Vancouver’s beautiful year-round. In the spring, it has cherry blossoms going for it. In the fall, its tree-lined streets turn golden and red. And the winters are mild compared to the rest of Canada – plus, Whistler is just a short drive away. 

But summers in Vancouver are something else. It isn’t quite as muggy as other major cities (looking at you, Calgary and Toronto). There are several national parks, beaches, seaside towns and mountain escapes to explore. And the city itself buzzes with life as Vancouverites flock to the patios and green spaces to enjoy the warm weather. 

If you’re planning on a summer trip to Vancouver, you are in for a good time. Still – as with any destination – it pays to arrive prepared. In this post, let’s explore a few packing tips to follow as you get ready for a jaunt to the left coast. 

Be Prepared for Rain… Even in the Summer

Vancouver has earned a justifiable reputation for being rainy. Granted, it doesn’t experience the sudden, heavy downfalls that other cities do; its rain is more of a pervasive, fine mist. 

While summers are less rainy in Vancouver than other seasons, you may still experience some precipitation. Pack a rain jacket and suitable boots. It’s also wise to include a few quick-drying items, like mens merino wool shorts and shirts. 

Do as the Locals Do: Dress Casual

The west coast is infamously laid back, an ethos you find represented in its work-life balance, coffee shop culture and – yes – its fashion sense.

If you arrive in a three-piece suit ready for a day on the town, you may stick out like a sore thumb (not necessarily a bad thing). To blend in, pack t-shirts, shorts, jeans and a light jacket. As mentioned, merino wool t-shirts work well since they manage the heat and wet weather. 

Pack for Outdoor Adventure

Part of what makes Vancouver special are the outlying regions. There, you will find opportunities for kayaking, hiking, camping, mountain biking, swimming and more. 

If you’re heading to the west coast for adventure, come prepared. Bring a tent and sleeping bag for camping trips. Pack a swimsuit, hiking boots, sweat-wicking merino clothing for hikes and bike-riding gear for treks along the North Shore. 

These Shoes Are Made for Walking

Vancouver is a very walkable city. From Kitsilano in the west to Gastown further east is about an hour walk. (Along the way, you will see hotspots like Granville Island, Yaletown, BC Place and the Downtown core). If you want to save a few dollars on transit, pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes. For inspiration, check out this recent GQ article on the best walking shoes. 

Come Prepared for Seasickness

Finally, a quick note about whale watching for orcas: This mainstay on most tourists’ itineraries is totally worth it. But you may want to pack some Gravol; the Strait of Georgia can get pretty choppy!

In general, packing for a Vancouver trip is like packing for any other big city. Just make sure to add some quick-drying, casual merino clothing, gear for outdoor activities, good walking shoes, and some nausea relief for the whale-watching boats.