Road Trips in Canada

All those who want to explore Canada thoroughly and have the necessary time will probably try their luck on the Trans Canada Highway. The journey on this route is a great and unique Canada experience. Unfortunately, most travelers do not have the time and still want to see both Eastern and Western Canada. For all those, it remains to divide the Canada trip into two separate sections and combine them with a domestic flight. This way you can enjoy Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec as well as British Columbia, Vancouver Island and Alberta.
For the more adventurous among you, Yukon and its Klondike remain a secret.

Canada is a treasure trove of urban jewels and natural pristine gems. Travel to Toronto, located a stone’s throw away from Lake Erie, to soak up its lively atmosphere. If you are a fan of art, you shouldn’t miss the Gardiner Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. However, there are also plenty of attractions for fans of history, architecture, and local landmarks. A couple of steps away, you’ll find Canada’s must-see attraction, Niagara Falls.

For great entertainment venues, you should definitely consider a trip to Vancouver. Located by the Pacific Ocean, it offers a beautiful panorama of the city against the backdrop of a large marina and snow-covered summits. A cherry on top will be a visit to Stanley Park which is a true breath of fresh air away from all the large metropolises of Canada.

Holidaymakers who would like to bond with Mother Nature should travel to the Canadian Rockies. The Banff National Park is a stunning showcase of what Canada holds in store for fans of outdoor activities. Jasper National Park is an equally beautiful place to visit, yet it's less popular among tourists (which might be an advantage for some). Fishing, canoeing, cycling, or whitewater rafting – what’s your favorite way of spending family holidays?

Slightly less popular, yet equally beautiful, are the Maritime Provinces. Here, you’ll find the fascinating Halifax offering a top-notch starting point for the exploration of the dramatic coastline. In Saint John, you can admire a small harbor studded with plenty of top-notch local restaurants. For a more relaxed and laidback ambiance, you can travel to Charlottetown, known and valued for its Victorian architecture, entertainment venues, and charming streets.

Canadian prairies at its best can be found around Winnipeg which is an excellent town to explore Canadian historical landmarks, bars, and cultural spots. It is located a short drive from another interesting and less popular city of Churchill, from where you’ll have a picturesque view of Hudson Bay. It’s also a must-see attraction if you would like to try beluga whale watching.

Suggested Road Trips in Canada

• The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia: This scenic drive takes you along the rugged coastline of Cape Breton Island, passing by rolling hills, coastal cliffs, and quaint fishing villages. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to see whales, eagles, and other wildlife, as well as explore the island's rich cultural heritage, including the historic Fortress of Louisbourg.

• The Icefields Parkway, Alberta: This drive takes you through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, lakes, and rugged peaks. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to stop at numerous scenic overlooks, hike in the backcountry, and even walk on a glacier at the Columbia Icefield.

• The Sea-to-Sky Highway, British Columbia: This drive takes you from Vancouver to Whistler, passing stunning coastal views, soaring mountains, and rushing rivers. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit quaint seaside towns, explore the history of the region's First Nations cultures, and take in the breathtaking views from the top of the Sea-to-Sky Gondola. Whether you're a nature lover or a cultural explorer, the Sea-to-Sky Highway is sure to provide an unforgettable road trip experience.

Motorists travelling around Canada will be glad to hear that the country follows right-hand traffic, especially those motorists who come from a similar driving environment. Due to the fact that there are vast spaces to cover around Canada, it’s best if you plan ahead with all of the travel details already in your head. The greatest danger on the road is stray animals that can run across the street just in front of your car.

Speed limits depend on the road type as well as driver's experience. Speed limits for most passenger vehicles are 50 km/h (in built-up areas), 100 km/h (on highways), and 100 km/h (on rural highways and freeways).

In Canada, you need to be 16 to get your driver’s licence. However, most car rental companies will require you to be 21 in order to rent a vehicle. Unfortunately, motorists who are between 21 and 24 years of age will be charged a daily fee. It is also required to have a minimum of a third-party insurance.

Don’t be surprised as on-the-spot fines are a normal phenomenon in some provinces. However, in most cases you’ll receive a ticket that has to be paid within a specified period of time. On-the-spot fines concern only really minor offences.

Whenever you are stopped by police officers, you should switch your engine off and remain in your seat. Never try to bribe police officers as it is perceived as a very serious offence.

Some provinces will require you to have your dipped beam on throughout the day. What’s more, don’t be surprised if you come across road signs that are in French.

In case of a road check, you'll be asked to show such documents as driver’s licence, insurance documents, and your ID with a photo.

Canada follows very strict regulations concerning drinking and driving. The limit is 0.08%; however, careless behaviour can take you way beyond the limit. Interestingly, some provinces have a lower limit of 0.05%. They also vary in terms of penalties a

Speed camera warning devices are seen as illegal in Canada and you might be required to pay a fine amounting up to $650 in some of the Canadian provinces. 

Canada offers superb driving conditions; however, there are a number of toll roads. These include: the Ontario Highway 407, the Quebec Autoroute 30, the Cobequid Pass, Ontario Highway 412, and the British Columbia Highway 5, These might be expensive and there are additional costs if you decide to use the automatic pass. Your rental company will receive a bill for you and add it to your credit card charges.

• Weather conditions: Canada's weather can be unpredictable, especially in remote areas or during the winter months. It's important to be prepared for sudden changes in weather and road conditions, such as heavy snowfall or flash floods. Before embarking on a road trip, check the weather forecast and carry appropriate clothing and supplies.

• Wildlife: Canada is home to a wide range of wildlife, including bears, moose, and elk. When driving, be alert for wildlife on the road and obey posted speed limits to reduce the risk of collisions.

• Road conditions: Some roads in Canada, especially in remote or rural areas, can be in poor condition, with potholes, gravel, and washboard surfaces. Before embarking on a road trip, check the condition of the roads you plan to travel on and make sure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped for the journey.

• Distances: Canada is a vast country, and road trips can be long and challenging. Be prepared for long hours behind the wheel, and plan for plenty of rest stops and overnight stays along the way.

• Fuel and supplies: Fuel and supplies may not be readily available in remote areas, so it's important to plan ahead and carry enough fuel, food, and water to last the entire journey.

• Cultural considerations: Canada is a culturally diverse country, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. In some remote areas, local First Nations communities may have unique cultural practices and customs, and it's important to be aware of and respectful of these.

• Emergency services: Emergency services, such as hospitals and police stations, may not be readily available in remote areas. Before embarking on a road trip, make sure you have a working GPS device and a good road map and carry a fully charged cell phone and a basic first aid kit.

In conclusion, taking a road trip in Canada can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared and aware of the unique challenges and considerations of traveling in this vast and diverse country.

The best time for taking a road trip in Canada depends on your personal preferences and travel goals. Generally, the best time to visit Canada varies depending on the region.

In the summer months (June to August), the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and road trips. However, summer is also the peak tourist season in many popular destinations, so crowds and higher prices are to be expected.

In the fall (September to November), the weather is mild and the landscapes are ablaze with vibrant autumn colors, making it a great time for scenic drives. However, it is also a time when weather conditions can become unpredictable, and snow can start to fall in higher elevations.

In the winter months (December to February), Canada transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for winter sports and scenic drives through snow-covered landscapes. However, road conditions can become challenging due to snow and ice, and remote areas can become inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

In the spring (March to May), the weather starts to warm up, and the landscape starts to come to life with new growth and wildflowers. However, road conditions can still be unpredictable, and spring is also the time for mud season in some areas, which can make roads difficult to travel on.

In conclusion, the best time for taking a road trip in Canada will depend on your personal preferences and travel goals, as well as the region you plan to visit. Regardless of when you choose to go, it's always important to be prepared for the weather and road conditions.

The cost of a road trip in Canada can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences.

In terms of accommodation, there are options available to suit different budgets. Basic hotels, motels, and hostels are affordable and can cost around $50-100 per night. Mid-range hotels can cost around $100-200 per night, and luxury hotels can cost upwards of $300 per night.

Food and drink in Canada can also vary greatly in cost depending on where you are and what you eat. You can expect to pay around $10-20 for a basic meal at a local restaurant or fast food outlet, while upscale restaurants can cost upwards of $50 per person.

When it comes to transportation, renting a car can be a good option for a road trip in Canada. Rental car prices can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the rental company you use. Generally, you can expect to pay around $30-50 per day to rent a basic car, with prices increasing for more luxurious or high-end options.

In addition to car rental, you can also consider using public transportation to get around. Canada has an extensive bus and train network that can take you to many destinations, with fares usually ranging from $10-50 per journey depending on distance and the level of service.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Canada will depend on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to undertake. Canada is generally considered an expensive country compared to some others, but with careful planning and budgeting, you can still have an enjoyable road trip without breaking the bank.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Canada:

• "Lonely Planet Canada" by Lonely Planet. This guidebook provides an in-depth overview of Canada's attractions, history, and culture and practical information for travelers, such as accommodation and restaurant recommendations.

• "Frommer's Canada" by Frommer's. This guidebook covers Canada's top destinations, from the natural beauty of Banff National Park to the cultural highlights of Montreal and Toronto.

• "Moon Canadian Rockies Road Trip" by Jessa Crispin. This guidebook is focused on the Canadian Rockies region and provides detailed information about the region's natural beauty, outdoor activities, and scenic drives.

• For road maps, you can check out the "Canada Road Atlas" by Canadian Cartographics Corporation, which provides detailed maps of Canada's roads, highways, and major attractions. You can also find online maps from Google Maps or other online mapping services.

Remember to always double-check information from different sources and to take note of any changes or updates to road conditions or attractions. Additionally, Canada is a vast country with varied terrain and weather conditions, so it's important to be prepared and plan your trip accordingly.