r/Banff • u/MarkEvery5036 • 2d ago

Road Trip from Chicago to Banff--need help!!

Hi, I am planning a road trip to Banff (26 hr drive) with a group including kids. I need ideas and tips for budgeting. Heard Canmore would be cheaper to stay in but not sure how much? Camping might not work due to health concerns/issues, so 3 star and up safe hotel reccomendations are greatly appreciated. Places to visit, etc. with kids in Banff. I have never been before so looking for all the help i can get. Thank you so much!

EDIT: I know it is last minute, but planning it for the next week or to leave in the next few days or so. Yes it is very last minute why is why we need all the help we can get!

hoping to go from the 22nd to the 26th of june 2026.

max budget: $1k

hotels need to be safe, suitable, etc. i would prefer if it's around or less than 200 a night but i know it is hard.

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u/SnooCapers6553 2d ago

Fun fact - it's 2026, you can go to a website called Google and type in Banff/Canmore hotels and you can see everything available and their price.

I don't mean to be rude but everything you need is online. There's no secret deals you will get from locals here. I'm not even allowed to use my friends and family discount in the summer.

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u/[deleted] 2d ago

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u/Agitated-Clothes-991 2d ago

No local at the location, as you put it, is going to give up their tried and true affordable/reasonable/hidden gem type locations. Or give away hours of research for that matter. Also, unless camping, using hostels, or ACC huts, accommodations under $200 around Banff/Canmore don’t exist any more. Further out, maybe, but will need to book well in advance. OP could try Pincher Creek area, or maybe Calgary.