RVing in British Columbia, Canada
Join Us for a Long-Awaited RV Road Trip to Vancouver Island, BC
Planning a Road Trip to Vancouver Island, BC, Canada – The Covid pandemic has left many of us, the Canadian Adventure Seekers, in a state of uncertainty. However, it has also instilled a newfound appreciation for the little joys of travel whenever we get the chance to venture out. Our Vancouver Island road trip awakened a multitude of senses that had been dulled during the pre-Covid travel era.
Reviving Our Travel Senses on Vancouver Island
Exploring Canada used to be a regular occurrence for many of us in the travel community. But things have changed quite a bit. The sounds, sights, and scents we once overlooked became the highlights of our recent journey to Vancouver Island in BC, revitalizing our travel senses that had grown rusty. Read on to learn more.
Colin… discovering new scents and sounds
False Start
We left Merritt, BC bright and early to catch the first ferry to Vancouver Island. Great plan, right? Not quite! We discovered that our new storage facility for the Maple Leaf Bomber (our motorhome) didn’t offer 24/7 access, opening instead at 5 AM. So, with limited options, we had to turn around and head home, feeling defeated. The wait felt excruciating.
On the Road Again
The delay turned into a chance to journey from Merritt to the Vancouver Ferry Terminal during daylight. Soon, we shifted from yawning to gulping down coffee to rocking out to music in our sunglasses. We were officially on our Vancouver Island road trip, energized by caffeine and excitement for the adventure ahead.
On the road again
Sighting Water Trucks
The scenery felt familiar—the forests, the rivers, and the traffic. Yet, new sights caught our attention, such as the many water trucks parked along the highway. This was a stark reminder of the ongoing forest fire challenges in BC. Those trucks were on standby, ready to fight the forest fires when needed, so we should take a moment to thank our brave firefighters.
Arriving at the BC Ferry terminal
Tips for Taking the BC Ferry to Vancouver Island
Every trip to Vancouver Island requires a ride on the BC Ferry. Having grown up in the Cowichan Valley, my brother and I have learned a few tips for this boat ride:
- Book your ferry tickets online for significant savings compared to paying at the terminal.
- If possible, detach your towing vehicle or place your bikes in the motorhome. Length matters; extra equipment can increase your fare considerably.
- Avoid oversize charges by loading items on the roof only if necessary. Stuff them inside the vehicle whenever you can.
- No smoking or vaping is allowed on terminal premises; please respect others.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, warm clothing, and your camera to enjoy the beautiful views on the outdoor decks.
- Food on the BC Ferry can be pricey and not particularly tasty.
Experiencing Vancouver Island’s Senses
The salty ocean air is the first sensation to hit you near Surrey, BC, sometimes noticeable as far away as Abbotsford, depending on the wind. The fresh scent of the ocean is unmistakable and serves as the local perfume of the west coast of Canada. After two years away, the scent felt even stronger, as if we had truly missed out.
The Maple Leaf RV has arrived on Vancouver Island
Camping on Vancouver Island
We arrived late at our beachfront campground near Nanaimo and Parksville, BC. This marks our second visit to Snaw-Naw-As Campground, an exceptional Indigenous campground. We parked the Maple Leaf Bomber snugly against the sandy shores.
“Our community, known as the Nanoose First Nation, alongside 18 other tribes in the Salish Sea, constitutes the Coast Salish people, representing one of the northernmost tribes on the east side of Vancouver Island. We speak Hul’q’umi’num’, one of three branches of the Halkomelum dialect heard from Nanoose to Oregon.” – Snaw-naw-as Website
The first morning at the Snaw-Naw-As Campground was pure bliss, enjoying the silence with a steaming cup of coffee. I closed my eyes, slowed my breathing, and let my ears and nose absorb the surroundings after such a long absence.
Rediscovering Familiar Sounds and Scents
Low tide in the morning
The sounds were music to my ears. I first heard the calls of the seagulls, their cries, once familiar, now felt fresh again. I had almost forgotten how prominent their presence is on the west coast of Canada—a sound I had taken for granted during pre-Covid travels.
As I focused on the seagulls’ chatter, I was also enchanted by the chorus of crickets performing an impromptu concert for me. The ocean air brushed against my cheeks as the waves gently lapped against the beach. I found myself toe-tapping and massaging my feet into the warm sand, returning to my happy place.
Removing the Blindfold on Vancouver Island
Colin beachcombing on Vancouver Island
Taking advantage of the scenic spots near our beachfront campsite, we ventured out for some beachcombing. We ambled to a rocky point, snapping photos and sharing stories, all while rediscovering the west coast as if for the very first time. We enjoyed the unique experience of navigating through wet sand, seaweed, and barnacle-covered boulders while soaking in the saltwater. Eventually, we found a rock perch to sit and appreciate the scenery, and during this peaceful moment, we were graced by a curious seal and flanked by some shy turkey vultures that wouldn’t pose for the camera.
The Therapeutic Nature of Travel
Life has been tough for many during the pandemic. What we discovered on our road trip to Vancouver Island—visiting family and rekindling our love for the outdoors of our childhood, free of smoke and distractions—was nothing short of therapeutic. It reaffirmed our love for this country and home, serving as an excellent remedy for the Covid blues.
The Road Trip on Vancouver Island Continues
Family reunion after years apart
Packing up after a week’s visit with family was bittersweet. Departing from loved ones is never easy, but knowing they are well is a true gift. As we drove away, our journey continued towards Wells Gray Provincial Park near Clearwater, BC, for some well-deserved solitude and relaxation, complete with golfing and hiking. Stay tuned for that story! Have you ever visited Wells Gray Park? If so, leave a comment and share your thoughts!
Vancouver Island Road Trip in BC, Canada
Motorhome Adventures on the “Rock”
Written by: Greg Girard
Greg Girard is a Co-Founder of the award-winning adventure and travel website and blog ehCanadaTravel.com, as well as the co-founder of the EH? Tourism Marketing Group and host of the popular EH? Travel Talk Show. A top-ranked Canadian and global travel blogger, Greg enjoys public speaking and striving to work with as many small and rural Canadian communities as possible.
-
- “Best Economic Development Community Project Award (under 20,000 population)” 2021 BCEDA Awards
- “Best Marketing Program of the Year” 2021 Canada Prestige Awards
- “Best Canadian Adventure Vacation Planner” Lux Life 2021
- “Best Nationwide Adventure Travel Company” Lux Life 2020
- Top 20 Canada Travel Websites to Watch – FeedSpot
- #23 Top 1000 Global Travel Bloggers – Global Rise
- Best Canadian Blogger — Expertido
- #4 Top 60 Canadian Travel Bloggers – BlogSpot
- #7 Top 100 Canadian Travel Bloggers – Flight Network
FEATURED ON: CBC, Canada.com, Huffington Post, World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Low Season Traveller, TravelTV.com, Travel Industry Today, Cottage Life Magazine, Yukon Life, TAPS Magazine, HUB Magazine, and various community publications.
