Getting to fishing lodges in BC is often an adventure all its own. Whether you opt for a stunning seaplane ride over coastal British Columbia or travel by car to Port McNeil before hopping on a boat to get to the lodge, you’ll likely find yourself taking multiple different forms of transportation or transferring to different planes at least a couple of times on your way to your destination.
At the same time, if you’re planning an outdoor adventure at one of the best fishing resorts Vancouver Island has to offer, you’ll also need a good amount of gear. This includes warm layers for cool mornings, waterproof hiking boots, and extras like swimsuits for taking a dip in the hot tub.
Packing light can help make your travel days easier. But how can you make sure that you have everything you need, without weighing down your suitcase? Keep reading to learn a few tips for packing light when visiting fishing lodges in BC.
Choosing the Right Fishing Lodges in BC
One of the best things about staying at Sointula Lodge is that most of the fishing gear you’ll need, from rods and reels to float coats, are provided for you. This can help to cut down on the luggage you need to pack. And if you’re traveling by seaplane, which comes with strict weight restrictions on your luggage, this is a big win.
A floatplane ride with Northwest Seaplane is the fastest and most popular way to get to Sointula Lodge. On their flights, passengers are limited to two pieces of soft-sided luggage, weighing less than 25 pounds total. If you opt for fishing lodges in BC that don’t provide all of the gear you’ll need, this low weight limit can quickly become a problem.
Think that traveling by seaplane means that you can’t bring home some fresh caught salmon from your trip? Think again! Your flight with Northwest Seaplane includes transport for up to 80 pounds of fish per person for your flight back, at no extra charge.
Start With a Packing List
After choosing the best fishing lodge Vancouver Island has to offer, it’s time to start planning your packing.
Preparing a packing list is the key to packing light. Starting a list at least a week or two ahead of your trip will not only help you to better analyze what you need and what you can skip, but can also help you avoid forgetting anything important.
Some items you should include on your list are:
- Any clothing items you’d like to bring
- Toiletries, including things like sunscreen or bug spray
- Other personal items, like a book for reading while relaxing in the evenings or your camera gear
- Any special items such as medications or childcare needs (if traveling with children). While you can get grocery or personal items on Malcolm Island, availability may be limited, so it’s best to not forget any speciality items that could be tough to find
Opt for Layers
Choosing clothing items that you can easily layer to create different outfits or layers for warmth is a great way to cut down on your packing and reduce your suitcase weight.
Opt for versatile clothing items that you are comfortable in. When choosing pieces for your trip wardrobe, think about how often you’ll wear each item and what other pieces could go with it. Aim to have an undershirt each day, which could have short or long sleeves depending on the temperature. Then, add a mid-layer, like a sweater, sweatshirt, or lightweight down jacket. Finish with a waterproof outer layer. The second two layers can be worn each day, swapping out the base layer each day to save on packing space.
Utilize Packing Organizers
Packing organizers are a simple way to keep your clothes organized and wrinkle-free. These handy devices allow you to organize your clothing by type or by day, making it easy for you to grab the right outfit for any occasion.
Many packing organizers also allow you to compress bulky items like sweaters so that they take up less space in your luggage. This is a great way to pack your clothing in a carry-on so you won’t have to tote around a larger suitcase during your trip.
Pick Light, Quick-drying Fabrics
Light and quick-drying clothing are not only great for packing light but can also save tons of space in your bag. Cotton shirts or jeans can be bulky to pack and may leave you damp and chilled if you get wet while out on the water.
Lightweight synthetic materials are a great alternative. Other choices include polyester blends (like microfiber), rayon blends (like bamboo or organic cotton), or even wool blends (such as merino). These will help you stay dry and comfortable, and help keep your bag light.
Fabrics that dry quickly in the sun are also less likely to wrinkle, which is an added bonus.
Packing for Fishing Lodges in BC
Packing for an adventure at fishing lodges in BC doesn’t have to be complicated. With these simple tips, you can keep your luggage light while still having everything that you’ll need during your trip.
Ready to start planning your summer 2023 adventure at Sointula Lodge? Spots are already filling up fast for select 2023 dates. Contact us today to secure your spot!