Canada boasts some of the most beautiful natural sceneries in the world. High on this list is the
Canadian Rockies, home to idyllic destinations like Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and Lake
Agnes. As we’ve talked about in a previous article, it’s also a great place to travel solo and have
an overlanding adventure that brings you out of your comfort zone. The solitude allows for a
deeper connection with the environment, free from the distractions and demands of everyday life.
However, ensuring your overlanding trip remains enjoyable and safe requires meticulous
planning and the right gear. Among the most crucial considerations is sun safety. The high
altitude and reflective surfaces of the Rockies amplify UV exposure, making it vital to equip
yourself with essential sun and safety gear. To help you prepare, below is a list of a few items that
solo overlanders should never leave home without:
Sunscreen
In contrast to the rest of sun-starved Canada, the province of Alberta, where a portion of the
Rockies is located, racks up over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. More sunshine, coupled with
mountain elevations, creates a recipe for dangerous levels of UV exposure. This calls for proper
sun protection measures to avoid sunburn and long-term issues like melanoma. To stay safe as
you overland in the Rockies, experts recommend wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen and
reapplying it regularly. Guidelines from the Canadian Dermatology Association require an SPF
rating of at least 30, such as the Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+. In addition,
keep an eye on UV index levels through weather apps to get a better idea of how much sun
protection you’ll need.
Sunglasses
Greater sun exposure also means having to protect your eyes. Left unshielded, your eyes are
vulnerable to UV damage like snow blindness, a form of photokeratitis that is caused by UV rays
reflected off ice and snow. Driving while wearing proper eye protection also enhances road
safety, as bright sunlight can make you squint and affect your ability to see the road clearly. If
you’re a glasses-wearer, it’s wise to invest in a pair of prescription sunglasses that offer both
vision correction and sun protection. This way, you won’t have to compromise on-road or sun
safety. Ray-Ban carries a wide array of prescription sunglasses that meet UV standards, such as
the Original Wayfarer classics that are made with a special coating that blocks out all UV light
waves. Optionally, you can add polarized coatings to enhance contrast and see better while
exploring the Rockies.
First-aid kit
No matter how prepared you are, accidents can happen during a solo overlanding trip. In any
case, it’s best to be equipped with a first aid kit that contains basic medication, disposable latex-
free gloves, antiseptic wipes, an antibacterial ointment, gauze, a variety of adhesive bandages,
tweezers, thermal blankets, and a flashlight. If you are a frequent camper or overlander, ensure
that your first aid kit is replenished and updated regularly. Ideally, your kit should be stored in a
dry place that’s easily accessible. You can also use a transparent container that’s waterproof and
air-tight to avoid contaminating sterile materials. If you don’t already have a first aid kit, Alert
First Aid carries a Canadian Red Cross Basic First Aid Kit that is fully stocked with what you
may need.
Ultimately, preparation is the key to a successful and safe solo overlanding trip. Armed with this
guide, you can confidently explore the Canadian Rockies, making the most of every moment
while safeguarding your health and comfort.