Couple traveling together

What to Wear for a Fall Trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Got a fall trip planned to Halifax, Canada? Halifax can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is cool and dry, with temperatures averaging around 58°F (that's 14°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Halifax, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. For footwear, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You'll be doing a lot of walking to take in all the sights, so you want to make sure your shoes won't give you blisters.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Halifax in fall—whether you're visiting the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, exploring the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, walking along the Halifax Boardwalk, or touring the Halifax Public Gardens.

What to wear for a fall trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia

What should women wear in Halifax, Nova Scotia in fall?

Halifax in fall is generally cool, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: stylish hat, denim jacket, walking boots, long-sleeved shirts, and cardigans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Halifax has to offer.

Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Halifax trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Halifax, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Halifax. They are stylish and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Denim jackets are also very versatile. They can be worn over a dress for a night out or with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual day exploring. Best of all, denim jackets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. When choosing a denim jacket for Halifax, look for one that is comfortable and flattering. A classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn year after year. For a more unique look, try a distressed denim jacket or one with embellishments such as embroidery or beads.

These are some of my favorites:

Walking boots

Walking boots are a must-have item for Halifax, especially if your trip involves hiking or spending time outdoors. They provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks, roots, and other hazards. When choosing walking boots, it's important to pick a pair that fits well and provides enough support for your ankles. It's also a good idea to get them ahead of time and break them in before you go on your trip, so you can avoid blisters when you're there.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Halifax, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Halifax in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

I found these which would all work great:

What should men wear in Halifax, Nova Scotia in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: stylish hat, collared shirts, loafers or dress shoes, light jacket, and jeans or khakis. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Halifax in comfort and style.

Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Halifax trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Halifax, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

Any of these should work:

Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Halifax, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Here are some of my favorites:

Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

Any of these should work:

FAQs

Is fall a good time to go to Halifax, Canada?

Fall is a great time to go to Halifax. The weather is cool and pleasant, and there are still plenty of things to do and see. There are also fewer tourists, prices are not quite as high as in the summer peak season, and you can often find better deals on accommodation and airfares.

How do people typically dress in Halifax, Canada in fall?

People in Halifax dress in a variety of different ways depending on their personal style, the occasion, and the weather. However, many fall outfits you will see in Halifax typically include jackets, sweaters, and sneakers.

What should you NOT wear in Halifax, Canada in fall?

There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Halifax. It's fine to dress casually when out and about, although it's still important to be respectful of cultural norms—especially when visiting sites of historical or religious significance. Some places may have their own dress code, so be sure to follow any local guidelines.

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Halifax, Nova Scotia will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Halifax has to offer!