Canada Backpacking and Digital Nomad Travel Tips

When it comes to backpacking trips, most people consider visiting Asian countries to explore nature or, they like visiting European countries to learn about different regions and their cultures. These places are beautiful in their own ways, but most people miss out on a backpacking destination: Canada. It is a world-renowned country famous for its scenic and fascinating landscapes, a unique blend of cultures, and classic dining.

In this backpacking travel guide for Canada, you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect trip.

My Canada Story

Canada at a Glace

Language

English and French

Currency

Canadian dollar

Best Money Exchange

ATMs & KnightsbridgeFX

Local Dishes

Poutine

Drones Allowed

Yes

Top Phone Providers

Rogers | Telus | Bell

Is water safe to drink

Yes

Vaccinations

Check CDC

Power Plug Type

A and B

Car Sharing Options

Car2Go

Peak Season

June - September(summers)

Country Code

Backpacker Friendly

Yes

Hitch hiker Friendly

Yes

Credit Cards Accepted

Yes

Preferred Payment Method

Cash

Low Season

November to March(Winters)

Police Numbers

911

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Top 5 Things to See and Do in Canada

1. Montreal

The cultural capital of Quebec, Montreal is one of North America’s liveliest cities and is called the Paris of Canada because of its strong French roots.

2. Vancouver

Vancouver is one of the most expensive cities in the country known for its outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, skiing.

3. Toronto

Toronto is one of the world’s most ethnically diverse cities that is full of art galleries, museums, parks and the breathtaking Niagara Falls.

4. Quebec City

One of the oldest cities in Canada whose town still offers cobblestone walkways, well-preserved 17th-century structures, and the only North American fortress existing to date.

5. Banff

Banff is a famous resort town known for its stunning trails, hot springs, and outdoor sports like skiing, hiking, biking, and snowboarding.

Other Things to See and Do in Canada

1. Ottawa

Ottawa is Canada’s capital and can be easily explored on foot. This charming city is home to various historic buildings, museums, art galleries, and shops.

2. Rio Platano Biosphere Kelowna

Kelowna is the place where Canadians spend their holidays. The weather is mild in winter and warm in summer, attracting lots of people to enjoy. It is located on the Okanagan Valley which is surrounded by mountains, vineyards, pine forests, and parks.

3. Victoria

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is a beautiful British Columbian city full of nurseries and beautiful gardens like Butchart Gardens and Abkhazi Gardens. You can also go for a hike, try tasty seafood, relax on the beach, or spot some whales.

4. Winnipeg

A green city housing great museums, historical attractions, beautiful parks, and important monuments. This place has been appreciated for its impressive arts and cultural scene.

5. Edmonton

It is a young city whose strengths are its natural parks and lively performing arts scene. The food and drink scene here is booming and they have got something for every appetite.

6. Calgary

One of Canada’s wealthiest cities, Calgary offers low-cost and even free activities for budget travelers. Rent a bike and enjoy a picnic in one of its parks or go for rollerblading, camping, skiing, water rafting, kayaking, and hiking.

7. Lake Waterloo

Waterloo is the smartest Canadian city known for its rich cultural diversity and offers the tourists a unique fusion of outstanding galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife. This dynamic urban center houses several microbreweries where people can taste the exceptional craft beers.

Typical Costs

Transportation

A number of budget-friendly traveling modes available within Canada which include buses, ride-sharing, and hitchhiking. You can also consider renting a car which is highly recommended. But as gas is quite expensive in Canada due to higher taxes, research where the cheapest gas is available.

Accommodation

The rates differ depending on the place you are living in. The average rate for a dorm room at a hostel is about $22 and you can expect to pay around $48 for a budget hotel room. Airbnb is also a great option and is available all across the country. For shared rooms, expect to pay around $22/night while you can get an entire home or apartment costing you around $60. If you like camping, you’ll get a range of options all across the country. Prices will vary depending on the grounds but expect to pay between $7-$22/night.

Food

As long as you stick to your hostel’s kitchen or to local restaurants, you can save a lot of money in eating. If you have a meal at a restaurant, it will cost you between $15-$25. You can try going for cheap meals and sandwiches which costs $10 for a single time. But if you choose to cook your meals, expect to pay around $25-$55 per week.

Activities

No matter what part of Canada you are in or which the season is, Canada has various outdoor activities ranging from skiing, snowboarding, and kayaking to water rafting and canoeing. Historic sites and parks charge entrance fees round $15.

Suggested Budget

How much does it cost to visit Canada? This section details the suggested daily budget in Canada 2020:

Budgeting Tips

1. Free Walking Tours

With walking tours, you can learn about the city even from a local. There are different tours established in various parts of the country but you’ll also find free walking tours in the major cities of Canada.

2. Couchsurfing

Sleeping on somebody’s spare bed or couch for free is always a great idea to spare some money and interact with locals.

3. Travel Off-season

To get discounted rates and fewer crowds, avoid visiting Canada during the peak time of Summer (June-August) and Winter (December-January). You can try to visit during Fall (September-November) as there will be fewer crowds and the weather will also be pleasant.

4. Shop Local

One of the best ways to save money in Canada is by cooking meals in a kitchen and limiting dining out. Visit local farmer markets and supermarkets which always offer cheap and fresh produce. Luckily, most of the guesthouses and hostels have a kitchen .

5. Get Gas from Native Reserves

If you are driving around Canada, the cheapest and best place to purchase gas is Native Indian Reserves on First Nation Land. This is where you’ll find gas prices comparatively cheaper and with lower taxes. In this way, you’ll also support the local community.

6. Attend Free Festivals

When visiting a particular region in Canada, check out for festivals happening there. Especially during winter months, there are several free events planned like firework festivals, music performances, and weekly markets. Check out the upcoming events online in every area you visit.

Where To Stay

In Canada, you’ll find a wide range of hostels and you won’t have any problem finding one. Most of the hostels are high-quality and clean. Some of the recommended hostels in major cities of Canada are as follow:

Toronto

The Planet Traveler Hostel

Vancouver

TBD

Montreal

M Montreal

Quebec City

TBD

Calgary

Wicked Hostel

Nomad Coworking And Working Spots

You cant be a digital nomad without wifi. So below are some spots where one can work comfortably. Dont forget to check my nomad lunch break section for places you can still visit and/or work from during lunch. #nomadworkspace

Other

TBD

Nomad Lunch Breaks

Balancing work and exploring can be tough, here are some activities or places you can visit during a lunch hour. You will see the words hotspot, wifi, or break which indicates what you can use to work there, or if you cant and its time for a work break. #nomadlunchbreak

Toronto

The Planet Traveler Hostel

Montreal

M Montreal

Calgary

Wicked Hostel

Vancouver

TBD

Quebec City

TBD

Other

TBD

How To Get Around

If you are planning to visit multiple destinations, some research on the transportation modes you are going to use in Canada is important. Following are the modes you’ll be using to make most of your trip:

Car Rentals

In most of the places in Canada, driving is preferable either due to the unavailability of other options or they cost too much. There are various car rental services which charge from $35 to $60 per day and even more depending on the type of the car.

Ride Sharing

If you are planning to travel between cities or provinces in Canada, keep an eye on the ridesharing services. Allo Stop and Kangaride are Quebec City-based services expanding all across the country. Kangaride charges $7.5 for an annual membership and $5 per ride.
Most of the cities and towns have taxis that are usually metered. The taxis can be flagged down or ordered by phone.

Trains

Train travel is a convenient, quite affordable, and comfy way to get around Canada. VIA Rail is the country’s only major rail operator which transits passengers all across Canada. You can purchase Canrailpass that gives 7 one-way tickets for $605 and unlimited passes for $1133. Besides VIA Rail, the major cities have a commuter train service that moves passengers between the outlying regions.

Bicycle

Most of the Canadian cities have increasingly become bike-friendly with the addition of dedicated bike parking areas and lanes. It is a popular means of getting around especially during warmer months.

Bus

Buses are the most common mode of transportation in Canada. There is no singular country-wide bus system, so practically all towns have their own systems. Major cities have passes for tourists to make the most of the metro system. People choose Megabus to travel between Ontario and Quebec as it costs $0.75 if booked in advance.

Airlines

Flying should be the last alternative if you’re planning to travel within the country and have limited time to do so. The country has a few airlines like WestJet, Air Canada, etc. whose prices are extremely high starting from $200. For shorter routes, it’s better to travel via bus or train to save a lot of money.

Hitch Hiking

Hitchhiking in Canada is legal and safe but be prepared for long hours of waiting especially if you are traveling through some rural areas. It is better and safer to travel in pairs and let somebody know where you are planning to go.

Resources

When To Go

The best time to go to Canada is during the Summer months when pleasant temperatures and sunny days can be enjoyed. But it is also the busiest time of the year. From June to September is the main tourist season in Canada when you’ll find inflated prices and large crowds. Fall (September-December) is another fantastic time to visit Canada as the temperature still remains warm.

Common Questions About Canada

What are the must-visit destinations in Canada?

Canada offers a range of must-visit destinations, including Vancouver, Banff National Park, Toronto, Montreal, Niagara Falls, Quebec City, and the Canadian Rockies.

What is the best time to visit Canada?

The best time to visit Canada depends on the region you plan to visit. Generally, summer (June to August) offers pleasant weather and outdoor activities, while winter (December to February) is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. Spring and fall are also beautiful seasons with fewer crowds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?

It depends on your nationality. Many visitors to Canada require a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Check the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to determine if you need a visa or an eTA.

What is the official language of Canada?

Canada has two official languages: English and French. English is widely spoken across the country, while French is primarily spoken in the province of Quebec.

What is the currency in Canada?

The currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar (CAD). You can exchange your currency for Canadian dollars at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs to withdraw Canadian dollars directly.

What are some popular Canadian foods I should try?

Canada offers a diverse culinary scene. Some popular Canadian foods to try include poutine (French fries with cheese curds and gravy), butter tarts, Nanaimo bars, smoked salmon, tourtière (meat pie), and maple syrup.

Are there any specific travel tips for visiting Canada?

Yes! When visiting Canada, remember to bring appropriate clothing for the weather, as it can vary greatly. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the local customs and etiquette, respect the environment, and carry travel insurance to cover any unexpected situations.

Can I see the Northern Lights in Canada?

Yes, you can! Canada is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The best viewing opportunities are in the northern regions, such as Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Canada?

Canada offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, canoeing, kayaking, whale watching, wildlife spotting, and exploring national parks and scenic trails.

Are there any unique cultural experiences in Canada?

Absolutely! Canada is rich in diverse cultural experiences. You can explore indigenous heritage and traditions, attend multicultural festivals, visit museums and art galleries, enjoy live music performances, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scenes of cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

How To Stay Safe and Aware of Scams

Canada is considered one of the safest countries in the world; however, crime still does occur from time to time. Though the crime rate is low in Canada, it is advised to take sensible precautions to protect yourself from petty crime.

1. Beware of local wildlife

If you plan to go hiking or camping, be cautious of local wildlife. Always ensure not to make any food products visible to the bears as they actively stalk humans and can attack them too.

2. Valuables

Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially around famous tourist landmarks. It is good to keep your valuables and luggage out of sight in cars and not to leave them behind, even in a locked vehicle.

3. Travel Insurance

Most importantly, purchase good travel insurance as it will protect you against illness, theft, and cancellations. It protects in case anything goes wrong.

4. Stay informed about the weather

Canada is known for its intense weather conditions and is prone to natural disasters like hurricanes and tornadoes. So, it is important to track weather conditions and follow the advice of local authorities and TV reports.

5. Always Carry Cash

Canada is an expensive country having several islands, rural towns, and campgrounds. It is good to carry some extra cash with you as you don’t know when you’ll see the next ATM.

Packing List

If you are wondering what to wear in Canada, what to pack, what not, or anything else, check out the following list that will help you in packing and enjoying your trip: