Canadian Rockies Trek Kit List
This kit list is provided by our tour operator, World Expeditions, specifically for both of our Canadian Rockies treks.
CLOTHING
Essential
- Walking boots - these should be 'broken-in', have good ankle support and tread and ideally be waterproof. Your boots will make or break your holiday so some time spent getting used to them is time well spent.
- Lightweight walking shoes or trainers - handy as a back-up pair of walking shoes in case of blistering and for wearing around camp and in town.
- Socks (3/4 pairs) - Enough for several changes. We suggest at least 3 pairs of good quality wool / merino blend thicker socks for comfort and a few pairs of thinner socks to wear underneath to protect against blistering and add warmth.
- Underwear - Normal amount for daily wear and suited to be worn during trekking. For ladies sports underwear and for men either briefs or boxer shorts made from a lightweight material designed for activity. Chaffing can make trekking a very miserable experience!
- Warm long sleeve tops (2/3) - Light weight synthetic material or wool. Avoid cotton as it does not help to wick away sweat or offer insulation.
- Breathable t-shirt (2/3) - If you sweat a lot it is a good idea to bring at least one t-shirt in a wickable material. These are fast drying and keep moisture away from your skin.
- Hiking trousers - Comfortable and quick drying, not cotton.
- Waterproof trousers - Good quality light weight and sufficient to withstand a day of rain or snow.
- Shorts/short trousers - Can be very comfortable for hiking, they should be quick drying, and preferably not cotton.
- Waterproof jacket (with hood) - Sufficient to withstand a day of rain. Must be completely windproof and waterproof. It must fit comfortably whilst wearing warm clothing underneath.
- Gloves - A warm, waterproof pair of fleece or wind stopper gloves.
- Warm hat/beanie - Remember that 90% of the heat escapes through the head and neck. A hood can also be useful.
- Sun hat - Preferably broad rimmed for full face and neck sun protection.
- Fleece jacket or warm jumper - To wear during the many breaks. Remember to put on something before you feel cold: with a few exceptions, clothes do not produce heat, it only give back the heat you give them.
- Thermal underwear (top and bottom) - Long base (sleeve & leg) layer thermals preferably high wicker wool blend or synthetic.
Highly recommended
- Set of casual clothes - One set of casual clothes for traveling and for relaxing around the camp ground.
Optional
- Swimming costume/swimsuit - For the brave who want to go for a swim!
EQUIPMENT
Essential
- Day pack - Around 30L or large enough to carry extra clothing (rain jacket, trousers, jumper, gloves, hat), lunch and snack food, water bottle and camera plus accessories. Ideally with a waterproof pack cover in case of bad weather.
- Travel bag - This will be your main bag that will contain everything that you will not need during the day and will be your checked baggage on the plane. We recommend a rucksack or kit bag with enough capacity (50L+) to hold your belongings and be easily transported and carried. Suitcases are not suitable for this trip. If you have any fragile belongings that you cannot take with you during the trek you can give to the driver for storage.
- Sunglasses and neck strap - Dark lenses with 100% UV protection.
- Waterbottle/bladder (2) - Minimum 1 litre capacity bottles and/or a bladder that inserts in to your daypack which can be useful when trekking.
- Personal First Aid Kit - Antiseptic cream, plasters, blister treatment, paracetamol, insect repellent, Imodium and any other personal medical items that you will need for the trip. Don't forget the trip Doctor/guides carry a full medical kit with them so this is only for basic personal use.
- 3 season sleeping bag - Rated to ‑5 or we have sleeping bags available to rent. Most sleeping bags from high street outdoor shops offer good value for money and will be fine for the trip as long as they are rated as above. Sleeping Bags can be hired in country and Sleeping mats are provided.
- Personal toiletries - Think small, light weight and biodegradable/low environmental impact.
- Travel towel and hand towel - for personal washing.
- Head torch - with spare batteries.
Highly recommended
- Trekking poles - not metal tips.
- Collapsible pillow - Can be used for the flight and for camping. Available at all high street outdoor shops or online.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30) and lip balm
Optional
- Waterproof bag to carry passport
- Energy drink sachet or energy bars
- Earplugs (in case of snorers!)
- Camera / batteries / memory card
- Photocopy of insurance and passport
- Spare pair of glasses if you use contact lenses