A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Vail vs. Kamloops for Skiing, Families, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Vail or Kamloops?

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

Should I visit Vail 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.

Vail

Vail is a picturesque, scenic, and vibrant ski town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. The beauty of Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food. See Vail travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a nature-filled, laid-back, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Kamloops travel costs.

Vail and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vail or Kamloops?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Kamloops, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Kamloops is more popular for its museums and attractions. Vail is more touristy than Kamloops and is known for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort. Kamloops is well known for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Vail different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Vail or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for skiing and snowboarding. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for winter skiing.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Vail. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Kamloops is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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 Vail or Kamloops?

Kamloops is adequate for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Kamloops specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Vail has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

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 Vail or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Vail 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.

Vail has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail or Kamloops Better for Music?

Vail is a ski town with good options for its live music scene. However, Kamloops is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Vail. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Kamloops is not a live music destination.

Is Vail or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

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

In Vail, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Vail or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Vail 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 Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

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 Vail or Kamloops?

Vail 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.

Vail is well-known for its shopping. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail or Kamloops More Beautiful?

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

The beauty of Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful town that has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Vail or Kamloops Better for Families?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Vail is an extremely popular ski town to visit for families. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

Kamloops is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Vail or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Vail is an amazing ski town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Vail is a great ski town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

Kamloops is a good ski 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 Vail or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Vail is a ski town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

Vail is a good ski town to visit for backpackers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

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

Vail is a ski town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for its public transit.

Vail has some public transit options. There is a free bus service through the area.

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

Is Vail or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Vail is an amazing ski 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 Vail. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Vail?

How long in Vail or Kamloops?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vail 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 Vail.

One day in Vail or Kamloops?

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. 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.

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 Vail or Kamloops?

Vail 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 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 Vail or Kamloops?

Vail is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vail, 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 laid-back 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 Vail or Kamloops?

Vail is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. 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 Vail has to offer. This ski 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Vail or Kamloops?

Kamloops has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Vail 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.