Packing List

Don’t let a forgotten something inconvenience you on your vacation— a quick read here will ensure that you don’t miss anything.

The Basic List

Wash-and-Wear

You won’t find a laundromat or drycleaner in Pender Harbour, so pack accordingly.

Flashlight

We have few streetlights and, if you’re from a larger centre, you’ll find it really, really dark here at night.

Extra Batteries

These will make your flashlight more useful, along with any other battery-powered toys and tools that you bring.

Personal-Care Products

Bring your favourite toiletries, because you may not be able to find them at local stores.

Medication

As you would on any holiday, bring medication that you might need. You can see a doctor for a prescription at our Health Centre, but it’s not open on weekends and you may have to wait several days for an appointment.

Worried about seasickness? Gravol or its generic equivalent works well (but will likely make you drowsy).

Extra Film and Memory Cards

Bring extras and don’t forget the camera! You won’t find a one-hour film processing stop in Pender Harbour, nor will you find an electronics store with a selection of batteries and memory cards.

What to Wear

Stylin'

Casual dress is not frowned upon in Pender Harbour; jeans and T-shirts are the summertime uniform of residents. If you're going boating, bring a windbreaker— that refreshing sea breeze gets chilly offshore, especially after sundown.

Put your Best Foot Forward

If you can't resist exploring a rocky shoreline or woodland trail, bring appropriate footwear. Flat-soled, waterproof shoes and sandals are not only perfect for beachcombing, but acceptable for our casual nightlife. If you're planning more than a casual stroll, bring your hiking boots.

Dress for the Season

Summer Visitors - The water reflects the sun's strong ultraviolet rays, so do wear UV-protection sunscreen and sunglasses (wide-brimmed hats provide additional protection). Remember that most perfumed toiletries attract insects that you’d rather avoid.

Winter Visitors - Think rain, not snow. Locals choose leather and oilskin over mink and mohair because winter is Umbrella Season, not Snowshovel Season. It's easy to spot locals in winter; they're the ones looking cozy and comfy in grey Stanfield sweaters, plaid mackinaws and gumboots (identify sailboaters by their bright yellow rubber boots).

Also see: Climate Normals because, when my friend came to visit from Florida in what I consider warm spring weather, he complained that he might freeze to death!

Hikers & Adventurers

Do explore our local wilderness, but don't invite disaster because you haven't got a compass, first-aid kit and other outdoor gear. Also see: Hiking.

Nature Lovers

Bring binoculars and a camera or sketchbook. Bring field guides for identification of local birds, seashore creatures, wildflowers, trees and celestial bodies. Unplug the iPod to make the most of the experience, and please respect our backyard by not leaving behind any garbage.