Motorhome & Campervan Hire in Canada

• Wild camping: Canada’s vast wilderness offers countless opportunities for wild camping. However, it’s important to remember that wild or free camping is only permitted in designated areas. Wild camping in cities, national parks and provincial parks is illegal, and you can expect large fines if caught.
• Campgrounds and RV parks: These are ideal options for anyone undertaking campervan hire in Canada, offering a range of facilities such as power hookups, Wi-Fi, hardstanding, washrooms, laundry and sometimes even swimming pools and game rooms. They can be found across the country in both urban and rural areas.
• Provincial and national parks: If you’re interested in camping amidst stunning landscapes, these parks are for you. They usually offer basic facilities like picnic tables, fire pits and toilets, and require a permit for overnight stays.
• Wildlife safety: While camping in Canada, it’s important to remember you’re sharing the land with a diverse range of wildlife… most of which is much bigger than what you’ll find in the UK or Europe. According to the Canada Parks service, you should “Stay at least 30 m (3 buses) away from large animals such as deer, moose and elk, and 100 m (10 buses) away from bears, wolves, coyotes and cougars”.
• Leave no trace: Lastly, remember the ‘leave no trace’ principles. This means leaving your campsite as you found it, disposing of waste properly and respecting the natural environment. This approach ensures that the beauty of Canada’s great outdoors can be enjoyed by generations to come.

Travel to Canada from the United Kingdom or Europe requires certain necessary documents.

• First and foremost, all travellers must have a valid passport. You’ll also need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada.
• An application for the eTA can be easily completed online. It’s also linked to your passport and valid for 5 years or up until your passport expires.
• Please note that an eTA is not required if you’re entering Canada by land or sea (car, bus, train or boat).
• If your travel plans also include a trip to the United States, you need to be aware that the eTA for Canada does not grant entry into the US.
• European and British citizens are generally eligible to travel to the US for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program, however, you must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Always remember to check the latest official travel advice before departing on your journey.

When it comes to campervan hire in Canada, there are certain popular events in Vancouver and Calgary that you can’t miss if you want to make the most of your trip.

• Vancouver International Jazz Festival (June/July): Held annually in late June to early July, the jazz festival features hundreds of concerts all over downtown Vancouver, showcasing both local and international artists.
• Celebration of Light (July): This is a stunning international fireworks competition that takes place in Vancouver every summer. It attracts the world’s best pyrotechnic teams and is one of the city’s signature summer events.
• Calgary Stampede (July): Known as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”, the Calgary Stampede is a must-see rodeo event that takes place every July. It also includes concerts, agricultural competitions, chuck wagon racing and First Nations exhibitions.
• Calgary Folk Music Festival (July): This popular festival features a diverse lineup of folk, indie and world music artists from both Canada and the rest of the world. It takes place in late July at Prince’s Island Park in downtown Calgary.

• Banff National Park: Nestled within the heart of the Rockies, Banff National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its turquoise lakes, snowy peaks and abundant wildlife make it an unmissable stop on your motorhome adventure.
• Vancouver Island: Beyond the bustling city of Vancouver lies Vancouver Island, an oasis of rainforest trails, rugged coastal landscapes, and the charming city of Victoria, the provincial capital of British Columbia.
• Yoho National Park: A couple of hours’ drive from Calgary, Yoho National Park is known for its impressive waterfalls, grizzly bear refuge tours and emerald lakes. The Park’s name, Yoho, translates from the indigenous language as ‘awe’ or ‘wonder’ – fitting for such a breathtaking location.
• Whistler: Famous as a top ski destination, Whistler is equally inviting in the warmer months. Activities range from mountain biking and hiking to simply admiring the stunning mountain vistas.
• Jasper National Park: Located in the Alberta Rockies, Jasper National Park offers visitors a wealth of natural attractions, including hot springs, glaciers, lakes (yep… more of them!) and mountains. The park is also part of the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, making it a perfect spot for stargazing.

Determining the best time to visit primarily depends on what you plan to do during your trip. However, when considering motorhome hire in Canada, the warmer months from May to September are the most suitable.This period offers pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and road trips. The summer months, July and August, are especially popular due to the longer daylight hours allowing you to make the most of your day. These months also coincide with several cultural events and festivals. Spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October) are also enjoyable times to visit, with milder weather and less crowds. Just remember that Canada is the second-largest country in the world by area, so conditions can vary greatly depending on where you travel. This means you should always keep an eye on the forecast.