Bring Everything You Need and Nothing You Don't.

Lodge Life Packing List

Backcountry lodge trips exist in their own special little nitch. Living somewhere in the liminal space between backcountry camping and bougie hotel- one question we always get asked is “what the heck do I bring?”

We’re sharing our Whitecap Summer Guest Packing List to take any guesswork in the packing realm out your next trip. While every lodge has its quirks and quarks, there’s a few staples that’ll make or break your trip. Bring everything you need and nothing you don’t!

Hiking Gear 

Hiking is the main event up at McGillivray Pass. Whether that’s meadow skipping in wildflowers by the lodge, checking out the sauna or big days peak bagging, this list will have you covered.

• 30L daypack
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Water bladder or large capacity water bottle (2-3L)
• Headlamp
• Personal first aid kit: blister kit/allergies/medications
• Lightweight gloves
• Light windbreaker shell jacket
• Mid-weight insulation layer (no cotton)
• Foul-weather outer layer (Gore-tex or other waterproof and breathable jacket)
• Hiking pants
• Hiking shorts
• Hiking shirts
• Spare socks (wool/synthetic)
• Hiking boots or sturdy trail runners
• Swimwear
• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Lightweight towel

If you’re interested in our guide’s are packing out there, check out this article  “What’s In Our Guide’s Packs?”

Other Clothing and Important Stuff

There’s plenty of time to unwind and take it all in at the lodge. This part of the list is for living comfortably and really putting your feet up during your lodge time.

• Sleepwear
• Long underwear, shirt, and bottoms (poly-pro/wool blends)
• Underwear
• Socks
• Comfy clothes for down time
• Easy on/off shoes
• Down/Synthetic jacket (warm, “puffy” type jacket)
• Toque/beanie
• Overnight duffle – must be soft shell (see luggage allowances)
• SLEEPING BAG (light personal sleeping bag)
• Personal toiletries (there is communal shampoo, condition and soap located in the shower)

*The lodge provides mattresses, fitted sheets, pillows and pillowcases

Optional “Nice-To-Haves”

This is where things really get good. Through many years lived up at the lodge we can guarantee you’ll want to make room for a few of these items…

• Earplugs for light sleepers
• Camera & film (spare camera batteries and/or charger for digital cameras)
• Wine, spirits, or specialty soft drinks if desired
• Reading materials
• Journal/notebook and pen
• Hiking poles
• Small microfiber towel
• Personal snacks (standard snack available at the lodge)
• Bandana/buff
• Gaiters
• Rain pants

What Do I Pack This Gear Into

As you get to enjoy a scenic heli flight through beautiful BC mountains to the lodge it’s important that your gear fits perfect like tetris. These are the two packs allowance for your trip to the lodge!

• 1 x 60L soft pack bag (max 40lbs) – no wheels, no rigid materials. This could go into the lodge on a separate flight to the one you take.
•  1 x 30L daypack (max 18lbs) – Keep this with you at all times! Include in this bag all-important personal items like keys, wallet, medications., sunscreen, water and bug spray.
•  BOYB’s must fit within these allowances – NOTE: we do not have wine for purchase at the lodge, if you are a wine drinker we recommend you bring your own. 

Hope this helps quench and quell any questions for what to pack for your next lodge trip! Feel free to reach out with any inquiries and to book your next trip to paradise aka. McGillivray Pass Lodge with us!