Are you ready to hop on an exciting adventure as I share my personal experiences exploring 7 Cheap Places to Travel from Calgary that you can easily travel?
As a passionate traveler who loves exploring new places without costing a bomb, I’ve discovered some hidden gems that are just a short distance away from the city.
I would love to share every detail about the places I visited, so here we go!
If you want to discover Australia, then visit our Australian destinations.
Table of Contents
1. Majestic Beauty on a Budget- Banff National Park, Alberta
- Driving: 1.5 hours costing around $24-CAD 35 for gas (one-way).
- Bus: $9-$50 CAD in 1 hour and 55 minutes.
- Accommodation: $30-CAD 50/night to luxury hotels (CAD 400+/night).
- Food: $10-CAD 20 for budget-friendly meals and $20-CAD 30 for casual restaurants.
I started with a trip to the majestic Banff National Park, which is just a short drive from Calgary. As an outdoor enthusiast, I couldn’t resist the allure of its pristine turquoise lakes, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife.
The great news is that exploring Banff on a budget is entirely possible! I opted for camping in one of the park’s affordable campgrounds, allowing me to fully immerse myself in nature without paying extras. Hiking the iconic trails, such as Johnston Canyon or Sulphur Mountain, offered breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences at no cost.
2. A Hidden Gem- Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta
- Driving: 3 hours, $50-CAD 80 for gas.
- No public transport is readily available.
- Accommodation: $30-CAD 50/night for luxury stays.
- Expect food costs: Budget meals are $10-CAD 20, casual restaurants $20-CAD 30.
I discovered the hidden gem of Waterton Lakes National Park from the South of Calgary. This lesser-known park offers stunning vistas, serene lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. With affordable accommodation options like campsites or budget-friendly lodges, I was able to enjoy the park’s natural beauty without breaking my budget.
Exploring the picturesque Red Rock Canyon and hiking the iconic Crypt Lake Trail, known for its breathtaking scenery, were some of the highlights of my visit. Waterton Lakes National Park truly offers a fantastic and affordable escape for nature lovers.
3. Charming Vibes Across the Border- Seattle, Washington
- Flying: 2 hours in $250-CAD 390 (round trip).
- Driving: 12 hours with gas costing $200-CAD 310 (one-way).
- Accommodation: CAD 100-$400+ per night for hotels.
- Food: Budget on $10-CAD 20 for casual meals and $20-CAD 30 for sit-down restaurants.
Crossing the border into the United States, I reached in the vibrant city of Seattle. Known for its iconic Space Needle, thriving music scene, and vibrant neighborhoods, Seattle is a fantastic destination for a budget-friendly adventure. I opted for affordable transportation options like bus services or carpooling, which made the journey from Calgary hassle-free and budget-friendly. Exploring the vibrant Pike Place Market, indulging in delicious street food, and visiting the quirky
Fremont neighborhood was one of the memorable experiences that didn’t cost much. Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking views of the city from Kerry Park or the famous waterfront.
4. A Winter Wonderland- Fernie, British Columbia
- Driving 3 hours in $35-CAD 50 (one-way).
- Buses: $100-CAD 150 in approximately 5 hours.
- Accommodation: $40-CAD 60/night to luxury cabins.
- Food: $15-CAD 25 for casual meals and $25-CAD 40 for sit-down restaurants.
For the snow enthusiasts out there, Fernie, British Columbia, offers a budget-friendly winter wonderland experience. Just a short drive from Calgary, this charming mountain town is known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. By taking advantage of early bird discounts and affordable accommodation options like hostels or vacation rentals, I was able to hit the slopes without breaking my budget.
The town itself offers a cozy and laid-back atmosphere, with affordable dining options and vibrant après-ski scenes. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Fernie offers affordable winter fun for all skill levels.
5. Untouched Wilderness- Glacier National Park, Montana
- Driving: 5 hours, $65-CAD 100 for gas.
- No public transportation directly connects Calgary to Glacier National Park.
- Accommodation: $20-USD 30/night to lodges (USD 100-$400+/night).
- Food: Budget $15-USD 25 for groceries and meals prepared in your accommodation, and $20-USD 40 for restaurants.
I discovered the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park in Montana while heading south of the border. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, including rugged mountains, dense forests, and sparkling lakes, this national park offers an unforgettable adventure. Opting for camping in the park’s affordable campgrounds allowed me to fully immerse myself in the untouched beauty of Glacier National Park.
Hiking the iconic Highline Trail, with its jaw-dropping scenery and wildlife encounters, was a highlight of my visit. Exploring the historic Going-to-the-Sun Road and taking in the panoramic views was a truly awe-inspiring experience.
6. Wine, Lakes, and Stunning Scenery- Kelowna, British Columbia
- Driving: 7 hours 11 minutes with a distance of 605 km.
- Accommodation: Budget hotels: $100-CAD 150 per night Mid-range hotels: $200-CAD 300 per night
- Food: Budget meals (fast food, groceries): $15-CAD 25 Sit-down meals at casual restaurants: $25-$40 CAD
Nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Kelowna offers a perfect blend of wine, lakes, and stunning scenery. With its affordable flights or accessible road trip options, it’s a fantastic destination for a budget-friendly getaway from Calgary. Kelowna’s vineyards and wineries offer budget-friendly wine tastings and tours, allowing you to savor the region’s famous wines without breaking the bank.
The city is also surrounded by picturesque lakes, where you can enjoy affordable water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking. Exploring the vibrant downtown area, with its local markets and affordable eateries, provides a delightful experience for budget-conscious travelers.
7. Coastal Beauty- Vancouver Island, British Columbia
- Flying: 1-1.5 hours in CAD 170 to CAD 650.
- Driving and ferry: 11 hours in $240-CAD 480 (one-way) and the ferry costs around CAD 180 (one-way for a car and driver).
- Accommodation: CAD 100-$400+ per night for hotels.
- Food: Budget on $15-CAD 25 for casual meals and $25-CAD 40 for sit-down restaurants.
Last but certainly not least, Vancouver Island offers a coastal paradise just a short ferry ride away from Vancouver. With affordable transportation options, including ferries or budget airlines, getting to the island is a breeze. Once there, you can explore the charming city of Victoria, with its historic architecture and beautiful gardens.
Don’t miss the opportunity to hike along the stunning coastal trails of Pacific Rim National Park, where you can experience the raw beauty of the Pacific Ocean while staying in affordable campgrounds or budget-friendly accommodations. From tidepool exploring to surfing, Vancouver Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities that won’t break the bank.
Note: All the estimated costs are according to March 2024.
The Departure– Cheap Places to Travel from Calgary
There you have it, fellow adventurers! Seven incredible and budget-friendly destinations that you can explore from Calgary without emptying your wallet. From the majestic beauty of Banff National Park to the coastal paradise of Vancouver Island, these destinations offer a wealth of unforgettable experiences for budget-conscious travelers.
If you are seeking outdoor adventures, vibrant city vibes, or serene natural beauty, these affordable getaways have something for everyone. So, plan your itinerary, and get ready to go on a budget-friendly adventure from Calgary.
Remember, the world is waiting to be explored, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune!
FAQs
What are some affordable travel destinations accessible from Calgary?
There are several affordable travel destinations that you can easily reach from Calgary. Popular options include exploring the beautiful Rocky Mountains in Banff or Jasper National Park, visiting the vibrant city of Vancouver on the West Coast, or heading south to the United States and exploring cities like Seattle or Portland. These destinations offer a range of budget-friendly activities, accommodations, and transportation options.
How can I find cheap flights from Calgary to various destinations?
To find cheap flights from Calgary, consider using flight comparison websites and signing up for fare alerts. Flexible travel dates and booking in advance can often help you secure lower fares. Additionally, consider looking for budget airlines or regional carriers that offer discounted fares. Being open to alternative airports or connecting flights can also help you find more affordable options.
Are there budget-friendly activities and accommodations in these travel destinations?
Yes, many of these travel destinations offer budget-friendly activities and accommodations. In Banff or Jasper National Park, for example, there are numerous campgrounds and affordable hostels available. Vancouver offers a range of free or inexpensive attractions like exploring Stanley Park or visiting the Granville Island Public Market. When it comes to accommodations, consider looking for budget hotels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals in less touristy areas to save money.