Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada? If you're planning to go to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada

Based on the climate and weather in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada by month

January

January in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is brisk and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
  • Travel disinfecting wipes

    Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.

  • Emergency motion sickness relief

  • Hand sanitizer

    This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.

  • Travel first aid kit

    This one is a excellent option.

Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

February

February in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is pretty cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. It also snows once in a while. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

March

If you go to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve in March, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain most days and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

In April, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is pretty cool and very rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) and regularly jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 80%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is pretty cool and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

Traveling to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve in June, you will notice that it is crisp and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

In July, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

In August, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

If you visit Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve during September, you might notice that it can be chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

October in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is cold and extremely rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the correct type. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

November

In November, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve can be very chilly and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) and regularly jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, with most of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is very windy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

December

In December, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve can be brisk and extremely rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, with most of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 90%. Additionally, it is very breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia, Canada

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is a breathtaking national park located in British Columbia, Canada. This park is home to a vast network of islands, inlets, and waterways that offer visitors a unique and unparalleled experience. Gwaii Haanas is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast, history buff, or cultural traveler.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve:

1. Haida Heritage Sites

Gwaii Haanas National Park is home to several significant historic and cultural sites of the Haida people. Visiting these sites can give you a glimpse into the fascinating history and traditions of the Haida Nation. Some of the essential Haida heritage sites include the SG̲ang Gwaay UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hlk'yah GawGa (Windy Bay) Heritage Site, and the Tanu Culture Site.

2. Hot Springs

The park has several natural hot springs. Visitors can relax in the hot water, surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the park. The hot springs are accessible only by boat or seaplane, so it's best to book a tour or charter a boat.

3. Wildlife

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, otters, wolves, and humpback whales. Visitors can take guided wildlife watching tours to get up close and personal with the animals. Hiking is also a popular activity among visitors to the park, offering opportunities to spot various bird species and other wildlife.

4. The West Coast Trail

For adventure lovers, the West Coast Trail is a must-do activity in the park. The 75 km trail takes hikers through some of the most stunning sections of the park, including beaches, forests, and cliffs. The trail can take anywhere from four to seven days to complete.

5. Hiking trails

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve offers several hiking trails that lead visitors to stunning scenic overlooks, hidden waterfalls, and other unique natural wonders. The trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes, so there's something for every level of hiker.

6. Kayaking and Canoeing

The waters around Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes or book a guided tour to explore the park's many inlets, coves, and waterways.

7. Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. Visitors can fish for Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon, as well as halibut, cod, and other popular fish species. Fishing charters and tours can be arranged in the nearby towns of Sandspit and Queen Charlotte City.

In conclusion, Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve offers visitors endless opportunities to experience the natural beauty, history, and culture of British Columbia. With its diverse range of activities and attractions, this park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Canada's west coast. Plan your trip today and discover the wonders of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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