Camper Rental Western Canada
Renting a Camper in Western Canada: Everything you need to know
Arrival and travel documents: Don’t forget your eTA
Before you travel to Canada, you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This is a digital entry permit required for most travellers arriving by air. You can easily apply online via official websites, and it usually costs around €30 per person. We recommend applying at least 72 hours before your flight, although you can apply months in advance if you like, as the eTA is valid for five years.
As Dutch travellers, we had to ensure our passports were valid for the entire duration of our trip, and this is something all international visitors should check. Even if you are from another country, the principle is the same: make sure your documents are in order to avoid delays at the airport. Having this sorted well in advance gives peace of mind, especially when travelling with a camper and planning a flexible journey.
Best time to travel: Summer crowds or shoulder season calm?
The summer months (June, July, and August) are perfect for a camper trip in Western Canada. The weather is usually warm and sunny, all campsites and attractions are open, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. That said, summer is also peak season, and many of the national park campgrounds operate on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. If you arrive late in the day, your preferred spots could already be full.
If you prefer a quieter experience, the spring and autumn months can be ideal. You’ll find fewer tourists, calmer campsites, and a more peaceful atmosphere. However, keep in mind that some campgrounds, shops, and rental offices may be closed, especially after Canadian Thanksgiving in October. Even camper rental offices sometimes close on Sundays in the off-season, so plan your pick-up and drop-off times carefully.
While nature is accessible year-round, winter travel requires extra preparation. Roads can be snowy or icy, and some attractions may be closed. A winter camper trip is still possible but definitely needs careful planning and the right vehicle.
Driving in Canada: Relaxed and familiar
Driving in Canada is generally straightforward, especially if you’re used to European roads. Traffic flows on the right-hand side, speed limits are clear, and road signs are easy to understand. Outside major cities, roads are well-maintained and traffic is usually light, making for a relaxing driving experience.
We always recommend bringing an International Driving Permit (IDP). In the Netherlands, you can obtain one easily at an ANWB office, but other countries have similar arrangements. Most camper rental companies, including larger ones like Cruise Canada, require drivers to be at least 21 years old.
From our own experience, only one of us (Sander) had an international license, but the rental company allowed everyone to drive. We rented a camper for five people, about nine metres long, and even Tessa, who didn’t have a trailer license, could drive it comfortably. Of course, it’s important to consider your own comfort level with a larger vehicle before hitting the road.
Camping in Western Canada: Plenty of options
Western Canada is a camper’s paradise. While wild camping on private land, in parking lots, or near highways is generally not allowed, there are plenty of official campsites and designated areas where you can stay, even in the middle of nature.
We used the Freeroam app to find suitable overnight spots, which made planning easy. Each province also has official camping websites. British Columbia and Alberta, for example, provide maps and listings of campgrounds, including facilities, prices, and opening hours. Staying at these sites is often very affordable and gives you the chance to sleep surrounded by mountains, forests, and lakes.
National Parks: Passes and handy tips
If you plan to visit the major national parks, such as Jasper or Banff, you’ll need a park pass. These passes are valid for one year and can be issued in multiple names. A helpful tip from our trip: we bought a pass second-hand via Marktplaats, and added our own name as the second user. This worked perfectly without any problems.
Campgrounds within national parks are often located in beautiful natural settings, offering a unique and memorable experience. The costs are generally reasonable, and waking up surrounded by mountains or by a sparkling lake is something you won’t forget.
Keep in mind that provincial parks sometimes have different rules. For example, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park allows bookings only two days in advance, and operates on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Checking the rules of each park in advance is always wise to avoid disappointment.
Takeaway: Camper rental Western Canada
Travelling through Western Canada in a camper is a unique and unforgettable experience. It gives you freedom, flexibility, and direct access to some of the most beautiful landscapes in North America. With proper preparation – including your travel documents, driving licenses, and camping plans – you can make the most of every day on the road.
Whether you wake up next to a crystal-clear mountain lake, fall asleep under a sky full of stars, or drive through endless forests, a camper trip in Western Canada is a journey you’ll remember forever. From our experience as Dutch travellers, it’s important to note that some rules, such as driving licences and campsite bookings, might vary depending on your nationality. Planning ahead is key, but the rewards – freedom, adventure, and breathtaking scenery – are more than worth it.