Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, 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 Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada? If you're planning to go to Yellowknife, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

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

What to wear/what to pack for Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada by month

January

January in Yellowknife is biting cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C) during the day. It snows about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 Yellowknife. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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. Be careful to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

February

February in Yellowknife can be dangerously cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C), with several days below -22 F (30+ below zero C). It snows about a third of the time. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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. Take care to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

March

March in Yellowknife is unbearably cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C), with a few days below -22 F (30+ below zero C). It snows a bit less than 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

April

Traveling to Yellowknife in April, you will notice that it is very cold. Expect it to snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

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

May

If you visit Yellowknife during May, you may see that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. 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 airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require 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 areas.

June

Traveling to Yellowknife in June, you will notice that it is crisp. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

July

July in Yellowknife is mild and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

August in Yellowknife is cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

September in this region can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

October

October can be extremely cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains occasionally and snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

In November, Yellowknife can be dangerously cold and somewhat snowy. Temperatures routinely are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C). This is also a rainy time for Yellowknife, with of the days of the month having rain. In November, 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags 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.

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

December

December in Yellowknife can be bitter cold and somewhat snowy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C), with several 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 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Yellowknife. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 choose the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

What to do in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Yellowknife is the capital city of Canada’s Northwest Territories and one of the best places to visit in the country if you love adventure, culture, and nature. The city which is located on the shore of Great Slave Lake is home to a myriad of tourist attractions sure to offer an unforgettable travel experience. Here are the top tourist attractions in Yellowknife:

1. Aurora Viewing

Yellowknife is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. The city lies directly under the Auroral Oval which makes it easy for travellers to experience the Aurora Borealis. The best time to witness this magical display in the sky is between August to April. There are several tour companies offering aurora viewing experiences for travellers.

2. Old Town

The historic Old Town in Yellowknife is a must-visit. It is a quaint area of the city known for its vibrant houseboats, charming shops, and unique architecture. Visitors can take a walk along the picturesque Boardwalk, visit the local art galleries, dine in waterfront restaurants and experience the authentic northern vibe.

3. Great Slave Lake

Great Slave Lake is the second-largest lake in Canada and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in activities such as boating, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. The lake is also home to several islands with white sand beaches perfect for bird watching, camping and picnics.

4. Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre

If you are interested in the culture and history of the Northwest Territories, a visit to the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre is a must-do. The museum has exhibits showcasing the indigenous peoples’ history, arts and crafts, and artifacts found around the region.

5. Cameron Falls

Cameron Falls is a stunning waterfall located just outside of the city. It is a popular spot for hiking and picnics. The falls are surrounded by breathtaking scenic trails and offer excellent views, especially during the summer season.

6. Bush Plane Heritage Centre

For aviation enthusiasts, the Bush Plane Heritage Centre is the perfect destination. It houses the largest collection of Canadian bush planes and offers visitors a chance to learn about the important role bush planes played in the development of Canada’s North.

7. Yellowknife Farmer's Market

The Yellowknife Farmer’s Market is a weekly event that takes place every Saturday from mid-May to mid-September. Visitors can experience the Northern community's culture and shop for fresh local vegetables, maple syrup, baked goods, and unique artisanal crafts and souvenirs.

Yellowknife has something for everyone, whether you want to marvel at the Northern Lights, explore the wilderness, or immerse yourself in the local culture. The above tourist attractions are just a few highlights of what the city has to offer. Plan your visit to Yellowknife now and explore this unique part of 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: Adichunchanagiri Hills, India, Ormoc, Philippines, Illinois Driftless Area, Illinois, United States of America, Daugai, Lithuania, Vinnytsya, Ukraine, Eldorado, São Paulo, Brazil, Saito, Japan, Perisher, New South Wales, Australia, Zionsville, Indiana, United States of America, Charleville, Queensland, Australia, and Milford Haven, Wales, United Kingdom.