What I’ve packed for summer in Canada

At 59, I really should find some legitimate wholesome hobbies like gardening, knitting or pickleball. Instead I get so much joy out of “solving” a packing puzzle. Give me any destination and these are my tried and true ways of building a travel capsule that gives you fun outfits with lots of options but still within luggage limits.

Right now, I’m in Canada travelling from Calgary to Vancouver with my friends at Travelmarvel. Follow along each day via Instagram or Facebook. I started planning what I was packing two months ago, putting pieces I already owned on a rack all the while tracking the weather app like a hawk for temperature variations.

And, as I am want to do, I set a theme for this trip, leaning into the colour of Canada with pops of red and a couple of double denim sets. If you can’t wear a Canadian Tuxedo in Canada, when can you?

A reminder … if you’re new here, I’m NOT a carry-on only girl unless it’s an overnight trip. If that’s you, I’m happy for you. It’s just not me.

If you love to create holiday outfits and pack lots of options you’re definitely in the right place.

Some may call my method overpacking. I call it considered packing. See above re starting this process two months ago.

In case you missed it, watch the video below to see what I packed. I’ve linked or listed most of the items HERE.

The suitcases (pictured below) I’ve been using for two years now are Australian brand Zoomlite. They are top-opening (even the carry-on), which is perfect for small hotel rooms and they offer value for money compared with others in their class. Check out my suitcases HERE (a discount code will also pop up). And yes, this exterior even in this pebbled colour is scuff resistant.

Paid subscribers: keep reading for more detailed information about my packing strategy and my actual packing list. This information would also apply if you’re travelling to other northern hemisphere destinations with variable spring/summer/autumn temperatures. It’s the variable bit that’s tricky as you need to plan for both hot and cool-to-cold days and nights.