Kingston, Ontario, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Kingston, Ontario, Canada? If you're planning to go to Kingston, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Based on the climate and weather in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Kingston, Ontario, Canada by month

January

January in Kingston is beyond freezing and snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • 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 great choice is this one

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you go to Kingston in February, you will notice that it can be extremely cold and snowy. Expect it to snow (extremely heavy snowfall). Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. 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 fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Kingston is pretty cool and snowy. The snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) to high 30s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kingston. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

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 pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you are traveling to Kingston in April, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to snow (a couple of inches of snowfall). Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 Kingston. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online 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 works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Kingston is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 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

    Canada has some specific safety 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you are traveling to Kingston in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can 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 Kingston. 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers 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.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kingston. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The vast majority of 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 works in most places.

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Kingston in August, you will notice that it is warm. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kingston. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

Traveling to Kingston in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available 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 countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you vacation in Kingston during October, you might notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to snow ().

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kingston. 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 neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November here is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows (several inches of snow).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety 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 always losing luggage nowadays, 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 things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel 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 being 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 works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Kingston is frosty and snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Canada has some specific safety 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 airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to check out the charming St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral, it's important to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Marine Museum of the Great Lakes, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Kingston, Ontario is a popular tourist city that can be found at the eastern end of Lake Ontario, where the lake meets the St. Lawrence River. The city, which was named the first capital of Canada back in 1841, is home to a bevy of top tourist attractions that are certain to delight visitors of all ages.

If you are planning a trip to Kingston, Ontario, or perhaps even just passing through, here are some of the top tourist attractions in the area that you simply must experience:

1. Rideau Canal National Historic Site - This canal, which is UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautiful waterway that stretches for 202km between Kingston and Ottawa. It was designated as the country's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

2. Kingston City Hall - This magnificent building is the centerpiece of Kingston's downtown core, and it has been used as the city's administrative headquarters since 1844. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, which includes a visit to the council chambers, Mayor's office and more.

3. Kingston Penitentiary - The former maximum-security prison (now closed) is a fascinating place to visit. Visitors can learn more about its history, including its infamous prisoners and the attempts to rehabilitate them.

4. Fort Henry National Historic Site - This historic site gives visitors a glimpse of military life in the 19th century. There is a lot to see and do here, including tours, musket demonstrations and more.

5. The Marine Museum of the Great Lakes - This is a great place to visit for anyone interested in the history of maritime travel in Canada. Visitors can explore various exhibits on Canada's marine past, including ship models, artifacts and more.

6. Bellevue House National Historic Site - This house was where Canadian Prime Minister Sir John A. Macdonald used to live. Visitors can learn more about his life here and the many accomplishments he achieved throughout his career.

7. Wolfe Island - Located just a short ferry ride away from Kingston, Wolfe Island is a beautiful place to visit. Visitors can enjoy walk along the beach, bike trails or hiking trails. This island has something for everyone, including famous wind turbines, bird watching and fishing.

8. Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning - The Tett Centre was recently renovated and is now home to art galleries, studios and more. Visitors can take art classes, workshops, or even just hang out at one of the many events that are held here.

9. Kingston Waterfront - Kingston's waterfront is a beautiful place to spend time. Visitors can take a stroll along the docks, watch boats come in and out of the harbor, or just sit and enjoy the view of Lake Ontario.

All in all, Kingston, Ontario has a rich history and natural beauty to offer visitors, with numerous tourist attractions and places to explore. From the Rideau Canal to the city's many museums and galleries, anyone who visits Kingston is sure to find something that captures their interest.

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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