Kingston, Ontario, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Kingston, Ontario, Canada? If you're planning to go to Kingston, below 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

If you are traveling to Kingston in January, you will notice that it is biting cold and snowy. Expect it to snow (heavy snowfall). Daytime temperatures are in the high 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 airports repeatedly losing bags recently, 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.

  • 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 Kingston. 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is 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 penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you plan to go to the must-see 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

February in Kingston is freezing and snowy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows (heavy snowfall).

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 Kingston. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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 find the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to go to the must-see 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 cold 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

    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 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find 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

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • 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

If you plan to go to the must-see 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

April in Kingston can be brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) to low 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to go to the must-see 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 crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to 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

    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 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 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 things.

  • 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

    What we like is this one

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

If you plan to go to the must-see 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 vacation in Kingston during June, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 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.

  • 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 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 bags nowadays, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • 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 support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you plan to go to the must-see 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

Traveling to Kingston in July, 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

    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 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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 careful to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to go to the must-see 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

    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 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

If you plan to go to the must-see 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

September is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

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 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • 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

If you plan to go to the must-see 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 are likely to find that it is cool. 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

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you plan to go to the must-see 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 in Kingston is pretty cool. 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

    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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like 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. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you plan to go to the must-see 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 this region is frosty and snowy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It snows (extremely heavy snowfall).

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you plan to go to the must-see 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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