Popular March break budget-friendly travel ideas in Canada

March break is quickly approaching and families without a plan can still find some budget-friendly options in Canada.

This year the annual school holiday is from March 10 to 14 in Ontario and many people are looking for alternatives to the traditional Florida family trip after U.S President Donald Trump announced 25 per cent tariffs.

Those looking for a close-to-home vacation may want to consider one of this year’s trending Canadian destinations.

This year searches are up for Kamloops (+80 per cent), Charlottetown (+60 per cent), Nanaimo (+55 per cent), London (+35 per cent), Ottawa (+30 percent), or Victoria (+25 per cent), according to a press release from travel company Expedia.

“With so much to see in our own backyards, now is the perfect time to explore Canada with family,” Expedia said.

Kamloops offers a variety of winter activities including skiing/snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, winter biking and snowmobiling. Flights here from Toronto are pricey — over $1,000.

Charlottetown travellers can try seafood with many local restaurants serving up the freshest catches of the day. Visitors can also enjoy a walk along the waterfront or try out golf courses. There are some flights left for under $600 if you are flexible with dates.

Visitors to Nanaimo will want to try the namesake bar in the city where it was first created.  Travellers can also go on a whale-watching boat tour and enjoy a taste of the local craft brewery scene. There are some flights for under $1,000.

GTA residents can save money with a road trip to Ottawa or London. Fun activities in Canada’s capital include museum visits, sugar bushes and winter sports.

To save money on flights, Expedia suggested avoiding peak travel dates. In spring, the week of March 4 is a peak for international travel and the week of May 13 is a peak for domestic trips. 

People can save nearly $72 compared to peak dates on domestic flights by travelling the week of May 6.  And save nearly $79 compared to peak dates on international flights by travelling the week of April 8. 

Regardless of the departure date, Expedia data showed that departing on a Friday instead of a Monday could shave around 23 per cent off the price of a domestic ticket. 

Lead photo: Ron Rap