Discover Vancouver Solo: Your Complete Travel Guide

Solo travelers embody a sense of adventure—fearless, constantly on the move, and masterful at packing. It’s a lifestyle many aspire to, whether they’re seasoned explorers or not.

If solo travel is on your bucket list and Vancouver is your dream destination, then this guide is your perfect companion. It might just be your key to an unforgettable solo journey in Vancouver!

Is Vancouver a Good Destination for Solo Travelers?

Vancouver is generally safe for solo travelers. The city is walkable, welcoming, and popular among solo adventurers from around the globe.

In 2022, Vancouver’s Crime Severity Index (CSI) was 92.0, lower than the overall CSI for British Columbia, which stood at 100.37. The city has seen a 3.6% decrease in violent crime since 2013 and a 3.7% reduction in non-violent crime since 2021. This is a positive trend compared to the national increase in violent crime by 32% since 2013 and a 4.08% rise in non-violent crime since 2021.

While crime statistics are useful, they’re not the only measure of safety. Vancouver’s neighborhoods are generally safe to explore even at night, though downtown Eastside areas may present challenges. The city’s reputation for friendliness also contributes to its appeal; Vancouver was named one of the friendliest cities in the world by Big 7 Travel in 2019.

This welcoming atmosphere might explain why solo travelers are drawn to Vancouver—Explore Worldwide’s recent survey highlights its popularity among solo travel destinations.

Essential Information for Solo Travelers

Language: Mainly English; Mandarin, Punjabi, and Cantonese are also spoken.
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Nearest Airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Getting Around Vancouver

Cars: Driving allows you to explore various neighborhoods, though traffic can be a consideration. The city’s roads are well-maintained.
Buses: Public transit is robust, with options including trolleys, community shuttles, RapidBus, and NightBus. Check schedules on Translink’s website.
SkyTrain: Efficient for traveling between downtown, East Vancouver, and the airport.
Taxis: Convenient for door-to-door service, especially if you prefer a more comfortable ride.
Ferries: SeaBus connects downtown to Lonsdale Quay, and False Creek can be navigated by SeaBus.
Bikes: Vancouver’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes cycling a great way to explore the city. Bike lanes and rental services are readily available.
Walking: With a Walk Score of 81, Vancouver is very pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.

Solo Travel Budget in Vancouver

Your daily budget can vary based on your travel style and activities. Budget Your Trip suggests CAD 71 to 194 per day, with higher-end travelers spending around CAD 580 or more. Accommodation usually represents the largest expense. International flights typically range from $489 to $772 per person.

What to Pack for a Solo Trip to Vancouver

Travel Insurance: Essential for covering unexpected events.
Cash and/or Credit Cards: Useful for places that might not accept cards.
Sunscreen: Important for outdoor activities in varying weather.
Camera: To capture memories of your adventure.
Backpack: Convenient for carrying essentials.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Waterproof jackets and boots for rain, or lightweight clothing for warmer months.
First Aid Kit: For minor emergencies.
Phone Charger and Universal Adapter: To keep your devices powered and compatible with local outlets.