March Break is just around the corner, and for families still searching for budget-friendly travel options, there are plenty of great destinations right here in Canada.
With March 10–14 marking the school holiday in Ontario, many travelers are looking for alternatives to Florida after U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent 25% tariffs on Canadian imports.
If you’re hoping for a fun and affordable getaway, consider these trending Canadian destinations, which have seen a surge in searches this year, according to Expedia:
- Kamloops, B.C. (+80%)
- Charlottetown, P.E.I. (+60%)
- Nanaimo, B.C. (+55%)
- London, Ont. (+35%)
- Ottawa, Ont. (+30%)
- Victoria, B.C. (+25%)
Top Affordable Destinations for March Break
1. Kamloops, B.C.
A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Kamloops offers:
Skiing and snowboarding Snowshoeing and winter bikin
Ice fishing and snowmobiling
Budget Tip: Flights from Toronto can be expensive (over $1,000), so book early or consider alternative airports.
2. Charlottetown, P.E.I.
For a laid-back, coastal retreat, Charlottetown features:
Fresh seafood at local restaurants
Scenic waterfront walks
Golf courses with ocean views
Budget Tip: Some flights are available for under $600 if you’re flexible with dates.
3. Nanaimo, B.C.
This Vancouver Island destination is perfect for foodies and nature lovers, with:
Whale-watching tours
Local craft breweries
The famous Nanaimo Bar, straight from its birthplace
Budget Tip: Flights can cost under $1,000 if booked in advance.
4. Ottawa, Ont. (A Great Road Trip Option!)
For GTA residents, Ottawa offers an affordable and fun road trip destination with:
World-class museums
Sugar bush experiences
Winter sports and outdoor fun
5. London, Ont. (Another Easy Drive from the GTA!)
London is an often-overlooked but budget-friendly destination, offering:
Kid-friendly attractions like Storybook Gardens
Beautiful parks and trails
Affordable dining and entertainment
How to Save on March Break Travel
Avoid Peak Travel Dates:
- Domestic flights are most expensive the week of March 4.
- Traveling the week of May 6 can save up to $72 on flights.
- For international travel, April 8 is a cheaper week, saving nearly $79.
Fly on Fridays Instead of Mondays:
- Expedia data shows that departing on a Friday instead of a Monday can save travelers up to 23% on domestic flights.