What to Pack for Vancouver in December: All You Need for a Relaxed, Coastal City Trip

Vancouver in December is a classic coastal winter experience: misty mornings, twinkling holiday lights, and a mix of rain, fog, and occasional snow. Whether you’re exploring Stanley Park, hitting the slopes nearby, or browsing the city’s markets, packing the right winter gear will make or break your trip.

This west coast Canadian gem is known for its unpredictable weather—mild by Canadian standards, but wet and chilly. That means waterproof everything, warm base layers, and versatile outfits for both nature and city adventures.

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Here’s your complete winter packing list for Vancouver in December—perfect for layering up, staying dry, and looking stylish along the way.

📝Note: This article is all about what to pack for Vancouver Canada in December. Here you can find a huge and comprehensive list. Feel free to adapt to your needs, and share your tips in the comments!

Weather & Travel Context 🌦️

Vancouver winters are cool, very damp, and often grey—pack for cold rain and cozy indoor time.

• 🌡️ Average high: 6°C / 43°F
• 🌡️ Average low: 1°C / 34°F
• 🌧️ Rain on 20–25 days in December!
• ❄️ Snow possible (mostly in nearby mountains)
• 🎄 Festive city vibes, winter hikes, museums, markets

What to Pack for Vancouver Canada in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• 🧳 Waterproof carry-on – Essential in a rainy city.
• 🧳 Checked bag – Needed for winter boots or ski gear.
• 🎒 Duffle bag – For quick trips to Whistler or the North Shore.
• 🎒 Daypack – Waterproof or with rain cover for exploring outdoors.
• 🧺 Packing cubes – Separate dry clothes from damp ones.
• 👟 Shoe bags – Wet boots? These are your best friend.
• 🧴 Toiletry bag – Leakproof, winter-ready products.
• 📂 Document organizer – Keep passports and travel papers dry.
• 👜 Tote – Water-resistant or nylon for city shopping or coffee runs.
• 🧺 Laundry bag – Rainy days = dirty socks.
• ⚖️ Luggage scale – For ski gear or shopping sprees.
• 🔒 TSA lock – Keep your things safe on the go.
• 🫙 Pouch for gloves/tech – Stay organized in the rain.
• 🧼 Microfiber towel – Handy for hikes, gym, or wet gear.
• 💤 Neck pillow – Perfect for flights or long drives to the mountains.
• 😎 Sleep mask – Grey days call for extra naps.

👗 Clothes

• 👕 Thermal tops (2–3) – Stay warm under sweaters.
• 👚 Long-sleeve shirts/blouses – Layering is essential.
• 🧥 Sweaters (2–4) – Wool, fleece, or chunky knits.
• 🧥 Waterproof insulated coat – Vancouver must-have!
• 🧥 Packable down jacket – Great for layering and warmth.
• 👖 Thermal leggings – For walks, hikes, or layering under jeans.
• 👖 Jeans or warm trousers – Choose thicker fabrics for warmth.
• 🧘 Joggers or comfy pants – For hotel, flights, or lounging.
• 🩲 Thermal underwear – Pack at least 2 sets.
• 🧦 Wool or thermal socks – Keep feet dry and warm.
• 🩴 Pajamas – Flannel or fleece for chilly nights.
• 🧣 Blanket scarf – Add style and warmth instantly.
• 🧤 Waterproof gloves – Must-have for cold rainy days.
• 🧢 Beanie – Choose warm and stylish for day-to-night wear.

💆 Skincare

• 🧼 Cream cleanser – Gentle on dry, wind-exposed skin.
• 💧 Hydrating toner – For winter skin recovery.
• 🧴 Rich moisturizer – Prevent flakiness and protect barrier.
• 🌞 SPF 30 – Even with clouds, UV is present!
• 🧽 Makeup remover – Wipes or oil-based formula.
• 🧴 Exfoliator – Weekly to remove dead skin.
• 👁️ Eye cream – Fight puffiness and fatigue.
• 💦 Facial mist – Boost hydration midday.
• 😴 Overnight mask – Nourish while you sleep.
• 💋 Lip balm (SPF) – Wind + cold = dry lips.
• 🩹 Spot treatment – For stress or hormonal breakouts.

💄 Makeup

• 🧴 Tinted moisturizer – Hydrating with light coverage.
• 🖌️ Concealer – For dark circles from cloudy mornings.
• 💨 Setting powder – Prevent makeup melt in humidity.
• 🌸 Cream blush – Keeps skin fresh and dewy.
• 🌞 Highlighter – For that rainy day glow.
• 🟫 Bronzer – Add warmth to winter tones.
• 🎨 Neutral palette – Simple and seasonal.
• ✏️ Waterproof eyeliner – Survive the drizzle.
• 👁️ Waterproof mascara – A Vancouver essential!
• 🪞 Brow gel – Frame your face when bundled up.
• 💄 Lip balm, gloss, or stain – Moisture-rich formulas only.
• 💧 Setting spray – Seal your look from mist and rain.
• 🖌️ Minimal brush set – Keep it basic but useful.

💇 Hair Care

• 🪮 Comb or brush – Detangle post-beanie hair.
• 🌀 Hair ties – For rainy days and messy buns.
• 🧴 Moisturizing shampoo & conditioner – Cold weather is drying.
• 🌬️ Dry shampoo – For post-hike or lazy mornings.
• 🔥 Heat protectant – For styling in cold air.
• 🧴 Anti-frizz serum – Rain = flyaways.
• 💨 Blow dryer – Optional; check if hotel provides one.
• 🪞 Flat/curling iron – Night out in the city? Bring it.
• 💧 Hair oil – Adds shine and moisture.
• 🎀 Hair accessories – Clips, bands, hats for variety.

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• 👢 Waterproof boots – Number one must-have for Vancouver in December.
• 👟 Waterproof sneakers – Great for casual walks.
• 🥿 Warm indoor slippers – For Airbnb or lodge stays.
• 🧣 Chunky scarf – Warmth + city-chic style.
• 🧤 Touchscreen gloves – Stay warm and scroll on.
• 🧢 Beanie or knit hat – Critical for windy waterfronts.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses – Bright winter glare can still surprise.
• 💍 Minimal jewelry – Keep it simple in rainy weather.
• ⌚ Watch – Optional, but stylish.
• 👜 Crossbody or anti-theft bag – Hands-free exploring.
• 🌂 Windproof umbrella – Vancouver classic!

📑 Documents & Essentials

• 🛂 Passport or ID – Required for international travel.
• 📃 Travel insurance – Especially if skiing or doing winter sports.
• 🎟️ Tickets – Museum, ski lift, or ferry confirmations.
• 📄 Printed itinerary – Helpful when your phone dies in the rain.
• 💳 Credit/debit cards – Widely accepted.
• 💵 Canadian dollars – For tips or small cafés.
• 📍 Offline maps – Not all trails or parks have service.
• 🧾 Receipt holder – Stay organized for expenses.
• 🖊️ Pen & notepad – Jot notes or directions.
• 👛 Waterproof wallet – Don’t risk soaked cash.
• 💎 Lockbox or pouch – For hotel safekeeping.

🚑 First Aid

• 🩹 Band-aids – Blisters from wet walks happen.
• 🧻 Antiseptic wipes – Always helpful.
• 🩺 Gauze pads – In case of slips or cuts on trails.
• 🩸 Period products – Pack your brand if you’re picky.
• 🧲 Tweezers – Splinters or stray hairs.
• 🌡️ Thermometer – Especially with winter flu risk.
• ✂️ Nail scissors – TSA-approved versions.
• 💠 Cotton swabs – Multipurpose.

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• 💊 Prescriptions – With extra days, just in case.
• 💊 Pain relief – For headaches or jet lag.
• 🌸 Allergy meds – Dust and cold air can trigger symptoms.
• 🤢 Motion sickness pills – For ferries or coastal drives.
• 💊 Vitamins – Boost your immune system.
• 🩲 Feminine products – Bring what works for you.
• 🧴 Hand sanitizer – Always.
• 🧻 Antibacterial wipes – For travel & public areas.
• 🦟 Bug spray – Not usually needed in December.
• 🧼 Contraceptives – Pack your own.
• 👁️ Eye drops – Dry indoor heating = itchy eyes.
• 🪞 Travel mirror – For on-the-go grooming.
• 🪥 Toothbrush + toothpaste – Travel-size kit.
• 🧵 Floss – Always.
• 🧴 Deodorant – Winter freshness still matters!
• 🪒 Razor – Optional for cold season.
• 💅 Nail file or clippers – Cold weather = dry nails.
• 🌸 Perfume – Clean scents preferred for indoor use.
• 🧻 Pocket tissues – For runny noses and rainy walks.

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 📱 Smartphone – For navigation, weather, and camera.
• 💻 Laptop or tablet – Optional for work or streaming.
• 📷 Camera – Vancouver’s scenery deserves it!
• 🔌 Chargers – All devices, all the time.
• 🔋 Power bank – Essential in the cold.
• 🧵 Cable organizer – Keep tech in check.
• 🔌 Canada plug = Type A/B (same as USA).
• 💾 SD card – For scenic pics and videos.
• 🗺️ Offline apps – Maps, transit, language.
• 📶 SIM/eSIM or roaming plan – Stay connected.
• 📖 E-reader – Perfect for cozy café reading.
• 🎧 Headphones – For flights, transit, or walks.
• 📱 Waterproof phone case – A smart call in constant drizzle.

🎧 Entertainment

• 📚 Book – Vancouver has great reading spots.
• 📺 Offline movies – For quiet nights in.
• 🎧 Music or podcasts – Rainy day vibes unlocked.
• 📓 Travel journal – Capture the foggy magic.
• 🎲 Travel games – Great for rainy Airbnb nights.
• 📰 Magazine – Coffee + magazine = yes please.

🎁 Extras

• 🍫 Snacks – Granola bars or local treats.
• 💧 Insulated water bottle – Warm or cold drinks.
• 🛍️ Foldable tote – For shopping on Granville Island.
• 🧼 Laundry soap – For washing base layers or socks.
• 🧵 Sewing kit – You never know.
• 📢 Whistle – Solo hikers, stay safe.
• 🧼 Shoe deodorizer – Rain = soggy smells.
• 🦶 Footrest pillow – Long flight comfort.
• 💤 Melatonin or sleep aid – For jet lag recovery.

🌍 Travel Tips

• 🧳 Bring waterproof EVERYTHING—boots, coats, bags.
• 📲 Download weather, transit, and hiking apps.
• 👚 Pack layers—sun, rain, and wind can all happen in a day.
• 💍 Keep valuables in carry-on and secure bags in cafés.
• 📸 Photograph luggage before checking it in.
• 🏦 Notify your bank for international card use.

🛂 Visa Tips

• 📅 U.S. travelers only need a passport for Canada.
• 🛂 Other visitors may need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
• 🖨️ Print hotel and return ticket confirmations.
• 📷 Bring extra passport photos for emergencies.
• 🧾 Know duty-free rules for shopping and bringing items home.

⭐ Must-Haves

• 🛂 Passport
• 💧 Waterproof coat
• 👢 Waterproof boots
• 📱 Phone + charger
• 💳 Debit/credit cards
• 🧤 Gloves/scarf/beanie
• 🌂 Umbrella
• 🎒 Waterproof daypack
• 🧴 Moisturizer + lip balm

👍 Good-to-Have

• 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones
• 🧼 Travel laundry sheets
• 🧵 Steamer or wrinkle spray
• 🛍️ Foldable shopping tote
• 💤 Blanket scarf or wrap
• 📱 Backup power bank
• 🧺 Compression cubes for puffy coats
• 📸 Camera or GoPro for snowy scenes