What are the cheapest domestic flight routes in Canada?
The cheapest domestic flights in Canada are short regional hops, where fares can start around C$96 one-way — for example Vancouver–Nanaimo. Longer transcontinental routes cost much more, but you can still cut the price sharply by flying mid-week, using nearby airports and booking ahead.
Which routes have the lowest fares?
Short hops between cities close together consistently carry the lowest base fares. The table shows routes where budget fares appear most often.
| Route | Lowest one-way fares seen | Why it is cheap |
|---|---|---|
| Vancouver – Nanaimo | C$96–130 | Very short regional hop |
| Vancouver – Victoria | C$80–130 | Short hop, strong competition |
| Toronto – Montreal | C$90–140 | High frequency, multiple airlines |
| Toronto – Ottawa | C$95–150 | Short business route |
| Calgary – Vancouver | C$110–170 | Busy route with budget carriers |
How can you find the cheapest domestic deals?
Flexibility is everything. Fly mid-week — Tuesday to Thursday departures beat weekends. Book on a Tuesday or Wednesday, the cheapest days to purchase. Shift your dates by 24 hours, which can save up to 20 percent. And set fare alerts so you book the moment prices dip.
Use nearby airports to save
Secondary airports are one of the best-kept savings tricks. Flying into Abbotsford instead of Vancouver, or Hamilton instead of Toronto Pearson, often unlocks lower fares — especially on ultra-low-cost carriers that base operations there. Factor in ground transport, but the saving is frequently worth it.
Are budget airlines the cheapest option?
Ultra-low-cost carriers such as Flair advertise the lowest headline fares, but the model relies on unbundling. Add a carry-on bag and seat selection before comparing to WestJet, Porter or Air Canada — sometimes the full-service fare is actually cheaper once the basics are included.
Book your cheap domestic flight with Metairfare
Metairfare compares every Canadian airline so you see the true lowest price. For routes, airlines and timing, read our domestic flights in Canada guide, or contact Metairfare for a quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest domestic flight route in Canada?
Short regional hops are cheapest. Vancouver–Nanaimo and Vancouver–Victoria fares can start around C$80–130 one-way.
Do nearby airports really save money?
Yes. Secondary airports such as Abbotsford and Hamilton often have lower fares, especially on budget carriers. Just factor in ground transport costs.
What is the cheapest day to book a domestic flight in Canada?
Tuesday and Wednesday are generally the cheapest days to purchase domestic tickets, and mid-week departures cost less than weekends.