Planning your budget for a trip to Canada is an essential part of organizing your holiday. It’s important to spend wisely to make sure your Canadian vacation suits your preferences. While unexpected experiences like spotting Drake might be exciting, surprises on your credit card bill are not welcome.
Canada is known to be a relatively pricey destination, primarily because of the extensive travel required between destinations and the added taxes you’ll encounter. This makes careful budgeting even more crucial.
Budgeting for Canada is much like preparing for a trip to any other country, with costs comparable to the United States, except for some differences. Keep in mind that Canadian taxes, which can add up to 15%, are tacked onto many purchases, including clothing, accommodations, and dining.
When thinking about expenses, transportation, lodging, food, and attractions will take up most of your funds. However, there are specific considerations for Canada, like sales tax, that you can’t avoid. With a bit of planning, you can manage each category wisely, although sales tax is inevitable in Canada.
All prices mentioned here are in Canadian dollars, as of 2020, and most hotels, restaurants, and stores accept credit cards. Like many countries, Canada offers travel experiences ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. You can choose to stay in hostels or splurge on five-star hotels in major cities. Camping is a popular option for both budget travelers and those willing to spend more, as it not only saves money but also grants access to Canada’s stunning natural landscapes.
For budget-conscious travelers, plan to spend up to $100 per day, covering a night at a campsite, hostel, dorm, or budget hotel, food from supermarkets or fast-food outlets, public transportation, and a few attractions.
Mid-range travelers might budget between $150 and $300 per day, while high-end travelers should expect to spend at least $300 daily, which includes accommodation at hotels or resorts, dining out, and more attractions.
Airfare to Canada varies depending on your starting point, but generally, Canada is one of the more expensive places to fly to. The largest airport is Toronto Pearson International Airport, offering direct flights from many global cities. Other major hubs include Vancouver and Calgary International Airports in western Canada and Montréal-Trudeau International Airport in Quebec. You might also consider flying to a nearby U.S. airport and driving to Canada, which can sometimes be a more affordable and convenient option, especially with close cities like Buffalo and Toronto.
Ensure you have the proper travel documents for your Canadian visit. Accommodations will likely account for about half of your daily expenses. Canada offers a range of lodging options, from hostels and dorms to vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, and well-known hotel chains like Holiday Inn, Sheraton, and Hilton. Budget accommodations, such as hostels, university dorms (especially during the summer), campgrounds, motels, and two-star hotels like Super 8, Days Inn, Travelodge, or Comfort Inn, usually cost between $25 to $100 per night and may include breakfast. Motels outside major cities often have rooms for under $100 per night.
Vacation rentals can be a great way to save on meals, parking, WiFi, and other expenses typically incurred at hotels. Mid-range hotels and bed & breakfasts (3 or 4 stars) generally range from $100 to $250 in major cities and are less in smaller towns. Luxury accommodations like resorts and upscale hotels (4 or 5 stars) cost between $200 and over $500, with some including meals. Remember, hotel bills are subject to taxes around 18%, so a $100 stay will be closer to $120.
Transportation costs in Canada can be high due to the country’s vast size. Airfares, train tickets, or gas can add up. Many visitors choose to explore specific regions, like the West Coast, Toronto/Niagara region, or the East Coast and Maritimes. Renting a car affords flexibility, though it may not be needed if you start or end your trip in a big city like Toronto or Montreal, helping you save on parking costs.
While Canada does have a national train system, it is not as widespread or frequent as in Europe and can be expensive, though the VIA train offers a comfortable and scenic way to travel, complete with free WiFi. Buses are the cheapest option for long journeys but are slower. Megabus offers affordable express service in southern Ontario and Quebec, with fares often as low as a few dollars per hour and free WiFi onboard.
Canada is not known for cheap airfares like Ryanair in Europe, but airlines such as WestJet, Jazz, and Porter Air often have deals. Taxis provide a quick way to navigate major cities but are less common in rural areas. They usually have a starting rate of around $3.50, with additional charges per kilometer. Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
Dining in Canada is slightly more expensive than in the US, partly due to a 10% to 15% tax on restaurant bills. Menu prices usually don’t include these taxes, so be prepared for a higher total cost, including tips. Fresh food markets and supermarkets offer budget-friendly options, while alcohol taxes vary by province. Movie tickets cost between $12 and $18, museum entries range from $12 to $22, and Canada’s Wonderland theme park is $39.99 if purchased online. Whale watching tours can go from $50 to $120, depending on the boat and passenger count. Many cities offer attractions passes for multiple visits at a discount.
Tipping is customary, with Canadians generally giving 15% to 20% for various services. To get the best exchange rates, use your credit card for purchases and make larger ATM withdrawals at Canadian banks to avoid frequent fees.
