Earlier the better! For everything!
Banff is an extremely popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons—so we highly recommend booking everything as early as possible, from lodging to car rentals to park passes. Things fill up fast, sometimes months in advance!
Here are our non-negotiables to book early:
Car Rental – Limited availability and high demand mean prices climb quickly.
Shuttles & Roam Transit – Especially for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake access (these spots often require shuttle bookings in advance).
Hotels & Campsites – Both can sell out months ahead, especially in summer. Book early for the best locations and rates!
Pro tip: If your dates are flexible, you’ll have better luck finding availability. Also, LOOK UP CANADA LONG WEEKEND DATES AS THOSE GET THE MOST CROWDED!
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.