Ottawa-Rideau, Ontario, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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

Contents

When to go to Ottawa-Rideau, Ontario, Canada

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

What to wear/what to pack for Ottawa-Rideau, Ontario, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Ottawa-Rideau, Ontario, Canada by month

January

If you go to Ottawa-Rideau in January, you will notice that it can be bitter cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain sometimes and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa-Rideau. 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 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

  • 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 pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

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

February

February in Ottawa-Rideau is beyond freezing and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below -4 F (20+ below zero C). It tends to rain once in a while. It also snows 5-10 days this month. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

March

In March, Ottawa-Rideau is very cold. Temperatures routinely are in the 30s F (single digits C) and once in a while jump into the low 50s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the low 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Ottawa-Rideau, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold 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 should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

April

April in Ottawa-Rideau can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

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.

  • 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 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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

May in Ottawa-Rideau is mild and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 50% range on average.

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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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 nowadays, 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

If you are traveling to Ottawa-Rideau in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature 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:

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 Ottawa-Rideau. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

July

July in Ottawa-Rideau is warm and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 70s F (high 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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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.

  • 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.

  • 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. Take care to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

In August, Ottawa-Rideau is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) and occasionally jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Ottawa-Rideau, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

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 things.

  • 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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa-Rideau. 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

September

If you vacation in Ottawa-Rideau during September, you are likely to 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 low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day. 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.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

October

October in Ottawa-Rideau is crisp and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to 50s 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Ottawa-Rideau. 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you are traveling to Ottawa-Rideau in November, 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.

  • 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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you go to Ottawa-Rideau in December, you will notice that it is frosty and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain occasionally and snow about half of the time. 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.

  • 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 Ottawa-Rideau. 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 constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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

What to do in Ottawa-Rideau, Ontario, Canada

Ottawa-Rideau is a charming and historic region located in Ontario, Canada. Home to a blend of rich history, stunning natural beauty and lively urban culture, the region offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there are plenty of top tourist attractions that you must visit in Ottawa-Rideau.

1. Parliament Hill

Parliament Hill is undoubtedly the most popular tourist attraction in Ottawa-Rideau. The imposing Gothic-style buildings, the towering Peace Tower, and the sparkling Ottawa River make an awe-inspiring sight. Take a guided tour of the Centre, East Block or West Block of the Parliament Buildings to learn about the history and heritage of Canadian politics.

2. Rideau Canal

The historic Rideau Canal is a must-visit attraction, particularly in the summer when it is bustling with boats and walkers enjoying the picturesque surroundings. In winter, it is transformed into the world's largest skating rink. Around the canal, there are several parks and gardens for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic views.

3. National Gallery of Canada

Art lovers will be delighted with the impressive collection of artworks at the National Gallery of Canada. The art museum houses more than 40,000 works of art, including Canadian and indigenous art, European art, American and Asian art, and contemporary art. Make sure to see the famous spider sculpture, Maman, by Louise Bourgeois, a permanent installation right outside the Gallery.

4. ByWard Market

ByWard Market is one of Ottawa’s top attractions, a bustling outdoor market with plenty of shops and restaurants, that has been in operation since 1826. The market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, souvenirs, and a variety of international cuisine. ByWard Market is also known for its lively nightlife, with numerous pubs, bars, and nightclubs.

5. Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History showcases the vast history and cultural heritage of Canada. It is home to more than a million artifacts and exhibits, including ancient First Nations history, Canada’s military history as well as cultural and artistic heritage. With an IMAX theater, the Museum of History blends learning and entertainment, making it one to remember.

6. Dow's Lake Pavilion

Dow's Lake Pavilion is an exciting destination for visitors of all ages. Located on the shores of Dow's Lake, the pavilion has plenty of outdoor activities, including boat rental, paddle boats, and canoes. The pavilion also provides visitors with a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic, local craft beer and good food.

7. Gatineau Park

Gatineau Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is a 363 sq.km. protected area that boasts of breathtaking landscapes, pristine lakes, and miles of hiking, mountain biking, and skiing trails. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including moose, beavers, and bears. It’s only a 15 minutes’ drive from Downtown Ottawa.

In conclusion, the Ottawa-Rideau region has lots of surprises for visitors of all ages and interests. From the impressive Parliament Hill buildings to the natural beauty of Gatineau Park, the region is a perfect destination for a family vacation or a romantic getaway. So go explore the region's top tourist attractions and discover what makes it so unique.

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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