Flights from Vancouver to Canadian destinations outside of B.C. don't have to cost a fortune.
While many locals won't fly south of the border amid political tensions, several routes departing from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to cities in Canada remain affordable.
Trips from Vancouver to several Canadian cities, particularly those in the north, can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars round-trip. However, trips to big cities across the prairies are a steal through the summer and into September.
Regina
The Saskatchewan capital may have been under the radar of travellers looking for their next holiday destination before they avoided the U.S.
Situated on the Wascana Creek, the city boasts several music, food, and art festivals through the summer and fall, providing ample entertainment for visitors of all ages. It is also home to the world's largest and oldest Tyrannosaurus rex fossil, "Scotty."
A flight departing from Vancouver on Sept. 4 and returning from Regina on Sept. 10 costs $124 round-trip with direct flights through BudgetAir or $173 directly through WestJet (see slide two).
Winnipeg
Flights from Vancouver to Winnipeg are another ultra-low-cost option for locals looking for round-trip flights at a bargain.
The Manitoba capital is home to several popular attractions, including museums, a spa, art gallery, and a popular zoo on the way to Churchill, where it is possible to see polar bears and other wildlife.
A flight departing from Vancouver on Sept. 13 and returning from Winnipeg on Sept. 20 costs $110 round-trip with direct flights through Flair Airlines (see slide three).
Saskatoon
Saskatchewan's biggest city, Saskatoon, has a flourishing arts and culture scene and numerous places to dine, drink, and enjoy nightlife.
Trips from Vancouver cost under $200 return with direct flights. For instance, a flight departing Vancouver on July 10 and returning from Saskatoon on July 16 with direct flights costs $148 through Kiwi.com or $184 directly through WestJet (see slide four).
Edmonton
The route connecting Vancouver and Edmonton is one of the cheapest options on the market, with return trips totalling under $100 virtually year-round.
While the city has a rich culinary scene and various summer festivals, visitors also enjoy its proximity to bucket-list outdoor experiences such as Elk Island National Park, which is "home to free-roaming plains bison, moose, deer, elk and over 250 species of birds," according to Explore Edmonton.
A flight departing Vancouver on Sept. 4 and returning from Edmonton on Sept. 10 with direct flights costs $95 directly through Flair Airlines (see slide five).
Calgary
Cow Town, Alberta's largest city, has a bustling nightlife scene, multiple music festivals, museums, shopping, and, of course, the iconic Calgary Stampede.
Flights from Vancouver to Calgary cost just over $100, making it the next-cheapest option after the capital. For example, a flight departing from Vancouver on Sept. 4 and returning from Calgary on Sept. 12 costs $105 with Flair Airlines (see slide six).
Flight prices may change quickly based on seat availability. If you want to secure a price, book the ticket right away (some airlines and travel suppliers allow you to hold seats, although you will need to confirm). Prices shown in this travel deal were available at the time of writing and may not be available when you look for them.
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