Travel Tips for Canada

Canada is a country filled with wonderfully friendly people, classy cities, and a diverse, beautiful landscape. From the ice in the Yukon, to beaches on the east coast, the mountains of Calgary to the rainforests of Vancouver, Canada is a country that is often skipped over on many world trips, and doesn’t get as much attention as it should. It’s a tremendously beautiful country with a lot to offer—I love our friendly neighbor to the north, and believe it’s underrated. Added bonus: It’s easy to get a working holiday visa here. This travel guide will help you plan a trip!

Typical Costs

Accommodation – Rates can vary a lot depending on what city you’re staying in. On average, you’ll wind up paying about 30 CAD for a dorm room at a hostel while you should expect to pay around 65 CAD for a budget hotel room.

Food – Food can be inexpensive as long as you stick to cooking for yourself or hit pubs. Conversely, a meal out at restaurant will cost you around 20-34 CAD! Cheap sandwich shops and fast food are your best bet and will be less than 13 CAD per meal. If you are going to cook your own food, expect to pay between 50-100 CAD per week.

Transportation – This is a big country, and it’s hard to get around without a car. Within city limits, you’ll find great public transportation networks, especially the metro system which is about 3 CAD for a one way ticket. There is a train service (VIA Rail) that runs from coast to coast and is very scenic, though not cheap. Companies like Greyhound and Red Arrow offer long-haul bus service across the country that are decent, but don’t make for the comfiest of conditions. There have been numerous reported instances of theft, so be on your guard and watch your belongings. If you’re going between provinces or staying a while in the country, consider renting a car for between 35-80 CAD per day. As your last alternative, you can fly, but since the country has only two major airlines (WestJet and Air Canada) prices are often very high.

Activities – Canada has a lot of outdoor activities. No matter what part of the country you are in, there is always something to do. Costs range from 20-over 100 CAD depending what you are doing and if you need a guide.

Money Saving Tips

Use coupon sites – If you know your stops ahead of time, monitor sites like Living Social and Groupon for local deals and saving. There are always good listings on some top restaurants and attractions.