To prepare for your polar bear watching you need to have the right clothing
etc.
The weather during October and November on the western shore of Hudson
bay is often cloudy with poor light and at times it may be wet
and windy. Out of the wind the temperatures
are likely to be in the range 0 to -15 degrees C, and the wind
chill factor can reduce it by another 3-5 degrees, at times.
You will not be exposed to the cold
outside for too long when in Churchill as it is a "one horse
town". On the tundra you will be in a heated Tundra Buggy, but
the windows are often opened to get the best photographs of the bears.
The temperature inside the Tundra
Buggy will fluctuate, as windows are opened and closed. The best way
to dress is in layers - air gets trapped between the clothing and the
result is more warmth. The other advantage to numerous thin layers
compared to a few thick items is that by stripping off a layer or
two you can easily adjust to the changing conditions.
* A warm wool
hat (to fit under Parka hood).
* Parka (with hood) - Can be rented (please enquire).
* Lightweight rain /
wind proof over-trousers.
* Scarf / Turtleneck.
* Wool sweaters and / or
fleece tops (3 or 4 light to medium weights for layering).
* Shirts and pullovers
for Winnipeg (optional).
* 1 pair warm, water repellent gloves (that fit over thin gloves).
* 1 pair of thin (but
warm) gloves.
* Snow / Ski trousers /
pants - Can be rented (please enquire).
* Long underwear (silk or man made fabric is best).
* "Well worn
in" walking shoes or boots, with good grip soles.
Water proofed.
* Lightweight shoes
for Winnipeg (optional).
* Wool socks for
boots.
Equipment
* Baggage
(Hold). If your itinerary includes a flight to or from
Churchill, the maximum weight per bag is 70lbs (32kg), and two (2) bags per
person. The maximum dimensions not to exceed 62 inches (158cm) (sum of
the height, width and depth).
* Baggage
(Cabin / Carry On). This item could double as your day bag on the
tundra. Each person can carry on one (1) small piece of baggage, the
maximum dimensions not to exceed 20" (51cm) x 16" (41cm) x 9"
(23cm). Soft sided baggage for the hold and cabin is easier to fit in.
The above restrictions
apply to Calm Air, the airline who provide the internal flights (Winnipeg
/ Churchill / Winnipeg). Your international carrier may have more
severe limitations than the above - Please check with your carrier / agent.
* Camera with
plenty of film and spare batteries.
* Zoom / Telephoto lenses.
Up close any lens will do, but you need flexibility.
* Binoculars.
* Torch with spare batteries.
* Biodegradable soap
& toothpaste, plus your toothbrush.
* Spare glasses or contact lenses.
* Personal hygiene and medicines.
* Journal and pen.
* Sunglasses & lip balm.
* Baggage tags (spare).
* Padlocks for
baggage (required on some airlines).
* Swimsuit (there are indoor pools at Winnipeg hotels).
Documents
* Passport (to include
visas, where required - please ask if you are unsure).
* International Airline
Tickets.
* Voucher or Reference
Number for your Winnipeg hotel (if applicable).
* Voucher for Via Rail
tickets (if you are on a Rail / Air package).
* Travellers Cheques,
credit cards, cash etc.
* Copy of your Travel
Insurance Policy.
