Airfare to Vancouver, Canada
Arguably Canada’s most fashionable city (although Montreal would beg to disagree), Vancouver is the melting pot of Canada, with influences from cultures around the world. Its close proximity to amazing skiing – not to mention the U.S. border and large city, Seattle – makes it a perfect stop in the wintertime, while summer months are even more bustling with trips to nearby Vancouver Island and relaxing on the waterfront.
Airfare to Vancouver will be the cheapest on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday. Mondays are popular with business travellers and weekends are key dates for holidaymakers wanting the longest trips possible – avoid these dates.
Also consider flights into Seattle, Washington. To get between the cities, you can grab a spot on a train, bus or flight. Look for cheap flights on no frills airlines. Harmony Airways and WestJet fly to Vancouver. Although it will take longer to reach your destination, a bus or train could save you enough cash to make it worth your while.
Another possible money-saving tip is to look for flights that go through Seattle, Washington, or another major gateway city instead of flying direct. Because there are more flights – and competition – from these cities on low budget airlines, you can save some cash over flying non-stop to your destination. It is very common to layover in one of these main cities.
Finally, consider traveling on a lesser-known carrier. Air Canada is the national airline. However, Cathay Pacific, China Air Lines, United Airlines and other airlines also stop in Vancouver.
The most expensive air tickets to Vancouver are found during peak holiday travel times, such as the New Year. Also be aware of national events or festivals, which can also cause ticket prices to rise.
Summary of Money Saving Tips:
- Fly mid-week
- Book your holiday during the off-peak season
- Consider flying into Seattle, Washington and traveling overland to Vancouver via train or bus
- Look for flights that go through large cities, with many flights
- Check out carriers besides the national airline – they may undercut the monopolistic competition
For more information on Vancouver, check out BootsnAll’s Vancouver Travel Guide.