Is Vernon expensive to visit?
Vernon is a small yet captivating town that lures visitors with differing travel styles, spending levels, and budgetary preferences. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
While Vernon can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
On average, budget travelers spend $19 (CA$27) per day, mid-range travelers spend $48 (CA$67) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $120 (CA$168) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Vernon.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Vernon is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in North America for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Vernon.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Vernon Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Vernon?
The average Vernon trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Vernon travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Vernon cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Vernon, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $19 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Thankfully, Vernon is filled with plenty of hostels, such as The Laughing Llama. Staying in these hostels means you can enjoy low-cost dorm accommodation and a fun social atmosphere, although amenities may be basic.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Many visitors to Vernon are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $48 per person, per day.
The range of hotels and vacation rentals in Vernon is impressive. If you're traveling with others, sharing your hotel with a partner, friend, or kids allows you to split the costs and save money. Families will want to find hotels and restaurants that accommodate children. The Castle at Swan Lake is a solid choice for families, while Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Vernon also offers great options. Make your stay in Vernon special by choosing The Bulldog Hotel Vernon, a great spot for couples. For additional family and couple-friendly hotels, refer to our hotel guide for Vernon here.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $120 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the town, a luxury budget will be necessary.
Accommodation Budget in Vernon
In Vernon, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $186, but during peak season they jump to an average of $347. You can find budget options starting at $86 up to luxury rates at $1,090. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Vernon for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $9.20 (CA$13). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $4.60 (CA$6.64) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Vernon? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Vernon include:
- OKeefes Landing Bed & Breakfast starting at $141
- The Castle at Swan Lake starting at $191
If you plan your trip for the shoulder or low season and avoid summer, you'll enjoy reduced accommodation costs and fewer tourists.
Food Budget in Vernon
The food scene in Vernon is solid, but it's not usually the main tourist attraction. However, there are some charming eateries in the town that you should check out. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Vernon can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Vernon is $41 (CA$59) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$41
CA$59
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Vernon is around $42 (CA$59) per person, with previous travelers spending from $17 to $105. 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 Vernon are as follows:
- Breakfast: $4 to $13
- Lunch: $6 to $17
- Dinner: $13 to $29
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
Vernon has the typical chain restaurants and fast food restaurants that are found throughout the area. There's McDonald's, Wendy's, Tim Horton, and A&W, among others. There are also some slightly more interesting restaurants such as the Blue Heron Water Front Pub and Restaurant, Sir Winstons Pub, Squares Four Pub, and Kelly O'Brians. There's also a food court where you can grab cheap food at the Village Green Mall. The prices at most restaurants are comparable to what you'll find elsewhere in the region.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Bring a water bottle along to avoid the need to buy drinks. It's also good for Mother Earth.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.