Secure the best Cheap Flights to Canada for your next big trip

Winter is perfect for skiing in the Rockies or experiencing the magical Winterlude festival in Ottawa. Prices are low except near Christmas.

Spring brings blooming tulips to Ottawa and cherry blossoms to Vancouver. It is a great time for budget-conscious travelers.

Summer is the peak season for hiking, festivals, and exploring the Great Lakes. Expect higher flight prices and warm weather.

Fall is famous for the spectacular changing leaves in Ontario and Quebec. It's a beautiful, crisp time for sightseeing.

British citizens traveling to Canada by air must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their flight. The process is completed online and usually takes only a few minutes, costing a small fee of 7 CAD. Your eTA is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to five years or until your passport expires. It is vital to use the official Canadian government website to avoid extra service fees from third-party sites. While you don't need a traditional visa for tourism, you must show your eTA at check-in. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry. Always carry a printed copy of your eTA confirmation just in case of technical issues at the airport.

Canada is the second-largest country in the world, so planning your internal travel is crucial. For travel between major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa, the VIA Rail network is efficient and scenic. However, for crossing the vast distances between the east and west coasts, domestic flights are the only practical option. Within cities, public transit systems like Toronto's TTC or Montreal's STM are excellent. If you plan to explore national parks like Banff or Jasper, renting a car is almost essential as public transport is limited in rural areas. Be aware that driving distances are huge; driving from Toronto to Vancouver takes about 40 hours of pure driving time. In winter, ensure your rental car has winter tires and be prepared for challenging snowy conditions on highways.

Canadian culture is known for politeness and a mix of British and French influences. Tipping is a standard practice and is expected in restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis or haircuts; a standard tip is 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill. In the province of Quebec, French is the primary language, and while most people in tourist areas speak English, learning a few basic French phrases is highly appreciated. Canadians value personal space and punctuality. When visiting, you will find the pace of life slightly more relaxed than in London, but still efficient. It is also important to respect the indigenous cultures of Canada; many areas are on traditional ancestral lands. Always follow local signs in parks to protect the environment and wildlife, as Canadians take nature conservation very seriously.

Canada is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries for travelers. Violent crime is very low, but petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist spots in major cities. A common local 'scam' involves unofficial taxis at airports; always use the regulated taxi ranks or ride-sharing apps like Uber. In the wild, the biggest safety concern is actually the environment and wildlife. Always keep a safe distance from bears and elk in national parks, and never leave food in your car or tent. Winter weather can be extreme, with temperatures dropping below -20°C; always check weather forecasts and dress in layers. For UK travelers, the 'Don't be a tourist' tip is to avoid only eating at chain restaurants. Explore local 'poutine' shops or farmers' markets to experience the real culinary heart of the country like a local would.