Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2022]
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Traveling to Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia, Canada? If you're planning to go to Nova Scotia, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Nova Scotia
- Important essentials for Nova Scotia
- Activities for Nova Scotia
- Nova Scotia in January: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in February: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in March: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in April: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in May: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in June: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in July: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in August: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in September: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in October: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in November: weather and what to pack
- Nova Scotia in December: weather and what to pack

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.
When to go to Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia, Canada
Based on the climate and weather in Nova Scotia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.
Important essentials for Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia, Canada
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Nova Scotia, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
COVID-19 ESSENTIALS FOR 2022
Travel insurance that includes COVID-19 coverage
Cases are climbing again, and areas are returning to lockdown. If you or a companion get COVID-19, you may be stuck with no way home -- but travel insurance can protect you. Learn more about COVID-19 and travel insurance
-
Touchless thermometer
A touchless thermometer is important to have.
-
A vaccine card protector
Vaccine cards often wear away. An unreadable vaccine card can cause severe consequences. This vaccine card protector helps avoid that.
-
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
-
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
-
N95 masks
These N95 masks provide the best level of COVID protection available.
-
(U.S. Residents) Telehealth COVID-19 test for entry to U.S.
U.S. residents still need a certified COVID-19 test to return home, but it can now be via Zoom. Learn more
-
Kids' KN95 masks
N95 masks are not available for kids. These are a good alternative (and can also be used by adults if N95 masks are not available).
General health necessities
Don't forget these
-
For families with young children
-
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
-
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
-
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. This one works in most countries, but you may want to check with your hotel.
-
Airplane or car necessities
-
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Nova Scotia. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
What to wear/what to pack for Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia, Canada by month
Already know when you're traveling?
January
January in Nova Scotia is very cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. It also snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Pajamas
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Thermal undergarments
We like:
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Lip balm
The best is: this
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Nova Scotia, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is an excellent option.
-
Ski accessories
Nova Scotia has some great skiing If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
February
February is very cold. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains once in a while and snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Pajamas
-
Lip balm
The best is: here
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Nova Scotia, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a great choice.
-
Ski accessories
Nova Scotia has some excellent ski areas If you plan to ski, we would recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
March
March here is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time and snows about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Heavy jacket
-
Lip balm
Our choice: this
-
Sweaters
-
Gloves
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice:
-
Heavy socks
Such as:
-
Cold weather footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to Nova Scotia, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect option.
-
Ski accessories
Nova Scotia has some famous ski areas If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
April
April in Nova Scotia is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) to high 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
-
Fleece
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Nova Scotia, a great option is these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A windproof umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Nova Scotia has some excellent ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
May
May here is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Jacket or coat
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Extra socks
-
Fleece
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We like:
June
June in Nova Scotia is balmy and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Extra socks
-
Light skirts
-
Sandals
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
July
If you go to Nova Scotia in July, you will notice that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light skirts
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Extra socks
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sandals
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
-
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
-
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We suggest:
August
August in Nova Scotia is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Long and short sleeve shirts
-
Breathable footwear or sandals
-
Sunscreen lotion
-
Bug repellent
-
Short pants or heavy shorts
-
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
-
Extra socks
-
Sandals
-
Light skirts
-
Beach necessities
If you're going to the beach:
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
September
September in Nova Scotia is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (mid 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:
-
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
-
Pants or jeans
-
Light jacket or fleece
-
Dresses
-
Standard footwear
-
Light and heavy skirts
-
Extra socks
-
A rain coat to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
October
In October, Nova Scotia is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Nova Scotia, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Fleece
-
Jacket or coat
-
Extra socks
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
-
Standard footwear
-
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
-
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
-
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
-
Waterproof phone bag
-
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
-
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
November
Traveling to Nova Scotia in November, you will notice that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Light gloves or mittens
-
Warm pants or jeans
-
Jacket or coat
-
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: here
-
Fleece
-
Extra socks
-
Standard footwear
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For visiting Nova Scotia, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A umbrella
This is essential here. This one is a great option.
-
Ski accessories
Nova Scotia has some famous ski areas If you plan to ski, we also suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
December
December in Nova Scotia is freezing and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. It also snows regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
-
Scarf/neck warmer
-
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
-
Heavy sweaters
-
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
-
Fleece inner layer
-
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
-
Pajamas
-
Extreme cold weather gloves
-
Insulated ice boots
We use:
-
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
-
Lip balm
The best pick: this
-
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to Nova Scotia, we suggest these boots:
-
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
-
A wind resistant umbrella
This is essential in this type of weather. This one is an excellent choice.
-
Ski accessories
Nova Scotia has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we also recommend:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Activities for Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia, Canada
Here are some activity recommendations and activity-specific packing tips for Nova Scotia.
If you go to Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site is an amazing place to visit., you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
-
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
-
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
-
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
-
Binoculars
Check out our guides for these other locations: Wadowice, Poland, New Lanark, Scotland, United Kingdom, Muang Xay, Laos, Dammam, Saudi Arabia, Yuzhno-Kurilsk, Russia, Barrington, Illinois, United States of America, Pocola, Oklahoma, United States of America, Arcadia, Greece, Eagle Nest, New Mexico, United States of America, Pleasantville, New York, United States of America, and Haifa, Israel.