Preparing for a drive to Myra Falls on Vancouver Island? These travel packing suggestions will assist in making your day trip enjoyable!
My husband and I have resided on Vancouver Island, British Columbia Canada for 29 years. Coming from Montana, a prairie state, I have gained much insight into life near the ocean and enjoyed exploring the stunning natural surroundings.
Because my upbringing did not include beach visits or boat trips, I've had to learn how to be ready for all these daily adventures, which is quite fun!
Should you plan a visit to Vancouver Island, I suggest it highly, and I'm sharing details about our recent excursion to lovely Myra Falls. I will outline what to pack for readiness. Also, for coffee breaks, check out our preferred vancouver island coffee spots!
Packing Guide for Myra Falls Day Trip by Car
Our Destination?
On a detailed map of Vancouver Island, you will see that our destination, Myra Falls, sits near the center of the island. It is located on the route from Campbell River toward Gold River, within the Strathcona Provicial Park.
The drive from Campbell River, BC, to Myra Falls takes roughly 1 1/2 hours, provided you skip any scenic overlooks. (I strongly advise taking time for them.)
What to Pack for Myra Falls Day Trip?
Many items on my packing list are similar to what to pack for a boat trip, with a few additions. Here is my checklist:
Music for the Journey!
Our older vehicle lacks modern bluetooth features. However, we acquired an affordable bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the cigarette lighter and pairs with my husband’s cell phone.
We play his curated Spotify playlist, “Happy Songs I like,” which provides excellent background music for driving. (It is genuinely my favorite playlist too!;))
Lunch and Water in a Cooler
Since there are no charming coffee shops or eateries along this route, bring ample food and water. Our preferred budget cooler and water bottles like these keep drinks cold. Don't forget a travel utensil set if your meal requires utensils!
Outerwear Suited for Vancouver Island Weather
During the Summer, expect sunshine and clear skies. Vancouver Island’s average Summer temperature is 26 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit), so sunscreen is needed on warm days.
Even if the start is warm, I suggest always including a sweatshirt, as temperatures can drop suddenly.
If traveling in Spring, Fall, or Winter on Vancouver Island, rain is possible. Therefore, pack a good raincoat to stay dry and warm; I prefer one with a hood that fits over a sweatshirt.
Comfortable Walking Footwear
Wear your walking shoes! The path to lower Myra Falls is wonderfully beautiful and wide. Be aware, it involves some walking, and the return journey is uphill.;)
These flip flops are my top Summer walking choice, but for wetter seasons, consider a waterproof boot like this.
Hand Sanitizer
Traveling from Campbell River through Strathcona Provincial Park reveals various camping and picnic spots; these locations feature outhouse-style or “pit toilets” restrooms, which are surprisingly well-kept and clean, though we prefer carrying our own Hand Sanitizer.
I always pack a ziplock bag containing a damp washcloth in my day pack for quick hand wiping.
Swimsuit and Towel
Despite my reluctance to wear a Swimsuit as I age, the warm air makes a swim appealing, so bring one and a towel just in case.
Water Shoes
Our swim at the lovely Buttle Lake in Strathcona Park featured clear water, but the rocks were sharp, making Water Shoes highly advisable.
Camera or Cell Phone
Be sure to bring a device to capture the incredibly beautiful scenery; note that cellular service is unavailable in this specific area, so do not plan to work during this day trip.
Travel First Aid Kit
I keep a small cosmetic bag ready for quick trips like this, containing several helpful items, including:
- lip balm equipped with sunscreen
- Bandaids
- Tylenol and Advil
- Dramamine for motion sickness prevention
- comb
- Kleenex
- nail clippers
Photo Credit: Outdoor Vancouver
Experience Myra Falls
Even though we reside here long-term, we only recently visited Myra Falls; this Summer, while staying local, we are having so much fun discovering amazing local spots.
Upon turning the trail corner and first seeing the falls, I was genuinely surprised; it surpassed any picture I had ever seen.
The stones possess a lovely, smoothed quality, making them comfortable for both walking and resting upon.
It brought to mind scenes from The Flinstones, yet this was a vibrant, tangible reality!
Our visit occurred during a long weekend in Canada, and the location was quite crowded.
The reason for the crowds is quite apparent...
This destination is absolutely worth seeing! :)
Additional Travel Packing Advice:
- Learn how to pack only a carry on for an 8-day journey.
- Key gear to bring for a day aboard a boat.
- Tips for packing when heading to a sunny locale.
Be sure not to overlook anything!
Follow me on Instagram for glimpses behind the scenes; I also share many virtual adventures through stories there! :)
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