Discover the Ultimate Budget-Friendly Campervan Itinerary for Exploring the Canadian Rockies: Banff and Jasper Adventure Awaits!

Are you ready for an incredible journey through one of Canada's most stunning landscapes? Exploring the Canadian Rockies in a campervan is not just about the breathtaking views. It's a chance to connect with nature, experience thrilling hikes, and do it all on a budget. Let’s dive into planning the perfect campervan itinerary for 5-7 days for your Banff and Jasper adventure!

Why Choose a Campervan for Your Adventure?

Traveling by campervan gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can enjoy the comforts of home while on the open road. Prepare your own meals, save on accommodation costs, and have a cozy place to rest after exciting days of adventure. Renting a campervan with us in Calgary will allow you to have a perfect starting point to immerse yourself in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Preparation: Getting Started

Planning is key to a successful campervan adventure. Start by researching the national parks you’ll visit. Banff and Jasper National Parks are rich with stunning hiking trails and breathtaking scenery. Here are a few essential steps to set you up for success:

• Book Your Campervan: Reserve your campervan in advance, especially during peak seasons. This ensures you secure a vehicle that meets your needs. July and August comes with guaranteed great weather, but also more visitors, so vehicles book up fast.

  
  

• Create Your Itinerary: Outline your route and include major stops, popular attractions, and exciting activities. Consider spending a full day in Banff and Jasper, each with diverse offerings. Your trip must incorporate The Icefields Parkway.

  
  

• Pack Wisely: Bring along lightweight hiking gear and essentials you'll think you need. Small supermarkets are plentiful in Banff and Jasper, but you should consider buying the bulk of you dry goods from Calgary to save some money.

  
  

• Check Regulations: Familiarize yourself with camping regulations in the parks. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to protect these beautiful areas. National Parks and Kananaskis provincial park both require entry fees.

  
  

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary and Head to Banff

Begin your campervan journey in Calgary. After picking up your rental, it’s only a 90-minute drive to Banff National Park. As you travel, take in the mountain views that surround you.

Once you arrive and settle into your campground, spend your afternoon/evening exploring Banff’s charming downtown area or stroll along the Bow River. Enjoy dinner at a local café to fuel up for the adventures to come. A good option to acclimatize to the elevation is Tunnel Mountain hike, a short 1 hour hike from town or from Tunnel Mountain campground. The Banff Canoe Club is the best spot to go Canoeing in Banff, head to Vermilion lakes for an hour to draw you opening day in the Canadian Rockies to a close.

Day 2: Exploring Banff National Park

Dedicate your second day to exploring Banff’s natural beauty. Start early at Lake Louise, known for its striking turquoise waters. The Lake Agnes Trail offers a 4.5-kilometer round trip with spectacular views and a cozy teahouse at the summit, perfect for a mid-hike snack. Continue up to Big Beehive and Devils thumb if keen - This hike is widely recommended and of course a bucket list hikes for a first time visitor, however, it is extremely congested. If you are looking for off the beaten path hikes check in at the visitor centre to get up to date advice and trail conditions.

Takakkaw Falls and Wapta Falls are just a short drive from Lake Louise and are truly breathtaking locations.

Check out our Waterfall blog for more info.

After a day of hiking, unwind in your campervan. Enjoy dinner under the stars while sharing stories from your adventures.

Day 3: More of Banff and Onward to Jasper

On day three, visit Moraine Lake, famous for the picturesque ten peaks reflected in its waters. The Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail, a 1.5-kilometer loop, provides breathtaking photo spots and gentle hikes for all levels. More challenging hikes include Plain of 6 Glaciers, Sentinal Pass/Larch Valley, Lake Annette.

Depending on the duration of your hike, you might consider camping in Lake Louise or using Banff as your base. If you're aiming to fit in as much as possible during a brief visit, begin your journey up the Icefields Parkway and take time to appreciate the scenery.

The Icefields Parkway is often regarded as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. With numerous viewpoints, like Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Columbia Icefields and many more, be ready to make spontaneous stops to capture the incredible landscape.

Day 4: Discovering Jasper National Park

After arriving in Jasper, take some time to set up your campsite and explore the small town. The Jasper SkyTram is an excellent spot to get a panoramic view of the park. If hiking is on your agenda, consider the Maligne Canyon trail. This 4.5-kilometer trek offers stunning views of waterfalls and is an excellent opportunity to spot local wildlife. Maligne Lake and Miette Hot Springs should be on any first time visitors list.

In the evening, explore Jasper’s dining options. Treat yourself to a meal that will energize you for another exciting day. Local Brews and lots of events are always great to check out in town.

Day 5: Thrilling Outdoor Activities

Both Banff and Jasper have endless outdoor thrills to enjoy. There are many beautiful biking trails available from town. I highly recommend leisurely biking around Lake Edith, Lake Annette. White water rafting is also great for thrill seekers.

Keep an eye out for wildlife! Jasper is home to elk, mountain goats, black bears and grizzlies. As night falls, gather around the campfire and take in the glory of the night sky—a magical conclusion to an exhilarating day. Jasper is famously known as a Dark Sky preserve, so enjoy the stars or take a midnight drive and go searching for the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

Day 6: Return to Banff/Canmore

As your adventure comes to a close, make your way back to Banff. Use this time to revisit favorite spots on the Icefields Parkway or discover new ones, like Peyto Lake, famous for its crescent shape resembling a wolf’s head. The parkway is busiest from 11am-5pm outside of these hours you significantly increase your chances of seeing wildlife.

Head to Canmore for dinner and check out the brewery and distillery options dotted throughout town. If you fancy a late evening hike check out the waterfall and unique emerald green lakes at Grassi Lakes.

Budget Tips for Your Campervan Trip

To keep your trip affordable, consider these helpful tips:

• Cook Your Meals: Use the campervan's stove to prepare your own meals, significantly reducing dining costs. Mountain town dining options may be higher than you are accustomed too.

  
  

• Campground Options: Choose less popular campgrounds. They often have lower rates but still provide necessary amenities. If you are a no frills camper stay on the Icefields Parkway at either Mosquito Creek, Waterfowl Lake or Rampart creek. If you are fine with 0 frills, you can 'free camp' at Abraham Lake, a short detour from the Icefields Parkway. This is the only free option for camping anywhere close to the mountain parks. Please download the app iOverlander this will be your ultimate camping guide.

  
  

• Fuel Economy: Aim to fuel up in Calgary on your return. Banff and Jasper is usually 10-15 cents higher per litre.

  
  
  
  

Closing Thoughts

A campervan adventure through the Canadian Rockies is the trip of a lifetime. With breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless hiking routes, there’s something for everyone. It’s time to gather your travel buddy, plan your route, and prepare for an epic journey through Banff and Jasper that will create cherished memories.

Remember, the magic of a campervan journey is found in the experiences along the way. Enjoy every mile, every campfire, and each stunning view!

Safe travels, have fun hiking, and bon appétit under the stars!