If you are heading out of town this Victoria Day long weekend, expect crowds almost everywhere.
Travel experts say airports, ferries, highways, and border crossings across British Columbia are preparing for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year as thousands of people begin their summer getaways.
YVR Expects Massive Passenger Surge
Vancouver International Airport says around 330,000 travellers are expected to move through YVR between Friday and Monday.
Airport officials are reminding passengers to arrive early, especially for international flights, as security lines and check in areas are expected to stay busy throughout the weekend. Domestic travellers are also being told to prepare for delays during peak hours.
Canadians Continue Choosing Domestic Travel
Travel experts say many Canadians are still avoiding trips to the United States and are instead booking vacations within Canada.
According to Flight Centre Canada, domestic travel demand has increased by six per cent compared to last year. British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario remain the top destinations for Canadians during the long weekend.
Meanwhile, Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic continue to attract travellers looking for warmer international destinations. European hotspots such as Italy, France, and the United Kingdom are also seeing strong demand.
BC Ferries Warns of Long Waits
BC Ferries says the May long weekend is historically its fourth busiest period of the year. The company is encouraging travellers to reserve sailings early and prepare for heavy terminal traffic.
Peak congestion is expected on routes connecting Metro Vancouver to Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, especially Friday and Monday.
The warning comes only weeks after mechanical problems and vessel breakdowns caused frustration and delays for travellers during the Easter long weekend.
Parks and Tourist Areas Also Getting Busier
The travel rush is not limited to airports and ferries.
BC Parks says reservations for the May long weekend have jumped by 60 per cent this year, with destinations such as Golden Ears Park expected to see major crowds.
Tourism officials say the Victoria Day weekend often marks the unofficial start of summer travel across the province, leading to packed campgrounds, beaches, and tourist attractions.
Border Crossings Could See Delays Too
The Canada Border Services Agency is also warning travellers to expect longer waits at border crossings during the holiday weekend.
Officials are advising Canadians to prepare documents ahead of time, check wait times online, and avoid peak travel periods whenever possible.
With warmer weather arriving and tourism demand climbing, experts say patience and early planning will be key for anyone travelling in or out of British Columbia this weekend.
