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

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

Contents

  1. When to go to Northern British Columbia
  2. Important essentials for Northern British Columbia
  3. Activities for Northern British Columbia
  4. Northern British Columbia in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Northern British Columbia in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Northern British Columbia in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Northern British Columbia in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Northern British Columbia in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Northern British Columbia in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Northern British Columbia in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Northern British Columbia in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Northern British Columbia in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Northern British Columbia in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Northern British Columbia in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Northern British Columbia in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Northern British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Northern British Columbia can be bitter cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains occasionally and 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

February

In February, Northern British Columbia is frosty and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C) and about half of the time jump into the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 10s F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Northern British Columbia, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

March

In March, Northern British Columbia is brisk. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Northern British Columbia, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • 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 surcharges with this

April

April can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows 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.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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.

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours 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

May

In May, Northern British Columbia is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (mid 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Northern British Columbia, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of 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 countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

In June, Northern British Columbia is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and regularly jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Northern British Columbia, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

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 Northern British Columbia. 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 airlines constantly losing luggage these days, 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.

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. Ensure that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold 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 should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

July

If you visit Northern British Columbia during July, you might find that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave 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 surcharges with this

August

August in Northern British Columbia is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to high 60s F (low 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.

  • 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 Northern British Columbia. 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 recently, an AirTag can locate 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave 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

September

September in Northern British Columbia can be chilly and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 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 repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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 stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

October in Northern British Columbia can be very chilly and very rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags 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 Northern British Columbia. 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

  • 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require 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.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

November

November in this region is frosty and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

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 airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate 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 Northern British Columbia. 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

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

December

In December, Northern British Columbia can be dangerously cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 30s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Northern British Columbia, with a few of the days of the month having rain.

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 frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Northern British Columbia. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck 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. Take care to find the correct kind. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • 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

What to do in Northern British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada

Northern British Columbia is a vast and rugged region of Canada that is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the country. From soaring mountains to crystal-clear lakes and towering forests, Northern BC has something for everyone. For those looking to explore this incredible region, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Northern British Columbia.

1. The Alaska Highway

The Alaska Highway is one of the most famous roads in North America, and it passes right through Northern BC. The highway is an engineering marvel, carving its way through some of the most remote and rugged terrain in the world. Along the way, visitors can stop at charming towns and villages, take in breathtaking vistas, and spot wildlife like moose and caribou.

2. Mount Robson

Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and a must-see for anyone visiting Northern BC. The mountain is located in Mount Robson Provincial Park, which is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the region. Visitors can hike through the park's trails, take in the views from the many lookout points, and camp in the wilderness.

3. Prince Rupert

Prince Rupert is a charming coastal city that is the gateway to the Pacific Ocean. The city is home to a bustling harbor, where visitors can watch as ships from around the world come and go. Prince Rupert is also a great place to experience the local First Nations culture, with many art galleries and cultural centers showcasing the history and traditions of the region.

4. The Great Bear Rainforest

The Great Bear Rainforest is one of the largest intact areas of coastal temperate rainforest in the world. The forest is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and the rare white Spirit Bear. Visitors can take a guided tour through the forest, go kayaking, or simply sit back and soak up the natural beauty of this incredible place.

5. The Northern Lights

Northern BC is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Between September and April, visitors can witness the dazzling spectacle of the Aurora Borealis, as colorful lights dance across the sky. Many tour operators offer Northern Lights tours, taking visitors to the best spots for viewing this natural wonder.

6. The Cassiar Highway

The Cassiar Highway is a lesser-known road that winds its way through some of Northern BC's most stunning scenery. The highway is an excellent option for those looking to get off the beaten path and experience the rugged beauty of the region. Along the way, visitors can stop at charming towns, hike through the wilderness, and take in the breathtaking views.

Northern BC is a region of Canada that offers some of the most spectacular natural beauty in the country. From towering mountains to crystal-clear lakes and towering forests, there is something for everyone in this rugged and remote region. So whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a nature lover, Northern BC is a must-visit destination.

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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