Photo: Hubert Kang
Every Vancouverite knows what to carry around for summer in the city; and we want to make sure you do, too! Aside from the ultimate summer accessory — sunscreen (wear it, reapply, repeat) — here’s a list of essentials you need for your time in Vancouver!
Be sure to pack your sunglasses for a trip to Vancouver. | Photo: Jana Josue
1. Sunglasses
Your sunnies are your best friend on a bright summer day. No one wants to be squinting in their vacation photos, and protecting your eyes is even more important! There are so many beautiful sights to pose in front of, so make sure your beach photos are on point.
Photo: Tourism Vancouver
2. Beach towel or picnic blanket
With all our beautiful green spaces and beaches, Vancouver is the perfect place to park yourself — on your own, with your partner, or with a group of friends — for a picnic in the park or a beach day ending with a gorgeous sunset. And if you hadn’t planned on plunking yourself down, it’s best to be prepared with a towel or blanket; the views will inspire you to stay a while.
Some places and upcoming events that you will want to have a blanket handy for are:
- Honda Celebration of Light (July 27, 31; August 3, English Bay)
- Symphony at Sunset (July 7, Sunset Beach)
- Rock Ambleside Park (August 16-18, Ambleside Park)
- Stanley Park (Downtown)
- VanDusen Botanical Garden (Oakridge)
- UBC Botanical Garden (UBC)
3. Water bottle
With the summer heat, outdoor fun, and possible craft brewery visits, it’s important to get those 4+ glasses a day in. There are outdoor drinking fountains all over the city, and many hotels, shopping malls, and other public places have bottle filling stations or water fountains.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring Vancouver. | Photo: Jana Josue
4. Good walking shoes
Vancouver is a walking city all year round. Rain or shine, there always people strolling the Seawall or any of these other scenic walking routes. So comfortable shoes are a must. Flip-flops for the beach, comfy sneakers or sandals for everyday, and if you’re a hiker, you know you’d be remiss to not back your hiking boots!
Photo via Tourism Vancouver
5. Bicycle
One of the best ways to see Vancouver in the summer is on a bicycle. Cycling the Seawall or around Downtown is a fantastic way to see the sites. While those competing in the upcoming RBC GranFondo Whistler (September 7) will pack their bicycles, everyone wanting to explore the city can easily rent a bike and take a tour.
Photo via Tourism Vancouver
6. Yoga mat
Vancouver is known for being a yoga hub, so if you’re a practicing yogi, bring your mat. It’s not uncommon to see to see people practicing on the beach or in the park spaces. If you’re looking for a guided outdoor class, check out these free classes from Mat Collective and lululemon!
Photo: Tourism Vancouver
7. Layers
Summer in the city gets very hot, but before and after the sun goes down, the temperature can be a bit chilly. Start and end your day with a light sweater or long sleeve shirt; something you can easily fold up in your backpack or day bag.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Top Tip: If you’ve forgotten anything, the McArthurGlen outlet mall near the airport or any of our shopping districts have got your back.[/perfectpullquote]
Remember to pack your camera for your summer trip to Vancouver! | Photo : Two Restless Homebodies
8. Camera
While you’re walking around the city, you will 100% be taking pictures of all the beautiful blossoms; and if you’re like me, you’ll also be taking pictures of your food. (Vancouver’s restaurant scene is an Instagrammable foodie dream!) I don’t want you to miss out on any photo ops!
Keep your phone handy for any summer photo ops and to find your way around Vancouver. | Photo Credit: Jade Stone
9. Smartphone
Not only is a smartphone a great camera, it’s also become the way to figure out how to get somewhere, where to eat, etc. No need for a physical map (though Tourism Vancouver has those for you, just in case!) If you’re worried about roaming or using up your data, log on to Vancouver’s free wi-fi hotspots!
Tap your way around Vancouver withyour Compass card this summer. | Photo Translink
10. Compass Card
Aside from walking and cycling, Vancouver’s public transit options are the best way to get around. Load up a Compass card so you can get around with ease. For info on how to get your Compass card, and for all fare info, click here. And when you get your card, here are some places in the city that are 100% worth taking transit to get to!
[perfectpullquote align=”full” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Share your #VeryVancouver summer experiences with us by tagging@inside_vancouver on Instagram![/perfectpullquote]
