Canadian Staycation: Explore More in a Cool Camper Van
- New Age Travel and Services
- May 24
- 4 min read
Kick off your Canadian staycation with a camper van and check out all the beauty of Alberta and BC in style.
Want to explore Alberta without the hassle of international travel? A Canada-based "staycation" in a camper van offers the perfect solution. You'll discover stunning landscapes and memorable experiences right in your backyard.
Calgary sits at the gateway to some of Alberta's most spectacular natural wonders. Within a few hours' drive, you can reach mountain paradises like Canmore, Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Kananaskis. Each destination offers unique attractions while a camper van gives you the freedom to experience them on your own terms.
Why a Calgary Staycation is the Ultimate Adventure
A Canadian staycation saves you from customs, international airport lines, significant jet lag, and expensive hotels. You'll spend less time planning, converting currencies, or researching… and more time enjoying!
Calgary's strategic location puts you within easy reach of Alberta's best attractions. You can wake up to mountain views one day and enjoy lakeside tranquility the next. The money you save on car rentals and hotels can go toward experiences that matter.
A camper van transforms your trip from ordinary to extraordinary. You gain the flexibility to change plans based on weather, crowds, or simply your mood. Found a perfect spot? Stay longer. Want to move on? Just drive.
Exploring Alberta: Top Destinations from Calgary
Each of these destinations offers something special for your Calgary staycation:
Canmore
Just an hour from Calgary, Canmore welcomes you with dramatic mountain backdrops and a charming downtown. Hike the easy-to-follow trail called Ha Ling Peak or grab coffee at a local café. The Grassi Lakes trail offers an accessible hike, emerald color lakes, and you can watch some cool rock climbers while you're there.
Banff
Canada's oldest national park needs little introduction. Drive the Bow Valley Parkway for wildlife spotting, soak in the Banff Hot Springs, or take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain (it has a super cool interactive museum at the top and one of the most stunning views of the Banff mountain range).
Basically, Banff is brimming with amazing attractions from hiking trails to historic sites. You want to go!
Jasper
The drive to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway ranks among the world's most scenic routes in the world (I'm not kidding!). With hikes left and right along the highway you have ample options. Stop at the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls, Bow Lake and watch for wildlife. Jasper's dark sky preserve offers spectacular stargazing opportunities.
Lake Louise
The turquoise waters of Lake Louise create a postcard-perfect setting. Canoe on the lake, hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House, or simply relax and soak in the views. Visit early morning or evening to avoid crowds.
Kananaskis
Often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbors, Kananaskis ("K-Country") offers equally impressive landscapes with fewer tourists. Kananaskis is a destination worthy of your road trip itinerary with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and peaceful campgrounds. Trust us! Or read our blog.
The Cool Camper Van Experience
A camper van combines transportation and accommodation in one efficient package. You'll save time setting up camp and have more freedom to explore. We call this the #vanlife experience because it's what we love and we want to share it with the world.
When selecting your van, consider:
Size – smaller vans navigate mountain roads more easily
Kitchen – cooking your own meals saves money… so, what's included with your rental?
Bathroom options – vans include portable toilets and outside showers
Heating – Alberta nights can get chilly, even in summer. What bedding and blankets does your rental include?
(We include everything)
You don't need much when traveling in a camper van. Pack layers for changing weather, good hiking shoes, and hit the grocery store for basic cooking ingredients.
Local Insights and Hidden Gems
Beyond the famous spots, Alberta hides many treasures:
Elbow Falls in Kananaskis – a beautiful waterfall just an hour from Calgary
Highway 1A or Highwood Pass (on Highway 40) – cycle this road when it's closed to vehicles in spring
Wilcox Pass in Jasper – a moderate hike with spectacular views of the Columbia Icefield
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park – less crowded than Banff with excellent hiking
For food, try Crazy Weed in Canmore, Bear Street Tavern in Banff, or pack a picnic from the Canmore or Banff farmers' markets (seasonal).
Practical Tips for a Successful Staycation
Make your trip smooth with these tips:
Booking and Timing
Reserve your camper van and campgrounds in advance, especially for summer weekends. Consider a mid-week trip to avoid crowds. Book your custom Campervan in Calgary with a company that offers 24/7 roadside assistance.
If you rented a vehicle with us and haven't secured all your campgrounds, don't worry. Last-minute cancellations happen all the time, so you will easily find one.
Safety First
Download offline maps before heading into areas with spotty cell service. We have an entire blog on the best travel apps in Canada! Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bear safety tips provide peace of mind when exploring Alberta's wilderness.
Weather Preparedness
Alberta weather changes quickly. Pack layers and rain gear even in summer. Check road conditions before setting out, especially in spring and fall when snow is possible at higher elevations.
Embrace Your Canadian Staycation Adventure
A Canadian staycation in a camper van offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and flexibility. You'll create memories against the backdrop of Alberta's stunning landscapes while enjoying the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Calgary's central location makes it the ideal launching point for discovering Alberta's natural wonders. Whether you have a weekend or a week, the mountains, lakes, and forests await just beyond the city limits.
Ready to hit the road? Start planning your staycation today and discover the magic of Alberta from the comfort of your home on wheels.
Looking for an RV rental — please don’t hesitate to contact us:
(587) 287-7127
or book online, today
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