7 Day Road Trip Calgary to Vancouver

Crossing the border from the U.S. into Canada is straightforward, but it’s still important to come prepared. Here’s what to have in order before you hit the road:

• Passport & Entry: U.S. citizens need a valid passport, but no visa is required for visits under six months.
• Currency: Credit cards are widely accepted, but bring some Canadian dollars (CAD) for smaller towns or remote stops.
• Phone Plans: Roaming fees can add up—activate an international plan or grab a Canadian SIM (Rogers, Telus, or Bell).
• Offline Maps: Coverage drops in national parks. Download maps ahead of time using Google Maps or Maps.me.

Canadian road rules and conditions are generally similar to the U.S., but there are a few key differences to be aware of—especially in the Rockies:

• Speed Limits: Speeds are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h), not miles.
• Fuel Up: Gas is sold by the liter and is more expensive in remote areas—top off in places like Golden or Revelstoke.
• Wildlife on Roads: Elk, deer, and bears are common, especially at dawn and dusk. Stay alert.
• Winter Tires: If traveling between October and April, check tire requirements—some mountain passes mandate winter tires.

Planning ahead for where you’ll sleep and eat can make all the difference on a road trip. Here’s how to stay fueled, safe, and well-rested:

• Book Early: Camping spots near Canmore, Revelstoke, and Harrison Hot Springs go fast—reserve ahead.
• Grocery Stops: Stock up at Save-On-Foods, Safeway, or Real Canadian Superstore before entering park zones.
• Alcohol Laws: The drinking age is 18 in Alberta and 19 in B.C., with alcohol sold only at designated liquor stores.
• Bear Safety: Always use bear-proof bins and keep food stored safely at your camping spot.

Before you hit the highway, check off these last-minute tips to avoid surprises and stay flexible as you explore:

• Pack for All Conditions: The Rockies bring sun, rain, and snow—often in one day. Bring layers, waterproofs, and hiking shoes.
• RV Gear Checklist: Don’t forget leveling blocks, power adapters, bug spray, and a water filter. For the full list of road trip must-haves, check out our RV camping packing list.
• Campground Rules: Check for seasonal closures or fire bans—especially in B.C.’s national parks.

From travel insurance to altitude awareness, a little preparation goes a long way in staying safe and comfortable on the road:

• Travel Insurance: U.S. health insurance doesn’t apply in Canada—purchase travel coverage before departure.
• Prescriptions: Bring medications in original packaging. Major chains like Shoppers Drug Mart are easy to find.
• Altitude Awareness: Stay hydrated and pace yourself—mountain trails can be tougher than they look.
• Navigation Tools: Don’t rely on signal. Use GPS or download offline maps before heading into the wild.