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

Should you visit Key West or Kamloops?

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

Should I visit Key West 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.

Key West

Key West is a eclectic, bustling, and active town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Key West travel costs.

Kamloops

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

Key West and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Key West or Kamloops?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Key West than Kamloops, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Key West is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Kamloops is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping. Key West is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its festive nightlife, quirky town center, colorful personality, adrenaline-filled watersports, stunning beaches, turquoise water, and location at the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Also, Key West is famous for Duval Street. Kamloops is well known for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Key West different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Key West or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Key West
Kamloops

Kamloops is notable for snow skiing. However, Key West 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.

Key West is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Key West or Kamloops?

Key West
Kamloops

Kamloops is a moderate city for its sights and museums. However, Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Key West does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Key West
Kamloops

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

Key West has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Head to town for local restaurants with quirky atmospheres. There are many local dishes to sample, but the town is most known for its stone crabs, conch fritters, and Mahi Mahi sandwiches. You'll also find cold drinks and waterfront dining areas.

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 Key West or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West 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.

Key West has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. This area has some of the most lively nightlife in the Florida Keys. There are quirky bars and fun hangouts where you can spend the evening. The party starts at Mallory Square around sunset and many bars stay open well into the early hours. You can also enjoy sunset cruises or pass your time at one of the many tiki bars.

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 Key West or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

In Key West, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts around the island, many with recognizable names such as the Hyatt and Hilton. Prices can be high, but these resorts often come with reliable luxury.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Key West or Kamloops Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West is a town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Key West. There are a number of dive shops and snorkeling excursions that leave from Key West. Like many tourist areas these days, the coral shows its damage from the crowds, but you'll likely see some barracuda or a Grouper.

Kamloops is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Key West or Kamloops Better for Beaches?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Kamloops is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Key West attract visitors from all over. One of the best beaches in the area is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The beach has soft sand and stunning turquoise water. As is typical in the Keys, the water stays shallow for great distances.

Kamloops is not a beach destination.


Is Key West or Kamloops Better for its Old Town?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Kamloops does not have a historic old town.

Key West is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The town has the most charming Old Town areas in the Florida Keys. Head to Mallory Square for the sunset street performers and explore the historic streets around Duval Street.

Kamloops does not have a historic old town.

Is Key West or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Key West
Kamloops

Kamloops is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Key West is not a hiking destination.

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

Key West is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Key West or Kamloops?

Key West
Kamloops

Kamloops is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Key West is a mediocre town for its shopping areas.

Kamloops offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Key West has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. While it definitely has its share of gimmicky souvenir shops and t-shirt stores, there are still a number of art galleries and local shops around Key West where you can enjoy shopping.


Is Key West or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Key West
Kamloops

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

The beauty of Key West is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. There are blue waters as far as the eye can see. It doesn't get much more beautiful than this.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Key West or Kamloops Better for Families?

Key West
Kamloops

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Key West or Kamloops.

Key West is a very kid-friendly town. Families that enjoy snorkeling, aquariums, water sports, and exploring new places will enjoy visiting this part of the Florida Keys. There are many ways to get out on the water from kayaking and snorkeling to glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises. There are also many kid-friendly beaches in the area. The town can have a party atmosphere, but it's not hard to find a more family-friendly area where everyone can have fun.

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 Key West or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Key West
Kamloops

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

Key West makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. From Mallory Square to the beautiful nearby parks, Key West makes a wonderful, romantic destination. Whether it's your honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply a couples' retreat, Key West is a great option. You can sip wine on a sunset cruise or dine at one of the many character-filled restaurants in town. If you are looking for a party, it's not hard to find, but if you want a more laid back holiday, that's also possible.

Kamloops is a good 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 Key West or Kamloops Better for Students?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kamloops is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Key West. It's a great spring break destination with a quirky personality and many great activities.

Kamloops is not popular with students.

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

Key West
Kamloops

Kamloops is a moderate city for its public transit. However, Key West is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Key West. Public transportation in Key West is limited to a few buses.

Is Key West or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Key West
Kamloops

Key West is a town with good options for its high level of walkability. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Key West is a somewhat walkable place. The town is the most walkable part of the Florida Keys. The area around Mallory Square and Duval Street is the most pedestrian friendly.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Key West?

How long in Key West or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Key West or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Key West 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 Key West, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Key West 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 Key West.


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

One day in Key West or Kamloops?

The beautiful town of Key West offers nightlife and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

The city of Kamloops offers nightlife and food. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Key West or Kamloops?

Key West is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 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 Kamloops, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Key West or Kamloops?

Key West is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Key West, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kamloops 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.


A week in Key West or Kamloops?

Key West is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Key West has to offer. This town offers something for everyone.

Kamloops 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.


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 Key West?

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

  • Key West Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Key West $832
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Key West is $832, 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 Key West and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Key West $132
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Key West $264
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Key West and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Key West 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 Key West


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: Key West Hotel Prices and Kamloops Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Key West $51
    Kamloops $20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Key West

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Key West:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Key West

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Key West:

  • Private Transfer from Key West hotels to Key West Cruise Port: $114
  • Private Transfer from Key West Port to Key West Airport (EYW): $112
  • Private Transfer from Key West Airport (EYW) to Key West Port: $112
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Key West Airport EYW: $144
  • One Way Airport Transfer Service: $54
  • Key West to Key West Airport (EYW) - Departure Private Transfer: $164
  • Key West hotels to Key West Int Airport (EYW) Departure Transfer: $155
  • Key West Int Airport EYW to Key West Hotels Arrival Transfer: $155
  • Key West Int Airport (EYW) to Key West - Arrival Private Transfer: $163

Is it cheaper to fly into Key West or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Key West 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
    Key West $667
    Kamloops $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Key West

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

  • Sunset Dinner Cruise with Open Bar & Live Music: $74
  • Exploring and Walking Food Tour of Cayo Hueso: $80
  • Key West Cooking Show Chef Demonstration with Meal: $81
  • Cooking Show Chef Demonstration with Meal: $81
  • Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner, Live Music & Drinks Included: $84
  • Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour by Key West Food Tours: $90
  • Key West Sunset Buffet Dinner Cruise with Open Bar and Live Music: $100
  • Secret Walking Food Tour: $115
  • Sunset Sail Full Bar, Live Music & Dinner & Early Morning Snorkeling: $160

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.
    Key West $33
    Kamloops $13

Tours and Activities in Key West

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Key West are as follows:

  • 1 Hour Key West Jet Ski Freestyle Adventure: $155
  • 2 Hour Key West Mini Catamaran Eco Tour: $285
  • 2-Hour Live Music Guided Tour in Key West: $35
  • A Self Guided Key West Cemetery Tour: $30
  • Day Sailing Adventure in the Florida Marine Sanctuary: $99
  • Day in Key West - Private SUV Tour From Miami: $1,300
  • Dinghy Drinking Tour through Key West Waters: $85
  • Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Adventure in Key West: $89
  • Florida Key West Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Florida Keys: Aquarium Encounters Day Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Florida Keys: Dolphin Research Center Day Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Florida Keys: Up The Keys Nature Tour: $128

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
    Key West $16
    Kamloops $6.77

Sample the Local Flavors in Key West

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

  • Key West Bar Crawl: $15
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour with Free T-Shirt: $32
  • Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl: $32
  • Key West Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $35
  • 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl: $43


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


Which is Bigger, Key West or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Key West. When comparing the sizes of Key West 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 Key West 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 Key West or Kamloops in the Summer?

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

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

Key West usually gets more rain in July than Kamloops. Key West gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Key West or Kamloops in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Key West is much warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Key West in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Kamloops averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Key West gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Key West usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Key West gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Key West is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Key West 80°F (27°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Key West or Kamloops in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Key West as well as Kamloops. The winter months attract visitors to Key West because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, 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. In January, Key West is generally much warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Key West average around 70°F (21°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Key West usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Key West gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Key West 70°F (21°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Key West or Kamloops in the Spring?

Both Kamloops and Key West 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 Key West this time of year.

Key West is much warmer than Kamloops in the spring. The daily temperature in Key West averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Key West usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Key West gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Key West is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Key West 77°F (25°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Key West

Key West Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)