Canada, often called America’s Hat, is a must-visit destination for many travelers. It offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities, especially during winter, making it a tempting choice for your next trip.
However, since this country is quite different from the United States, there are many unknowns you need to research and plan for. If you live in a warmer state, visiting Canada this winter could be more than just a sensory shock; it might feel like being dunked into an ice bath.
If you'd like to get a clearer idea of what you should know when visiting Canada in winter, keep reading below.
Bundle Up – Canadian Winters Mean Serious Cold
Winter in Canada, which typically lasts from November to March, is frigid. Depending on the region, temperatures can drop to -15 Celsius during the day and even -35 Celsius at night. That's why you need to bundle up with layers of clothing when visiting, as it allows you to adjust your body temperature by adding or removing layers as needed. This way, you can stay warm regardless of the temperature.
Weather conditions cause many problems during winter, often due to wind, snow, ice, and blizzards, which can reduce visibility. Warm clothes might not be enough to prevent frostbite and other health issues, with some people losing fingers and toes. Although many believe that warm clothing will prevent this, dry clothing should be prioritized.
Wet clothes often lose their insulating properties, making you more vulnerable to dangerously cold conditions very quickly. It is crucial to pack the right materials to prevent moisture and snow from reaching your skin. You should choose a base layer, a mid-layer, and outer protection as the essentials. These three layers work together to keep moisture away from your skin and retain body heat.
What to Pack So You Don’t Freeze (or Slip)
Understanding the common weather conditions that you might face during your visit helps you pack strategically. How much you pack depends on the length of your trip, but the essentials will remain the same. After all, the main goal is to stay warm during your excursions in Canada, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
But understanding what to pack is difficult, especially if this is your first trip to the Great White North. Layering is the key strategy to staying warm. This means packing thermal underwear, ideally made of synthetic materials, as a base layer and warmer materials like fleece or wool sweaters for the mid-layer. Insulated and waterproof outerwear, including a winter jacket and snow pants, completes the outfit.
An extra little tip is that temperatures shift dramatically when you enter a store in Canada. Indoor spaces are usually warm, so tourists must be ready to take off their outer layers to stay comfortable.
Accessories, like a woolly hat and waterproof gloves, should also be packed. These will complete your look and keep you warm. However, boots are necessary as well, and they should have a good grip to prevent slipping while you walk. Make sure to try on boots to ensure they aren’t too tight and wear them often before your trip so they are well broken in.
Staying Healthy and Safe While You’re Up North
Canada’s extreme weather – ranging from freezing rain to heavy blizzards - can cause numerous problems during winter. Even if you don’t participate in winter activities, you still face risks of dangerous driving conditions and injuries. You need to take precautions when visiting the country, and this includes staying informed.
While layering up prevents cold weather discomfort and hypothermia, you should also know what to do if you fall ill or get injured in this unfamiliar country. The Canadian healthcare system, though considered one of the best worldwide, is complicated and expensive for non-citizens. Visitors should buy travel medical insurance to cover healthcare costs if they need treatment during their stay.
Being informed about weather conditions and wildlife helps you prepare for your travels. This is especially important if you plan to drive during your trip in Canada. Bad weather can alter road conditions, with highways sometimes closing due to avalanches and snowstorms. Learning about local wildlife, such as bears and moose, ensures you're aware of what to do if you encounter them.
To conclude, planning a trip to Canada should be an exciting experience. Vacation preparations often cause stress, but this can dampen your visit; no one wants their trip to begin on a bad note. Fortunately, by following the three tips outlined in this post, your trip will go much more smoothly.
And if traveling to Canada means you can check off a bucket list item, you should prioritize your enjoyment. Following the advice provided here can help you do just that.
