.  This isn’t an icy tundra; it’s warmer than most of Canada is this time of year.  Instead, try to dress to keep dry, and ensure that you have enough room to take some rad souvenirs home!