What to Pack For Your Trip to Churchill

Posted: August 06, 2026 | Author: Allison Dalke | Estimated Read Time: 3 minutes

Churchill has three distinct seasons – the first thing to do when planning your trip is to figure out what you want to see or do. Whether you'd prefer to bird watch, see polar bears in their natural habitat, witness the dazzling northern lights or kayak with the belugas will help determine when to visit and what to pack.

Polar bear staring directly at the camera, amidst a dry and rocky terrain with its surrounding shrubs.
Uli Kunz

Quick Facts About Seasons in Churchill

Date RangeJuly to AugustSeptember to NovemberDecember to March
Temperature25°C to 6°C
(85°F to 42°F)		14°C to -21°C
(58°F to -5°F)		-21°C to -40°C
(-6°F to -40°F)
Primary WildlifeBeluga whales and birdsPolar bears, arctic foxesPtarmigans, arctic hares
Key ActivitiesKayaking with belugas, boat tours, hikingTundra vehicle tours for polar bear viewingAurora photography and dogsledding

Northern Lights

Low possibility (long daylight hours)Possible (darker nights)Prime (peak viewing)

What to Pack in Summer: June to August

From June to August you can see thousands of beluga whales as well as polar bears in their natural summer habitats.

What to pack: A variety of clothing is required as temperatures can soar to above 25˚C (85 F) and drop to 6˚C (42 F).

  • A good quality waterproof jacket
  • hat
  • toque (woolen hat) and warm mittens may also be needed
  • sunglasses
  • hiking boots
  • shorts
  • pants
  • sunscreen
  • bug repellent
  • camera
  • spare batteries

What to Pack in Fall: September to November

October and November is prime polar bear viewing season as the bears start moving from their summer habitat on the tundra back to seal-hunting territory on Hudson Bay. Fall is also a great time to go dogsledding and see northern lights.

What to pack: Be prepared for snow and cold conditions. Several layers of clothing is recommended:

  • insulated parka or waterproof jacket
  • insulated boots
  • thick mitts or gloves
  • toque (woolen hat)
  • long, thermal underwear are recommended
  • camera
  • spare batteries

What to Pack in Winter: February to March

Late November through late March is the perfect time to watch the northern lights. Winter is also a great time to go dogsledding.

What to pack: Several layers of clothing due to the nights outside waiting for the aurora borealis to appear.

  • insulated parka or waterproof jacket
  • insulated boots that are rated to temperature of -45˚C (-25˚F)
  • thick mitts or gloves
  • toque (woolen hat)
  • long thermal underwear is recommended
  • balaclava
  • snow/ski pants
  • sunglasses for glare from the snow
  • camera
  • spare batteries (they don't last as long when they get cold!)

Some operators provide winter gear as part of their packages! Check your trip details to confirm whether some of these items will be provided for your trip.

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About The Author

Hey! I'm Allison, outdoor adventurer and book lover. When I'm not writing, you'll find me hiking, skating or skiing Manitoba's trails. Have a story idea? Contact me!

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