Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada? If you're planning to go to Inuvik, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada

Based on the climate and weather in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Inuvik, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada by month

January

In January, Inuvik is beyond freezing and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C) range. At night, lows are in the 20+ below zero F (30+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Inuvik, with of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

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 Inuvik. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

February

February in Inuvik is beyond freezing and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20+ below zero F (30+ below zero C). It snows about a third 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:

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 Inuvik. 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

March

March for Inuvik is unbearably cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C) during the day. It snows 5-10 days this month.

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 always losing things recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Inuvik. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

April

April in Inuvik is unbearably cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below -22 F (30+ below zero C). It snows a bit less than half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Inuvik. 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 airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert 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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

May

If you go to Inuvik in May, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Inuvik. 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.

  • 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 locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

June

June in Inuvik is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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 Inuvik. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

July

If you visit Inuvik during July, you are likely to see that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

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 Inuvik. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

August

August in Inuvik is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s 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:

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 Inuvik. 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 airports repeatedly losing bags these days, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

September

If you visit Inuvik during September, you may find that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow occasionally.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Inuvik. 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 support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

October

Traveling to Inuvik in October, you will notice that it is biting cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 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 frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Inuvik. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

November

November is unbearably cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C) during the day. It snows 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Inuvik. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

December

In December, Inuvik can be dangerously cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C) range. At night, lows are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Inuvik, with of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

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 peace of mind, 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 Inuvik. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to visit the stunning Midnight Sun Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who may enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Inuvik tourism authority.

What to do in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, Canada

Inuvik, a small town in the Northwest Territories of Canada, is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in North America. Inuvik is an ideal destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in both the local culture and the natural beauty of the region. If you're planning a trip to Inuvik, here are some of the top tourist attractions that you can't miss.

1. Inuvik Community Greenhouse

Against some of the harshest weather in Canada, the Inuvik Community Greenhouse is a remarkable feat of northern gardening. It's a unique and fascinating place that showcases how innovative and resourceful this town is. Visitors are welcome to explore the greenhouse and tour the community garden. The community greenhouse supports the community's food security and promotes local food production.

2. The Great Northern Arts Festival

Every summer, the Great Northern Arts Festival takes place in Inuvik, and it’s the biggest artistic event of the year in the region. It brings together a diverse group of artists within the Canadian Arctic and highlights the cultural heritage of the region through art, dance, and music. Attracting tourists and art enthusiasts from around the country, the event provides opportunities for visitors to learn about Inuit culture and visit the Inuit Heritage Centre.

3. Aurora Viewing

Inuvik has some of the best aurora viewing opportunities in Canada. Known as one of the prime spots for seeing the northern lights, this natural wonder occurs in the town from September to April. There are various places around the town where visitors can enjoy the spectacle, including the Aurora Research Institute.

4. The Igloo Church

The Igloo Church is a unique structure situated at the top of the berm in Old Town. It's a blend of Christian elements and Inuit culture, designed in the shape of an igloo. The church is open for visitors who want to learn about the history of the church and its importance in the community.

5. Tuktoyaktuk

Tuktoyaktuk is a small hamlet situated on the Beaufort Sea, and it is worth the visit. Visitors can travel along the historic ice road during the winter season or take a tour during the summer months when the ice road is closed. The tour includes stops to meet local residents and learn about their traditions and modern-day life, including how global warming is affecting their way of life.

Inuvik is a town like no other with a unique combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. Its tourist attractions provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn more about the Canadian Arctic and the people who have lived there for countless years. When you plan your visit to Inuvik, don't forget to include these top tourist attractions in your itinerary.

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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