Can Australians enjoy an affordable holiday in Canada in 2025? Yes, you can. Destination Canada’s Radical Ambassadors share their top travel tips from recent firsthand experience on how to maximise your time in Canada for less.
Amid cost-of-living pressures and currency fluctuations, Aussies might think an international long-haul trip is out of reach in 2025 and beyond.
However, Canada is a destination where your Australian dollar goes further, offering incredible value for Aussie travellers with many everyday experiences and items at comparable costs – or even less – thanks to favourable exchange rates.
Why Canada is affordable for Aussies
With competitive airfares, flexible stopover routes and an increasing number of high-value experiences, Canada stands out as a destination where travellers can stretch their dollar further while still accessing world-class nature, culture and adventure.
For example, the price of a small takeaway coffee is similar to Australia, while a pint of craft beer is cheaper than many Australian capital cities.
Main Beach Travel’s Samantha Lang said: “The major thing I notice is that the amount you spend on food, drinks, coffees and local Ubers is the same as what you’d spend in Australia.”
TravelManagers’ Michelle Pelley added: “I was pleasantly surprised, Canada felt refreshingly affordable. Dining out, grabbing a coffee, even a cheeky BeaverTail felt just like Aussie prices. We enjoyed more room for fun and less budget stress.”
Getting around is also easy and affordable with local transport, such as Vancouver’s SkyTrain, averaging CAD$4.
In addition, the Canadian Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) costs just CAD$7 (around AUD$7.83) for five years – less than other international destinations’ visa entry requirements, such as the UK and US, and processed in minutes for streamlined travel.
More bang for the Aussie buck
Travel advisors can inspire clients to visit Canada by showcasing the value it offers, both budget- and experience-wise, allowing Aussies to get more bang for their buck and to stay longer and see more.
For the best money-saving travel hacks, our Radical Ambassadors have the firsthand lowdown on how to enjoy a Canadian holiday with the lot for less.
Fresh from their 2024 trip to British Columbia and Alberta in autumn, our 10 hand-picked Canada experts reveal their top tips to make your Aussie dollar go further.
7 top tips from Radical Ambassadors
1. The best things in Canada are free!
Canada offers an abundance of natural and cultural experiences at no cost. As Samantha Lang from Main Beach Travel noted: “So many things you want to see or do are free. It’s all about getting out and about in nature.”
TravelManagers’ Rose Febo said: “Embrace the great outdoors – Canada’s natural beauty doesn’t come with an entry fee! From picturesque hikes around Lake Louise to scenic cycling in Stanley Park, there’s no shortage of free or low-cost activities that showcase the stunning landscapes.”
Ellie Perry-Amerikow (italktravel & cruise) was also wowed by Canada’s natural assets. “The natural beauty was truly remarkable – rugged coastlines, lush rainforests and majestic mountains in all their vibrant glory. I enjoyed walking trails and wildlife watching.”
Kaitlyn Jensen (Flight Centre) added: “Mix in free or low-cost activities like hiking, biking, exploring national parks or visiting local markets like Granville Island.”
2. Travel off-peak for peak Canadian experiences
Visit Canada in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn (May–June and September–October) for fewer crowds, spectacular landscapes and better prices on flights, stays and experiences.
TravelManagers’ Rose Febo said: “The shoulder season typically brings more competitive pricing for accommodation and flights, which can significantly reduce travel expenses. This makes it an appealing time for travellers looking to explore the beauty of Canada.”
Abby Pezze from Travel Associates said: “Autumn in Canada is a dream – fewer crowds, beautiful weather and incredible fall foliage. It’s a truly magical time to visit, combining nature, adventure and value in one unforgettable trip.”
Josie Allen (Warranambool Travel) agreed: “Autumn is an amazing time to travel to Canada as you get to experience the best of the peak seasons on either side.”
“We experienced iconic peak season activities, such as Rocky Mountaineer, and were also fortunate enough to witness Northern Lights in Lake Louise – an exceptionally rare occurrence in this region.”
TravelManagers’ Michelle Pelley added: “I was surprised by how much daylight we still had in autumn! With the clocks yet to change, we could really make the most of each day, with plenty of time to explore and soak it all in before sunset.”
3. Use local transport or DIY
Canada has many budget-conscious, scenic and sustainable ways to explore from coast to coast to coast, such as VIA Rail and local ferries. Domestic airlines like WestJet, Porter Air and Air Canada Rouge also offer affordable intercity flights.
Self-drive itineraries not only provide flexibility and savings, but you can also take the scenic route at your leisure on some of Canada’s most iconic road trips, unlocking richer travel experiences, not fewer.
Kaitlyn Jensen (Flight Centre) said travelling in shoulder seasons is definitely a more affordable option for Australians. “In the shoulder season, flights and accommodation are generally cheaper and there are fewer crowds, which means better value and more availability.”
TravelManagers’ Rose Febo added: “Travelling around Canada remains an affordable option for Australians, offering great value without compromising on the experience.”
“Consider using public transportation within cities like Vancouver and Calgary to explore without the hassle and cost of car rentals. It’s an effective way to immerse yourself in local life and save money.”
4. Explore lesser-known destinations
Visiting under-the-radar destinations in Canada not only saves money but also taps into more immersive and richer cultural experiences with local communities for Radical Openness.
Locations such as BC’s Okanagan Valley and Kootenays, Eastern Québec and Prince Edward Island offer breathtaking landscapes, wine regions, wildlife and culture at a fraction of the cost of mainstream visitor hotspots.
“Exploring lesser-known Canadian destinations offers clients affordable yet still authentic experiences. I found Calgary, outside the Stampede season, to be a hidden gem, offering great value,” italktravel & cruise’s Ellie Perry-Amerikow said.
“Similarly, Vancouver Island in British Columbia provides stunning sights and activities with some parts still less crowded and more budget-friendly than peak tourist spots.”
TravelManagers’ Rose Febo added: “The regions often host delightful festivals celebrating local arts and music, giving visitors an authentic taste of Canadian culture and traditions. These events provide a wonderful chance to engage with locals and enjoy seasonal specialties.”
5. Choose local experiences & activities
The Parks Canada Discovery Pass offers unlimited access to more than 80 natural and historic sites for a small annual fee. Likewise, city passes and bundled experiences can allow travellers to explore more for less.
TravelManagers’ Rose Febo said: “Lower traveller numbers also lead to more competitive prices on attractions and tours, allowing you to make the most of every dollar. Plus, with the exchange rate often in our favour, those Canadian adventures can really add up to a delightful bargain.”
“In short, Canada offers an extraordinary experience that’s as easy on the finances as it is on the eyes, making it an ideal option for Australians eager to explore without breaking the bank.”
Flight Centre’s Kaitlyn Jensen tipped eating where the locals eat for authenticity and value. “Food tours and city walking tours were a great way to discover hidden gems and to get the chance to pick the mind of a local.”
TravelManagers’ Michelle Pelley agreed: “Look for experiences that help you make the most of your time and money! Foodie tours were some of my favourite experiences because they offer great value.”
6. Go slow & stay longer
Abby Pezze from Travel Associates said: “Staying a few nights in each spot allows you to really take it all in, and you’ll often find better deals with longer stays.”
“Give yourself time in each destination. Canada is incredibly vast and beautiful, with so much to see and experience. Rushing through it means missing out on the charm and warmth of each place – and the lovely locals!”
7. Book early to save!
Warranambool Travel’s Josie Allen said: “My advice is to get in early and book your flights, hotels and activities as this usually allows you to secure the best availability as well as generally the best pricing.”
“Booking accommodations in advance can also lead to fantastic deals, especially when opting for charming boutique hotel stays that capture the local essence or looking for that perfect lakeview suite,” TravelManagers’ Rose Febo said.
MTA – Mobile Travel Agents’ Justine Frost added: “There are many reasonably priced hotels in Canada that are centrally located and will include transfers from hotels.”
Flight Centre’s Kaitlyn Jensen summed up her Canada experience in the shoulder seasons: “It’s the perfect mix of adventure, beauty and affordability! An unforgettable trip without the peak season price tags.”
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