Couple traveling together

Vancouver, British Columbia in Fall: What to Wear

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Got a fall trip planned to Vancouver, Canada? Vancouver 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 57°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 Vancouver, 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 Vancouver in fall—whether you're visiting Stanley Park, taking a ride on the Vancouver Aquabus, walking along Capilano Suspension Bridge, or touring Granville Island.

What to wear for a fall trip to Vancouver, British Columbia

What should women wear in Vancouver, British Columbia in fall?

Vancouver 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: comfortable flats or loafers, stylish hat, jeans, cardigans, and long-sleeved shirts. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Vancouver has to offer.

Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for Vancouver can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Vancouver 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 Vancouver, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Vancouver, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

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

Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Vancouver 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.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

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 Vancouver, 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.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

What should men wear in Vancouver, British Columbia in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: stylish hat, collared shirts, lightweight comfortable shoes, warm coat, and sweaters. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Vancouver in comfort and style.

Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Vancouver 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 Vancouver, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Don't have anything suitable? Grab one of these:

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:

Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Vancouver? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

Warm coat

A good coat will keep you warm in inclement weather and can also be a stylish addition to your travel wardrobe. When choosing a coat, look for one that is made from insulating materials such as wool or down (or synthetic equivalents). A hood is also a helpful feature, as it will protect your head and face from the elements. If you plan on doing any outdoor activities, such as hiking or skiing, make sure to choose a coat that is waterproof and windproof.

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

Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Vancouver. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

Here are some of my favorites:

FAQs

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

Fall is a great time to go to Vancouver. 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 Vancouver, Canada in fall?

People in Vancouver 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 Vancouver typically include jackets, sweaters, and sneakers.

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

There are no specific restrictions on what you should wear in Vancouver. 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 Vancouver, British Columbia 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 Vancouver has to offer!