One-Way RV Trips in Canada

Have you thought of going on an exciting Canadian road trip in an RV but didn’t want to worry about returning the unit back to where you started from? That’s where the convenient option of renting an RV for a one-way trip comes into play. Experience an epic Canadian RV travel adventure without being held back by the hassle of bringing the motorhome back at the end of the trip to its original location.  

Choose your Canadian RV rental company carefully, the larger companies such as CanaDream with locations across Canada offer one-way RV rentals. Booking on peer-to-peer websites generally won't give you this flexibility. There is usually a flat one-way fee for the convenience of dropping off your RV at a different location but that charge is often far less than it would cost you to return it to the pick-up location.

One-way rentals allow you to maximize your vacation time by not having to backtrack. They are a great way to explore new places and have unique adventures. Renting with a reputable RV company also allows greater convenience with an option to include all kitchen, bedding, linen kits and many travel extra items, saving you the hassle of having to bring your own.

This blog includes our top picks for some amazing Canadian scenic one-way RV trips:

Vancouver, British Columbia to Calgary, Alberta (via the Okanagan Valley): 

From the west coast city of Vancouver, join the adventure and head east to the charming town of Hope, where you'll find over 80 impressive chainsaw carvings. As you leave town, the highway takes you over Highway 3 through Sunshine Valley towards E C Manning Provincial Park. Along the way, why not try your hand at panning for gold near Princeton or explore a section of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail? Your travels will then lead you to the border community of Osoyoos, where you can experience the beauty of Canada's vineyards in the Okanagan Valley.

The Okanagan region is a haven for wine lovers, with more than 150 wineries to explore. This is the perfect opportunity to taste locally grown products that have been perfectly complemented with renowned Okanagan wines. Spend a day in Kelowna basking in the sunshine and enjoying the laid-back lifestyle that the locals live. Afterward, continue north to join the Trans Canada Highway at Sicamous.

The rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains will greet you as you travel through Mount Revelstoke National Park and over the Rogers Pass to Glacier and Yoho National Parks. The picturesque scenery is truly breathtaking, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife-watching along the way.

Lake Louise and Banff are considered 'must-see' for their stunning natural beauty and endless outdoor activities. Spend some time exploring the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and taking in the majestic views of the surrounding mountains. In Banff, take a dip in the natural hot springs or hit the slopes at one of the many world-class ski resorts. And when you're ready to wrap up your adventure, head to Calgary where you can experience the vibrant city atmosphere and sample some of Canada's best cuisine.

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic getaway, this one-way RV trip is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
 

Halifax, Nova Scotia to Toronto, Ontario (via Prince Edward Island):

Connecting the coastal city of Halifax with the bustling metropolis of Toronto, an RV road trip via Prince Edward Island offers more than just beautiful landscapes and scenic routes. Halifax is steeped in history and culture, while Prince Edward Island boasts stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and charming towns. And when you finally reach Toronto, you'll discover diverse neighbourhoods with world-class dining and entertainment options. This RV road trip provides an excellent opportunity to explore three unique Canadian destinations in one unforgettable journey.

Explore Cape Breton Island and the Cabot Trail before heading west to Prince Edward Island. Ferry or bridge? Your choice. There is a charge for the ferry between Cariboo and Wood Islands in both directions but only a bridge toll when you leave the island. Prince Edward Island may be the smallest province in Canada, but its significance is not to be underestimated. The island's rich history and culture have made it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Its stunning beaches, charming towns, and fresh seafood are just some of the reasons why visitors keep coming back. Aside from tourism, PEI also plays an important role in Canadian agriculture, particularly with its potato production. Its unique location makes it an ideal stopover for travellers journeying from Halifax to Toronto who want to experience a bit of island life.

The RV road trip from New Brunswick to Montréal is a scenic one, following the St. Lawrence River and offering breathtaking views along the way. From Riviere-du-Loup to Levis, you can cross the river and visit historic Quebec City, which boasts a rich history and culture dating back centuries. Arriving in Montréal is a treat for any traveller. This vibrant city is known for its artsy vibe, diverse population, and delicious cuisine.

If you're looking for the fastest way to get from Montreal to Toronto, then the 401 is your best bet. However, we recommend taking a more leisurely route down Highway 2. This route will take you through picturesque towns and allow you to enjoy breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. Don't miss the chance to take a boat trip along the 1000 Islands Parkway and marvel at the beautiful cottages on the islands. As you pass through Kingston, take some time to explore this historic city before rejoining the 401 at Port Hope. Approaching your final destination in Toronto, you'll see the suburbs begin to blend into one another until you finally reach the bustling metropolis itself.

This RV road trip is an exciting journey that offers the best of Canadian history, culture, and landscapes. From Halifax's Maritime spirit to Prince Edward Island's role in Canadian history and Toronto's bustling vibe, each location has its charm. So why rush? Take your time and enjoy all that this scenic route has to offer! 

Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta to Whitehorse, Yukon (via the Alaska Highway):

If you're looking for an adventure of a lifetime, look no further than the Alaska Highway. This iconic route takes you through some of the most remote and breathtaking parts of North America, from Mile 0 in Dawson Creek, British Columbia all the way to Delta Junction, Alaska. And what better way to experience this incredible journey than in an RV? Pick up your vehicle in Calgary or Edmonton, Alberta and hit the open road.

Small towns dot the highway between Fort St John and Fort Nelson, where the road forks west to transport you through towns with fascinating names like Steamboat and Toad River. Watch out for wildlife from the safety of your RV. Bears are often seen on this route. Plan a stop at Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park to soak in some natural hot pools then follow the Liard River much of the way to Watson Lake. Here the big attraction is the Signpost Forest, one of the most famous landmarks along the Alaska Highway. Just north of Whitehorse, the Alaska Highway continues west through the Yukon Territory until it reaches the USA border.

One of the highlights of this unforgettable journey is Denali National Park, a six-million-acre wilderness teeming with Alaskan wildlife. As you make your way along the ribbon of road that bisects the park, you'll see the landscape transition from low-elevation taiga forest to high alpine tundra. It's truly a sight to behold. But let's not forget about Whitehorse, Yukon – the drop-off location for your RV after your unforgettable trip. This charming city is full of history and culture, and it's a great place to unwind after your epic adventure on the Alaska Highway.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your RV and hit the road – the Alaska Highway awaits! 

Montreal, Quebec to Halifax, Nova Scotia (via the Gaspé Peninsula):

It would be a mistake to begin this scenic road trip without first spending time in Montreal. From exploring the European-style architecture of Old Montreal to taking in panoramic views from Mount Royal Park, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and culture. Quebec City is not to be missed. It's a charming destination that has something to offer for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning architecture and scenic views, it's hard not to fall in love with Quebec City.

Cross the St Lawrence River here and take the coastal route through Rivier du Loup. a region of outstanding natural beauty that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the Appalachian Mountains, while wildlife lovers can spot whales in the St. Lawrence River. The region's quaint fishing villages and delicious local cuisine are also worth experiencing. A visit to Forillon National Park or Gaspesie National Park will leave you awestruck with its stunning views of nature. Overall, the Gaspé Peninsula is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling through Eastern Canada on an RV road trip.

Once your exploration of the Gaspé Peninsula is over, New Brunswick awaits! it's the only officially bi-lingual province in Canada and is home to some of the world's highest tides in the Bay of Fundy. Stop at Kouchibouguac National Park, a coastal natural area offering camping, canoeing and hiking. Check out the World's Largest Lobster in Shediac or visit the Hopewell Rocks and explore unique rock formations on the ocean floor.

Continue on to Halifax, known for its rich maritime history, a vibrant music and arts scene and delicious seafood. Explore the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and immerse yourself in the military history in the area or venture out into the great outdoors for hiking, kayaking and whale watching. If time permits, a trip out to Peggy's Cove and its iconic lighthouse is a must.

From exploring Montreal's food scene to tasting local seafood delicacies on Gaspé Peninsula to visiting iconic Maritimes' lighthouses, this RV road trip is unforgettable. So buckle up and get ready for an exciting ride!

Calgary, Alberta to Edmonton (via the Icefields Parkway):

The most scenic route between these two Albertan cities has to be along one of the most iconic mountain road trips in Canada. The Icefields Parkway is undoubtedly one of Canada's most breathtaking drives, spanning over 230km and linking Banff and Jasper National Park. The majority of people who choose to rent an RV in Calgary have set their sights on the picturesque town of Banff as the first stop on this spectacular road trip. There's no shortage of activities and sights in this mountain town and you could easily spend a week just exploring here.

The Icefields Parkway begins near serene Lake Louise, where you'll find the elegant Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel. From there, the drive along the Parkway takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Towering mountains, pristine lakes, and sprawling glaciers are just a few of the natural wonders that await along this unforgettable journey. At the end of the Parkway lies the picturesque town of Jasper. Recreational and sightseeing opportunities in this town are endless.  Hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, boat cruises, canoeing, canyoning - the list goes on.  Evenings bring star-lit skies to the Park, away from the light pollution of cities - providing a dark sky playground in the world's largest, most accessible dark sky preserve.

From Jasper, the Yellowhead Highway winds its way along the Athabasca River towards Hinton and beyond, eventually leaving the mountains behind as the prairies stretch ahead of you. Topping the list of things to do in Edmonton, Alberta would be the West Edmonton Mall. Shopping is plentiful here but it's the opportunities for recreation and fun which draw millions of people each year. Imagine swimming with sea lions or ice-skating year-round on a full-size domed ice rink.

And if your one-way RV trip to Edmonton via the Icefields Parkway has left you wanting more, there are plenty of other Alberta treasures waiting to be discovered. From Calgary's famous Stampede to Waterton National Park's crystal clear lakes and mountain peaks, there's something for every type of traveller in this beautiful Canadian province.

Conclusion

If you're planning a Canadian one-way RV trip, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your journey. First and foremost, it's essential to plan ahead and pack accordingly for your adventure. Preparing ahead and researching RV campsites en route is a must. Be sure to book your campsites in advance, particularly during peak travel season. To help with your planning, our online trip-planning tools can help you create a tailored itinerary that suits your interests and preferences.

At CanaDream, we offer a variety of RVs that are road-ready, tuned up, and optimized for the best possible gas mileage. From truck camper and camper van rentals to larger Class C units, we have an RV for you. Whether you rent an RV for a week or for longer, you'll have all the freedom and flexibility to take in all the sights around your chosen area.

So if you're ready for an unforgettable RV adventure, be sure to check in with CanaDream to learn more about our itineraries, destinations, and rental options.

Check out our rental deals and book your Canadian one-way RV trip today. Calculate your RV rental cost online using our handy booking tool or contact our knowledgeable reservations team by chat, email or phone. With our help, you'll be on your way to discovering all the wonders of the road ahead!

 

Imagine experiencing Canada at your own pace on an one way Canadian road trip with CanaDream.