British Columbia

British Columbia is Canada’s westernmost province and home to some of the countrys most beautiful landscapes. Known for the diverse Pacific coastline, incredible mountain ranges, and the Okanagan Valley, BC has an adventure for everyone. Keep reading for everything you need to know about traveling through this spectacular province.

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For information on currency, vaccinations, best time to travel, budget tips, and more visit our page on Traveling Canada.

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How To Get There

British Columbia spans thousands of square kilometers along the pacific coast of Canada. Vancouver, Victoria, Abbotsford, and Kelowna all have international airports with several smaller cities and towns offering connection options. It is also possible to drive across the Canada/US border from the south, the AB/BC border from the east, or the Yukon border from the north.

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Best Time To Travel

Depending on what type of activities you`re interested in, you can plan to visit British Columbia at any time of year. The options are endless from amazing hiking, surfing, and wine tasting in the summer months to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. The spring offers incredible blooming cherry blossoms along the pacific coast while the fall boasts jaw-dropping autumn colors.

• Spring: March-May
• Summer: June- September
• Fall: October – November
• Winter: December – February

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Average Daily Budget

Your average daily budget will completely depend on where you stay and what you choose to do. If you plan to camp or stay in a hostel, do mostly free activities and bring your own gear you can visit for relatively cheap. If you decide to stay at a high-end resort and spend your days wine tasting, on the ski hill, or taking boat tours along the coast, your budget will increase substantially.

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Transportation

Rent a Car: Renting a car is a great option for most places in BC. The only time it might not be necessary is if you plan on staying downtown Vancouver or not leaving your hotel much to explore. It will typically cost you $40-50 CAD ($31-38 USD) per day. However, if you are under 25 the price is substantially higher. Inquire about coverage and unlimited kilometers beforehand to avoid getting surprised with fees upon arrival.

Bus: Bigger cities like Vancouver or Kelowna have decent bus and train systems if you are looking to save some cash. Keep in mind that you will be sacrificing a bit of time during your trip if you choose this option.

Taxi: There are local taxi companies in most of the cities and towns scattered through British Columbia. I wouldn`t rely on them for an entire trip, but they can be great for a day trip or a few transfers here and there.

Campervan: If you’re into the campervan lifestyle, it makes for an epic adventure and allow a ton of flexibility! We have heard excellent things about renting from Karma Campervans who are based out of Vancouver. Rates vary in different seasons so be sure to check their website for up-to-date prices and availability.

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Accommodation

Agoda is perfect for finding everything from hostels and B&B`s to 5-star hotels. You can search by map or by price and they typically have free cancellation.

Budget: $25-45 CAD ($20-35 USD) per night. Dorm room (single bed), Airbnb rooms( double occupancy), or a campsite (double occupancy).

Mid-range: $75-175 CAD ($58-136 USD) per night for 2 people.  An older hotel, Bed & Breakfast, or Airbnb.

Luxury: $200+ CAD ($155+ USD) per night for 2 people. 4-5 star hotel or lodge.

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Budget Tips

• Get a hotel or B&B with breakfast included
• Book your ski lift ticket a few days in advance online to save 18-20%
• Stay somewhere with access to a kitchen and cook your own meals
• Bring your own gear if you plan to do biking, skiing, floating down the river, etc.
• Take advantage of all the FREE trails, lakes, and things to do in British Columbia
• A tip of 18% is customary for restaurants in Canada

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