West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada? If you're planning to go to West Kootenays, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to West Kootenays
- Important essentials for West Kootenays
- Activities for West Kootenays
- West Kootenays in January: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in February: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in March: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in April: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in May: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in June: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in July: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in August: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in September: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in October: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in November: weather and what to pack
- West Kootenays in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada
Based on the climate and weather in West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in West Kootenays, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada by month
January
Traveling to West Kootenays in January, you will notice that it is very cold, somewhat snowy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisSweaters
Heavy jacket
Lip balm
Our pick is: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Gloves
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to regular shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting West Kootenays, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A wind resistant umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a great choice.
Ski accessories
West Kootenays has some famous ski areas If you plan to ski, we would 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
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: 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.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
February
Traveling to West Kootenays in February, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly and snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Gloves
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisHeavy jacket
Sweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Lip balm
Our pick: here
Warm pants or jeans
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to day-to-day shoes, it's important to bring snow boots. For travel to West Kootenays, a great option is 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 a great choice.
Ski accessories
West Kootenays has some famous skiing 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
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
March
March in West Kootenays is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain about half of the time. It also snows once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, it's important to bring snow boots. For traveling to West Kootenays, a great option is 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
West Kootenays 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
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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 West Kootenays. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
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
April
If you visit West Kootenays during April, you may see that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s 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
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our fave is 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. Be sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
May
In May, West Kootenays is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and about a third of the time 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 West Kootenays, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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 frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
June
If you vacation in West Kootenays during June, you may see that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 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
Extra socks
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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 things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
July
In July, West Kootenays is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for West Kootenays, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, 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 West Kootenays. 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 stuff.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties 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
August
August in West Kootenays is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Sandals
Extra socks
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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
September
If you go to West Kootenays in September, you will notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
A good option 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
October
In October, West Kootenays is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for West Kootenays, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
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. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
If you are traveling to West Kootenays in November, you will notice that it is cold and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For traveling to West Kootenays, a great option is these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is vital here. This one is a perfect choice.
Ski accessories
West Kootenays has some great ski areas If you plan to ski, we would 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
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 West Kootenays. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
December
Traveling to West Kootenays in December, you will notice that it is freezing and somewhat snowy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
Our choice: this one
Sweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Warm pants or jeans
Gloves
Insulated water bottle
Our pick:
thisTravel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Heavy jacket
Cold weather footwear
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard shoes, you should bring snow boots. For visiting West Kootenays, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
A windproof umbrella
This is something you need here. This one is a perfect choice.
Ski accessories
West Kootenays has some famous skiing 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
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in West Kootenays. 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.
Given current world events, Canada has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
What to do in West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada
The West Kootenays region in British Columbia, Canada, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. From pristine lakes and rivers to stunning mountains and lush forests, this region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-packed vacation, here are some of the top tourist attractions you can't miss in West Kootenays.
1. Nelson
Nelson is the quintessential West Kootenays town, nestled amid the Selkirk Mountains and surrounded by pristine lakes and rivers. This charming town boasts a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and a laid-back vibe that makes it one of Canada's must-visit destinations. Stroll along the picturesque Baker Street, visit the Nelson Civic Theatre, and explore the area's outdoor adventures, such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
2. Kootenay Lake
Kootenay Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in British Columbia, spanning over 100 km in length and offering a stunning natural landscape. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, as well as camping, hiking, and skiing in the surrounding mountains. Take a scenic drive along the Kootenay Lake West Arm, stop at one of the many beaches and parks, or go on a wildlife watching tour to spot eagles, ospreys, and river otters.
3. Ainsworth Hot Springs
If you're looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, head to Ainsworth Hot Springs, a unique natural hot spring located near Kootenay Lake. Soak in the healing mineral waters of the caves, which have been carved out of the natural rock, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Ainsworth Hot Springs is also home to a spa and wellness center, where you can get pampered with massages, facials, and other treatments.
4. Kokanee Glacier Park
Kokanee Glacier Park is a wilderness area that covers over 30,000 hectares of mountainous terrain, including glaciers, alpine lakes, and old-growth forests. This park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching, as well as skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months. Don't miss the chance to see the historic Slocan Chief Cabin, a rustic log structure built by early pioneers in the 1930s.
5. Rossland
Rossland is another charming town in West Kootenays, famous for its mining history, quaint buildings, and scenic location. This town is also a popular destination for skiing, with the Red Mountain Resort attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. In the summer, Rossland offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, as well as cultural events and festivals.
In conclusion, West Kootenays is a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature, history, and outdoor adventures. With its stunning scenery, charming towns, and diverse range of attractions, this region has something for everyone. So pack your bags, book your trip, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada.

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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Mount Popa, Myanmar, Israel, Israel, Begur Wildlife Sanctuary, India, Wadden Sea National Park, Denmark, Anholt, Denmark, Danvers, Massachusetts, United States of America, Clanton, Alabama, United States of America, Mengla, China, Visayas, Philippines, Aghaboe, Ireland, and Ashtarak, Armenia.