Tips for stress-free summer air travel at YCD

1 May 2024

Summer travel season is right around the corner. Nanaimo Airport (YCD), the most central airport connecting Vancouver Island with the world, can help get your trip off on the right foot.

YCD offers flights to Vancouver, Calgary, Kelowna, and (returning at the end of June) Edmonton. From there you can easily use connecting flights to reach just about any global destination. You’ll often arrive the same day.

Want to keep travel-related stress to a minimum? YCD offers these tips:

Book early flights

Flights leaving Nanaimo as the sun rises may have fewer passengers, making your check-in even smoother than usual. An early departure can also give you more daylight hours to explore your destination. (One other hint: Check travel advisories before you book.)

Check your documents before leaving home

Review the list of documents needed for travel. Check to make sure your name on your ticket and ID match exactly. If travelling abroad, sign up with the federal Registration of Canadians Abroad to get updates and assistance from Canadian consulates if needed.

Use apps and YCD website

Download your airline’s app for timely flight updates, electronic boarding passes, and online check-in. Track Nanaimo Airport departures before leaving home.

Review transportation options

Getting to the airport is convenient and affordable. There are no ferries to catch. Check out all the ways to get to Nanaimo Airport, including shuttle, transit, taxi or ride share. Driving yourself? Learn about your parking options, including an annual pass.

Don’t forget snacks and entertainment

You can grab a tasty meal at the café in the terminal and some snacks at the airport’s departure lounge. Make sure to bring a book or downloaded shows. They’ll help you relax during long flights.

Let us help you

Our friendly Blue Navigators are at your service within the terminal to help make your airport experience as stress-free as possible. You can also check out our passenger guide.

Visit YCD.ca and follow @FlyYCD.