Travel Plans: Albertans Visiting Bc, Allowed?

British Columbia is known for its diverse culture, history, and landscapes. The province offers excellent food, abundant nature, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality. There are many national and provincial parks, with breathtaking scenery and inspiring natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. During the COVID-19 pandemic, British Columbia advised against non-essential travel outside the province, but there was no legal ban on interprovincial travel. Albertans who travel to British Columbia should be aware of the local travel restrictions and recommendations, as well as the identification and visa requirements for entering Canada.

Travel restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries imposed quarantines, entry bans, or other travel restrictions for citizens of or recent travellers to the most affected areas. Some countries imposed global restrictions that applied to all foreign countries, or prevented their own citizens from travelling abroad. Travel restrictions were most effective during the early stages of the pandemic, before community spread had occurred in several countries. They were also particularly effective when the disease was regionally contained and easily detectable, as was the case with Ebola.

A study in Science found that travel restrictions could delay the arrival of COVID-19 in a country, but only produced modest overall effects unless combined with infection prevention and control measures to considerably reduce transmissions. Travel restrictions may be most important at the start and end of a pandemic.

The travel restrictions brought a significant economic cost to the global tourism industry through lost income and social harm to people who were unable to travel internationally. When travel bans are lifted, many people are expected to resume travelling. However, some travel, especially business travel, may decrease in the long term as lower-cost alternatives such as teleconferencing and virtual events have gained preference in the professional world.

The impact of travel restrictions on trade has also been significant. The findings reveal that travelling time can account for most of the trade frictions that cause bilateral trade to sharply decline with geographical distance, suggesting that the current travel restrictions could have large negative effects on trade.

Identification requirements for entry

All travellers to Canada, including Canadian citizens, must carry proper identification for themselves and any children travelling with them. This is to help confirm their legal right or authorization to enter the country.

Canadian citizens

Canadian citizens enter Canada by right but must still demonstrate to a border services officer that they meet the requirements for entering Canada. Acceptable documents to denote identity and citizenship include:

• A valid Canadian passport (the only universally accepted identification document and proof of the right to return to Canada)
• Canadian emergency travel document
• Canadian temporary passport
• CANPASS authorization
• Commercial driver registration program card
• FAST card (Free and Secure Trade)
• NEXUS card
• Citizenship and immigration documents
• Canadian permanent residence card
• Canadian citizenship card
• Certificate of Canadian citizenship (issued from 1954 to present)
• Certificate of retention (issued between January 1, 1947, and February 14, 1977)
• Certificate of naturalization (issued before January 1, 1947)
• Registration of birth abroad certificate (issued between January 1, 1947, and February 14, 1977, by Canadian citizenship authorities)
• Provincial or territorial documents, such as a birth certificate (for individuals born in Canada)
• Enhanced driver's license
• Enhanced identification/photo card
• Health insurance card
• Vehicle registration
• Other valid documents, such as Canadian Forces identification, employment or student card with photo and signature, police identification, firearms acquisition certificate, etc.

International visitors

All international travellers must carry acceptable identification and a valid visa (if necessary) when entering Canada. A passport is the only reliable and universally-accepted travel and identification document when abroad. In addition to a passport, travellers may need a travel authorization such as a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

US citizens or permanent residents

US citizens or permanent residents must carry proof of citizenship such as:

• A valid US passport
• Certificate of citizenship or naturalization
• Certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification
• US Permanent Resident Card

NEXUS and FAST members who are permanent residents of the US must still travel with a passport and proof of permanent residence.

Travelling with children

When travelling with a minor, you should:

• Carry copies of any legal custody documents, such as custody rights, if applicable
• Arrive at the border in the same vehicle as the minor
• Carry a consent letter if you share custody of the minor and the other parent or legal guardian is not travelling with you, or if you are not the parent or legal guardian of the minor.

Transport options

There are several transport options available for travelling from Alberta to British Columbia.

If you're looking to travel by road, you can take the Highway 37 Stewart-Cassiar route or the Alaska Highway. When passing between British Columbia and Alberta, you may be required to pay a fee when entering a national park.

For those interested in a scenic train journey, the Rocky Mountaineer offers a luxurious travel experience with breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies. The train departs from Banff and travels through the Jasper National Park, offering "GoldLeaf Service" with armchair seating in the observation lounge of a double-decker rail car.

In terms of air travel, the closest major airport to Alberta is Calgary International Airport, which serves as a hub for several airlines and offers connections to destinations across Canada and beyond.

Additionally, with the recent completion of British Columbia's "Electric Highway," it is now possible to drive throughout the entire province in an electric vehicle. This comprehensive network of public electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations is located along all highways and major roadways, approximately 150 kilometres apart, making EV travel more accessible and reliable.

Finally, for those seeking a unique travel experience, there is the option to cruise from Vancouver to Alaska, following the pioneering voyages of Captain George Vancouver. This allows travellers to take in the breathtaking scenery of the great archipelago of islands, mountains, and forests that stretch along the west coast.

Accommodation options

British Columbia offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxurious suites to campgrounds. Here is a detailed overview of the various accommodation choices available in BC:

Hotels: BC is home to a variety of hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. You can find anything from budget-friendly options like Super 8 to more upscale choices such as Poets Cove Resort & Spa. Hotels in BC often provide convenient access to popular attractions and offer amenities such as room service, free breakfast, and swimming pools.

Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): For a more intimate and cosy experience, B&Bs are a great choice. These accommodations typically offer comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast included in the rate. Tumblehome Farm B&B on Hornby Island and Blue Grouse Country Inn in Clearwater are excellent examples of the charming B&Bs available in BC.

Cabins and Cottages: If you're seeking a tranquil escape surrounded by nature, cabins and cottages are an ideal option. From the custom-built Cabins West in Ucluelet to the unique spherical tree houses of Free Spirit Spheres Inc. in Qualicum Beach, these accommodations provide a memorable stay.

Resorts and Wilderness Lodges: For a luxurious and relaxing getaway, consider a resort or wilderness lodge. Poets Cove Resort & Spa on Pender Island and Wya Point Resort in Ucluelet offer guests a chance to unwind in beautiful natural settings while enjoying spa treatments and other amenities.

Campgrounds and RV Parks: BC is an ideal destination for camping enthusiasts, with numerous campgrounds and RV parks scattered across the province. Dutch Lake Resort & RV Park in Clearwater and Puntledge RV Park in Courtenay offer scenic and well-maintained facilities for those who enjoy being closer to nature.

On-Campus Housing: If you're visiting BC as a student, on-campus housing can be a convenient and affordable option. Many educational institutions in BC provide on-campus accommodation, allowing students to immerse themselves in campus life and easily access academic resources.

Homestay Programs: For those who want to immerse themselves in the local culture, homestay programs offer the opportunity to live with a host family. This option provides a furnished room, meals, and a unique insight into daily life in BC.

Rental Platforms: Websites like liv.rent, Yarrow, and places4students.com cater specifically to students looking for accommodation in BC. These platforms offer a range of rental options, from apartments to shared housing, and can help you find a place that fits your budget and preferences.

It's important to note that the cost of living in BC, particularly in metropolitan areas like Vancouver, can be high. Therefore, it is recommended to research and plan your accommodation choices accordingly. Additionally, always be cautious of online scams when searching for rental options, and remember to inspect the property thoroughly before signing any lease agreements.

Attractions and activities

British Columbia is known for its spectacular national and provincial parks. The breathtaking scenery and inspiring natural surroundings in the parks provide the perfect setting for tuning into nature, learning about it, appreciating it, and respecting it.

BC Parks offer campsites, day-use areas, and thousands of kilometres of trails. Parks Canada offers campsites, day-use areas, and hiking, including the famous multi-day west coast trail. Recreation sites and trails offer a backcountry experience with simple, rustic camping, generally located in remote areas and accessed by gravel forestry roads.

BC's transportation network provides safe and reliable service. BC Transit provides public transportation for Victoria, Kelowna, Whistler, and dozens of other communities in the province. TransLink is Metro Vancouver's public transportation system. Travel from the mainland to the islands with BC Ferries.

BC is also known for its excellent food, vibrant cities, and abundant nature.

• The Bow Falls Lookout: A short 1.5 km scenic walk from Banff town (or drive) will take you to the Bow River Waterfall.
• Cave and Basin National Historic Site: See historic hot springs that are home to a rare species of snail and learn about the area at the museum.
• Fairmont Banff Food Tour: This gourmet food tour takes place inside the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
• Mt Norquay Gondola: Enjoy scenic views from the gondola and visit the restaurant at the top for a beer with a view.
• Lake Louise: Relax at the Lake Louise foreshore and enjoy the views of mountain peaks, glaciers, and the famous blue lake.
• Moraine Lake: Visit for sunrise to see this iconic lake with fewer people and take the Lakeshore Trail to enjoy magnificent views.
• Canmore: Go skiing at Nakiska, a popular ski resort, or try rafting down the Bow River.
• Upper Kananaskis Lake: Enjoy this large, scenic lake surrounded by sweeping mountain views, woods, hiking trails, and ski routes.
• The Bow Valley Parkway: Take a scenic drive through Banff National Park and stop at viewpoints such as Morant's Curve and Castle Mountain Lookout.
• Jasper National Park: Take a flight on the SkyTram for unmatched views of Whistlers Mountain. Walk the Pyramid Lake Boardwalk and visit Spirit Island, the most photographed spot in Jasper National Park.
• Maligne Lake: Go canoeing or take a scenic boat cruise to Spirit Island.
• Calgary: Go on a city tour, visit the Calgary Tower, and explore the trendy neighbourhood of Whyte Avenue.
• Royal Tyrell Museum: This museum in Drumheller displays dinosaur fossils and offers interactive activities for all ages.
• The Hoodoos in the Badlands: Explore these unique rock formations created by wind erosion.
• Dinosaur Provincial Park: Walk the trails and view real dinosaur fossils at this important excavation site.
• Waterton Lakes National Park: Enjoy clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, rainbow-coloured streams, and beautiful mountain vistas.
• Yoho National Park: Visit Emerald Lake, located just 35 minutes from Lake Louise.

Frequently asked questions