A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pocono Mountains vs. Kamloops for Skiing, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Kamloops can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful, magnificent, and relaxing region. Pocono Mountains is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the skiing, food, and hiking. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Kamloops

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

Pocono Mountains and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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 museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains than Kamloops, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pocono Mountains is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is more popular for its nightlife. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. Also, Pocono Mountains is famous for Bushkill Falls. Kamloops is well known for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

For skiing and winter sports, both Pocono Mountains and Kamloops provide great options.

People head to Pocono Mountains specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Kamloops draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. 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.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its museums and history. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

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 Pocono Mountains or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Both Pocono Mountains and Kamloops offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Pocono Mountains. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

Kamloops is becoming an appealing option for foodies. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Kamloops is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for its evening party scene.

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 Pocono Mountains. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.


Is Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Pocono Mountains makes a nice vacation spot. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Pocono Mountains is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Both Pocono Mountains and Kamloops are notable shopping destinations.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

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 Pocono Mountains or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Pocono Mountains is a region with good options for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Pocono Mountains is a beautiful place to visit, too. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Both Pocono Mountains and Kamloops are great to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

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 Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

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

Pocono Mountains makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Kamloops is a good region 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 Pocono Mountains or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Pocono Mountains is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

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

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Both Pocono Mountains and Kamloops offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Kamloops

Pocono Mountains and Kamloops both are respectable when exploring on foot.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Pocono Mountains than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains.


  • How many days in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Kamloops 1-2

One day in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

The region of Pocono Mountains offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid-back destination of Kamloops. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in 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.

You'll find food and shopping around the laid-back city of Kamloops. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Pocono Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pocono Mountains, 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


A week in Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer. This region offers something for everyone.

Kamloops is a great place to explore. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Kamloops or Pocono Mountains?

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

  • Pocono Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
    Kamloops Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pocono Mountains $213
    Kamloops $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Pocono Mountains is $213, 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 Pocono Mountains and Kamloops in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Kamloops $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Kamloops $88
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Kamloops

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains


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.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Kamloops $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Prices for flights to both Kamloops and Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $92
    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.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    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
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Kamloops $6.77


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


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains 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 Pocono Mountains or Kamloops in the Summer?

Both Kamloops and Pocono Mountains during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kamloops this time of year.

Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Kamloops in the summer. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 75°F (24°C) in July, and Kamloops fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pocono Mountains. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Kamloops. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Kamloops 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Kamloops in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Kamloops. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kamloops for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Kamloops. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Pocono Mountains in October average around 55°F (13°C), and Kamloops averages at about 11°C (51°F).

In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Kamloops 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Kamloops in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Kamloops. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kamloops in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kamloops can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Pocono Mountains. In January, Pocono Mountains is generally a little warmer than Kamloops. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 28°F (-2°C), and Kamloops fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in January than Kamloops. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Kamloops -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Kamloops in the Spring?

Both Kamloops and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the spring for the natural beauty.

Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Kamloops in the spring. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 51°F (11°C) in April, and Kamloops fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Kamloops. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Kamloops receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Kamloops 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Kamloops and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Kamloops
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)