Banff on a budget

Banff on a budget...you're probably asking is that a thing? Read our 6 tips for doing Banff on a budget!

Travelling with our families has been so much fun!! We're spur of the moment, travel on a whim kinda people so when we landed in Banff and loved it we decided to stay a few extra days! Banff is such a beautiful place with so much nature to see; what is also hard to miss is the increasing prices of lodging, eating and attractions. We created a list of quick tips to make the most of your trip and save a little too! I love to maximize our budget without missing out or feeling like we're on a budget.

1. Hotels

Call the hotels directly, I almost always book our hotels on Expedia although when it comes to Banff the hotels were nearly $100 / night less when booked direct through the hotel.

2. Picnic

Grab dinner at Nester's market and head across the street for a picnic! There's a beautiful river view and a fun park for the kids, this was such a fun simple evening with a huge savings on our meal budget.

3. Costco

If you're passing through Calgary first stop in at the Costco, they have the popular attractions, in and around Banff, for super great discounts! Think Golf, Gondola, Restaurants! Also, grab a bottle of MamaMango from the Costco Liquor store for your stay. It is the best moscato...ever!!

4. Water

We were in Banff during the summer so it was hot...and we are avid water drinkers. Banff has a few water bottle fill stations around, including one by the public washrooms. This is a great way to reuse your own bottles (the environment thanks you!) and not have to spend $5 a bottle at the Rexall.

5. Canoe the Bow River

The beautiful sights of Banff can be seen in a variety of different ways. One thing we would definitely like to try next time is renting a canoe or paddle board and paddle down the turquoise blue Bow River. It is very picturesque and I can imagine that being on the water would give you some amazing perspective of the greatness you are surrounded by. And it's only $24/hour!

6. Banff Hot Springs

The hot springs was a beautiful experience. We decided to do it at night which we thought would be less busy...I think we were wrong but it was amazing nonetheless! The hot springs claim to have many healing properties and are situated in the mountains in Banff. The boys loved swimming in the hot pool! Don't forget to bring your own towels and save $1.90/person!

Final Tip:

**With all the money you've saved being savvy go ahead and spend it all on the best latte that will ever touch your sweet coffee loving lips. Yes run don't walk to White Bark in Banff it was worth the entire stop to Banff to discover this gem. **