{"id":85106,"date":"2018-08-14T09:00:41","date_gmt":"2018-08-14T09:00:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/?p=85106"},"modified":"2025-08-13T08:40:43","modified_gmt":"2025-08-13T08:40:43","slug":"backpacking-canada","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/backpacking-canada\/","title":{"rendered":"The ultimate guide to backpacking Canada"},"content":{"rendered":"

When most people think of a backpacking trip, they picture Europe\u2014exploring historic cities, ticking off countries from a bucket list, and meeting travelers from around the world. But backpacking Canada offers a completely different adventure, from vast wilderness and towering mountains to vibrant cities and unique wildlife, all waiting to be discovered.<\/p>\n

It can be hard to find information about backpacking in Canada all in one place, so here\u2019s the ultimate guide to backpacking in Canada. In it you\u2019ll find the best places to visit (and when!), learn how to get to where you need to go, some sample itineraries, and what you need to get (and stay!) in the country in the first place.<\/p>\n

Contents<\/h2>\n
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  1. \n
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    1. \n
        \n
      1. Best time to visit Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      2. Visas for Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      3. Getting around Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      4. Accommodation in Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      5. Travel costs Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      6. Where to go in Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      7. Things to do in Canada<\/a><\/li>\n
      8. Canadian food<\/a><\/li>\n
      9. Canadian culture<\/a><\/li>\n
      10. Travel advice Canada<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        Best time to visit Canada<\/h2>\n

        The best time to visit Canada varies greatly by region. Whether you\u2019re looking for mountains, beaches, or an urban adventure, Canada\u2019s got you covered; spanning nearly 10 million square kilometres across six different time zones. Canada\u2019s climate varies greatly – your average spring day in Vancouver looks a lot different from that in St. John’s and nothing like what’s happening in Iqaluit (that\u2019s up north btw). This is due to one simple reason – Canada is HUGE. So, broken down into the different regions of Canada, here are the best times to visit.<\/p>\n

        Weather in Canada<\/h3>\n

        Asking what the weather is like is the same as asking \u201cwhat time is it in Canada?\u201d. Canadians will often default to what it’s like where they’re from, politely tell you that it depends on where in the country, or just give you a funny look like \u201creally?\u201d,<\/em> as that answer could vary by about 40\u00b0C depending on where you’re referring to.<\/p>\n

        The best time to visit anywhere is dependent on your travel priorities. Each season presents different activities and events that occur all across the country. Summer is the most popular time for tourism in most regions except for the Rocky Mountains when winter dominates for skiing and snowboarding. Below are some of the best places to visit during each season.<\/p>\n

        Summer in Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        West Coast<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        For those travelling to the West Coast, Summer is a great time to check out Vancouver and Victoria. The weather is warmer and drier from April through October, and rarely gets too hot thanks to the cool ocean breezes. Vancouver\u2019s temperatures average from 18 to 22\u00b0C from June through August.<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        English Bay, Vancouver, British Colombia<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @mbenna<\/p>\n

        Prairies\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        If you intend on visiting the Prairies this summer, you\u2019ll be in for a treat. The area is great for photographers with beautiful fields and wildlife. Temperatures in Calgary are in mid to low 20s, Regina can reach up to 30\u00b0C, and Winnipeg averages around 25\u00b0C from June through August.<\/p>\n

        Central Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Central Canada is very popular in the summer, particularly visits to Niagara Falls, camping in Northern Ontario, and spending time in the great lakes. The wonderful summer weather in Quebec make it a perfect destination as well. Toronto weather can get incredibly hot and humid, with temperatures reaching over 30\u00b0C. Montreal weather is only a little better, averaging around 26\u00b0C.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Niagara Falls, Ontario<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: Joe deSousa<\/p>\n

        Atlantic Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Atlantic Canada is fantastic in the summer. Spending time on the ocean or hiking, it\u2019s impossible not to have a great time. It\u2019s also one of the best places in Canada to get away from big crowds, as well as the extreme heat. Much of eastern Canada averages in the low twenties with cool breezes.<\/p>\n

        The Northern Territories<\/h3>\n

        The Northern Territories are typically avoided due to how cold they get. But, in the summer, you have the chance to hike the world\u2019s northern most mountains, check out the Arctic, and admire the stunning natural beauty including breathtaking meadows and majestic wildlife. Thankfully, in the summer, it\u2019s really not that cold there! Summer temperatures in the Yukon can reach the low to mid-twenties, Yellowknife, NT reaches the low twenties, and Iqaluit reaches the low-mid teens. Towns in the arctic circle also experience nearly 24\/7 sunlight – a phenomenon known as Midnight Sun.<\/p>\n

        Overall, summer time is the best time to get the most out of your trip to Canada. From beaches to mountains, exploring cities and jumping from festival to festival, summer is when Canada shines.<\/p>\n

        Autumn in Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Autumn is when you\u2019ll want to spend time in one of Canada\u2019s many forests or National Parks. The fall foliage is to die for. It is peak hiking season all across the country, but particularly in Banff, Algonquin, and Jasper.<\/p>\n

        Another reason to love autumn in Canada is all the wonderful produce. Farm fresh pumpkins, squash, and apples with many places that let you pick them yourself. If you\u2019re visiting a farm, look for one with fun activities like hay rides or corn mazes. Many cities and towns also have fall markets where you can buy fresh baked pie made with the local produce \ud83d\ude1b.<\/p>\n

        Unfortunately, autumn in Canada in fleeting, so take in as much in as you can. In Eastern Canada, temperatures range from 10 to 20\u00b0C, but there\u2019s a fair bit of rain. In the Prairies, it can be as high as 18\u00b0C in September, but as low as zero in November.<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Larch Valley, Banff National Park, Alberta<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: Craig Zerbe<\/p>\n

        Winter in Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Canada\u2019s winter has a terrible reputation. Blistering cold, snow storms and hail. These things don\u2019t exactly sound fun. Winter is typically December, January, and February, but can even last from November until April in the Rocky Mountain regions, Northern Territories, and the Eastern provinces.<\/p>\n

        West Coast<\/h3>\n

        While the cold winter is inevitable in most of Canada, the West Coast (particularly Vancouver) has quite moderate winters. It\u2019s a great place to keep from freezing, and you\u2019ll only be a few hours from some of the best ski resorts in the Rockies. The long winter in the Rockies is great for ski season, allowing destinations like Banff and Canmore to have snow into May!<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Whistler, British Colombia<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @yah.blewit<\/a><\/p>\n

        Central Canada<\/h3>\n

        Central Canada has particularly harsh winters, but they\u2019re not as long. Temperatures as low as -20\u00b0C (at least!) aren\u2019t uncommon from December through February, but don\u2019t forget to consider the wind chill. Major snowfalls also tend to happen in January or February, though it has snowed as early as October.<\/p>\n

        Atlantic Canada<\/h3>\n

        Atlantic Canada isn\u2019t quite as popular as it\u2019s Western counterpart, however, there are plenty of things to do in Atlantic Canada in the winter. Make sure you pack well as winters can get as cold as -40\u00b0C! Another way to ensure you are prepared is to keep your eyes on the weather warnings. Many storms hit Atlantic Canada all year, and hurricane season is from June through November<\/a>. Don\u2019t let this scare you though, Atlantic Canada is beautiful. The national parks are perfect for winter camping and cross-country skiing through blankets of snow.<\/p>\n

        Northern Canada<\/h3>\n

        The Yukon, Northwest Territory, and Nunavut are the three territories you can visit in Northern Canada. These regions have two basic climatic zones – arctic and subarctic. In Whitehorse, YT, weather averages from -8\u00b0C to -21\u00b0C from December through February. From -16\u00b0C to -27\u00b0C in Yellowknife, NT in the same period, and -16\u00b0C to -29\u00b0C in Iqaluit, NU. During the winter, not only is it cold, but it\u2019s also dark. Sometimes for over a month at a time. Despite this, areas like the Yukon are experiencing a huge spike in tourism thanks to the Northern lights and wildlife abundance. This portion of the world is truly wild and free.<\/p>\n

        Despite all the cold, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy in the winter. Aside from the perk of winter being ski season, it can also be much cheaper to visit when the temps have dropped. Don\u2019t forget, when you\u2019re travelling through Canada at this time, you can expect delays on roads and with public transit. If you\u2019re driving yourself, be very careful about lack of visibility from blowing snow and icy roads. Winter tires and other safety supplies are recommended!<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Whitehorse, Yukon Territory<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @ericsandstrom<\/a><\/p>\n

        Spring in Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Spring, like autumn, is fleeting in Canada. It comes earlier on Canada\u2019s west coast thanks to milder winters. Once you start seeing tulips, you\u2019ll know that spring is here. While short overall, it can come as early as February and stay as late as June depending on where you are in the country; don\u2019t be too shocked if you experience a surprise snowstorm in April or May!<\/p>\n

        Western Canada<\/h3>\n

        Spring in Western Canada may include skiing in higher altitudes, but you\u2019ll also get the chance for hiking, wildlife watching, and even beaches! Temperatures in Vancouver vary from 4 – 17\u00b0C from March through May.\u00a0 This is also the time for the most rain in the area so make sure you pack appropriately!<\/p>\n

        Prairies<\/h3>\n

        Spring is a beautiful time to visit the Prairies too! The blooming Prairie crocus is a sure sign that spring has arrived, it is the floral emblem of Manitoba and the first flower to bloom in the region. You\u2019ll also be surrounded by awakening crops beginning to thrive after a harsh winter. Spring starts a bit later in the Prairies than in other regions, with snow not being uncommon in May. Weather in Calgary ranges from -8\u00b0C to 17\u00b0C from March through May, from -11\u00b0C to 18\u00b0C in Regina, and -9\u00b0C to 17\u00b0C in Winnipeg over the same period.<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        A resilient Prairie Crocus blooms through the snow in Alberta<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @ericsandstrom<\/a><\/p>\n

        Central Canada<\/h3>\n

        In the provinces of Ontario and Quebec in Central Canada, spring is especially beautiful. It\u2019s perfect for birdwatching, getting some of the best maple syrup in the world (of course), and checking out the world\u2019s largest tulip festival in Ottawa. Classic spring weather comes a bit late in Central Canada, with weather as low as -2\u00b0C in March but as high as 19\u00b0C in May in Toronto; and as low as -6\u00b0C and as high as 17\u00b0C over the same period in Montreal.<\/p>\n

        Atlantic Canada<\/h3>\n

        Spring in Atlantic Canada is the perfect time for nature outings, wildlife spotting and other sightseeing. It is also another popular place for some great maple syrup!\u00a0 Atlantic Canada has one of the coldest springs amongst the provinces, with weather as cold as -5\u00b0C to 11\u00b0C in St. John\u2019s, NL, from March through May, -6\u00b0C through 18\u00b0C in Fredericton, NB, and 4\u00b0C to 14\u00b0C in Halifax over the same period. Spring snow storms are also common in the area. If you\u2019re visiting during a good weather spell, you\u2019ll be in for amazing sights like watching drifting by icebergs in Iceberg Alley.<\/p>\n

        \u00a0Northern Canada<\/strong><\/h3>\n

        Northern Canada is where you can find some awe-inspiring wildlife in the spring time. You can witness the great caribou migration in the Yukon or do traditional winter activities like dogsledding and snowshoeing. It\u2019s still quite cold in March through May in Northern Canada. Temperatures in Whitehorse, YT vary from -13\u00b0C to 14\u00b0C. In Yellowknife, NT, \u201cspring\u201d temperatures vary from -22\u00b0C in March to 12\u00b0C in May. And in Iqaluit, NU, you won\u2019t see temperatures above zero.<\/p>\n

        Overall, the best time to visit Canada is May through October. While it varies greatly depending on the region, you\u2019ll get the best weather overall and the most events going on during those months. The only exception to this is if you\u2019re trying to hit the slopes, in which case, either start your trip a little earlier, or stay a little longer!<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Yellowknife, Northwest Territories<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @kencheungphoto<\/p>\n

        Canada visa<\/strong><\/h2>\n

        Canada visa UK:<\/h3>\n

        British citizens (and those from overseas British territories) are visa-exempt when visiting Canada for tourism. They do require an eTA when travelling by air (see more on that below)<\/em>.<\/p>\n

        Visitors from the UK, among other countries, can typically get up to six months on a visa-free entry to travel Canada. The final say is up to the border services officer who will indicate on your passport the date by which you must leave Canada. If you want to stay longer, make sure to apply for an extension at least 30 days prior to the authorized end of your stay. For more information about visiting Canada as a British citizen check out https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/foreign-travel-advice\/canada<\/a><\/p>\n

        If you want to work while you\u2019re there, consider applying for a working holiday visa. Officially, it is referred to as International Experience Canada (IEC). To get the IEC visa and enjoy Canada for up to two years you need to have a valid UK passport, be between the ages of 18 and 30, and have enough funds to help cover your expenses while in Canada. For specifics and to apply, you can find out the details here: http:\/\/www.cic.gc.ca\/english\/work\/iec\/eligibility.asp<\/a>.<\/p>\n

        Canada visa Application:<\/h3>\n

        All travellers need to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before visiting Canada by air. The only exception is if you’re coming in from the US, or by boat, you do not need an eTA. US citizens are also exempt from the eTA requirement provided they show a US passport.<\/p>\n

        For everyone else, an eTA is incredibly easy to apply for and can be done online<\/a> in just a few minutes. It costs $7CAD to apply for and most people are approved within minutes. If, however, you have a criminal background or for some other reason you’re asked to submit supplementary documents it make take several days to process, so keep this in mind before booking your flight.<\/p>\n

        The eTA is good for five years or until your passport expires. It is linked to the passport you used to apply, so if you have multiple passports make sure you bring the one you used to apply for the eTA when coming to Canada as the flight staff will simply scan your passport to ensure you have a valid eTA and if you don’t you won’t be able to board your flight.<\/p>\n

        \"yellow<\/p>\n

        St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @Cucombrelibre<\/p>\n

        Arriving to Canada:<\/h3>\n

        On the plane you\u2019ll be given a declaration card that you fill out and give to the officers at customs. Once you reach customs, you may be asked to show that you have enough funds available to support yourself during your stay, even if you’re staying with family and friends.<\/p>\n

        If they have further questions, you\u2019ll be moved to a separate area. The questioning takes place during your initial entry into Canada, so if you\u2019re taking a flight from Europe into Newfoundland and then another from Newfoundland to your final destination, customs procedures will happen in Newfoundland (or wherever your initial entry point is).<\/p>\n

        Don\u2019t worry too much, they just want to be sure of why you\u2019re there and that you can support yourself while you\u2019re there. If the questioning takes a while and you have a connecting flight, inform the staff of this and they may move you up in the line or possibly bump you to the next flight.<\/p>\n

        This is less common on shorter trips and those who have a return ticket. However, if you’re entering Canada for a fairly long period of time (even if you can stay in Canada for up to six months “visa free”) you\u2019re more likely to be asked for supporting documents.<\/p>\n

        Getting around Canada<\/strong><\/h2>\n

        Your best options will depend largely on the area you\u2019re visiting and your budget. Unless you\u2019re visiting from the US, it is likely you\u2019ll arrive by plane to one of Canada\u2019s international airports. Due to Canada\u2019s size, many people often take planes to travel throughout the country as well. Domestic flying can be pricey, but with the right planning you can catch some deals. For those travelling a little slower, a car is probably your best option. Public transport is available, but it\u2019s mostly limited to within and between major cities. Take a look below for some of the options for getting around Canada.<\/p>\n

        Airports in Canada<\/h3>\n

        The main airline in Canada is Air Canada, but other popular (and often cheaper!) options include WestJet and Porter.\u00a0 If you’re going to more Northern or remote areas of Canada you’ll need to use smaller regional airlines like Air North or Canadian North Airlines.<\/p>\n

        Vancouver International Airport<\/h3>\n

        If you\u2019re starting your journey into Canada in the West, you\u2019ll likely arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). It\u2019s a fairly large airport with three terminals, but has good signage in three languages (English, French, and Chinese) making it easy to navigate. It is the second busiest airport in Canada and is located in Richmond, BC, about 12km from downtown Vancouver. Despite this, it is very well connected. Driving or taking a taxi will take you about 30-45 minutes to get downtown (including traffic), but one of the best ways is to take the Skytrain on the Canada Line. It leaves every 7 minutes (during peak hours – every 15 minutes during off hours). You\u2019ll find signs for it while leaving customs and it\u2019s located across the street between domestic and international arrivals.<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Vancouver International Airport<\/em><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @thewzrdharry<\/p>\n

        Toronto Pearson International Airport<\/h3>\n

        The busiest International Airport in Canada is the Toronto Pearson International Airport. While Toronto is in its name, the airport is located in Mississauga, just outside the city. But once there, there are plenty of ways to get downtown. One of the best is taking the “UP” train which goes from Union Train Station to Pearson airport and back again.<\/p>\n

        Montreal Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport<\/h3>\n

        Montreal is also a popular airport for international visitors. The Montreal – Pierre Elliot Trudeau International Airport is the busiest airport in Quebec with the route from Montreal to Paris being the busiest international route from Canada. To get downtown, you can catch a taxi for a flat rate of $40. Alternatively, you can take the 747 bus for $10 which will also give you access to the bus and metro\/subway system for 24 hours.<\/p>\n

        St. John’s Internation Airport<\/h3>\n

        With the increase of budget airlines like Norwegian air and Wow air, many flights are flying into St. John\u2019s International Airport in Newfoundland as their first entry point into Canada. This is a very small airport and classified as an \u201cairport of entry\u201d as most passengers transfer to another flight after arrival. If, however, you do plan on staying in St. Johns, you can take a fifteen minute taxi ride or bus (route 14) to get downtown.<\/p>\n

        Driving in Canada<\/h3>\n

        Car rental<\/h3>\n

        Driving is the best and most flexible way to explore Canada. There are plenty of car rental options that are popular internationally – like Avis, Hertz, Thrifty, and Budget. You may need an international driver’s license if you’re there for a while, but most countries can use their original license. If you do use an international driver’s license you need to show your original license with it.<\/p>\n

        Car share program<\/h3>\n

        Plan on doing occasional driving in Canada but rental cars are too expensive? Try a carshare program.<\/p>\n

        Zipcar is one of the biggest in Canada (and globally!) and you can usually use your existing membership if you’re a member in another country. For their Canadian program you can get memberships for $7 a month and then pay for the time you use it. Zipcar is available in cities within Ontario and British Columbia.<\/p>\n

        Car2Go is another option without any monthly fees and you pay for only the time you use the car. It is available in Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.<\/p>\n

        If you’re going to be in one area long enough, check into regional car share programs like Evo in Vancouver, or Turo in lower mainland BC and Victoria.<\/p>\n

        Buying a car<\/h3>\n

        If you think driving will be your main form of transportation in Canada, and you\u2019ll be there for a while and covering some long distances, consider buying your own car. Planning is the key to this endeavour, as buying a car in Canada is one thing, insuring it is a whole other, as it varies province to province. In Ontario and Alberta for example, you can\u2019t get car insurance unless you have a Canadian license, and it\u2019s illegal to drive in Canada without it! British Columbia is the easiest place for a tourist to buy a car, as you can get it registered, licensed, and insured all at the same time. Buying a car takes the most time, planning, and money (upfront), but can save you overall. There are plenty of places in Canada you can\u2019t see without a vehicle, so plan appropriately.<\/p>\n

        \"backpacking<\/p>\n

        Long country\u00a0<\/em>road<\/i><\/p>\n

        \ud83d\udcf7: @holdsworthdesign<\/p>\n

        Ride sharing<\/h3>\n

        Ride sharing is another popular alternative – particularly for backpackers. Join some groups on Facebook and take a look on Craigslist and Kijiji (Kijiji is more popular than Craigslist in Canada), and you may be able to score rides between cities for as low as $20!<\/p>\n

        Canada trains<\/h3>\n

        Via Rail is Canada\u2019s main passenger train, offering long-distance and regional routes. For multiple trips, consider a rail pass or the Canrailpass for cross-country travel.<\/p>\n

        Long-distance Via Rail routes:<\/strong><\/p>\n