Group of friends enjoying an affordable camping staycation in Alberta, smiling around a campfire at night

How to Save Money on Your Alberta Staycation This Summer

With a weak Canadian dollar, rising U.S. travel costs, and tariffs driving up prices south of the border, more Albertans are choosing to vacation closer to home this year. And that’s good news — because Alberta offers an incredible variety of budget-friendly “staycation” options right in your own backyard.

From national parks to city festivals, here are some smart ways to save money while still making the most of summer 2025 — all without adding to your debt or financial stress.

Why Staycations Are Booming in 2025

With the U.S. dollar strong and cross-border shopping more expensive, many Canadians are skipping trips to the States this year. According to recent travel industry trends, Canadians are increasingly looking for domestic travel options — and Alberta is seeing a staycation surge.

The great thing is: a staycation can be every bit as rewarding as an international trip — and a lot easier on your wallet. You avoid airfare, high accommodation costs, and exchange rates — and instead can focus on experiences that fit your budget.

Explore Alberta’s Parks for Free or Low Cost

Alberta’s provincial parks are an unbeatable staycation option — most are free for day use. Spots like Dinosaur Provincial Park or Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park let you explore badlands, hike scenic trails, and enjoy nature for little more than the cost of gas and a packed picnic.

National parks like Banff and Jasper do have entrance fees, but they’re affordable — especially if you buy a Parks Canada Discovery Pass or take advantage of free youth admission (17 and under). Plus, Alberta Parks offers free Kananaskis Conservation Pass days on the first Wednesday of every month — a great chance to visit without extra cost.

If you’re adventurous, consider camping — Alberta’s provincial campgrounds start at around $20–$30/night, and seniors 65+ now get 25% off many sites. Or, for an ultra-budget option, Alberta allows random camping on Crown land with a $30 annual Public Lands Camping Pass.

Take Advantage of Free City Fun

You don’t need to leave town to enjoy a great staycation. Calgary and Edmonton offer dozens of free and low-cost summer events:

Calgary Stampede → Watch the parade, enjoy free pancake breakfasts across the city, and plan your visit for a Stampede Value Day with free or reduced admission.
Edmonton Festivals → Explore free performances at the Edmonton Fringe Festival, enjoy multicultural fun at the Heritage Festival, or catch outdoor movies and concerts around town.
Museum Free Days → In Calgary, the Glenbow Museum is soon reopening with free admission thanks to a major donation. In Edmonton, the Art Gallery of Alberta offers free admission on Thursday evenings.

Also check for free splash parks, outdoor yoga, public art tours, and Canada Day events in your local community — your city’s recreation department or tourism website is a great place to start.

Hidden Gems and Local Discounts

Sometimes the best budget-friendly adventures are the ones you didn’t know about:

Many Alberta towns host summer fairs, markets, and free concerts — check local listings.
Fishing Weekend → Alberta’s Free Family Fishing Weekend is July 12–13 this year — no license needed!
Library Passes → If you live in Calgary, check out the Sun Life Arts + Culture Pass (through Calgary Public Library’s Fair Entry program), which provides free access to attractions like the zoo or theater. Edmonton Public Library also offers free family passes to places like Telus World of Science.

And don’t forget to ask about Alberta resident discounts — hotels in Banff and Jasper, tour companies, and attractions often offer special rates for locals.

Tips for a Budget-Friendly Staycation

1️⃣ Plan ahead → Look for free events and discount days.
2️⃣ Pack food → A simple picnic beats overpriced tourist snacks.
3️⃣ Use your library card → It’s a goldmine for free passes and local perks.
4️⃣ Be flexible → Midweek or off-peak times often mean lower costs.
5️⃣ Set a budget → Treat it like a “real” vacation — decide what you can spend, and stick to it.

The Bottom Line: You don’t have to travel far — or spend a lot — to make great summer memories. With a little planning, your Alberta staycation can be fun, refreshing, and affordable. And the best part? You’ll come home rested, not in debt.