Your Insider Guide To Winter Travel in BC

It is no secret that travel is going to look different this Winter season, with so many transportation providers experiencing service disruption and unclear demand forecasts. I plan vacations for a living and it truly is a full-time job to keep up with the changing landscape of travel in Canada. I just booked a flight only to find out none of the usual transfer companies servicing my destination were running. Suddenly, I found myself with no connections or options beyond a car rental. Next up, a flight time change which in turn changed my car rental reservation. It would have been easy to question why I’m even bothering to plan a trip in the era of COVID-19, but any passionate traveller knows it’s all part of the journey.

So what should you expect and plan for to maximize your safety and minimize stress? I’ve rounded up the latest information on the top 5 transportation options in B.C. to get you up-to-speed:

Flights

Flight times are changing a lot these days as airlines are forced to consolidate flights due to underwhelming demand. It is important to give yourself a buffer and avoid scheduling tours or activities the same day to be prepared for changes. If you do have any can’t miss plans, be prepared to come in a day early to avoid stressing. You’ll also want to ensure any transfers you’re booking have multiple departure times in case you do get delayed and miss your connection.

Road Trips

Many will be avoiding the skies in favour of driving themselves for enhanced social distance, so what should you consider? Don’t assume a car rental comes with Winter tires, this is usually an additional daily fee and needs to be requested in advance. If you’re taking your own car, ensure your vehicle is fully equipped with winter tires along with an emergency kit, blankets, food and water in case of avalanches or highway delays.I love this handy guide from Shift Into Winter to get you prepared. 

Ferries

BC Ferries is typically one of the most reliable service providers in Winter, but can of course be disrupted and delayed due to poor weather conditions. Advance reservations will continue to be crucial, particularly around the holidays to ensure you get the sailing of your choice. If you’re walking on, seek out less busy ferry times by checking Current Conditions to help support distancing and fewer crowds on transit. Terminals will quickly fill with social distancing restrictions so come prepared with an umbrella and warm clothes (and of course, mandatory mask) in case you end up waiting outdoors. A reminder that as of September 30th, passengers travelling on enclosed vehicle decks now need to leave their vehicles. TIP:  If you’re more comfortable to stay in the car, arrive well in advance and request upper deck. BC Ferries will do their best to accommodate requests whenever possible.

Scheduled Transfers

If you’re taking a scheduled bus transfer, be prepared to wear a mask for the duration of your trip (leave the coffee behind!), while on the bus and during check-in. Enhanced cleaning protocols will be put in place between each and every trip and some buses such as Epic Rides also offer a negative airflow system and special anti-virus filters for your safety. Physical distancing will be enforced with a limited number of seats sold and in some cases, assigned seating such as with YVR Skylynx or blocked off rows. Some companies will operate on a reduced schedule such as BC Ferries Connector. BC Connector service between Vancouver, Whistler, Kelowna and Kamloops is currently postponed but the service between Tofino and Vancouver Island remains in effect. TIP: Ensure whatever company you choose for your trip offers guaranteed departures for your peace-of-mind.

Helicopter/Float Plane Service

Winter can be a very unpredictable time for float planes and helicopters, as flights are frequently cancelled due to poor weather and reduced visibility. You can get some amazing last minute deals on these flights, but be prepared that you may end up needing to find a Plan B such as taking the ferry or waiting a few hours for the skies to clear. I used to work at Helijet and our terminal would fill up on bad weather days, when Harbour Air had cancellations. The reason being, helicopters don’t need the same level of visibility to fly as float planes do.

As tourism businesses try to balance customers demand for convenience and flexibility with their break-even points, expect to see more changes ahead. Don’t be afraid to ask extra questions before booking if you’re uncomfortable These suppliers are working hard for your business and to keep you safe. Just remember, while driving yourself can offer benefits, there are also benefits to leaving the transportation up to the professionals and supporting our industry.