Canada Road Trip: A Working Holiday Adventure

Embarking on a working holiday in Canada is an adventure of a lifetime. On a working holiday, your weekends are perfect for exploring the many breathtaking landscapes. Another exciting way to make the most of your time is by planning an epic Canada road trip. Between weekend adventures and off-season trips, the country is yours to discover. Picture yourself driving through picturesque mountains, quaint villages, and serene lakes… all of this is possible on a Canada road trip!

Planning Your Canada Road Trip:

Embarking on a working holiday road trip within the diverse provinces of British Columbia and Alberta requires strategic planning to make it an unforgettable experience. Start by outlining your available time, considering the weekends and any extended breaks from work. Your working holiday will allow you to save up for lots of epic adventures, so look for as many opportunities as possible! Factor in your budget, accounting for fuel, accommodation, meals, and potential activities. A clear understanding of your personal interests will help shape the destinations you choose along the way.

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Careful itinerary

Creating a well-thought-out itinerary is like crafting the chapters of your adventure novel. Plan your route, identifying key stops and attractions, while also allowing for flexibility. Delve into the details of each location, researching local events, festivals, and hidden gems. Consider the driving distances between destinations to ensure a balanced mix of exploration and relax

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Embrace spontaneity

Remember, spontaneity is the secret ingredient for a truly immersive experience. Leave room in your schedule for unexpected discoveries and serendipitous moments. Whether it's stumbling upon a charming local market or detouring to a hidden viewpoint, these unplanned encounters often become the highlights of your journey.

Making the Most of Your Time Off | Shorter Road Trips & Saving for Adventures

While planning an epic road trip through the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta is undoubtedly thrilling, it’s essential to make the most of the season during a working holiday. Be sure to utilize your days off for shorter road trips that allow you to explore nearby gems without the need for an extended vacation. Participating in a working holiday in Canada is a fantastic way to see this breathtaking country in a financially sustainable way. Every weekend is an opportunity to explore nearby attractions, thereby fully immersing yourself in your surroundings. Moreover, if you’re working at a Ski resort, you can save up for longer, more epic adventures during off season. Summer in Canada is incredibly beautiful, and there are so many amazing sights and cities to be seen.

Feeling excited about Canada road trips?

A working holiday is one of the best ways to explore Canada, and we are a Recognized Institution of IEC (International Exchange Canada)! Our working holiday programs allow you to save up during the busiest periods of the year so you can plan out unforgettable memories in you’re time off or off-season.  Are you ready to discover all the breathtaking beauty Canada has to offer?

Best Road Trips:

The provinces of British Columbia and Alberta boast some of the most scenic and iconic road trips in the world. And a Canadian working holiday is the perfect way to open the doors to this magnificent place. There is so much to discover between longer, more epic journeys, and shorter trips to nearby destinations.

Easy Day’s Off Adventures

A great way to discover Canada is to utilize your weekends or off days to explore nearby destinations. Many ski resorts are located close to various cities, making for an exhilarating adventure and a discovery of a new place. Depending on how much time you have available, you could explore a number of nearby opportunities. A simple trip to a nearby hiking route could lead you to the most incredible location.

Off-season adventures

The Sea-to-Sky Highway offers a coastal adventure, presenting stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, the Icefields Parkway takes you through the heart of the Rockies, treating you to glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. We recommend that you dive into the specifics of each route. Along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, you can explore the quaint towns of Squamish and Whistler. On the Icefields Parkway, you could plan stops at the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Falls. Research the optimal times for these excursions, considering seasonal variations and weather conditions.

Exploring Lakes:

The turquoise lakes of British Columbia and Alberta are must-see wonders. Moraine Lake, nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, captivates with its vibrant hues. Additionally, Lake Louise offers a picturesque setting for a host of outdoor activities. Consider hiking the trails around these lakes for panoramic views, or renting a kayak for a more intimate experience on the water.

Research the available activities at each lake, ensuring you make the most of your time. Whether it’s a boat tour, guided hike, or simply basking in the natural beauty, each lake has its unique charm waiting to be discovered. Canada’s lakes are unbelievably beautiful, and no Canada road trip is complete without a visit to at least one of them.

Must-See Attractions:

Vancouver, the bustling metropolis of British Columbia is a real must-see. In Vancouver, you can take some time to explore the diverse neighborhoods, visit Stanley Park, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture. This is lovely for those who enjoy the fast pace of city life. We suggest spending a few days exploring the city and all it has to offer. On the other hand, Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Alberta, is a true crown jewel of any Canada road trip. In Banff, you’ll get to marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, hike through Johnston Canyon, and take a scenic drive on the Bow Valley Parkway. Banff is incredibly beautiful, with so many sights that you will not want to miss.

To maximize your time at each attraction, plan your days efficiently. Consider purchasing tickets in advance, explore during off-peak hours, and be strategic in navigating through popular spots. Additionally, it is important to be selective about what you end up doing. There are so many things you can add to your Canada road trip itinerary, but often less is more. Planning fewer activities gives you more time for spontaneous adventures, and takes some of the pressure off your holiday, giving you time to relax a little. This is one particularly appealing feature of taking shorter, weekend breaks. This way, you can focus on exploring one attraction to its fullest, and return to work with a host of stories to share with your new work friends.

Road Trip Essentials: Packing & safety

Packing smartly is vital for a smooth road trip experience. Include weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable footwear for hiking, and essentials like a first aid kit and snacks. Understand the driving conditions, especially when navigating through mountainous terrains. Carry a detailed map or GPS device, and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained before hitting the road.

Additionally, always adhere to safe driving practices, especially in challenging terrains. It is also important to stay informed about local traffic laws and regulations. Consider the availability of gas stations along your route, and plan for refueling stops accordingly. With proper planning, you’re well on your way to one of the best road trips in Canada!

Let’s plan the best road trips in Canada:

Logistics aside, a Canada road trip is an adventure and cultural experience that you will not soon forget. You’ll engage with locals, try regional cuisines, and participate in activities unique to each destination. Between weekend adventures and longer joineries further down the road, there is so much to discover.  Road trips are a great way to see Canada on a working holiday, so make sure you don’t miss out! The unbeatable beauty of both Alberta and British Columbia makes for some of the best road trips in Canada.