What to Wear in Canada

Top style tips for Canada

The conditions in Canada vary greatly through the year and in different parts of the country, so it's important to check the forecasts for the area you are going to.
If you are traveling long distances ensure you pack wisely for the different climate of each region.
Clever layering is the key to coping with any temperature changes.
light wool is a good choice to wear against your skin as it naturally helps to regulate your body temperature. It keeps you warm in the cold, wicks away moisture when it's hot, and doesn't retain odours – even after prolonged wear.
Ensure you bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
Jeans are always popular and will serve as a versatile base to your wardrobe. Wear them with light layers such as a t-shirt and cardigan for the summer, or warmer ones e.g. a long-sleeved shirt and thick sweater in the winter.

There really is loads to see and do and most of it is best done on foot, so make sure you take comfy footwear for daytime (for total comfort we love Hotter shoes, and they look great too).
Save your high heels for the evenings.

A few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry are a simple way to transform any outfit.
And a pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit too, as well as keep you warm, cover from the sun, etc.
The leather RedDog BagPod is a really versatile and stylish bag that can be used from day to evening. Wear it over the shoulder or convert it to a clutch, or use it to keep your belongings and travel documents tidy and easy to find.

If you're looking for versatile and stylish casual wear, try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts and polos.

The Winter months – December, January, February and March – are absolutely freezing, so layer up. If you don't, you'll find that your skin really does shrivel up and fall off.
You are well advised to have a very thick warm coat. Gloves, cosy boots, scarf, a warm hat, and ear muffs are also a very good idea. Sunglasses are useful in the snow too, to protect against the reflected rays.
For extra warmth pack some long thermal underwear – you'll be grateful you did.
If visiting in winter have some versatile shoes with soft rubber tread to provide you with enough traction not to slip on the ice. It's important that you get soft rubber soles because even medium soles get really hard in the freezing cold. Make sure too that they have large spaces between the tracks, or the snow will get stuck in them and make them very slippery.
Conversely, summer (July, August and September) can be roasting, so breathable fabrics are best.
And also in the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

If you're traveling across Canada by overnight train, be aware that you may not be able to take hard suitcases into the cabin with you (check with the train operator). Ensure you have a soft canvas holdall or rucksack to hold your clothes and essentials for the journey, and pack this before you arrive at the station – otherwise you will be asked to transfer your clothes into plastic bags.
What to Wear in Montreal
What to Wear in Toronto

Everything's easy to buy, so don't take up valuable packing space with regular cosmetics, medicines, books or the like. Buy them there.
A lightweight day sack will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
Although tap water is safe to drink, if you tend to buy bottled water consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle instead – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step up voltage converter if your devices are not designed for the local voltage (120V).
If you're aiming to travel with just carry-on baggage, try the CabinMax soft-sided rucksack – it's light, roomy and has plenty of pockets to keep your stuff organized. You can use packing cubes to compress the volume too.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Maple syrup and related confectionery is a popular buy, just remember any liquids will need to be packed in your hold luggage when you fly home.