At the Games

5 Things To Remember Before You Leave Home

1. Know before you go.
   Plan your trip ahead of time so you don’t miss the start of a competition. As there is no spectator parking at any Olympic venue, public transportation is the best way to go. Don’t forget to reserve your seat on the Olympic bus network for Whistler and Cypress Mountain events.
   
   

   Arrive early — give yourself plenty of time to get to your seats and get settled. Gates open two hours before the start of competition at city venues and three hours before the start of competition at Whistler and Cypress Mountain venues. Gates open four hours prior to the start of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.
   

   
   

2. Make sure you have your tickets with you and that you’re carrying valid tickets, for the correct venue, session, date and time. Treat your tickets like cash; lost or stolen tickets will not be replaced or refunded.

   
   

3. Bring a Visa card or cash (Canadian currency) as these are the only accepted payment methods at the venues.

   
   

4. Learn what you can and cannot bring into the venue. See Entering the Venue

   
   

5. Be prepared for sun, snow and rain. Wear appropriate clothing and bring sunscreen and sunglasses.

   
   
   

What to Bring

• Carry small bags only as there is limited space within the venue seating and no bag-check area.
• Check the prohibited and restricted items listed to make sure you’re not carrying anything that will be confiscated.

Do not bring food or beverages from home.
These can be purchased at concession stands within the venues.

Prepare for the security screening.
Avoid taking large bags to the venues. If you are unsure of what you can and cannot bring with you, check the prohibited and restricted items list.

Remember, once you enter a venue you will not be able to leave and re-enter. Make sure you have everything you’ll need during your event.

What to Wear

Weather in Vancouver and Whistler can be unpredictable and can change very quickly.

At mountain venues, you may be outside for extended periods of time with limited or no access to shelter. You may be required to walk on slippery, snow-covered slopes so it is a good idea to wear well-insulated winter boots with good traction.

City venues can also be quite cold, so dress appropriately and be prepared to be in a chilly environment for several hours.

It’s easy to remember what to wear: think C-O-L-D.

• Cover your head, neck and face since most heat loss occurs from these areas. Wear a hat, scarf and gloves or mittens, and remember to put on lip protection.
  

  
  

• Overexertion can make you sweat, making your clothes damp or wet. This could cause you to become chilled more quickly. Dress in layers so you can remove them as needed, before you begin to perspire.

  
  

• Layer clothing to protect yourself against wind and cold. Start with a close-fitting inner layer that allows sweat to escape. The second, insulating layer should be loose and warm. The outer layer should be windproof and waterproof.

  
  

• Dry. Wear waterproof clothing and insulated, waterproof boots and gloves. Ensure they are not too tight as this could decrease circulation to your hands and feet, increasing your risk of frostbite.

Keep moving. Limit the amount of time you spend sitting or standing in one place. Move around to keep your blood flowing.

Eat and drink. Food helps maintain body heat. Fluids such as water and juice keep you from becoming dehydrated, which can lead to hypothermia.