Camping in Canada – A Packing Guide by Province

Camping in Canada? Welcome to the great outdoors where the bugs are feisty, the coffee tastes better, and every province has its own packing personality. We’ve put together this highly scientific and slightly cheeky guide to what you should pack based on where you're heading.

Whether you’re hammock-swinging on the West Coast or swatting mosquitoes in Northern Ontario, there’s one thing that unites us all: a love for fresh air, open skies, and gear that actually works. That’s where Canadian-made camping essentials come in. They’re built for this country because they come from this country.

British Columbia

• Rain gear. Always. Even when it's sunny.
• Fancy trail mix with dried blueberries.
• A hammock and an appreciation for moss.
• Recommended brand: West Coast Hammocks – sustainably made in BC and perfect for soaking in rainforest views.
• Locally made hiking gear

Alberta

• Bear spray (and backup bear spray).
• A hoodie repping your local brewery.
• Hiking boots that look good on Instagram.
• Recommended brand: Parks Apparel Co. – known for stylish, rugged Canadian outdoor wear.
• Canadian-made backpacks

Saskatchewan

• Binoculars for watching prairie storms roll in.
• Board games for tent time.
• Homemade perogies, obviously.
• Recommended brand: Backcountry Wok – compostable camp meals made in Canada (and great with a side of perogies).
• Snack packs from Canadian food makers

Ontario

• Bug spray. Stronger bug spray. Strongest bug spray.
• Portable speaker for lakeside Shania singalongs.
• Plaid. Just plaid.
• Recommended bug spray: Honey Pie Natural Bug Spray – handcrafted in Ontario with essential oils. View here
• Recommended coffee and tea: Kebaonish – Indigenous-owned, roasted in Canada, and perfect for early mornings at the lake. Bring your favourite thermos and brew up something meaningful.

Quebec

• Wine opener. Don’t forget it.
• Wool socks with a bit of flair.
• Gourmet s’mores kits.
• Recommended brand: Juliette & Chocolat – artisanal chocolate kits for fireside indulgence.
• Eco-friendly fire starters

The Maritimes

• Extra sweaters. Then two more.
• A good book for foggy mornings.
• Lobster crackers (you never know).
• Recommended brand: East Coast Glow – Newfoundland-made soaps and skincare for that salty ocean air feel.

The North

• A seriously warm sleeping bag.
• Respect for nature.
• A Northern lights camera lens.
• Recommended brand: Canada Goose (if your budget allows!) or Taiga Works for extreme-weather camping apparel.

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Wherever you roam, pack your sense of adventure and your Canadian-made gear. Not only will you be ready for whatever the weather (or wildlife) throws your way, but you’ll be supporting local makers who understand what camping here really takes.

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