By Blair Qualey
Canada Day is just around the corner, and this year, many British Columbians and Canadians are opting to vacation closer to home, giving all of us the perfect excuse to rediscover destinations we’ve never quite made it to. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway up the Coast, Vancouver Island, a multi‑day excursion through BC’s scenic interior or the North, or just a simple day trip with the family, there’s no better time to take full advantage of our province’s incredible driving routes.
First things first, regardless of the season, make sure to check DriveBC for real‑time road conditions, construction zones, or wildfire‑related travel advisories. Highways may be congested during peak hours, especially on long weekends, so make sure you leave nice and early, always allow for extra time, and plan regular breaks to stay alert, refreshed, and reduce driver fatigue. It’s also a good idea to doublecheck your insurance coverage and make sure your roadside assistance is up to date; better safe than sorry!
If your route includes camping or travelling through forested areas, be especially mindful of wildfire risk. Campfire bans are starting to take effect in parts of the province, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to help keep BC’s natural areas safe. Pack out what you pack in and never leave flammable materials behind. A small fire extinguisher or bucket for water in your trunk is never a bad idea if you plan on heading into the woods for the weekend.
The long‑weekend surge in local travel also means campsites and day‑use parking can fill up quickly, especially in BC Parks and National Parks, so if you’re hitting the road this weekend, a little bit of planning can go a long way.
Parks Canada is once again offering free admission for youth 17 and under and a 25% discount on camping fees through September 2, 2025, which gives families even more reason to explore the great outdoors this summer. Meanwhile, BC Parks’ reservation system now covers more than 110 front‑country campgrounds, but check ahead of time, as many popular spots book months in advance, so it’s important to check availability or day‑use pass requirements before setting out. If a campsite is full, consider pivoting to a day-trip instead. Many national and provincial parks feature accessible picnic areas, short hikes, and lakeside beaches that offer a great experience without needing an overnight stay.
Regardless of where you’re headed, a few key steps should always be part of your pre‑trip preparation. Inspect your vehicle before departure; tires, fluids, brakes, and lights are not things you want failing you when you’re several hours up the side of a mountain on a single‑track forestry road. Also be sure to pack an emergency kit, extra water, snacks, sunscreen, and a paper map in case cell service drops.
Summer in British Columbia is a time to get outside, unplug, and rediscover the joy of the open road. With so many Canadians choosing local adventures this season, why not add a new BC Park or National Park to your travel plans? Pack your bags, fill the tank (or charge up your EV battery), and get ready to explore all the beauty this province has to offer. Safe travels and happy Canada Day!
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of B.C. You can reach him at [email protected].
