Be ready for May weather in Canada with this list of essentials

From rain to sunshine and cool to warm temperatures, here’s what you need to make the most out of spring conditions this month.

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Chances are you already have a few things at home to help you through the various elements of spring weather since you’ll likely need a warm jacket at one point and shorts at another. Add the items on this list to your cart so you can be prepared for any forecast, no matter what activity you’re up to.

Waterproof Rain Poncho Hooded with Zipper, Unisex

Amazon, Adult Rain Poncho, CANVA, adult rain gear

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: Those April showers can extend into May and this packable rain poncho will ensure you stay dry. Wear it as your jacket or keep it in your bag or vehicle for immediate protection from inclement weather. It’s waterproof with heat-sealed seams, has a breathable, loose fit with an adjustable hood and elastic cuffs that help keep the water out, and comes in a multitude of colour options that all have a matching storage pouch. This poncho is a great addition to pack for your camping trip, road trip, hiking adventure, or day at the park.

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Amazon, Repel Travel Umbrella, CANVA, Groundhog Day 2023

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: Essential for staying dry in the spring, this umbrella also has a Teflon coating that resists the sun. As a compact option, it features almost everything you would want in an umbrella at a very affordable price. It’s reinforced with nine fibreglass ribs, made of heavy-duty material to stand up against anything Mother Nature throws your way, and has an automatic opener with a rubberized non-slip handle for a better grip. This is a good extra umbrella to keep in your car or travel bag.

Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen, 177 ml

Amazon, Sun Bum Sunscreen, CANVA, May Essentials

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: While the Canadian Dermatology Association recommends sun safety every day to help prevent the long-term consequences of harmful rays, it’s especially important to get in the habit of wearing sunscreen with sunnier, longer days upon us. This original formula from Sun Bum delivers UBA/UVB protection and is packed with vitamin E. It’s oil-free, water resistant for up to 80 minutes, and reef-friendly, and customers say it simply smells like summer.

Natrapel Insect Repellent Spray, 37 ml

Natrapel Insect Repellent Spray (Spotlight)

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: It’s the time of the year when you start to think about bugs, so stock up on this spray from Natrapel that includes more natural ingredients and fewer chemicals. It’s marketed largely as proof against mosquitos, but its lemon eucalyptus base repels ticks as well and the scent is a little more delightful than the competitor’s bug sprays. This insect repellent is travel sized meaning you can easily take it with you on your next outdoor adventure or pack it in a carry-on bag.

Tilley Broad Brim Airflo Sun Hat, Khaki

Amazon, Tilley Hat Khaki, CANVA, May Essentials

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: A sun hat with UPF 50+ protection and a water repellent finish will come in very handy during spring weather conditions. This unisex hat from classic Canadian brand Tilley comes in 12 colours and a variety of sizes. It has an adjustable wind cord, anti-glare under brim, wired brim binding, extra ventilation, and a foam liner containing a secret pocket where you can stash any small valuables while you're spending a day outdoors. It also stays afloat in water, making it ideal to wear on the first boat trips of the season.

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YETI Rambler Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Bottle with Chug Cap, Charcoal, 18 oz

Amazon, YETI Rambler with Chug Cap, CANVA, May Essentials

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: Hydration is important any day of the year and as temperatures start to rise across the country in the month of May you’ll be grateful to have a good quality bottle that you can take everywhere with you. This insulated stainless steel bottle from reputable brand YETI includes a Chug Cap that features a TripleHaul Handle making it both easy to sip without slowing down and extremely portable. It’s built to last and withstand the toughest conditions. Available in 17 colours. Important note: the Chug Cap is not intended to use with hot beverages.

Outdoor Waterproof Tote Mat, 79”x79”

Amazon, Outdoor Tote Mat, CANVA, May Essentials

SHOP NOW on Amazon.ca: Sunny days are starting to become more frequent and that means you might be hanging out at a nearby park or beach. We also know that there’s a few more rainy days in the spring forecast which makes the ground a too wet and cold to sit on. Cue this outdoor waterproof tote mat that you can lay out to have a picnic or create a dry space for your kids to play. It’s large enough to accommodate up to six adults sitting, plus it’s foldable and portable with an attached handle. Available in three colour choices.


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Our trusted Product Specialists recommend high-quality items that we think will enhance your experience with Canadian weather conditions. Prices and availability of items are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.

With files from Daniel Martins

Thumbnail image courtesy Anastasia Lashkevich/Pexels