Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada? If you're planning to go to Wood Buffalo National Park, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

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

When to go to Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada

Based on the climate and weather in Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada by month

January

In January, Wood Buffalo National Park is beyond freezing and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C) range. At night, lows are in the 20+ below zero F (30+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Wood Buffalo National Park, with of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • 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

    What we like is this one

February

February in this region is beyond freezing and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the single digits F (10+ below zero C) during the day. It snows about a third 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

March

March is unbearably cold. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It snows regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

April

April can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in Wood Buffalo National Park is crisp. 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 40% 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. 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.

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

June

June in this region is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

July in Wood Buffalo National Park is balmy and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 Wood Buffalo National Park. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

August

August in Wood Buffalo National Park 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 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you visit Wood Buffalo National Park during September, you will probably notice that it is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold 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.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

October

October in Wood Buffalo National Park can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time. It also snows 5-10 days this month. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Wood Buffalo National Park can be dangerously cold 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 -22 F (30+ below zero C). It snows about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% 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.

  • 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 Wood Buffalo National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

If you are traveling to Wood Buffalo National Park in December, you will notice that it is unbearably cold and somewhat snowy. Expect it to snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Wood Buffalo National Park. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect 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.

What to do in Wood Buffalo National Park, Northwest Territories, Canada

Wood Buffalo National Park is located in the Northwest Territories of Canada and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that makes it a must-visit tourist destination in the country. The park sprawls over a massive 17,300 square miles, making it the second-largest national park in the world, which includes wetlands, forests, and meadows, among other places. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a novice, there's something for everyone in this vast expanse of natural beauty. Let's take a look at the top tourist attractions in Wood Buffalo National Park.

1. Bison Herds

Wood Buffalo National Park has the largest bison herd in the world. The vast stretches of meadows and grasslands provide the perfect habitat for these animals to graze and raise their young ones. You can spot bison at numerous spots within the park, but the best sightings come around the Salt Plains and the Bison Paddock.

2. Salt Plains

The Salt Plains is a sight to behold in Wood Buffalo National Park. The salt flats are inherently white-colored and make for a stark contrast against the surrounding greenery of the park. The salt plains are a big attraction for migratory birds, and it's a great place to see them in action.

3. Pine Lake

Pine Lake is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, and it's an excellent spot for picnics and barbeques. You can fish in the lake, hang out on the beach, or go on a canoe ride. Whatever you choose to do, you won't be disappointed.

4. Aurora

The Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights is a natural light display visible in the polar regions. There's no better place to witness the magical Aurora Borealis than in Wood Buffalo National Park. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest.

5. Mackenzie Bison Sanctuary

The Mackenzie Bison Sanctuary is a 958.3 square mile protected area that has been set up to protect the endangered wood bison. It's a great place to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

6. Pine Lake Nature Trail

Hiking enthusiasts will find solace in the Pine Lake Nature Trail. The trail is a 4.5-mile loop that starts and ends at Pine Lake. It's an easy hike, and it offers incredible views of the park.

7. Peace-Athabasca Delta

The Peace-Athabasca Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is an integral part of Wood Buffalo National Park. The delta is comprised of wetlands, lakes, and rivers and is rich in aquatic life. It's also an essential habitat for migratory birds and animals.

In conclusion, Wood Buffalo National Park is a place of outstanding beauty and diversity. From the vast plains to dense forests and spectacular views of the Aurora, there's no shortage of things to do and see when you're in the park. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or just looking to disconnect from the world, Wood Buffalo National Park has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to this natural wonder and experience the beauty it has to offer.

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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