Is it better to fly or drive?

Flying is significantly faster, while driving offers a unique cross-country experience.

What is the most scenic part of the drive?

The stretch through the Rocky Mountains between Banff and Vancouver is widely considered the most scenic.

Are there trains to Vancouver?

Yes, VIA Rail operates the 'Canadian' train from Toronto to Vancouver, but you must first reach Toronto.

Do I need winter tires?

Yes, winter tires are mandatory on most BC highways from October to April.

How much does a cross-country drive cost?

Expect to spend at least $2,000 including fuel, food, and lodging.

St. Andrews

Vancouver

Flight Driving

St. Andrews to Vancouver

Updated: 27 May 2026

The journey from St. Andrews to Vancouver spans the entire width of Canada, covering over 5,800 km. Flying is the most practical method, typically involving a flight from Saint John (YSJ) to Vancouver International Airport (YVR) with a connection in Toronto or Calgary. Driving is a monumental road trip that takes at least 60 hours of driving time along the Trans-Canada Highway. You will experience the dramatic transition from the Atlantic coastline to the rugged Rocky Mountains and finally the Pacific coast. This route is a bucket-list experience for many Canadians.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 5,850 km; straight-line air distance is 4,400 km.

Fastest Way

Flight from Saint John (YSJ) to Vancouver (YVR) takes approximately 10 hours.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for families or groups sharing fuel costs.

Compare St. Andrews to Vancouver Routes

	Flight Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	10 hours	65 hours
Avg Price	$700 - $1,400	$1,000 - $1,500 in fuel
Operator	Air Canada	Personal Vehicle
Route	YSJ to YVR via Toronto (YYZ) or Calgary (YYC).	Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) across all provinces.
Tip	Book flights connecting through Calgary to minimize total travel time.	Plan for at least 7 days of travel to enjoy the scenery and avoid exhaustion.

Travel Tips

Jet Lag
Prepare for a 4-hour time difference when traveling west to Vancouver.
Mountain Driving
Use lower gears when descending steep mountain passes in the Rockies.
Packing
Bring layers, as Vancouver weather is often rainy and unpredictable.
Car Rental
If flying, rent a car at YVR to explore the surrounding areas like Whistler.
Booking
Reserve your accommodation in Vancouver well in advance, as it is a high-demand tourist destination.

Safety Tips

Road Conditions
Check DriveBC for real-time highway closures and construction updates.
Wildlife
Be cautious of bears and elk when driving through mountain parks.
Hydration
Keep plenty of water in your vehicle during the long drive across the Prairies.
Communication
Cell service may be spotty in remote stretches of Northern Ontario and the Rockies.