Canada

What to pack

Canada in the Winter calls for lots of layers and water-resistant boots!

Know before you go

Haley's Top 5 Tips:

  • Cold weather clothes are an investment so keep that in mind when you’re shopping! What you’re buying will likely last you years into the future so invest well!
  • If you’re skiing out there, don’t forget goggles and a helmet! Safety first!
  • Stay away from anything with cotton in it! Your layers should be a source of insulation so they should be made of materials that will wick moisture and reduce friction.
  • You don’t need any additional licenses outside of your United States Driver’s License & Passport to rent a car in Canada. So, rent a car and see as much as you can in the area you’ve chosen to explore!
  • When driving through National Parks, be sure to drive the speed limit. The cops are friendly but they show no mercy and there are cameras everywhere!

Recommendations

head's up!

  • Tipping etiquette in Canada is the same as in the United States. It is customary to leave 15-20% tip on top of the bill.
  • If you come in the Winter and want to hike, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise will provide hiking crampons that are placed over your snow boots. This will provide your shoe with some ice-biting traction in order to prevent slipping. I thought that was extremely handy that they provide hotel guests with those on a complimentary basis!

  • The Lake Louise ski base is about 10-minutes from the hotel. They have shuttles that run during the day to take people over there. Find more information, like peak and base elevations, restaurant options and daily and multi-day pass prices HERE.
  • The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise also offers ice-skating ON the lake during the Winter months, as well! Find out more information HERE. While we were there, they were just starting to get the lake ready for it as it hadn’t been hard enough until then so we missed out, but hey, sounds fun!