What to Pack for Tincup Wilderness Lodge: Complete Packing List

Photo credit: Meinrad Humm, Tincup Wilderness Lodge
 

The Most Important Rule: Bring Soft-Sided Luggage

Tincup Wilderness Lodge is accessible only by air — helicopter or floatplane from Burwash Landing, after a ground transfer from Whitehorse. Because helicopters and floatplanes have limited cargo space, soft-sided luggage is required.

Recommended Luggage
 

• Soft duffel bags (approximately 60–80 litres)
• Travel or hiking backpacks
• Compressible travel bags

Rigid or hard-shell suitcases generally cannot be accommodated on air transfers. Packing soft-sided luggage ensures faster loading and a smoother transfer experience.

Typical Weight Guidelines

Most guests are asked to pack approximately 40–50 pounds (18–23 kg) per person, including personal items. Exact limits may vary depending on flight conditions and aircraft type, so guests should follow final luggage guidance provided before departure.

Understanding Yukon Weather

Weather in Yukon can change quickly, even during summer. Planning for layering is essential.

Late Summer and Early Fall (Late August to September)

Daytime temperatures: Approximately 10–18°C (50–65°F)
Evening temperatures: Near or slightly above freezing

Guests may experience:

• Cooler overall temperatures
• Possible early frost
• Reduced insect activity
• Increased opportunities for northern lights viewing

Essential Clothing: The Layering System

Layering allows you to adjust throughout the day as temperatures change.

Base Layers (2–3 Options)
 

• Moisture-wicking T-shirts (synthetic or merino wool)
• Lightweight long-sleeve shirts
• Optional lightweight thermal underwear (late season)

Mid Layers (2–3 Options)
 

• Fleece jacket or vest
• Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
• Wool sweater or hoodie

Outer Layers
 

• Waterproof rain jacket (strongly recommended)
• Waterproof rain pants
• Wind-resistant jacket for time on the water

Bottoms
 

• Quick-dry hiking pants (2 pairs recommended)
• Shorts for warmer afternoons
• Comfortable warm pants for evenings

Footwear
 

• Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)
• Comfortable camp shoes or sandals
• Warm hiking socks (4–5 pairs)

Some guests also choose to bring waterproof footwear for shoreline activities or wet conditions.

Accessories
 

• Warm hat or toque
• Sun hat or baseball cap
• Lightweight gloves for early mornings
• Neck gaiter or buff
• Polarized sunglasses (very helpful around water)

Personal Essentials
 

• Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin recommended early season)
• Lip balm with SPF
• Personal toiletries
• Prescription medications (plus extra supply)
• Small personal first-aid kit
• Optional hand warmers (late season)

Electronics and Useful Gear
 

Tincup operates with limited power capacity.

Recommended items include:

• Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries
• Portable power bank
• Camera equipment with extra batteries and memory cards
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Waterproof dry bag for excursions
• Reusable water bottle
• Small daypack for daily activities

Optional Comfort Items
 

These items are not required but are commonly appreciated by guests:

• Books or e-readers
• Journal or notebook
• Playing cards or small games
• Travel pillow
• Eye mask for long summer daylight
• Earplugs for shared cabin environments
• Earplugs (if you're sensitive to snoring or cabin noise)

What You Do NOT Need to Bring

Tincup Wilderness Lodge supplies a wide range of equipment and amenities.

Fishing Equipment Provided
 

• Rods and reels
• Tackle and lures
• Boats and motors
• Canoes and paddles
• Safety equipment including life jackets

Cabin Amenities Provided
 

• Bedding and linens
• Towels
• Meals and daily dining service
• Low energy hair dryers

Items Typically Unnecessary
 

• Excessive clothing or toiletries
• Formal attire
• Hard-shell luggage
• Large quantities of snacks or food

Packing Tips for Guests Planning to Fish

Guests interested in fishing often find these items useful:

• Polarized sunglasses
• Lightweight gloves for handling gear or fish
• Personal favourite lures or accessories (optional)

Specialized rod setups and extensive tackle are usually unnecessary because the Lodge provides high-quality fishing equipment.

Packing Tips for Photography Enthusiasts

Tincup offers exceptional opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.

Recommended gear:

• DSLR or mirrorless camera
• Telephoto lens for wildlife
• Wide-angle lens for landscapes or aurora viewing
• Lightweight tripod
• Lens cleaning supplies
• Weather-resistant camera bag

Because charging opportunities may be limited, extra batteries are strongly recommended.

Insect Protection
 

Early Season (June to Early July)

Insects can be more active during this period.

Helpful items include:

• Insect repellent
• Lightweight long sleeves and pants
• Optional head net
• After-bite treatment

Mid to Late Season (August to September)

Insect activity usually decreases significantly, though repellent is still recommended.

What to Wear on the Floatplane

Comfortable, flexible layers are ideal.

Suggested outfit:

• Comfortable pants
• Lightweight shirt
• Fleece or light jacket
• Closed-toe footwear

Guests should also keep essential items in a small personal carry-on, including medications, valuables, and one change of clothing.

Sample Five-Day Packing Overview

Most guests can pack efficiently using a medium to large soft duffel bag.

Typical examples include:

• Several base-layer shirts
• Two pairs of hiking pants
• Mid-layer fleece or insulated jacket
• Waterproof outerwear
• Warm evening clothing
• Hiking boots and camp shoes
• Personal toiletries and sun protection
• Headlamp and power bank
• Camera or binoculars
• Reading or entertainment items

Packed in: 70L soft duffel bag, ~35 lb

Packing for Families and Children

Families may wish to include:

• Books, art supplies, or travel games
• Familiar snacks for selective eaters

Final Packing Advice

Prioritize Function Over Fashion

Outdoor comfort and practicality matter most at Tincup.

Test Gear Before Departure

Ensure boots are broken in and rain gear performs properly.

Use Space Efficiently

Rolling clothing and using compression packing bags can maximize luggage space.

Keep Important Items With You

Medications, valuables, and essential documents should stay in personal carry-on bags.

Label Your Gear

Clearly labeled luggage and personal equipment helps prevent mix-ups.

The Bottom Line

Packing for Tincup Wilderness Lodge is about preparing for comfort, weather flexibility, and remote travel logistics.

Bring practical outdoor layers, soft-sided luggage, and a willingness to embrace Yukon’s wilderness environment. With the right preparation, guests arrive ready to focus on fishing, exploration, and the full backcountry lodge experience.