• Camera body + fully charged batteries — Cold mountain air drains batteries faster than expected.
• Two or more lenses — A wide‑angle (14–35mm) for landscapes and a telephoto (70–200mm or longer) for wildlife or compressed mountain layers.
• Sturdy tripod — Essential for sunrise, sunset, long exposures, and low‑light forest scenes.
• Lens cloths + blower — Mountain dust, snow, and mist accumulate quickly.
• Memory cards (multiple) — High‑speed cards for burst shooting and backups in case of failure.
• Polarizing filter — Cuts glare on lakes and enhances sky contrast.
• ND filters — Useful for waterfalls, rivers, and long‑exposure cloud movement.
• Camera rain cover — Weather can shift from sun to sleet in minutes.

• Base layer (synthetic or merino) — Keeps moisture off the skin.
• Insulating mid‑layer — Fleece or lightweight down for warmth during early mornings.
• Waterproof shell jacket + pants — Protection from rain, snow, and wind.
• Warm hat + gloves — Thin photography gloves with removable fingertips are ideal.
• Sturdy hiking boots — Waterproof with good ankle support for uneven terrain.
• Extra socks — Wet feet end a tour quickly.
• Sunglasses + sunscreen — High‑altitude UV is strong even on cloudy days.

• Daypack (20–30L) — Enough space for layers, water, and gear.
• Water (1–2L minimum) — Hydration is critical at elevation.
• Snacks / energy bars — If you have your favourites. Quick fuel during long shooting sessions.
• Headlamp — Sunrise and sunset tours often involve hiking in the dark.
• Hand warmers — Useful for both fingers and keeping batteries warm.
• Small first‑aid kit — Bandages, blister care, personal medications.
• Trekking poles (optional) — Helpful on steep or icy trails.

• Snacks / energy bars — Quick fuel during long shooting sessions.
• Headlamps — Sunrise and sunset tours often involve hiking in the dark.
• Hand warmers — Useful for both fingers and keeping batteries warm.
• First‑aid kit for Wilderness First Aid
• Bear spray — along with instructions
• Map/Compass and offline navigation app — Cell service is unreliable in most of Kananaskis