Did you know that Canada is rated the second largest country in the world? This country, which borders Alaska on its northwest and the United States on the south, is also surrounded by three oceans, namely the Arctic, Pacific and Atlantic. With such a rich landscape, it would not do justice just to see it on a map but to visit the region and experience everything it offers first hand.
Backpacking is one of the best ways to do this and there are ways to earn some extra cash for your trip, while you’re at it. While travelling to any location, many backpackers take on odd jobs, either part-time or on an ad-hoc basis. This enables them to earn some extra spending money on their trip.
Most folks opt to look at things like WWOOFing or working at Hostels, Restaurants, and Bars. If you do, however, want to make your money go further, you will need to do some careful budgeting. If you’re an avid gamer and love to play play online games for example, the opportunity of playing online games which do not cost money should be your default position till you return home. Additionally, avoiding spending money on items which are not essential should be top of your list.
Furthermore, if you don’t eat in expensive restaurants or use public transport, and walk whenever possible, you can avoid overspending – every little saving adds up as you go along.
One cannot deny that if there is a place that offers lakes, rivers, gigantic mountain ranges, highland plateaus, plains and prairies, not to forget numerous islands; it is Canada.
Topping the list of things to do in Canada, one of the best-rated activities which has become the most popular and well-reviewed, is backpacking.
What is Backpacking?
You have probably heard the phrase ‘backpacker’ multiple times before but weren’t quite sure what it entails. This activity is the popular name given to an independent, low-budget and international way of travelling. Hence, a ‘backpacker’ is someone who enjoys this activity.
In its simplest explanation – Most tourists will travel for one week or a few days when they go to another country, and book their stay into a hotel or a guest house and possibly rent a car or use public transport to visit the different tourist attractions; however, with backpackers, this is seldom the case, as they would travel for long periods and find the most affordable i.e. cheapest places to sleep in hostels or student accommodation.
Backpacking can be done not just in one country but several at one time and over a few months and in this article, we cover the concept of backpacking in Canada. When considering this fun and adventurous activity there are several places you can add to your list, and also several things you can do when you’re spending time with your friends and family who may be with you.
Places To Visit When Backpacking Canada
Alberta
Alberta is one of the most beautiful places you could ever visit. It is part of Western Canada and is one of the three Canadian prairies in the country. A humid continental climate covered with warm summers is what this place is all about. Backpacking is one of the most sought after choices amongst many people who visit this province.
Quebec
The province of Quebec has an affluent French-speaking population. Well known for producing over 70% of the world’s maple syrup, it is rich in both vegetation and wildlife. The famous Taiga forest in Gaspé is a popular destination for many backpackers and tourists because of its rich greenery and wildlife, common to the prairies. It houses over 600 different plant species and over 200 different animals.
This region also has several backpacking hostels and facilities to choose from. Depending on your budget, personal preferences on rooms and beds, and distances you need to travel, you can choose the most suitable one to help keep you comfortable and sleep indoors when taking a break from your trip.
Yukon Territory
Also known as ‘the Yukon’, it is the smallest amongst all territories with only 35,870 residents. Rich in its cultural heritage, Yukon is one place worth a visit to learn about Aboriginal tribes, amongst other cultural and historical attractions. You can indulge your senses in the exotic landscape of the Yukon River at Schwatka Lake and get to see the Miles Canyon from the top of a mountain. A sight to be seen indeed.
The richness of the diversity, not only of the people, but the places as well, makes for one of the most eye-catching backpacking adventures anyone can go on. You can try your hand at some fishing too if you are keen. If you’re lucky you can get to see the mining fields that were created in the ’90s due to the gold rush.
Taking the bare necessities with you is all you need when on an adventure such as this, pack light and have all the necessary amenities you need, and buy food items on the go. Staying in one of the many hostels that the province offers will help provide a comfortable place to lay your head at night and you can get to meet lots of other backpackers and share stories or tips on your journey. They may know some good spots to suggest to you.
