A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Big Island of Hawaii vs. Kamloops for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii is a relaxing, adventure-filled, and laid back island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. Other reasons to visit include shopping, skiing, and nightlife.

Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Waipio Valley Overlook
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Big Island of Hawaii. Although Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops are popular destinations, Big Island of Hawaii has more sights and attractions for tourists. Big Island of Hawaii is very popular for its museums & sights, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops attracts visitors for its skiing and nightlife. Big Island of Hawaii is more touristy than Kamloops and is known for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. It is also well known for the Waipio Valley Overlook. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Big Island of Hawaii different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kamloops and Big Island of Hawaii. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Kamloops is a great city for skiing. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is a island with good options for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Is the Food Better in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Big Island of Hawaii. It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Kamloops. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Kamloops is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Kamloops has a few options to choose from. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Most people don't head to Big Island of Hawaii specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.


Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class resort vacation destination. There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for the beache. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Big Island of Hawaii is considered to be a world-class beach destination. This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.


Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Big Island of Hawaii visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Is the Shopping Better in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Big Island of Hawaii is well-known for its shopping. There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Families?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Big Island of Hawaii is an extremely popular island to visit for families. Families will enjoy the laid back island vibe. You can spend some time on the beach and then head inland to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If your kids are adventurous, the island is a great place to dive or snorkel with manta rays. There are also great hikes, helicopter rides, and luaus.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.


Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing island to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Big Island of Hawaii is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy a relaxed beach vibe will love a visit to this laid back island. There are upscale resorts as well as independent hotels that have a more personal style. The island also has stunning views, impressive hikes, and countless opportunities for romance.

Kamloops is a good island for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Big Island of Hawaii. This is one of the most popular islands for backpackers. It has a mellow atmosphere that appeals to young travelers. There are also hostels on the island, but transportation can be challenging.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Big Island of Hawaii. There is a bus service that connects Kona and Hilo. It's called the Hele-On and there are both north and south routes.

Public transit is generally limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.


Is Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Big Island of Hawaii
Kamloops

Kamloops is adequate for its walkability. However, Big Island of Hawaii is not known for its high level of walkability.

Kamloops is generally not a very walkable city. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

Big Island of Hawaii is not a walkable island. It's the largest of the Hawaiian islands and a car is necessary if you want to see the whole thing.

For even more information, also check out Is Big Island of Hawaii Worth Visiting? and Is Kamloops Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Big Island of Hawaii?

How long in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Big Island of Hawaii than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-14 days is a good amount of time for Big Island of Hawaii, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

Families should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Kamloops. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Big Island of Hawaii, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Kamloops. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Big Island of Hawaii that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Big Island of Hawaii than Kamloops if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Big Island of Hawaii.


  • How many days in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Big Island of Hawaii 5-14 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

The beautiful island of Big Island of Hawaii offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kamloops. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kamloops has to offer.

A weekend in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kamloops is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Big Island of Hawaii is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Big Island of Hawaii, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Kamloops for five days. You'll find shopping and skiing around the city of Kamloops. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Big Island of Hawaii is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Big Island of Hawaii has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

The nature-filled destination of Kamloops offers skiing and nightlife. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada, and The Best Contiki Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Kamloops or Big Island of Hawaii?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Big Island of Hawaii is $250, while the average daily cost in Kamloops is $83. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Big Island of Hawaii $112
    Kamloops $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Big Island of Hawaii $224
    Kamloops $90
Compare Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Big Island of Hawaii


Hotels in Kamloops


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Big Island of Hawaii Hotel Prices and Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Big Island of Hawaii $38
    Kamloops $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Big Island of Hawaii change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Big Island of Hawaii $106
    Kamloops $24

Typical Food Prices in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Pastries
    $5.89
  • Lunch for Two
    $26
  • Coffee and Gelato
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Big Island of Hawaii $35
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kamloops to Banff: Ultimate Mountain Self-Guided Drive Tour: $20
  • BC Wildlife Park Entry Ticket: $15
  • Skip the Line: Kamloops BC Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops & Revelstoke: $6.77
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops and Vancouver: $6.77
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Kamloops by Zombie Scavengers: $21
  • Vancouver and Smartphone Audio Driving Tour: $6.24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Big Island of Hawaii $32
    Kamloops $6.87


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops, we can see that Big Island of Hawaii is more expensive. And not only is Kamloops much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kamloops would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kamloops and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Big Island of Hawaii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Big Island of Hawaii than you might in Kamloops.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Big Island of Hawaii Expensive? and Is Kamloops Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Island of Hawaii and Kamloops. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Big Island of Hawaii this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamloops for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Big Island of Hawaii is around the same temperature as Kamloops. Typically, the summer temperatures in Big Island of Hawaii in July average around 76°F (24°C), and Kamloops averages at about 23°C (73°F).

Big Island of Hawaii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Big Island of Hawaii usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Big Island of Hawaii gets 9.7 inches (247 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Big Island of Hawaii as well as Kamloops. Many travelers come to Big Island of Hawaii for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Kamloops in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Big Island of Hawaii is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Big Island of Hawaii average around 76°F (24°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Big Island of Hawaii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Big Island of Hawaii usually gets more rain in October than Kamloops. Big Island of Hawaii gets 9.8 inches (248 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Big Island of Hawaii 76°F (24°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Big Island of Hawaii are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kamloops for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kamloops can be very cold during winter. Big Island of Hawaii is much warmer than Kamloops in the winter. The daily temperature in Big Island of Hawaii averages around 72°F (22°C) in January, and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

It's quite rainy in Big Island of Hawaii. In January, Big Island of Hawaii usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Big Island of Hawaii gets 8.7 inches (221 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Big Island of Hawaii 72°F (22°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Big Island of Hawaii or Kamloops in the Spring?

Both Kamloops and Big Island of Hawaii during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Big Island of Hawaii for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Big Island of Hawaii is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the spring temperatures in Big Island of Hawaii in April average around 73°F (23°C), and Kamloops averages at about 12°C (53°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Big Island of Hawaii. Big Island of Hawaii usually gets more rain in April than Kamloops. Big Island of Hawaii gets 15.6 inches (395 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Big Island of Hawaii 73°F (23°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Big Island of Hawaii

Big Island of Hawaii Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 72°F (22°C) 8.7 inches (221 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 72°F (22°C) 10.8 inches (274 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 72°F (22°C) 13.6 inches (345 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 15.6 inches (395 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 74°F (23°C) 10.7 inches (272 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 75°F (24°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 76°F (24°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 76°F (25°C) 9.7 inches (247 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 8.5 inches (215 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 76°F (24°C) 9.8 inches (248 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 74°F (24°C) 14.8 inches (375 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 73°F (23°C) 12.6 inches (321 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)