Rocky mountaineers are not just a fun way to get in shape, they’re also a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to wear on rocky mountaineers, especially if you’ve never been before. Are you planning a trip to the Rocky Mountains? Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, there are some things you should know about what to wear on your journey. First of all: pack light! The less you carry with you, the happier you’ll be. This is particularly important if you’re hiking in areas where there are bears—as any hiker knows, bears are attracted to both food and smell. If you can limit those factors, you’ll have a much better chance of avoiding an encounter with a bear. So pack light! Second: wear layers. It can get hot in the daytime but cold at night, so layer accordingly. And make sure to have some dry clothes handy in case it rains (which it almost always does). Third: wear your hiking boots! You don’t want to be out on a trail and suddenly realize that your shoes aren’t right for the terrain because they’re too slippery or too heavy or just not right for hiking at all!
When you’re on a Rocky Mountaineer train, you’ll be traveling through some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain in North America. So what should you wear? The answer is: whatever you want! You can wear anything from jeans to a nice dress. There are no restrictions on what passengers can wear on board, so you’re free to express yourself however you want—but we do recommend that you dress comfortably (that means sneakers if your feet get sore easily). You’ll also want to bring some layers if you’re going to be traveling through Canada in November or December—even if it’s not cold outside yet, the air inside the train can get chilly. The weather on the train can be hot or cold, depending on the time of year you visit. For your comfort and convenience, we suggest wearing comfortable clothing that you can layer if necessary. In addition, we recommend bringing an extra set of clothing in case you encounter inclement weather while on board.
Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train that travels from Vancouver to Calgary, then back again. It’s known for its incredible views and its fun, social atmosphere. You’ll get to meet lots of other travelers from all over the world, have a drink at the bar, and enjoy top-notch service. What to wear on Rocky Mountaineer depends largely on where you’re sitting—the front car has more windows than the back cars, so you may be able to get away with wearing less if you sit there. No matter where you sit, keep in mind that it can get chilly in the mountains at night. Pack layers so that you can add or remove them as needed. It’s no secret that the Rocky Mountaineer is a luxurious train ride through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada, but it’s also a bit of a secret that there are some guidelines to follow when packing for this trip. The Rocky Mountaineer site recommends that you pack “light and smart,” and we couldn’t agree more!
What to Wear on Rocky Mountaineer
If you’re planning to climb a mountain, you’ll need the right equipment. But what about the clothes?
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying: “You can’t judge a book by its cover.” But when it comes to climbing mountains, that’s kind of how it goes. You need to be able to trust your gear and know that it will be able to stand up to whatever challenges come your way. And you want to look good while doing it!
You might think that just being dressed in layers is enough—but what if there’s wind? Or rain? What if you want to stay warm but also look stylish? That’s where we come in!
Dress onboard Rocky Mountaineer is smart casual. We suggest that guests wear comfortable, cool layers as the dome coaches have expansive windows. Please bring onboard a light jacket or sweater as the air conditioning may feel just right for some, but a bit chilly for others.
Dress onboard Rocky Mountaineer is smart casual. We suggest that guests wear comfortable, cool layers as the dome coaches have expansive windows. Please bring onboard a light jacket or sweater as the air conditioning may feel just right for some, but a bit chilly for others. Temperatures fluctuate throughout the day as guests will be travelling through various climate regions. You may start your day in the cooler Canadian Rockies and end the day in a warm desert region.
Your Rocky Mountaineer train trip is booked. The route has been decided and hotels are all reserved. All thats left is to pull out your suitcase and start throwing things in so you can hop on your flight to Vancouver. Simple, right?
Figuring out what to pack for your Rocky Mountaineer journey is a bit more complicated than you think. While it could be hot in Vancouver, it might be chilly in Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise. This doesn’t even take into account all of the activities on your itinerary.
Do you plan on hiking, kayaking or sitting in a car or motor coach for a few hours after you get into the Canadian Rockies? What will you do on the train for two days? Are you traveling in spring, summer or fall? Are you prepared for early snowfall in autumn?
Like I said, there is a bit more to think about than just throwing a few outfits into a carryon bag.
Ready to hit the road?
GREAT OUTFITS TO WEAR ON THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
- Jeans and a cute top
- Leggings with a tunic
- Sun dresses
- Maxi skirts
- Flat, comfortable shoes
WHAT SHOES TO WEAR ON THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
Flats are the only shoes you will want to wear on the Rocky Mountaineer train. You will need to climb up and down steps, sometimes while the train is moving if you are in GoldLeaf coaches.
Flip flops should never be worn on the train. First of all, your feet will get cold. Second, they could make you slip and fall on the train. High heels are obviously a big no, no too. If you go out on the observation deck to stretch or take photos, you do not want to worry about your footwear.
WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN CARRY ON
The best part of your Rocky Mountaineer journey is the scenery. Those glass-domed windows are pretty amazing. Most people don’t think to bring anything to entertain themselves, assuming the environment and meals will do it all.
Not true.
Here are the essentials you will want to pack in your day bag. Keep your items to a minimum as there isn’t much space under your seat to store your bag if you want ample legroom.
WHAT TO PACK FOR A TRIP TO THE CANADIAN ROCKIES: CHECKED BAGS
Your checked bag is where the bulk of your items will go. Even if you don’t check a bag on the plane, your bag will be checked with the Rocky Mountaineer.
Trust me, this is a good thing. Not having to haul your bag on and off the train is a huge perk. Even better, your bag is waiting in your hotel room when you arrive.
The things you will pack in your checked bag will vary on the season. Naturally your undergarments and most of your toiletries will stay the same, but your outer layers will most certainly change up, as will those cute sundresses you thought you could still wear in the mountains.
SUMMERS IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
It may be summer, but when it comes to the mountains, light layers are your best friend. Dresses don’t do so well in the mountains. Wear your dresses while you are in Vancouver, before the train departs.
WHAT TO PACK FOR SUMMERS IN BANFF, JASPER AND LAKE LOUISE
- Light Jacket/Rain coat
- Umbrella
- Jeans and long trousers
- Light layers (t-shirts and light long sleeves)
- Hiking boots or sneakers
AUTUMN AND SPRING IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES
Autumn and spring weather can be pretty similar in Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. You could see sunny 70 degree days with temperatures dropping into the 30s and 40s at night, or be hit with an early snowfall in September. That’s the beauty of the mountains. You just never know.
Keep an eye on the weather report the days leading up to your trip. No matter the season, always have a light jacket with you.
WHAT TO PACK FOR AUTUMN AND SPRING IN BANFF, JASPER AND LAKE LOUISE
- Medium to heavy-weight Jacket
- Gloves
- Warm hat
- Scarf
- Wool or wool blend socks that quickly dry.
- Hiking boots or sneakers
- Light layers
- Sweatshirt and sweaters
The key to packing for your Rocky Mountaineer journey is to be comfortable, but stay stylish. Less is more up in the Canadian Rockies, and always leave room in your bag to pick up a few things from our favorite boutiques. When in doubt, don’t forget, you can always buy it once you get there. You aren’t headed to the out reaches of Nepal.
Now, grab your passport and your best friend. It’s time to go on a new adventure. The Rocky Mountaineer is calling “all aboard” and you don’t want to miss the train.
