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True North Living » Travel » Exploring Western Canada » Bus Travel Is Where It’s at — Discover Western Canada the Easy Way
Exploring Western Canada

Bus Travel Is Where It’s at — Discover Western Canada the Easy Way

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red arrow ebus bcbus
bus travelling down roadway
Sponsored by:

With high gas prices, expensive airfares, and the hassle of flying, intercity bus travel is experiencing a renaissance for Canadians seeking adventure.

Bus companies in Western Canada are proving that the bus experience is the best way to travel. Buses are often the least expensive travel option, they’re convenient (forget waiting at an airport, security checks, and the stress of driving yourself), and some bus companies offer premium services so you don’t have to sacrifice comfort. Instead you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

You can also feel good about bus travel because it has a low environmental impact compared to other forms of transportation. And new types of fuels, such as ultra-low sulphur and biodiesel, are helping to reduce greenhouse gases and emissions even more.

Connecting the west

Three bus companies operating in Alberta and B.C. are changing public perception of what convenient travel looks like. 

Red Arrow has been a fixture in Alberta for over 40 years. It’s known for delivering high-end service, with trips that feel like business class flight experiences. Red Arrow’s coaches have 36 seats, instead of the typical 52, providing more space for you to relax or work. Single-row seating, reclining leather seats, fold-down tray tables, charging stations at every seat, complimentary Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment, and a rewards program are just some of the ways Red Arrow takes care of you. With an extensive route network between Lethbridge and Fort McMurray, including Calgary, Red Deer, and Edmonton, Red Arrow has you covered.

Ebus launched in B.C. in 2018 when Greyhound left but has been operating in Alberta for 10 years between the cities of Fort McMurray, Edmonton, and Calgary. The sibling brand to the luxury Red Arrow, Ebus provides scheduled routes in B.C. Its coaches connect Vancouver with some of B.C.’s major interior cities, including Kamloops and Kelowna. Ebus has also partnered with local operators to connect passengers from Kamloops to Edmonton, where they can join a Red Arrow service. With complimentary Wi-Fi and spacious legroom, Ebus lets you relax so you can enjoy the trip. 

BC Bus North, launched four years ago, is ideal for those travelling throughout B.C.’s spectacular, yet expansive, northern region. With 39 communities served, you can pick your adventure. Fancy a trip to the wild west coast? Want to explore the majestic Mount Robson Provincial Park, or experience the famed Alaska Highway? BC Bus North gives you all this and more with convenient connections and access. 


Get connected to fantastic destinations across Western Canada today.

5 Reasons You’ll Want to Consider the Bus for Your Next Vacation

Affordable Travel 

Even with the luxury amenities, bus travel is affordable. And their fares are the same even if you book last minute. The money you save can be used on another trip, or you can spend it on fun experiences at your destination. 

Convenient and Comfortable

Connecting with major airports in Alberta and British Columbia, Red Arrow and Ebus makes your whole trip out west a whole lot easier. With premium services and no hassle-boarding — say goodbye to airport security lines — you get convenience and a comfortable ride. 

Leave the Driving to Someone Else

Taking the bus lets you sit back and relax. You can enjoy the majestic scenery, read, or close your eyes. And if you have work to do, taking the bus lets you be as productive as you need to be. 

It’s Green

If you want to go green and lessen the environmental impact on your next vacation, then take the bus. Compared to airplanes, trains, or cars, buses have the lowest carbon footprint by decreasing the number of vehicles on the road every day. 

More Quality Time

Get out of your cramped car and stretch out on the bus. Travelling by bus lets you create those precious, unforgettable family memories. You can share stories, talk about the sights out the window, or play games. 

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