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

Should you visit Houston or Kamloops?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Houston and Kamloops. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Houston

Houston is a southern, one-of-a-kind, and diverse city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Houston travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a nature-filled, laid-back, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Kamloops travel costs.

Houston and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Houston or Kamloops?

You'll generally find more things to do in Houston than Kamloops. Houston is bigger than Kamloops, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Houston is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, music, and big city activities, while Kamloops is more popular for its skiing and hiking. Houston is well known for its sprawling size, its local Texas restaurants, and being the home to NASA. Also, Houston is famous for The Space Center Houston. Kamloops is well known for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Houston different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Houston or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Houston
Kamloops

Kamloops is well known for winter skiing. However, Houston is not a skiing destination.

People head to Kamloops specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and 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.

Houston is not a skiing destination.


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

Houston
Kamloops

Houston is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Houston. Head to Houston's Museum District to explore 19 different museums in a walkable area. A highlight of a trip to the city is a visit to the Space Center, but other popular museums include the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Houston Children's Museum.

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.

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

Houston
Kamloops

Houston is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Houston has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city is famous for its Texas barbecue, Mexican food, and a wide diversity of other different ethnic foods. It's a surprisingly diverse city and this is reflected in the restaurant selection around town.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Houston or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Houston
Kamloops

Houston is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Houston has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife is at its best on weekends when bars, dance clubs, and concert halls come to life. There are a diversity of venues around town including dance clubs, Honky Tonks, and cocktail bars. Some of the most active nightlife areas are Downtown, Midtown, Montrose, Washington Avenue, and Rice Village.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.


Is Houston or Kamloops Better for Music?

Houston
Kamloops

Houston is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Kamloops is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Houston. Popular music venues include Fitzgerald's, Walter's Downtown, and The Continental Club.

Kamloops is not a live music destination.

Is Houston or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Houston
Kamloops

Kamloops is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Houston is not a hiking destination.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Houston is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Houston or Kamloops?

Houston
Kamloops

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kamloops and Houston.

Houston offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of upscale malls and shopping centers that have brand names, chain stores, and the occasional local shop where you can pick up items.

Kamloops has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Houston or Kamloops Better for Families?

Houston
Kamloops

Both Houston and Kamloops are very good family-friendly destinations.

Houston is a very kid-friendly city. It is a large city with plenty of things that kids can enjoy including museums, theaters, a zoo, and even the Space Center. The Children's Museum of Houston is perfect for a rainy day. For science loving kids there's the Health Museum and the Museum of Natural Science. Houston also has a Six Flags nearby which the whole family can enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kamloops. 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 Houston or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Houston
Kamloops

Houston and Kamloops both notable destinations for a couple.

Houston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There's a surprising diversity of restaurants around the city. There are also performing arts productions and many outdoor parks and gardens.

Kamloops is a good city 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 Houston or Kamloops Better for Students?

Houston
Kamloops

Houston is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Kamloops is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Houston. It's a large city with a number of universities and a large student population.

Kamloops is not popular with students.


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

Houston
Kamloops

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Houston and Kamloops.

Public transit is generally limited in Houston. The system includes buses and a limited light rail. Houston is known as a car-centric city and you really need a car to fully experience it.

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

Is Houston or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Houston
Kamloops

Houston and Kamloops both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Houston is generally not very walkable. The most walkable neighborhood is the historic Houston Heights, but most parts of the city aren't very walkable.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Houston?

How long in Houston or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Houston or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Houston than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Houston, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Houston than Kamloops 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 Houston.


  • How many days in Houston or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Houston 2-3 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Houston or Kamloops?

Houston is a big city with plenty to do. 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.

In Kamloops, you'll find skiing and nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Houston or Kamloops?

Houston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Houston, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

In Kamloops, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kamloops has to offer.

Five days in Houston or Kamloops?

Houston is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kamloops is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Houston or Kamloops?

Houston is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kamloops. Many people enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting Kamloops. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking 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 Houston?

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

  • Houston Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Houston $287
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Houston is $287, 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 Houston and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Houston $142
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Houston $284
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Houston and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Houston 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 Houston


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: Houston Hotel Prices and Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Houston $72
    Kamloops $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Houston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Houston:

  • Sedan Airport Transfer in Houston: $165
  • SUV Airport Transfer in Houston: $200
  • Private Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Galveston Port : $156
  • Private Transfer from George Bush Airport(IAH) to Galveston Port : $222
  • Private Transfer IAH Airport to Houston Space Center Galveston: $42
  • Private One-way Transfer from Houston to George Bush Airport : $77
  • Private One-way Transfer from George Bush Airport to Houston: $77
  • Private Departure Transfer to Houston William P. Hobby Airport HOU: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer from Galveston to HOU Airport: $54
  • Privat Transfer from Houston Airport (HOU) to Port of Galveston: $246
  • Houston to Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) - Departure Private Transfer: $54
  • Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Houston - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Houston or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Houston 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
    Houston $60
    Kamloops $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Houston

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Houston.

  • Astroville Food Tour of Downtown Houston: $75
  • Fun Pasta Making Cooking Class With Local Chef: $75
  • The Heights Food Tour in Houston: $80
  • Downtown Houston Food Tour: $80
  • Houston Downtown Food Tour with 6 Tastings of Tradition & Fusion: $85
  • East Downtown Food Tour: $90
  • Houston Downtown: Secret Food Tours: $93
  • French Cooking Class in Houston (Includes 3-Course Meal): $125

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.
    Houston $14
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Houston

Here are a few actual costs in Houston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Best of Houston and Galveston Tour 7 Hours Small Group: $120
  • H- Town 3rd Ward Tour with 15ft Party Truck : $46
  • Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transport: $95
  • 1 Hour Private Christmas Lights Tour in Houston : $39
  • 2 Hour December Holiday Lights Tour: $65
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 7-Hour Best Of Houston and Galveston Tour: $120
  • 75 Min Best of Houston tour Small-Group : $36
  • All day Galveston Tour From Houston with Tall Ship Elissa & Dolphin Watch: $235
  • All-Inclusive Hip-Hop Brunch Party Bike Tour: $65
  • Astroville Best of Houston City Driving Tour with Live Guide: $35
  • Astroville Driving Tour & NASA Space Center Ticket/Transportation: $75

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
    Houston $13
    Kamloops $6.77

Sample the Local Flavors in Houston

Also in Houston, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Houston Hustle Bar Crawl: $15
  • Brewery Pass with Beer Tastings: $50
  • Private Houston Brewery Tour by Cart: $57
  • 2-Hour Downtown Brewery Tour by Electric Cart: $70


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Houston and Kamloops, we can see that Houston 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 Houston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Houston 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 Houston Expensive? and Is Kamloops Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Houston or Kamloops?

Houston has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kamloops. When comparing the sizes of Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston or Kamloops in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Houston as well as Kamloops. Most visitors come to Houston for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kamloops because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Houston is a little warmer than Kamloops in the summer. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Houston receives a lot of rain in the summer. Houston usually gets more rain in July than Kamloops. Houston gets 4.8 inches (122 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Houston 84°F (29°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Houston or Kamloops in the Autumn?

Both Kamloops and Houston are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Houston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

In the autumn, Houston is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Houston in October average around 71°F (22°C), and Kamloops averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite rainy in Houston. In October, Houston usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Houston gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Houston 71°F (22°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Houston or Kamloops in the Winter?

Both Kamloops and Houston during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Houston this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kamloops for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kamloops. In January, Houston is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Houston average around 52°F (11°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Houston usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Houston gets 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Houston 52°F (11°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Houston or Kamloops in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Houston and Kamloops. Many travelers come to Houston for the activities around the city.

Houston is much warmer than Kamloops in the spring. The daily temperature in Houston averages around 70°F (21°C) in April, and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Houston usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Houston gets 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Houston 70°F (21°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Houston

Houston Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 52°F (11°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 63°F (17°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 70°F (21°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 76°F (25°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 4.8 inches (122 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 83°F (29°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 80°F (27°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 71°F (22°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 63°F (17°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 55°F (13°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)