Flights to Vancouver at a glance

Traveling to Vancouver is straightforward: select from a range of full-service or budget airlines, compare flight durations, and choose the option that best fits your budget and schedule as you prepare to explore the city’s renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

• Major airports in Vancouver: Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Vancouver Harbour Seaplane Base Airport (CXH)
• Closest airport to Vancouver: Vancouver International Airport, YVR (within Vancouver)
• Flights per week: 2,500+ flights arriving across Vancouver airports
• Number of airlines that fly to Vancouver: around 50+ carriers

Popular airports in Vancouver

Vancouver is a vibrant city perfect for family getaways, outdoor adventures, business trips, and beach relaxation. With its diverse attractions, it's no wonder travelers flock here. The city is primarily accessible through two major airports.

• Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Situated in the Metro Vancouver Regional District of British Columbia, this airport facilitates both domestic and international flights, linking travelers to over 30 domestic cities and more than 230 international destinations. Passengers can opt for first class, business class, or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, based on their chosen routes and airlines. Key airlines operating here include Air Canada, United, and WestJet.
• Vancouver Harbour Seaplane Base Airport (CXH): Also located in the Metro Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, this airport offers both domestic and international services, connecting to 1 domestic city and 1 international destination. Harbour Air Seaplanes is the primary airline serving this unique airport, providing a distinctive travel experience over the water.

Top routes to Vancouver

• Los Angeles (LAX) to Vancouver (YVR), with one-way flights starting at around $55
• San Francisco (SFO) to Vancouver (YVR), with one-way tickets available from around $40
• Newark (EWR) to Vancouver (YVR), with one-way flight options from around $150
• Toronto (YYZ) to Vancouver (YVR), with one-way flights starting at around $85
• New York (JFK/LGA) to Vancouver (YVR), with one-way fares starting at around $160

Cheapest routes to Vancouver

• Comox (YQQ) to Vancouver (YVR), with cheap one-way fares from around $35
• Kelowna (YLW) to Vancouver (YVR), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Las Vegas (LAS) to Vancouver (YVR), with affordable one-way prices from around $40
• Nanaimo (YCD/ZNA) to Vancouver (YVR), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
• San Francisco (SFO) to Vancouver (YVR), with low one-way fares from around $40

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Vancouver

• Air Canada: This airline operates flights to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), representing roughly 26% of all arrivals in Vancouver. Expect to pay around $400 for a one-way ticket. Depending on the route, premium cabins may include both premium economy and business class options.
• United: Flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR), United makes up about 24% of arrivals to the city. The average one-way fare is around $320, with available premium service options that may include business class and first class, depending on the specific route.
• WestJet: Serving Vancouver International Airport (YVR), WestJet accounts for roughly 11% of arrivals in Vancouver. The average one-way fare is approximately $300, and travelers can choose from premium economy class or business class, depending on the route taken.
• Delta: Operating flights to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Delta comprises around 11% of the city's arrivals. One-way fares typically average about $310, with premium service options including both premium economy and first class, based on the route.
• Flair Airlines: This carrier flies to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and accounts for about 5% of arrivals in the area. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of roughly $140, making it a budget-friendly choice.

Best time to fly to Vancouver

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Vancouver are June, July, and August, when peak temperatures in Vancouver can reach up to 65.3°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 50.9°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $227), roughly 16% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? September and June offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $235 to $248, making them good options for flexible travelers.

Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Average one-way Fare
January	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$300
February	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$277
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$312
April	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	$267
May	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$274
June	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$248
July	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	$264
August	65.3°F (18.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	$271
September	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	$235
October	50.9°F (10.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	$227
November	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$256
December	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	$322

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Vancouver

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Vancouver is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Vancouver hotel and flight deals.
4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Vancouver flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Vancouver

Vancouver welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Vancouver efficiently:

• Public transportation: From Vancouver International Airport, YVR Airport Station, a metro station, is located about 0.1 miles from the airport and is easily accessible on foot, while Pacific Central Station, a train station, is situated approximately 8.8 miles away and can be reached by car.
• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Vancouver, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car in Vancouver is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Vancouver on Expedia.
• Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Vancouver

• Surrey: Located in the area of Vancouver, Surrey is a vibrant city that offers a delightful mix of family-friendly activities and outdoor experiences. The city features various shopping centers and educational venues, making it a practical stop for visitors. Explore Holland Park, a lovely urban park perfect for family outings, or visit the Cloverdale Fairgrounds for community events and outdoor fun. For a touch of culture, the Bell Performing Arts Centre hosts a variety of performances that showcase local talent. Whether you're shopping or enjoying nature, Surrey is a great destination.
• Richmond: Richmond is located in the area of Vancouver and is known for its rich cultural scene and family-friendly atmosphere. This bustling city offers plenty of shopping malls and educational opportunities. One highlight is Steveston Village, a historic waterfront area where you can soak in the local maritime history. Don’t miss the scenic Steveston Fisherman's Wharf, ideal for a relaxing stroll. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Kwan Yin International Buddhist Temple, which offers serene surroundings and spiritual insight. Richmond is a dynamic blend of city life and culture.
• North Vancouver: North Vancouver is located in the area of Vancouver, renowned for its stunning outdoor landscapes and family-oriented activities. This city provides access to various markets and ski venues, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Discover Canada Place, a key event venue, or take a leisurely walk along the Vancouver Waterfront, which is excellent for families and outdoor lovers. Stanley Park, an expansive urban park, offers trails and scenic views, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. North Vancouver is a fantastic destination for those seeking both city life and outdoor adventures.

Tips for short-haul flights to Vancouver

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it’s often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your space by bringing mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and strategically planning your outfits. This approach also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may not provide in-flight entertainment. To keep yourself occupied, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Ensure your devices are fully charged before you board.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Vancouver

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for your comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow seat selection at no additional cost once online check-in opens, usually 24 to 48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may offer earlier seat selection options.
• Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security procedures, and immigration.
• Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Most airports provide free and accessible Wi-Fi.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to synchronize your body clock by setting your watch and modifying your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.