Porter Airlines

I’m starting with the little guy first. If you don’t recognize the name Porter, chances are you’re from Western Canada. Porter is a regional airline headquartered out of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. They’re hands down the smallest airline in terms of size and numbers. This can be seen as either a good thing or a bad thing, depending on where you’re trying to get to. Porter operates primarily in Eastern Canada and parts of the United States. So if you’re looking for flights anywhere west of Thunder Bay, Ontario you’re better off looking at the other two airlines. However, if you’re after friendly service, competitive rates, and the opportunity to fly into (or out of) downtown Toronto like a rockstar, Porter could be for you. Did I mention there’s free liquor served on board?

Here’s what other Canadian Travel Bloggers have to say about Porter Airlines:

I love flying Porter. I confess that I was initially drawn to them due to the sheer adorableness of their mascot, but even without the cute-factor, they’re a great airline. Free WiFi and snack lounges at many Canadian airports, available to all Porter clients (not a business class-only lounge), food box on the flight and a big glass of wine too (if that’s your thing).”

Jodi Ettenberg Legal Nomads

If I had the choice between Air Canada, WestJet & Porter, I would hands down fly Porter. Living in downtown Toronto I can literally walk to the island airport. But that’s just icing on the cake. Their staff are incredible – making you feel very welcome, comfortable and important even if you are paying the lowest fare on the plane. The planes are sleek, they have LOADS of sales so if you are willing to wait for a sale you can often get a substantial discount and as Jodi explained, you never go hungry (or thirsty for that matter). I think they’ve done a commendable job branding themselves with a clean cut, trendy image.”

Brock Groombridge Backpack With Brock

WestJet Airlines

Westjet is the second largest airline in Canada, providing flights to 71 destinations across Canada, The United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. They’re headquartered out of Calgary International Airport in Alberta, but also have a hub in Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Ontario. Westjet is a non-unionized airline, which means strikes are practically unheard of. The same thing can’t be said for Air Canada…*Cough..Strike Much?..Cough*.

Westjet is known across Canada as being the “funner” of the three airlines. Stewards and Stewardesses are encouraged to show some personality and have fun on the job, which ultimately leads to a more pleasant flying experience. Flying has become such a sterile activity in recent years, its a refreshing change to see real people behaving like they would with their friends.

While I have nothing but good things to say about Westjet’s people and service, they’re entertainment consoles are sucky in comparison to Air Canada’s. Their satellite TV’s tend to drop often, and don’t even bother turning them on if you catch a redeye flight. Infomercials and News on Repeat will be all that greets you. Not their fault, I know, but if you can’t sleep during the night flights, you might as well gauge your eyes out.

If Westjet were to ever upgrade their entertainment units they could totally drop to one knee and pop the question, and chances are this guy would say yes!

Here’s what other Canadian Travel Bloggers have to say about Westjet Airlines:

When flying in Canada, I normally try to fly with Westjet. Why? Because the staff is friendlier, they’re more helpful and efficient, and you need to be at the check-in just 30 minutes prior to boarding. I really feel valued as a customer, and now with the Westjet dollars they give you for flying with them it’s even better! I haven’t flown Porter yet as they don’t service my city (Winnipeg) but I’ve heard nothing but good things about them as well.

Doreen Pendracs Travel Diversions With Doreen

Despise Air Canada. Always fly Westjet if I can. They were horrid when my ex’s father died. Instead of being helpful, they offered a flight to Winnipeg. My ex is from Saskatchewan. Nor did they offer bereavement rates. Westjet pulled thru, so they had me at “hello”.”

Jeannie Mark Nomadic Chick

I also prefer Westjet over Air Canada. Friendly, funny staff who act like real people who just want to help you out. I like the personality. Air Canada is too corporate in their image.”

Gillian Duffy One Giant Step

A little bit of an echo in here now, but in the past I have preferred Westjet because they staff were typically more friendly and laidback than Air Canada. Now that points are involved in my life and I’m traveling outside of Canada so often, Aeroplan and the Star Alliance win me over. I just ignore the staff anyways.”

Dustin Main Skinny Backpacker

Air Canada

Air Canada is Canada’s largest airline, currently providing service to 178 destinations. They’re headquartered in Montreal, QB and were one of the founders of the Star Alliance Program. For those not in the know, the Star Alliance Program is a network of global airlines, created to offer customers a smoother travel experience when grabbing international flights. While Air Canada remains the most travelled airline in Canada, it’s had a bumpy past. In 2003 Air Canada had to file for Bankruptcy protection, and it seems there’s always talk in the news of its financial difficulties or of an upcoming strike.

This might sound bleak, but if you’re anything like me, smiles and fun personalities won’t entertain me longer than a few minutes. Air Canada‘s on-demand entertainment consoles make those long flights a breeze. They may not win the most awards for happy faces and fun memories, but they get the job done.  I like to compare Air Canada as sort of like ordering a burger & fries. You know what you’re getting every time. It might not be the best item on the menu, but it’s good enough. Seeing as Air Canada has the most destinations, a good points system (if you know how to use it!), and reasonable rates, I see nothing overtly wrong with saying Air Canada is pretty okay!

Here’s what other Canadian Travel Bloggers have to say about Air Canada:

Westjet has the best customer service, in my opinion. Air Canada, however, has the best rates out of Newfoundland…and beggars can’t be choosers.”

Candice Walsh Candice Does The World

If Air Canada and I were dating, our relationship status on Facebook would say – it’s complicated. I can’t really decide how I feel and every time I feel like breaking up they win me over again.

Ayngelina Brogan Bacon Is Margic

I will usually fly on whoever is cheapest. As much as I find the folks at West Jet friendlier, I find the AC planes, especially on longer flights more comfortable and I like their entertainment system better. Also points eventually add up with Air Canada and I find their Aeroplan program to actually be pretty good. West Jet now offers an improved frequent flyer program where you get West Jet dollars – I forget the percentage of every fare – maybe 2%. Then you can you use that money towards a flight at anytime. The only downside is the credit takes almost a month to post to your WEst Jet account. If I lived where Porter flew I’d be trying them.”

Leigh McAdam Hike Bike Travel

We fly out of Vancouver a lot and, unlike most of the responses in this thread, we love Air Canada and avoid WestJet. We has some bad experiences with AC many years ago, but in the past 5 years we have been very impressed. We really like the newer planes that Air Canada has and find its entertainment much better than WestJet. I need a little more than a smile to be satisfied with an airline’s service, expecially on long haul flights.

We also like the fact that Air Canada is a part of the Star Alliance and Aeroplan. We have Aeroplan credit cards, so often times we can double dip the points when purchasing flights and hotels using our credit card. For us, WestJet’s lack of partnerships globally has almost pushed us exclusively to Air Canada.

Nicole & Cameron Wears Traveling Canucks

So who should you fly with in Canada?

It’s clear there is no right answer. When it’s all said and done, it comes down to what type of things are important to you during air travel. Do you need good customer service, a warm smile to greet you boarding you on the plane? Then you might be best suited for Westjet, or Porter if you’re out east. If you’re an entertainment junkie who partakes on flights longer than a few hours, and just so happens to be an airline points hoarder, Air Canada’s probably your best bet. Regardless of whomever you decide to go with, Canadian Airlines are after all…Canadian. Expect apologies when your flight is delayed, expect a helping hand if your flight is cancelled, and one of my fondest memories, expect an open liquor cart when your plane has technical problems that require a couple hours of mechanical work before departure.

Special thanks goes out to the Canadian Travel Blogging community who helped bring their two cents to the table!

Air Canada VS Westjet VS Porter – A Canadian Airline Comparison is a post from: I Backpack Canada

I’ve come across a new program that’s being offered by FlightNetwork. They call it “Price Drop Protection“. Basically, if you book a flight early, then the same flight decides to drop in price a few weeks later, you earn that money back. Its kept on your account and can be used for future flights and/or travel insurance. If you book more than a couple flights a year, this can turn into a decent chunk of savings.

In case my explanation totally sucks, their website has this say:

For example, if you’ve purchased a flight for $500 and the price drops to $400, you can grab that deal and we’ll give you $100 Price Drop Protection Dollars to spend on future Flight or Insurance bookings.

So it turns out I’m not the only one who’s thought about this whole price fluctuation in flights. The scientists, mathematicians and logistic people at Flight Network, whom I assume wear white lab coats did some surveys across Canada and found the leading concern with Canadians booking flights was price fluctuation. So rather than thinking “Oh, bummer…“,  they took the go-get’um approach and said “Let’s fix this!” – and fix it they did! Hello travel savings!

I should also mention that Flight Network is actually the 2nd largest Online Canadian travel company, so you know you’re in good hands. I’ll be using their service to help keep my travel costs low, and definitely recommend you guys give them a try too.

Backflip budget travel team high 5′s all around! Boom!

Travel Tip – Book Flights in Canada with Price Drop Protection is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Q. How long have you been guiding?

A. I’ve been in the tourism industry for ten years and guiding for 5 of those. I used to be a diving guide in the Caribbean, but missed the mountains so I came home this Christmas. I’ve been with Moose ever since and have been loving every day of of it!

Q. What is your favourite thing about working with Moose Network?

A. Without a second guess it has to be the people I meet everyday. Observing peoples reaction when they discover something for the first time, and being able to witness their passion for travel is amazing. Everyone is in this permanent holiday happiness mode. It ends up feeling like I’m just travelling with friends.

Q. What are some highlights that stand out during your time with Moose Network?

A. So far, taking an Australian girl to Peyto Lake to let her see and touch snow for the first time was one that stood out. Witnessing peoples reactions when they see the mountains, only to find out they’re in the foothills, then seeing their minds explode when we actually get into the Rockies. That’s always a big favourite. Lastly, seeing how happy and energized people are after white water rafting the Kicking Horse River makes me smile!

Q. What are some things you think everyone should try when they travel in Canada?

A. Where do I start? You’ve got to see the Old Growth Forests on Vancouver Island. Trees here can get to be up to 9m round and 60m tall! Everyone should also experience a night on Granville Street in Vancouver, it will be memorable to say the least. When you get hungry, try some fresh BC smoked salmon. Hop on a tour and try and see a wild Grizzly Bear. If you’re looking to chill go enjoy the west coast beaches, salt air and try surfing or head to the Okanagan Valley for some fine wine and more amazing Beaches. Just being in Canada is something everyone should try.

Q. Do you think more Canadians should start riding the Moose, and if so, why?

A. Absolutely! Each province is like a country of its own, with its own culture, food, and personalities. They’re all so geographically different, limiting yourself to your home province is sort of like sitting in the same lawn chair around a campfire the whole night. Move around, be social, talk to people, see things from a different light. As a Canadian myself, I still love watching as the landscapes change during the long drives across provinces and through the seasons. Shameless plug here, but Moose Network goes across Canada and lets you hop on and off as you see fit. Great for seeing Canada!

Q. What is the craziest thing you’ve ever witnessed while guiding with Moose Network?

A. Well its only my first season, but Watching a Grizzly Bear swim across a glacier river with the rocky mountains looming over the entire scene. The bear climbed out of the water and scratched himself against a tree for like ten minutes, as bears do! It was unreal. Of course, I should mention that its always a laugh watching people try to swim in the freezing glacial water and realizing how splintering cold it is. People do crazy stuff for photos.

Q. If there is one thing you could tell someone whos planning on backpacking across Canada, what would it be?

A. Plan more time because you won’t want to leave. Lots of people end up hopping off the Moose for a day and never leave the country.

Gros Merci goes out to the always lovely Rachel Huber. If you have any other questions regarding what Moose Network can offer you, send them a tweet @moosenetwork or check out the Moose Network website. Of course, you can always comment here and I’ll do my best to answer any questions I can.

Moose Karate Photo by Candice Walsh

Interview with a Moose Network Travel Guide is a post from: I Backpack Canada

This big magnificant yellow bus was waiting for me, hailing me. “Come Corbin, it’s cozy in here. And it’s under half of what you would pay taking a cab. Did I mention there’s leather inside me. And power outlets, along with free wifi.” SOLD! I courtly told the lady in the booth as I handed her a crisp Twenty and a ragged Toonie that looked like it’d been through hell and back. Not a bad deal.

The bus driver graciously took my bag and was happy enough to ask how my mornings been thus far. I informed him swell, despite hating the fact that I’d been up since 3:00am, caught a shuttle in Halifax at 3:50, and waited until 6:15 to board my flight to Toronto. He didn’t need to hear that. Heck, I didn’t want to hear that.

So as I’m writing this, I’m currently chilling out in these wicked spacious seats, jacked in to the internets (yea, it’s plural now), and listening to some sweet 80′s slash 90′s radio station. “I saw the sign, and it opened up my eyes”. It did indeed Ace of Base.

Toronto, your Airport express rocks. Good choice on sticking Free Wifi up in this sweet-sweet ride.

Saving Money with Toronto’s Airport Express is a post from: I Backpack Canada

ISIC Card

The international student identity card is out there for anyone 12 years old and up, in elementary, high school, college, university, or any type of post secondary. If you’re a student somewhere, you’re eligible. This card can be used in over 120 different countries around the world, including Canada. Discounts include anything from restaurants, accommodations, flights, tours, and shopping. The cost of ISIC card varies depending on which country you purchase it in, some schools give them away for free, others charge upwards of $20. Regardless of the cost of the card, the savings can be immense. One of the most popular places to save money with the ISIC Card is Via Rail, they offer some great student discounts for anyone considering traveling Canada by train. Visit ISIC for more information. Not a student? No problem, if you’re 26 years old or under, you’re eligible for the IYTC (International Youth Travel Card), which gives you the same great savings.

HI / YHA Card

The HI / YHA Card can come in handy anywhere there’s a hostel that is part of the HI or YHA Network, which as luck has it, is just about anywhere in the world. In Canada there is over 400 different places that accept the card, including every HI Hostel in Canada. On average you save $4 everytime you book a night in an HI Hostel. You might be thinking, couple toonies saved per night, not bad. But here’s when the big savings come in. When you travel by Greyhound with your HI/YHA card you can save 25% off one way and round trip tickets anywhere in Canada. You can also get 5% off any bookings made with Moose Travel Network. Big savings abound, and with a yearly cost of only $35, the card pays for itself after the first couple weeks. Visit HI-Canada Card for more information.

I’m sure there are a few other cards out there worth trying as well, but these are the only two I’ve ever personally had experience with. They’ve treated me well thus far and saved me a bit of coin on travel and accommodation and such, hopefully they can help you out too.

Two discount cards you should carry when traveling in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Travelgrove was established for travelers who are keen on finding the cheapest price, and the best information for their journey to any of the major city centres throughout the world. Their booking engine searches through the most popular booking websites such as Kayak, Orbitz, Travelocity, and Expedia, then allows you to compare the price of cheap flights from one website to another. On top of the money you can save on your flights, the guys at Travelgrove offer travel forums, hotels, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages, along with detailed travel guides.

On top of all these great services they offer, Travelgrove aims to provide a community feel to their website. Registered users are able to socialize with other users and provide travel tips, photos, and general advice through their community section. Be sure to search for me there, my username is Nibroc. Once you’ve got me added, feel free to browse through some of my photos and share any destinations you’d like me to check out.

Photo by purplepick

The booking process with Travelgrove is simple. Type in the first few letters of the city or airport you’re departing from, along with where you’re heading to, select the dates, and tick off other websites you would like Travelgrove to search through. Within seconds you’ve got a detailed list of flights and costs to go through. This can be a lifesaver for anyone in a hurry to catch a flight but wanting to find some great deals. If you don’t have any destination in mind, take a quick browse through their Deals section to see if anything sparks your interest.

For those considering backpacking Canada, I would highly recommend you check out their cheap flights to Toronto. I recently came across a round trip flight from New York to Toronto for $308. You’re saving over 50%, as those flights are typically way over $600. Toronto’s a great city to start off in Canada. It’s by far the most culturally diverse city we have. Find out for yourself, read through their Toronto travel guide to find out everything from its history, nightlife, popular sights, and browse through some sweet photos. You’ll be on your way in no time!

Save Big Bucks with Travelgrove is a post from: I Backpack Canada

1. Ask to speak in English

When speaking to a local stranger, be it gas station attendant, bistro staff, or just looking for directions, ask politely if he or she speaks English. You’re more likely to be treated kindly by doing this than by speaking blindly in English with no regard as to whether they speak it or not.

Pardon, madame/monsieur/mademoiselle, parlez-vous anglais?

Which translates to: Excuse me madam/sir/miss, do you speak English?

Most of the time you’ll find out that “Oui“, they do, however if they say “Non“, you’re on your own. Just hope that you’re both good at Charades.

2. Understanding French Road Signs

There are large parts of Quebec where the road signs will stop showing up in both English and French. If you know very little French this can be frightening. Stay calm. There are certain words that you can pick out of those signs to get you in the right direction.

When you see:

French	English
Nord	North
Sud	South
Ouest	West
Est	East
Entrée	Entrance
Sortie	Exit
Renseignements	Information
Interdit	Prohibited
Ouvert	Open
Fermé	Closed
Cédez la Priorité	Give Way
Défense de Stationner	No Parking
Interdiction de doubler	No Overtaking
Péage	Toll
Ralentissez	Slow Down
Sens Interdit	No Entry
Sens Unique	One Way

Of coarse having a map will significantly increase your chances of not getting turned around. Whenever I travel through Quebec I always do some pre-driving preparations just to make sure I know which Highways to get off and on. My last bit of advice for french road signs, follow the herd. As long as you’re doing what everyone else is doing, you’re probably not breaking any laws, of coarse you might not be heading in the right direction, but there’s no fines for being a lost tourist.

3. Know your French Food Terms

Food and Quebec go together like bikini’s and beaches, popcorn and movies, and peanut butter & jelly. Quebec can be a foodie’s paradise, but ordering your favourite dish can be confusing if you know little to no French. For the most part, pointing to what you want on the menu will normally suffice, but if you want to look extra cool, and not make the mistake of ordering something you didn’t want,  knowing a bit of french can make all the difference.

Food Terms

French	English
Je voudrais…	I’d like (a)…
Je suis allergique…	I’m allergic to…
…aux abeilles	…bees
…aux noix	…nuts
C’est combien?	How much is it?
Est-ce que je peux payer avec…	Can I pay with….
…ma carte de credit	…my credit card
…ma carte de débit	…my debit card (ATM/ABM)
Petit-dejeuner (or) Dejeuner	Breakfast
Dejeuner (or) Diner	Lunch
Diner (or) Souper	Dinner / Supper
Manger	Eat
la Soupe	Soup
la Salade	Salad
le Dessert	Desert
le repas	meal
avoir faim	to be hungry
…	…click here for more French food translations

You may have noticed there are a couple ways to say breakfast, lunch, and supper. That’s not a type-o, Quebec french is a little different than traditional French. It can sometimes be confusing if you were taught traditional French. Most French speaking Quebec people will call breakfast “dejeuner”, lunch “diner”, and supper “souper”. However they’ll completely understand what you’re trying to say should you say “petit dejeuner” in lieu of “dejeuner”. Just smile while you’re saying it and you’ll be fine.

4. Booking accommodations in French

If you plan on booking a hotel, bed and breakfast, campground, or a dorm in a hostel, there’s a chance you’ll end up having to do so in French. Knowing what to say in person and over the phone can make booking a place to stay in another language much less stressful.

Accommodation Terms

French	English
Je cherche…	I’m looking for a…
…un Hôtel	…hotel
…une auberge de jeunesse	…youth hostel
…un camping	….camp ground
…une pension de famille	…guesthouse
Est-ce que vous avez des chambres libres?	Do you have any rooms available?
Je vourdrais…	I’d like a…
…une chambre à un lit	…single room
…une chambre pour deux	…room for two
…une chambre avec des lits jumeaux	…room with two beds
…me coucher dans un dortoir	…dorm room
Quel est le prix…?	How much is it…?
…par nuit	…per night
…par personne	….per person
Je pars aujourd’hui	I’m leaving today

5. Understanding some Transportation lingo

If you’re not going to be the one driving there isn’t much need to know about the road signs. However if you plan on catching a bus, train, plane, or ferry, you’ll probably need to know a few french phrases to keep up with all the hustle and bustle going on around you.

Transportation Terms

French	English
Quel heur le (…x) arrive?	What time does the (…x) arrive?
Quel heur le (…x) part?	What time does the (…x) leave?
…le bateau	…boat
…le bus	…bus
…l’avion	…plane
…le train	…train
Je voudrais un billet…	I’d like a … ticket
simple	one-way
aller-retour	round trip
de première classe	first class
Je vourdrais louer…	I’d like to rent/hire…
une voiture	a car
un quatre-quatre	a four wheel drive
un vélo	a bicycle
le numero de quai	Platform number
le guichet	ticket office
la gare	train station

Quebec is a stunning example of Canada’s mosaic of languages and cultures. Whether you know how to say ‘Bonjour‘ or not, you’ll have a good time regardless. Still, brushing up on your French can help you out a lot on the road. Even if you only end up using it a couple times. I compiled the translations into a more “Printer friendly” version, should you decide to print these out and give ‘em a go along the way.

Click here for a Printer Friendly version of the translations.

5 Things English speakers need to know when Traveling through Quebec is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Fact #1. Camper vans rock.

Fact #2. Buying & Selling vehicles can be a pain.

Fact #3. Saving money by sleeping in a Camper Van is clever.

For those who don’t know, Wicked Camper Vans are one of the many transport options backpackers have to travel across Canada. They’re an affordable way to see Canada the way you want to see it. Plus they have cool paintings on them, which makes losing them in a parking lot difficult. I did a quick online search for how much it would cost me to pick up a van  and was surprised how cheap it was. Some might even say its ‘Cheap Like Borscht’ (find out what Borscht is here, it’s delicious and it  turns your pee pink!)

So using Wicked Campers online booking gizmo, I pretended as if I were planning an awesome 2 week winter vacation in Canada starting December 1st from Vancouver, British Columbia. Knowing there’s already plenty of snow, I’ll likely be hanging around the Mountains, as that’s what people do in B.C during December. So pickup & drop-off will be done in Vancouver.

Traveling by Camper Van can get cold during the winter, so let’s do some more pretending and say a really good looking girl who happens to find me incredibly attractive wants to come with and do some of that ‘heat-sharing’ I hear so much about. Let’s call her Megan…Megan Fox. I’ll need at least a 2-person camper-van as one must have a decent amount of room to make sharing heat a pleasurable experience for both, thankfully they have one in stock. Click.

Click to Zoom

According to the Wicked Camper Booking Gizmo, I can rent a campervan for $50 a day. Insurance will set me back an extra $10 a day. Knowing I’ll get lost at least once, renting a GPS is a good idea. GPS rentals go for $3 a day.  I also know that I won’t be going to the Alaska, Yukon, or Northwest Territories, so I won’t need to pay the extra $550 fixed price. With taxes and a few other small surcharges we’re sitting at $1,027.00. At first glance this might seem like quite a bit, but remember, “campervan” is just another word for “uncomfortable home on wheels“. Accommodations alone can almost cost that ($65 double bed at hostel X 14 days = $910) This could be your ticket to a budget backpacking trip through Canada. Keep in mind, this rental is for “off-season prices”, during Summer they’ll likely go up a tad.

Wicked Camper Van Rentals in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Ride sharing is getting more popular in both Canada and the United States. Particularly due to the increase in popularity to ridesharing websites, such as LiftSurfer, PickupPal and RideShareOnline. You’re best chance of finding a ride share in Canada will be between major city centers, such as Vancouver to Calgary, Toronto to Montreal, etc. However, with enough searching, and some careful planning, you can get just about anywhere, particularly if it’s along the Trans-Canada Highway.

For anyone unfamiliar with Ride sharing, here’s how it works.

• Somebody with a car posts online where they’ll be going, when they are leaving, and how long they plan on taking to get there.
• People looking for lifts check online, contact them through the websites or by email, and decide on conditions (usually you’re expected to split the cost of gas/petrol, and sometimes a bit of driving on long haul trips)
• Somebody looking for a ride could also post a request listing, and if somebody is about to drive that way, they’ll reply to you.

I suggest you give your self at least one week to find a ride, as it can sometimes be a waiting game until you find the ride you’re looking for. You can also check Backpackers & hostel notice boards, sometimes ride sharing fliers will be found on them.

Just like hitchhiking, you should use common sense, and let as many people know who you’re going with, where you’re going, and when you’ll be getting there. Keep in contact with friends or family along the way. Feel free to confirm the identity of anyone you’ll be riding with. Despite the possible dangers, you’ve got a way better chance to see a locals perspective on Canada, and the chance to make a new friend. Ride sharing can be a great way to save some money and the environment, just remember to stay safe, use common sense, and have fun.

Start looking for Ride Shares at LiftSurfer and RideShareOnline and PickupPal

Ride Share in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Train Travel in Canada is still very much a part of this country’s heritage. There are many ways to see Canada, but the to see the Great North by train is easily one of the most memorable. With countless different routes you can choose from, such as long haul coast to coast trains, to just city to city rides. Each of them provide a unique look into the Canadian landscape.  Below are some of my favourite train trips in Canada.

The Canadian

Easily one of the greatest train journeys in Canada, VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” runs thrice a week, 365 days a year. The Canadian links Toronto, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Jasper, and Vancouver. This scenic journey takes 4 nights from start to finish. VIA Rail still uses the original 1955 built stainless-steel coaches to get you from point A to point B. There are two classes to choose from.

Economy Class – Comfy seats with plenty of room to stretch and relax, along with full-coarse meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and booze is available for purchase. Pillows and blankets are also provided during the night.

Sleeper Class – Cosy accommodations in a berth, a cabin for one, two, three, or four people, or go all out and get a suite. Delicious meals which highlight regional specialties. Exclusive access to the Park Car, with lounges, and the famous 360-degree panoramic views.

Click here for more information on “The Canadian”

The Rocky Mountaineer

For one of the most majestic train travel experiences, look into The Rocky Mountaineer Train. It’s a unique experience, considered by most to be a trip of a lifetime. The Rocky Mountaineer follows the historic route which was constructed over 100 years ago, uniting the East with the West. The journey will take two days from start to finish. The Rocky Mountaineer only travels during the day, which is probably a good thing, as you don’t want to miss a sight on this ride. Stops include Vancouver, Whistler, Jasper, Banff, and Calgary. Expect to see plenty of wildlife, and some of the most beautiful scenery you can imagine.

Click here for booking information on The Rocky Mountaineer

“The Ocean”

This train departs from Montreal in the evening and arrives in Halifax roughly 20 hours later. The Ocean is an overnight journey which follows the St. Lawrence River, before crossing into New Brunswick, followed by Nova Scotia. Take a peak out into the Atlantic ocean, and on a calm night reflections of the train can put any insomniac to sleep. The Ocean is a year round train, which offers plenty of room. Stops include Montreal, Halifax, and Moncton. The Ocean is one of the best ways to view the East coast of Canada.

Click here for booking information on The Ocean

Winnipeg – Churchill

Finding your way to the Arctic can be difficult, one of the best alternatives to flying up North, is grabbing VIA Rail’s Winnipeg to Churchill train. Watch as the prairies cross into boreal forest, and view what so few have seen before. The Arctic Tundra. This train journey is 1,700 km (1, 000 miles), in two days you could find yourself in Northern Manitoba. The perfect location to spot polar bears, balugas, and the Northern Lights. To top it all off, it’s a relatively cheap ride too.

Click here for booking information on The Winnipeg – Churchill

Train travel however can be expensive. In order to cut as many costs as possible, be sure to take advantage of their youth and student promotions. Students and Adults (18-25) with an ISIC card are eligible for a discount on regular adult economy class fare. Or try the VIA 6 Pak, which gives you 6 voucher for one way travel between any two pre-selected cities on VIA Rail.

Click here for more booking information with VIA Rail

Train Travel in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

For all those Facebook users, check out Mile High Flyer, it is THE application to have to find cheap flights for your friends. And who knows, maybe if they like you enough they’ll actually book the flight and say hello!

Track Cheap Flights with Facebook is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Scoring a cheap flight in Canada isn’t the easiest thing. By comparison to other countries, flying in Canada can be expensive if you don’t plan it right and use all the services at your disposal. There are several factors to take in when trying to find the best deal on a domestic or international Canadian flight.

The two most popular airlines are AirCanada and Westjet. Both of which run international and domestic flights through Canada. AirCanada Jazz and Tango are their cheapest flights, and occasionally that can be noticeable. However, since AirCanada became the official airline of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, the flights are getting much nicer. The majority of airplanes in Canada will have a personal entertainment system built into the seat ahead of you, as well as those awesome fold down trays we all love so much.

Step 1

Check for specials. Airlines will occasionally have specials during certain weeks of the month. If you’re trips not for another couple months, make a habit of looking twice a week for specials. Sometimes its only 15% off, but that 15% could go towards accommodation, food, or drinks.

Step 2

Book your flights to fly during Mid week. A flight on a Tuesday or Wednesday will be cheaper than a flight on Friday or Saturday. Always! Also, try and making the initial booking on a Tuesday or Wednesday, airlines have a habit of lowering their prices mid week.

Step 3

Search Google for Coupon Codes – apply a coupon code to your flight and save sometimes up to 40% off your flight! Check out Smart Canucks and Bargain Moose, they occasionally run coupon codes for flights. I’ve used these several times without a problem.

Step 4

Compare costs of flights between Expedia, Kayak, Orbitz – some will be cheaper than others. Once you’ve found one, don’t hesitate too long. If you think it’s a better deal than what the others are offering, it probably is, dive on it before someone else does. However, check the airlines website for the exact same date. Occasionally it will be cheaper through the airlines as Orbitz takes a small fee (~$6), might save you the cost of a beer.

Step 5

Book ahead – leaving a flight until last minute can cost you quite a bit. Try and give yourself at least 3 weeks, 4 would be preferable. But when you’re Backpacking Across Canada, sometimes schedules don’t always work.

Step 6

If you’re a student or under 25 years of age, apply for a ISIC card. If you fly often, these cards are great to have, they’re valid all over the world, including Canada. With these cards you can use student sales at  http://www.travelcuts.com/ – a great canadian site used by University students for cheap flights worldwide.

Step 7

If you plan on making more than a couple flights throughout Canada, The United Stated, and Mexico, you should consider buying a North American Air Pass through Star Alliance. This pass allows you to purchase coupons (3 to 10) for flights anywhere through North America. There are serious amounts of savings to be had here, definitely worth looking into it. 

Warning

Flights between Labor Day and Thanksgiving tend to be the cheapest time to book flights. Should you try and grab a flight around Christmas, you’re sure to pay some holiday inflation. Same goes for just about any other holiday, as well as the time of the day. Airlines update costs up to 5 times a day. Check the flights as early as possible. Check at least once before 5am, and again at or around 5pm.
Fly safe!

7 Steps to finding Cheap Flights in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

I understand some of you may see this as stealing. I however don’t. So give it a go, you know you want to…

Read the original article here

How to get Free Wifi in Airports is a post from: I Backpack Canada

This iPhone application allows passengers to search Air Canada flights by route  or by flight number. Passengers receive all the information they need, such as flight status and gate numbers. It even allows users to check-in using their iPhone. There have been more and more airlines trying to incorporate the use of cell phone technology to their passengers, however Air Canada seems to have been one of the first to nail it.

Included within the App is the ability to setup a car rental using Avis or Budget, which allows users to grab a rental without ever leaving the Air Canada App. Air Canada has included several other features into their application as well. If you’re an iPhone user, and you plan on traveling Canada, it’s probably worth it to download the app and check it out yourself.

Click here to find out How to Download the iPhone Air Canada App

Air Canada iPhone App is a post from: I Backpack Canada

The majority of Wal-Marts across Canada allow RV/Campervans to park free of charge in their parking lot. Be sure to check all entrances for a “No Overnight RV Parking” sign, however these signs are rare. There are some Wal-Marts that refuse free RV and Camper parking, but they are few and far between. Many Wal-Marts have taken an underused portion of their lot and use it to encourage the RV/Campervans to stay. Knowing perfectly well that you will likely use their facilities and perhaps even stock up for the next leg of your trip.

One thing worth mentioning, is this is free parking, not free camping. Unfortunately you can’t just pitch a tent in the parking lot, despite how cool that would be. In order to reap the benefits of free RV/Campervan parking, one needs to have a RV (motorhome) a campervan, or at least a car to sleep in.

I highly recommend you use this as a last resort, the campgrounds in Canada are truly unique. Many are next to rivers, lakes, and beautiful scenery. Each offering it’s own view into the Canadian Wilderness. It’s very rare you’ll experience this kind of beauty in a Wal-mart parking lot.

The thought of sleeping on the doorsteps of a mega-chain store might sicken you to your stomach, considering you are traveling Canada to experience the “Great Outdoors”, not the “Great parking lots that destroy the great outdoors”. Keep in mind, the damage is done, and I’m rarely one to look a gift horse in the mouth.

Free RV/CamperVan Parking is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Photo Du Jour – Roadtrip to Saskatoon is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Despite the massive size of Canada, this beautiful country doesn’t leave you with a lot of choices when it comes to choosing which bus company to take. The most popular, and most affordable would be Greyhound. They offer point to point tickets or Discovery Passes, which provide you with unlimited travel over a select number of days. (7, 14, 30, 60)

Discounts up to 25% off are available for students as well as Youth 18-25. Also, if you have a HI card, it entitles you to a free upgrade from 7 day Discovery Pass to 15 day Discovery Pass.

Discovery Pass Prices

• 7-Day – $199Cn
• 5-Day – $299Cn
• 30-Day – $399Cn
• 60-Day – $499Cn

The Discovery Passes are also valid with several smaller bus line companies as well. For a list of Interline Partners click here.

Traveling by bus in Canada isn’t the fastest way to travel, but it really does show a lot more of the country than you’d expect. Just be sure to take as many stops as possible, get off the Trans Canada Highway. Don’t let your memories become stops at Gas Stations, Tim Hortons, and the occasional Wendys or Burger King. Get out and explore. There is plenty to see and do.

Click here for more info on Discovery Passes.

Bus Travel in Canada is a post from: I Backpack Canada

Finding your wheels

There are countless resources available to help you find a vehicle.

• Grab a local newspaper -  check the classified section. You’re bound to find countless vehicles for sale in there.
• Check bulletin boards – Most hostels have bulletin boards with vehicles for sale
• Autotrader.ca – This website lists vehicles for sale all over Canada, search by make, model, year, cost, and location
• UsedVancouver.com or UsedToronto.com – or other used”cityname”.com – An online sales site where you can find anything from used desks, beds, and even Vehicles

Keep in mind however, buying privately can save you money (especially if marked o.b.o “or best offer”) – Feel free to try and get them to lower their price, but once the vehicle is out of their hands, they aren’t held liable for anything wrong with the vehicle. You are buying it “as is” – Where as if you buy through a used dealer, at least you have someone to call up and yell at if your vehicle dies a week after you bought it.

Licence,  Registration, and Insurance

You might be wondering how legal it is for someone from outside of the country to buy a vehicle, and drive the sucker. Especially if you’ve never driven on the right hand side of the road. Well you should be happy to hear that it is very legal. So long as you have your licence in your home country, you are eligible to drive in Canada for up to one year. If you do happen to have a run in with the RCMP or local police due to speeding or some other traffic violation, you’ll want to be sure you can show them your licence and vehicle registration, and maybe even your passport. Another thing worth considering is signing up for an international drivers permit. There’s no formal test or anything, you just send some money to them and they send you a card which is more or less a “global drivers licence” – although this isn’t necessary. Read more into it at CAA Website.

As soon as you buy a vehicle you’re going to need proof of purchase, normally the registration papers and a ‘Bill of Sale’ with the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and the sellers and buyers signature. You’ll also need the cost of the sale on the bill of sale. (Under $2000 will normally exempt you from paying taxes when done privately) Once you’ve got the bill and papers in order you can head to a local insurer to get some license plates, the registration put in your name, and of coarse the insurance. In Canada basic auto insurance is mandatory. Some Canadian provinces provide public auto insurance (British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Quebec) which is normally a lot cheaper. While the private insurance in the other provinces jack up the prices. So keep that in mind when buying a vehicle.

Vehicle Roadworthiness

Just because you found a sweet ride that’s in your budget, doesn’t mean its going to survive the long hours of driving at highway speeds. Before buying any vehicle,  especially one you plan on travelling across Canada, there are a few things to check for.

• Tire tread – Watch for real bald tires
• Colour of exhaust fumes – Black = Burning oil
• Oil levels – Check the dipstick prior to buying
• Coolant levels – If coolants low the engines been running hot, that’s bad.
• Headlights – Low & High – Make sure both are working, you’ll need them.
• Turn signals / Hazard lights – You’ll be using these, make sure they work.
• Breaks – Test their responsiveness, listen for grinding sounds. That’s bad.
• Kilometres – Be realistic, old vehicles have lots. But 250,000+km’s…Bad.
• Leaks – check pavement where car has been parked
• Loose belts – Check how loose the belts are, look for cracks too.
• Spare tire / Wheel wrench / jack – Make sure the vehicle has these.

If all checks out you may have found your vehicle. If you suspect anything else needs to be looked over, take it into a mechanic, this will cost you, but sometimes a good tune up is all a car needs. Might save you money and headaches down the road.

You might also want to buy an emergency kit for your car, just in case you end up stranded on the highway far from any towns. A basic emergency kit for your car should include:

• Jumper wires
• Tire sealer-inflator can
• Tire gauge
• Couple of rags and work glows
• Flashlight
• Simple tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers and set of most common sockets.
• Consider also a spare headlight bulb and a couple of fuses, bottles of engine oil, windshield washer fluid and antifreeze, an emergency stop sign or flares, a duct tape, an electrical tape, spare ignition key, etc.
• Don’t forget your personal emergency kit with First Aid kit and items like a blanket, a bottle of water, couple of energy bars, etc.

Cost of fuel

You’re bound to hear it while you’re in North America. People love to complain about rising gas prices. It’s on the news. At the supermarket. In the bars. But considering how much you may have been paying for gas back home, you may find gas surprisingly cheap. It usually hovers around a dollar per litre. That’s a loonie per litre people. It’s not that bad. Check out Gasbuddy to find out gas prices around Canada.

Depending how bad your vehicle is on gas, you’re going to need to do quite a bit of filling up along the way. So any help you can get with gas is usually worth it. Leave a post on the hostels bulletin board, informing people where you’re going, and when you’ll get there. Let them know they can join if they pitch in for gas. This can cut costs quite a bit, especially if you’ve got the room. Although you may end up stuck with someone who’s less than fun to be around. Which is why I normally suggest posting only for shorter haul trips. Vancouver to Calgary for example, 10 hours of driving. Then just find somebody new in Calgary if you need to. If you’re not having much luck finding anyone to join, try eRideShare – an online service that connects drivers with joiners.

Driving on the Right Hand Side

If I can learn how to drive on the left, anyone can learn to drive on the right. It’s not really that different. The only problems I found when switching sides was parking. (I tended to look in the wrong direction for traffic coming, it almost got me in trouble a couple times) Just remember to pay attention at all times, try practicing if possible. Give yourself a day or two of training in quiet residential areas, then work your way up to more busier streets. If you were worried at all about roundabouts you’ll be happy to hear there are very few of them in Canada. Maybe 3. Most of North American traffic is controlled by Traffic Lights & 4 Way Stops.

If you’ve got time on your hands, and want to go over the Canadian Rules of the Road, read SGI’s Drivers Handbook – this book goes into everything from Traffic Signs to driving laws. Definitely worth skimming through.

Freedom Camping

One of the great things about owning your own vehicle in Canada, is how easy it can turn into accommodation for the night. Although it’s not always legal, even if you get caught, the most you’re looking at is a small parking fine, normally the cops will just tell you to take off. It’s just a matter of finding somewhere to park where you’re not bothering people, and they’re not bothering you. Truck stops are always fair game, but then there’s the fact that they’re probably the creepiest places to sleep. Parking lots, beaches, parks, and even quiet residential streets are usually the safest places to check out. Just be quiet, and respectful. Getting wasted in your van outside of some poor fellows house may not be the smartest idea.

If being on the lookout 24/7 and worrying who you may be bothering isn’t for you, just grab a campsite. It’ll cost you roughly $25 split between a couple people. Plus you have access to toilets and facilities. Which is always much more comfy than squatting on Mr. Hendersons front lawn.

Winter driving

If you’re not used to driving in the icy road conditions, there are a few things you should know.

• Tap the breaks – When slowing down for a stop sign or anything really, tap the brakes, if your wheels lock and you’re still going fast, you’re going to keep sliding, so tap them until you come to a stop.
• Keep your tank half full – If you do end up stuck in a whiteout, you’re going to want to keep warm, stay in the car, keep the engine running and the heat on. Just remember to keep the window open a crack, carbon monoxide poisoning in situations like this kills several people a year.
• Keep a safe distance between you and the car ahead of you, the icier it is, the more distance you should leave. If he slams on the breaks, you don’t want to go sliding into him.
• When passing snowploughs be extremely careful. Do it slowly.
• Avoid driving in extremely icy conditions. If there was recently freezing rain, stay off the roads.
• Take everything slowly, slow starts, slow stops, slow turns, you name it. Nobody will mind, you won’t look strange doing it, everybody does it. Those who don’t can usually be found in the ditch.
• Get a window scraper – Scrape all your windows before driving. Not a tiny hole in the windshield. You need to see what’s going on around you.
• Practice – If you’re worried you’ll end up hurting yourself or someone else, go practice in an empty parking lot or on some quiet streets.

Repairing your vehicle

Before you set off on your next leg of your road trip be sure to check over your vehicle. Check fluid levels, tire treads, tire pressure, etc. If however, your vehicle does decide to die on you, there are a few things you should know. First off, write these numbers down, or save them in your phone. Call 1-800-CAA-HELP/1-800-222-4357 OR *222 on your mobile phone. Should you ever be stranded, and need a tow to a mechanic, call these guys. Ask them how much it’s going to cost you to get your vehicle to the closest shop. They should know.

Finding a mechanic in a city you’ve never been isn’t always the most fun way to spend a Tuesday afternoon. A few things to note should you need to find one.

• Speak to CAA – if they helped tow you, they should be able to help you find a mechanic
• Call 0 on any touchtone phone to speak to the local operator, or 00 for long distance operator. They should be able to help out as well.
• The Yellow Pages – Any public payphone should have a phonebook as well (so long as it hasn’t been stolen or torn to pieces) – A quick check under automotive or mechanic should bring up several businesses willing to take your money.
• If you can make it to a gas station, sometimes you’ll luck out and find a helping hand from either the station attendants or just a caring citizen willing to help out. Remember you’re in Canada, we’re rarely in a hurry, and most of us have had a car die before. We’re an empathetic country.

Selling your car after the trip

So you’ve managed to pull it off. Saw as many things as possible, all the while keeping your car in a worthy condition. Selling it is very similar to the buying process. The only thing is that you’re going to have lower your expectations. Especially if you don’t have a lot of time to sell it. Just because you paid $1500 on a vehicle doesn’t mean you can sell it for that. Be realistic. If you put a few thousand kilometres on it, and you sell it for even half of what you paid, you ended up covering transport costs for just over  $700. That’s roughly the cost of a round trip ticket inside Canada. Just be sure you give yourself plenty of time to sell it. At least 2 weeks. Three to be safe.

Make up a poster with the vehicle details on it. Make sure you’ve got a picture or two as well. Post it everywhere you can think of. Coffee shops. Bulletin Boards. Hostels. Put out some online posts, be sure to post via Autotrader.ca – and UsedToronto.com – the more people who see it, the more likely you’ll get it off your hands.

What happens if you can’t sell it? Well, you’ve got a couple options. Take it to a scrap yard, they’ll give you a few hundred dollars at least for it. Or you can always give it to somebody. If you explain to a fellow backpacker that you’re leaving right away and need this off your hands, I’m sure they’ll be more than happy to take it. You could even try asking for a couple hundred dollars. It’s up to you.

When it’s all said and done, whether you make money, or lose money off your vehicle, just remember that if you had spent that money on a bus trip, or a flight, you don’t receive any money back. There are no refunds. Buying a vehicle is kind of nice that way. You might get some money back. If buying a vehicle is the right thing for you, I suggest you start thinking of what you’re going to name it…

How to Buy a Car to Travel Canada With is a post from: I Backpack Canada