Vancouver Island RV Trips

Vancouver Island appears in some western itineraries (for example, a 40-day Canada Land & Sea example from Fantasy RV Tours), but we are not aware of a published program built only around the island. Rather than list tours we cannot verify, this page explains what to check if an itinerary includes the island, and how to plan an independent island trip with a guided element.

• Main mainland routes: Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (near Victoria), Tsawwassen to Duke Point (Nanaimo) and Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay (Nanaimo).
• BC Ferries charges by vehicle length and height. Most RVs and anything towing a trailer fall into the over-height category.
• BC Ferries has promoted "over-height Saver" fares from about $59 on select Metro Vancouver–Vancouver Island sailings, with up to 50% off each foot over 20 ft. Promotions vary and have conditions. Check current rules for your date and rig.
• Reservations are strongly advisable in summer. Ask who books them on a tour.

• Victoria and the south for the Inner Harbour and gardens. Parking large rigs in the city is difficult; use a campground and transit.
• Nanaimo, Parksville and the central east coast for beaches and an easy base.
• Pacific Rim (Ucluelet and Tofino) on the west coast. Highway 4 has steep, winding sections, so check your rig’s capability and brakes.
• North Island and Port Hardy for the far north, a long drive from the south.

Highway 4 to the west coast and parts of the north island have steep grades and curves. Check your brakes, use lower gears on descents, and avoid long, heavy combinations if you are not confident. Our driving and towing guides cover safe practices.

• Summer is busy and campgrounds fill, especially on the west coast.
• Spring and fall are quieter, but weather on the west coast can be wet.
• Book ferries and campsites early for summer weekends.

• Is the island actually part of the itinerary, and how many nights are spent there?
• Which ferry route is used, and are fares for the RV included?
• Does the tour go to Tofino, and is the route driven in the RV?
• Is the itinerary dated, so you can compare it with real departures?

Planning an independent trip instead? Route ideas and itineraries you book yourself are on RV Camping Canada.