Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada? If you're planning to go to Halifax, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Halifax
- Important essentials for Halifax
- Activities for Halifax
- Halifax in January: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in February: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in March: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in April: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in May: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in June: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in July: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in August: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in September: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in October: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in November: weather and what to pack
- Halifax in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Based on the climate and weather in Halifax, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
Important essentials for Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Halifax, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards can become worn. An unreadable card can have severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps stop that.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
-
N95 masks to use in crowded airports
These N95 masks provide the best level of protection possible.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks don't exist for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
Travel insurance
If you or a companion get COVID-19, your amazing trip can be ruined. Good travel insurance can help. See plans
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
For families with young children
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Halifax. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one should be sufficient for most areas, but you should check with your hotel.
What to wear/what to pack for Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Halifax is frosty and very snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows most days. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Lip balm
The best option: this
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Pajamas
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to Halifax, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is a perfect choice.
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
February in this region is frosty and very snowy. Temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Pajamas
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Lip balm
The best pick: this
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For travel to Halifax, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent choice.
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
In March, Halifax is frosty, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Halifax, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
-
Sweaters
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Gloves
-
Heavy jacket
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Halifax, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is important here. This one is an excellent option.
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
If you vacation in Halifax during April, you will probably find that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time and snow about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Halifax, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a perfect option.
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
If you visit Halifax during May, you may notice that it is chilly and very rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
June in Halifax is balmy and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
Traveling to Halifax in July, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Bug repellent
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
In August, Halifax is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Halifax, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Bug repellent
-
Light skirts
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
If you visit Halifax during September, you are likely to find that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Standard footwear
-
Dresses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Extra socks
-
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We recommend:
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
October in Halifax can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Standard footwear
-
Pants or jeans
-
Dresses
-
Extra socks
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in Halifax is cold and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows 5-10 days this month. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Extra socks
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Halifax, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in Halifax is freezing, very snowy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 10 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows about two thirds of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Lip balm
Our favorite option: here
-
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Halifax, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
If you are intending to see the charming St. Paul's Anglican Church, it's useful to wear modest clothing:
-
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
-
Long dresses
This one, for example.
-
Trousers
If you go to Halifax Public Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Binoculars
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Activities for Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Halifax.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Twin Cities, Minnesota, United States of America, Phongsali, Laos, Tyva, Russia, Barneveld, Netherlands, Rosemont, Illinois, United States of America, Metro Manila, Philippines, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America, Ocna Sibiului, Romania, Central and East Lombok, Indonesia, West Coast Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia, and Miracatu, São Paulo, Brazil.