In this British Columbia travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This British Columbia trip cost calculator includes average trip costs from thousands of previous travelers, along with typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. British Columbia is an exciting destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities, and you don't want to miss out on anything because you did't plan your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to British Columbia?
A typical traveler spends $156 (CA$221) per day on a trip to British Columbia. This is the average daily price for a vacation in British Columbia based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $51 (CA$73) on meals
- $21 (CA$30) on local transportation
- $155 (CA$220) on hotels
A one-week trip to British Columbia for two people costs, on average, $2,186 (CA$3,094). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,093
CA$1,547
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,186
CA$3,094
-
One Month
Per person
$4,685
CA$6,630
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,186
CA$3,094
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,372
CA$6,188
-
One Month
For a couple
$9,370
CA$13,260
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to British Columbia cost?
A one week trip to British Columbia usually costs around $1,093 (CA$1,547) for one person and $2,186 (CA$3,094) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to British Columbia on average costs around $2,186 (CA$3,094) for one person and $4,372 (CA$6,188) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in British Columbia will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to British Columbia on average costs around $4,685 (CA$6,630) for one person and $9,370 (CA$13,260) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is British Columbia expensive to visit?
In British Columbia, budget travelers spend $58 (CA$80) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $161 (CA$221) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $489 (CA$669) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to British Columbia.
British Columbia is a smaller destination that attracts a range of visitors, each with distinct travel styles, spending habits, and budgetary requirements. Budget-conscious travelers will find suitable hotel options, but there are also high-end hotels for those seeking luxury, plus mid-range accommodations for families or couples.
While British Columbia can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as looking for discounts and coupons.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, British Columbia is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Hope, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Gainesville.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is British Columbia Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to British Columbia?
The average British Columbia trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these British Columbia travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to British Columbia cost?
British Columbia on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$27
(CA$38)
|
$78
(CA$110)
|
$256
(CA$363)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$8
(CA$11)
|
$21
(CA$30)
|
$60
(CA$85)
|
|
Food2
|
$20
(CA$28)
|
$51
(CA$73)
|
$138
(CA$195)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$15
(CA$22)
|
$42
(CA$60)
|
$124
(CA$175)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-7
(CA$3-10)
|
$6-17
(CA$8-24)
|
$14-41
(CA$19-58)
|
Accommodation Budget in British Columbia
The cost of hotels in British Columbia can be quite surprising. Luxury accommodations come with higher prices and more amenities, especially during peak season. Off-season rates average $, but peak season () average prices jump to $. Overall, prices range from $ to $. Hostels are often the cheaper option, especially in dorms. You can save by booking early, traveling in the off-season, or taking advantage of promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in British Columbia for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $155 (CA$220). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $78 (CA$110) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in British Columbia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
By avoiding the peak season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.
Transportation Budget in British Columbia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $21 (CA$30) per person, per day, on local transportation in British Columbia. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in British Columbia is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$21
CA$30
The most convenient way to get around British Columbia is by air, but it's certainly not the most economical. Getting from the travel hub of Vancouver to anywhere within the province can be as expensive as getting to Europe.
Many of the places you'll want to visit are not accessible by public transportation. Some bus service is available within the cities, but it seems the most popular option is renting your own car. In this region, be sure to use your headlights both day and night. Also, provincial law requires that you prepay for your gas, and many don't accept cash.
If you're driving, check for convenient parking at your hotel.
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Victoria to Vancouver - Coach Bus Transfer for $66 details
- Vancouver Airport Private Transfer to Whistler for $133 details
- Nanaimo to Vancouver Coach Bus Transfer for $50 details
How much does it cost to go to British Columbia? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in British Columbia will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in British Columbia
Cuisine is one of the main reasons people travel, so don't miss out on the local fare.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in British Columbia can vary significantly, the average cost of food in British Columbia is $51 (CA$73) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$51
CA$73
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in British Columbia is around $53 (CA$73) per person, with previous travelers spending from $20 to $143. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in British Columbia are as follows:
- Breakfast: $5 to $16
- Lunch: $8 to $21
- Dinner: $16 to $37
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $8
Given the vast area of British Columbia, you're likely to find different dishes in different areas. Given the amount of tourists the larger cities entertain every year, it's unlikely you'll go hungry.
One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Pacific Northwest is freshness. Chefs meet fishing boats every morning to select the day's catch. In western Canada, chefs are very particular about letting their customers know where their food is from – which farm, which orchard, what bay, etc. Don't miss out on any locally sourced food in British Columbia – especially the seafood!
Several hotels include breakfast with your stay, while others charge separately for it. The cost and quality can vary significantly depending on the hotel. Knowing this in advance can guide your budget decisions. It could be worth it for the tasty buffet available at the hotel, or you may wish to find a cheaper option at a local bakery or cafe.
Bring a water bottle instead of buying beverages everywhere. It helps the environment, too.
If you're considering a tour, double-check which meals are included in the package. There may be instances where you'll have to pay for your own meals, potentially stretching your budget.
If you want to experience the culture in British Columbia, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Kelowna Top 5 Food Tour with Drinks for $86 details
- Kelowna: #1 Rated Walking Food Tour with 7 Tastings and 4 Drinks for $87 details
- Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria for $93 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in British Columbia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in British Columbia typically cost an average of $42 (CA$60) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$42
CA$60
Those who love the comfort of Mother Nature will love the beauty of British Columbia's Yoho National Park. On the western side of the continental divide separating Alberta and British Columbia, Yoho is full of lakes, waterfalls and, in the winter, it is a haven for ice climbing and other snow sports. Expect to see everything from bears to elk to mountain goats, but be sure to keep your distance and travel in groups.
For just as much beauty, with a bit more danger, visit the Glacier National Park. Located in the Interior Wetbelt region of British Columbia, this park experiences a large amount of precipitation in a year – including snow. This area is dangerous wilderness with near constant avalanche danger. Be sure to explore this magnificent region with the help of a guide.
And let's not forget the draw of the young and fun city of Vancouver. The capital of this province is full of historical buildings, art galleries, refined restaurants, spectator sports and so much more. Just imagine anything you can do and see in a major, international city, and you will find it in Vancouver.
British Columbia is home to some of the top winter sports areas in the world. Skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing, you name it you can do it in British Columbia. Try the skiing at Whistler-Blackcomb, the largest ski resort in North America. There's also Kimberley, Fernie, Nelson, Kelowna and Rossland.
For a challenging and scenic hike, follow the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail through the Commonwealth Nature Legacy Park. With over 3700 acres including a continuous hiking trail along 47 kilometers of coastline, this eerily beautiful trail is known as the "Graveyard of the Pacific," given the amount of shipwrecks that happened here.
And if that's just not enough for you, visit one of the most famous sites in the entire rock climbing world – the Stawamus Chief of Squamish. This towering, granite has over 600 established routes in the area. Most of them are traditional, but some are known as sport routes including scaling the giant boulders at the base of the Stawamus Chief.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore British Columbia. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Adrenaline Canyoning Tour Kelowna - Falls, Rappelling & Adventure for $160 details
- People Water Land- Indigenous Cultural and Wildlife Tour for $276 details
- Private Kelowna Sailing Cruise on Okanagan Lake for $119 details
Nightlife Budget in British Columbia
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $11 (CA$16) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in British Columbia per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$11
CA$16
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in British Columbia. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Okanagan Private Wine Tour In Your Own Vehicle for $130 details
- Victoria Full Day Guided Wine Tour With 4 Wineries for $137 details
- Okanagan Falls Private Wine Tour - Full Day for $206 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 4, 2026
Traveling in British Columbia
The westernmost province in Canada, British Columbia, is four times the size of Great Britain with less than one tenth of the population. This is due to the vast mountain ranges just ready to be tackled including the Rockies, Selkirks and the Coastal Range. With vibrant cities and ambitious outdoor activities, British Columbia is ready for any traveler.
Regions
This large province is divided into several regions. Vancouver Island is home to British Columbia's capital city Vancouver, while Lower Mainland includes world-class skiing in Whistler. Beach lovers will want to visit Thompson-Okanagan, and Kootenays provides more nautical fun with lakes, hot springs and rivers. The Canyons and the Cariboo is home to history and ranchlands, while the North and Central Coast is mostly untouched wilderness famous for fishing. Lastly, Northern British Columbia is a large area of mountains, forests and wildernesses with the start of the Fraser River.
Related:
Looking for a party hostel in Montreal or Vancouver?
Traveling alone to Toronto or Montreal?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in British Columbia. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $58 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
Couples and families on a fun trip will likely choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at popular dining spots, and visit significant museums and attractions that have entry fees. Most tourists in British Columbia are inclined to explore its main attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities are not free. So, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be about $161 per person, per day.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're used to premier amenities and elevated service, prepare to spend about $489 per day. Choosing comfortable hotels, dining at award-winning establishments, indulging in extravagant excursions, and relying on taxis or private drivers to explore the destination will demand a higher price range. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Jet Ski Rental in Pitt Meadows Canada - offered by Viator.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
