Packing for a Polar Bear Safari
Lead Scientist Cate Collins shares her tips for packing for your one-day expedition to the Polar Bear Capital of the World!
So, you’ve booked a One-Day Polar Bear Expedition and it’s time to prepare. You might be wondering what you will need for this adventurous day. The expedition begins with an early check-in at a private terminal at the airport, so don’t forget a piece of photo ID!
Dress for Success
Churchill, Manitoba typically sees temperatures between 0°C and -5°C during our tours in late October and early November. It can be windy, which makes it feel even colder because of the wind chill factor. Luckily, our tours are designed so that you’re not exposed to the elements for long periods.
After our charter flight lands in Churchill, you will hop on a bus to shuttle to the Tundra Buggy dock. From there, it’s straight onto the buggies, which are heated and comfortable. You can stay inside the cabin or step out onto the observation deck as much as you’d like. Once we’re back in town, there’s time to explore a few gift stores and other local shops nearby. Shuttles run continuously to the banquet dinner, though some guests choose to walk the five minutes there instead to take in more of Churchill. Then it’s back on the shuttle to the airport for your flight home.
Since most of the day is spent indoors or in short bursts outside, a winter jacket, gloves, and a toque are usually enough. Dress in layers so you can adjust for comfort. Snow pants aren’t necessary unless it’s a particularly cold day and you plan to spend a lot of time on the deck (wildlife photographers, we’re looking at you). For footwear, comfortable walking shoes, winter boots, or hiking boots are all good choices.
Guests observing the bears from the Tundra Buggy observation decks.
Snacks and More
All meals are provided, including breakfast on the plane, lunch on the Tundra Buggy, and a banquet dinner in Churchill. That said, we recommend packing a snack or two, as lunch can sometimes be later in the day depending on bear activity. Drinks are served with each meal, but having your own water bottle is always a good idea.
Viewing the Bears
Seeing polar bears in their natural habitat is something you’ll never forget. Our tundra buggy drivers are excellent at finding and safely approaching the bears, but binoculars can help you see them up close. Any binoculars will do, but if you’re looking to buy some, we would recommend 10x42. This will give you a good balance of magnification and brightness. An 8x32 set would also work well.
The cold can drain battery life quickly, and many guests take hundreds (or thousands) of photos. If you’re using your phone, switch it to airplane mode during the flight and the buggy tour to preserve battery. Cell service is limited out on the tundra. You can also bring a battery bank to charge it along the way.
Binoculars help guests spot polar bears off in the distance.
How to Pack
Even though we charter a jet, there is no checked luggage. A backpack is your best bet since space is limited on the Tundra Buggies. A small duffel can also work, as long as it fits at your feet.
What to Bring
· Backpack
· Photo ID
· Comfortable clothing (we suggesting dress in layers)
· Winter jacket, gloves and a toque
· Comfortable walking shoes, winter boots or hiking boots
· Binoculars
· Camera and spare batteries
· Sunglasses
· Any medication you need
· A snack or two
· Reuseable water bottle
· Portable battery bank and charging cords (optional)
These guests are packed and ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
About one month before your trip, check your inbox for your expedition package. It will include everything you need to know: flight times, a map to the terminal, parking info, and answers to the most common questions from past guests.
This is going to be a day you talk about for years. We are so excited to share it with you.
About Gold Star Canadian Tours
At Gold Star Canadian Tours, we focus on providing the worlds best travel experiences to authentically Canadian destinations. Our flagship tour is a convenient 1-day Polar Bear Expedition with dedicated non-stop charter flights from major airports directly to Churchill, Manitoba. With Gold Star Canadian Tours, the wonders of the Arctic are closer than ever. Your Adventure Awaits!
