A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Duck vs. Kamloops for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Duck or Kamloops?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Duck or Kamloops? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Duck

Duck is a charming, laid-back, and traditional beach town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of Duck is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Duck travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a outdoorsy, nature-filled, and laid-back city. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Kamloops travel costs.

Duck and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Duck or Kamloops?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Duck. Although Duck and Kamloops are popular destinations, Duck has more sights and attractions for tourists. Duck is very popular for its resorts, beaches, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, and nightlife. Duck is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its quaint atmosphere and small town charm. It is also well known for the wide sandy beach. Kamloops is famous for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Duck different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kamloops and Duck. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Duck
Kamloops

Kamloops is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Duck is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Duck is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Duck or Kamloops?

Duck
Kamloops

Kamloops is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Duck is not a good beach town for its museums and history.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Duck. Hanging out at the beach and enjoy water sports or outdoor activities are the main draw of this town. You won't find much in the form of museums or indoor activities.

Is the Food Better in Duck or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Duck
Kamloops

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at nice restaurants in both Duck and Kamloops.

Duck offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For such a small town, there's a decent selection of restaurants that range from local seafood eateries to pizza delivery. Homemade ice cream is a favorite in the area, but you also can't skip out on the flagship Duck Donuts store.

Kamloops has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Duck
Kamloops

Kamloops is a popular place for nightlife. However, Duck is not a good beach town for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kamloops. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Duck. It's known as a family-friendly destination that isn't often associated with a strong nightlife, but there is often live music and other festivals during the summer months.


Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Duck
Kamloops

Duck is a beach town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Duck makes a nice vacation spot. Most of the accommodation around town is in the form of vacation beach rental houses that are perfect for family gatherings or larger groups.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Duck
Kamloops

Duck is an amazing beach town to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Duck is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Long sandy beaches with great surf and a wonderful boardwalk make this a great beach destination. Kids play in the tidal pools and families relax under their beach umbrellas in a classic beach setting.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.

Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Duck
Kamloops

If you're looking to go hiking, Duck and Kamloops both have nice trails.

Duck is a good destination for hiking. The Duck Trail runs for six miles and passes through town. It's popular with walkers, cyclists, and inline skaters.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kamloops. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.


Is the Shopping Better in Duck or Kamloops?

Duck
Kamloops

Duck is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Duck is well-known for its shopping. Head to the Waterfront Shops for some of the town's best shopping. You can wander along the boardwalk and check out the independent vendors and local restaurants.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Is Duck or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Duck
Kamloops

Duck is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Duck is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful sandy beaches and family-friendly parks offer a beautiful and relaxed beach vacation.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Families?

Duck
Kamloops

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Duck or Kamloops.

Duck is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly beaches, local ice cream joints, and the famed Duck Donuts all make this an ideal kid's beach destination. There's a waterpark nearby and plenty of water sports that the whole family can enjoy. The boardwalk is also a very family-friendly environment.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kamloops is very family-friendly. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.


Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Duck
Kamloops

Duck is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Duck makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a charming beach town with great local restaurants and a beautiful and peaceful setting. For couples who want to enjoy a relaxing beach town without the energy of a larger destination, then this is the perfect place. Much of the accommodation is in the form of rental houses, which can be a bit much for a couple, but the setting is perfect for a weekend escape.

Kamloops is a good beach town for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Duck or Kamloops Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Duck
Kamloops

Both Duck and Kamloops offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Duck. It's best to have a car if you want to exploring the Outer Banks and its many activities.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Is Duck or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Duck
Kamloops

Duck is an amazing beach town to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Duck. It's a wonderfully walkable and pedestrian-friendly town with a great boardwalk and many walking and cycling paths.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Duck Worth Visiting? and Is Kamloops Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Duck?

How long in Duck or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Duck or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Duck than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Duck, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

Families should spend more time in Duck than Kamloops. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Duck, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Duck than Kamloops. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Duck that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kamloops than Duck if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kamloops.


  • How many days in Duck or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Duck 5-7 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Duck or Kamloops?

Duck is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kamloops. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Duck or Kamloops?

Duck is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kamloops is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Duck or Kamloops?

Duck is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Duck, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find shopping and skiing around the outdoorsy destination of Kamloops. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Duck or Kamloops?

Duck is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Duck has to offer. This beach town offers something for everyone.

The laid-back city of Kamloops offers skiing and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Kamloops or Duck?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Duck Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Duck $221
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Duck is $221, while the average daily cost in Kamloops is $99. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Duck and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Duck $107
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Duck $214
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Duck and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Duck or Kamloops? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Duck


Hotels in Kamloops


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Duck $66
    Kamloops $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Duck or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Duck change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Duck $78
    Kamloops $41

Typical Food Prices in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Pastries
    $5.80
  • Lunch for Two
    $25
  • Coffee and Gelato
    $12

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Duck $13
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Kamloops

For Kamloops, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops & Revelstoke: $8.07
  • Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between Kamloops and Vancouver: $8.08
  • Scenic Kamloops Self Guided Audio Driving Tour to Lake Louise : $12
  • BC Wildlife Park Entry Ticket: $14
  • Skip the Line: Kamloops BC Wildlife Park Admission Ticket: $15
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Kamloops by Zombie Scavengers: $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Duck $45
    Kamloops $6.77


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Duck and Kamloops, we can see that Duck is more expensive. And not only is Kamloops much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kamloops would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kamloops and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Duck would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Duck than you might in Kamloops.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Duck Expensive? and Is Kamloops Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Duck or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Duck. When comparing the sizes of Duck and Kamloops, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Duck or Kamloops?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Duck or Kamloops in the Summer?

Both Kamloops and Duck during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Duck in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kamloops for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Duck is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the summer temperatures in Duck in July average around 78°F (26°C), and Kamloops averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Duck. Duck usually gets more rain in July than Kamloops. Duck gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Duck 78°F (26°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Duck or Kamloops in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Duck and Kamloops. Most visitors come to Duck for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Duck is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Duck average around 62°F (16°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In October, Duck usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Duck gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Duck 62°F (16°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Duck or Kamloops in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Duck as well as Kamloops. The winter months attract visitors to Duck because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kamloops in the winter. The weather in Duck can be very cold. Duck is much warmer than Kamloops in the winter. The daily temperature in Duck averages around 41°F (5°C) in January, and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Duck receives a lot of rain in the winter. Duck usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Duck gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Duck 41°F (5°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Duck or Kamloops in the Spring?

Both Kamloops and Duck are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Duck this time of year.

In the spring, Duck is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the spring temperatures in Duck in April average around 59°F (15°C), and Kamloops averages at about 12°C (53°F).

In April, Duck usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Duck gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Duck 59°F (15°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Duck

Duck Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)