Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada? If you're planning to go to Nanaimo, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada

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

What to wear/what to pack for Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada by month

January

Traveling to Nanaimo in January, you will notice that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow sometimes. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nanaimo. 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

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in this region can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nanaimo. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Nanaimo during March, you might notice that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 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 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April for Nanaimo is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May here is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

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 frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nanaimo. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers 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 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

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Nanaimo is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s F (low 20s 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.

  • 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 Nanaimo. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags 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 pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate 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

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Nanaimo in July, you will notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nanaimo. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just 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 be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you are traveling to Nanaimo in August, you will notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 Nanaimo. 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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Nanaimo is 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

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Nanaimo. 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 recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you vacation in Nanaimo during November, you are likely to notice that it is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

In December, Nanaimo is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Nanaimo, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 90%.

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 Nanaimo. 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 these days, 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Nanaimo Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada

Nanaimo, a vibrant city located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is a top tourist destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and outdoor fun. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Nanaimo that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

1. Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park

Newcastle Island, a scenic marine park just a short ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. The island is a popular spot for hiking, swimming, picnics, and camping, with several trails winding through lush forests, rocky shores, and panoramic viewpoints. The park also features historic sites, including an old sandstone quarry and a traditional Snuneymuxw First Nation longhouse, as well as a restaurant, gift shop, and kayak rental service.

2. Nanaimo Museum

Nanaimo Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. The museum showcases the rich heritage of Nanaimo through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays, highlighting the city's coal mining, fishing, and forestry industries, as well as its indigenous and settler history. Visitors can also check out the gift shop and café, which offer local products and delicacies.

3. Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park is a stunning natural enclave on Nanaimo's outskirts, offering scenic vistas, sandy beaches, and rocky coves. The park is ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, beachcombing, and photography, with several trails leading through lush foliage, along cliffs, and to secluded bays. Visitors can spot diverse marine and bird species, such as sea lions, eagles, oystercatchers, and herons, or simply relax on the peaceful shores.

4. Nanaimo Bar Trail

The Nanaimo Bar Trail is a sweet and savory tour of Nanaimo's signature dessert, the Nanaimo bar. The trail spans over 34 stops, featuring restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and distilleries that offer unique variations of the creamy and chocolaty delight. Visitors can sample traditional Nanaimo bars or indulge in exotic flavors, such as lavender, raspberry, matcha, or even bacon. The trail also showcases the city's culinary scene, with diverse cuisines, craft brews, and cocktails.

5. Bastion Square

Bastion Square is a charming historic precinct in downtown Nanaimo, known for its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and cultural events. The square is anchored by the Bastion, a restored 1850s, wooden blockhouse that served as a defense post and trading center. Visitors can tour the Bastion and watch historical reenactments, or stroll around the square, browsing artisan shops, art galleries, and outdoor markets. The square hosts festivals and concerts throughout the year, such as the International Blues Festival, the Silly Boat Regatta, or the Bathtub Race.

Nanaimo offers much more to explore, such as the Nanaimo Bar Trail, Piper’s Lagoon Park, the trails of Ammonite Falls, and the waterfront walkway to Maffeo Sutton Park. The city also functions as a gateway to other highlights of Vancouver Island, such as Tofino, Victoria, the Pacific Rim National Park, and the Comox Valley. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and outdoor activities, Nanaimo is a top tourist attraction in British Columbia, Canada, that is worth a visit all year round.

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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