Traveling

Travel Tips for Exploring Ontario and Canada

(10-minute read)

May 2025

By K. Karbasy, Family Care Office/ Faculty Relocation Services Education and Communications Coordinator, University of Toronto

Yellow and navy overhead airport sign that says Canada and flap on top with an icon of a plane next to it.

Looking for summer adventures to explore the diverse and budget-friendly destinations within Ontario and across Canada? Whether you’re seeking outdoor escapes, cultural experiences, or relaxing getaways, there are plenty of affordable and accessible options for individuals, couples, and families alike. Here are some smart tips to help you travel on a budget while making the most of summer close to home.

Travel

Consider camping as a low-cost way to connect with nature. Ontario is home to numerous provincial parks offering everything from hiking trails to beaches and canoe rentals. Family-friendly campgrounds like Balsam Lake Provincial Park provide scenic beauty with relatively low overnight fees. Many conservation areas also offer camping, like Rockwood Conservation Area, which includes trails, caves, and historic ruins.

Take advantage of public transportation and attraction discounts. In Toronto, the PRESTO card not only gives you access to transit but also unlocks PRESTO Perks, including reduced admission to attractions like the ROM, Ontario Science Centre, and Ripley’s Aquarium. Children under 12 ride free on both the TTC and GO Transit, while teens and students receive discounted fares.

Explore intercity travel deals. Megabus and VIA Rail offer frequent seat sales, and children under two travel free on both. VIA Rail also has a seasonal promotion where kids aged 2–11 ride free with a paying adult—perfect for family getaways across the province or country.

Look for discounted domestic airfare. If you’re flying within Canada, check budget carriers like Flair Airlines and Lynx Air for low-cost flights. For fare comparisons and alerts, visit Ydeals.com or browse Air Canada’s special offers. Booking midweek and flying Tuesdays or Wednesdays can yield even lower fares.

Things to Do

Explore free and low-cost attractions. Kensington Market and the Toronto Islands are accessible by transit and ferry, offering family-friendly green space, splash pads, and food vendors. In Northern Ontario, Moonlight Beach in Sudbury and Shabogesic Beach in North Bay are great day trip destinations with no entrance fees.

Make time for regional experiences. For a unique and scenic journey, consider taking the Polar Bear Express, a train from Cochrane to Moosonee. It’s particularly popular with families interested in Northern culture and landscapes. Youth and senior discounts are available, and children under 2 ride free.

Don’t overlook free museums and local festivals. Throughout the summer, communities across Ontario host festivals featuring live music, markets, parades, and activities for kids. Check city websites and tourism boards regularly or browse Ontario’s Festival & Events Calendar for events and free programming.

Ways to Limit Expenses

Travel during the shoulder season. Early summer (May to mid-June) is a great time to save money on accommodations and enjoy attractions before the peak crowds hit. Rates are typically lower, and availability is greater, especially for families booking multi-day trips.

Pack your own meals and snacks. Bringing food for day trips and picnics helps cut down on dining costs. Most provincial parks and beaches are equipped with picnic areas, BBQ pits, and restrooms. A reusable water bottle is also a must—Canadian tap water is safe to drink and widely accessible.

Book early and bundle when possible. Many travel providers offer family packages or discounts if you combine transit, lodging, or attraction bookings. Keep an eye on Destination Ontario and Tourism Canada for curated budget itineraries.

Learn More: Vacations on a Budget Workshop

Want to learn even more about how to travel smart this summer? The University of Toronto’s People, Strategy, Equity and Culture office is hosting a practical and timely workshop on June 3: Vacations on a Budget. Discover more tips and resources for planning cost-effective travel, and register here to reserve your spot.

By embracing local destinations, transportation discounts, and child-friendly deals, you can enjoy a memorable and affordable summer vacation—right here in Ontario or across Canada.

Happy travels!

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