Are you planning a drive to Myra Falls on Vancouver Island? These packing tips will help you prepare for a beautiful and hassle-free day trip.
My husband and I have lived on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, for 29 years. As someone who grew up on the prairies in Montana, I’ve learned to appreciate life by the ocean and to enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes that surround us.
I didn’t grow up going to beaches or taking boat trips, so over the years I’ve learned how to pack for day adventures by the sea and inland alike. It’s become part of the fun.
If you’re planning to visit Vancouver Island (highly recommended!), here’s a peek at our recent day trip to Myra Falls and a practical checklist of what to pack so you’ll be ready for anything. If you enjoy stopping at local cafés, we also have several favorite Vancouver Island coffee spots we like to visit.
Packing for Travel Tips | What to pack for a day trip by car to Myra Falls
Where are we going?
Myra Falls sits roughly in the center of Vancouver Island on the road from Campbell River toward Gold River and is part of Strathcona Provincial Park. From Campbell River, the drive is about an hour and a half if you don’t pause at viewpoints—though I highly recommend stopping to enjoy the scenery along the way.
What should I pack for a day trip to Myra Falls?
Many essentials overlap with what you’d pack for other outdoor day trips: sun protection, water, snacks, and layers. Below is a practical checklist based on our experience.
Music for the drive
Good music makes the drive more enjoyable. If your vehicle doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, consider bringing a simple transmitter or an auxiliary cable so you can play a playlist from your phone. A curated travel playlist sets a cheerful tone for the day.
Food and water in a cooler
There aren’t cafés or restaurants near the trailhead, so pack plenty of food and water. A small cooler keeps sandwiches and drinks fresh. Bring reusable water bottles and a compact travel utensil set if your meal requires it.
Layers and outerwear suitable for island weather
Vancouver Island summers often reach into the mid-20s Celsius, so sunscreen, a hat, and light clothing are sensible choices for a hot day. Weather can change quickly, so always pack a sweatshirt or light jacket. In spring, fall, and winter, rain is more likely—bring a waterproof jacket with a hood that fits over layers.
Comfortable walking shoes
The trail down to Lower Myra Falls is wide and pleasant but involves a fair walk and a return uphill, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip. In wet weather, waterproof boots are a good idea.
Hand sanitizer and personal wipes
Restroom facilities along the route are basic—often pit toilets—though usually well maintained. Carry hand sanitizer and a small sealed bag with a damp cloth or personal wipes for quick cleanups.
Swimsuit and towel
If the day is warm, you may want to swim in the clear lakes and pools. Bring a swimsuit and towel just in case. You might be surprised how tempting a refreshing dip can be.
Water shoes
Many lakes and pools have rocky or uneven entry points. Water shoes protect your feet when entering or moving around shorelines.
Camera or phone with a charged battery
You’ll want to capture the waterfalls and landscapes, so bring a camera or a phone with a full charge. Note that cell coverage can be limited in this area, so don’t rely on service for navigation or work tasks during the trip.
Small first-aid kit
Pack a compact first-aid kit or a small cosmetic bag with basics you can grab quickly: lip balm with SPF, adhesive bandages, pain relievers, motion sickness medicine if needed, tissues, a small comb, and nail clippers. These little comforts make outdoor time easier.
Photo credit: Outdoor Vancouver
Enjoy Myra Falls!
Even after many years living nearby, this was our first visit to Myra Falls, and it exceeded expectations. As we turned the trail’s corner and saw the falls, I actually gasped. The rock formations are beautifully smoothed, easy to sit on, and striking in color and texture—almost like stepping into a living, colorful scene from a storybook.
We visited on a long weekend, so the area was busy, which is no surprise given how special the falls are. It truly is a must-see destination if you’re on Vancouver Island.
More packing tips and resources
- How to pack a carry-on efficiently for a week-long trip.
- Essential items to bring for a day spent on a boat.
- Packing tips for a sunny destination and conference travel.
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