British Columbia is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and diverse outdoor activities. While it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s also a fantastic place for families to embark on a unique adventure: overlanding with children. This unconventional mode of travel allows families to immerse themselves in nature while exploring the island’s hidden gems.

Here’s why our family loves overlanding in British Columbia, and a quick review on a recent trip from our five and two year old!

Immersive Learning Experience

Overlanding offers families a chance to engage in hands-on learning experiences that textbooks simply can’t provide. Children have the opportunity to learn about nature, wildlife, geography, and local history firsthand. From identifying different plant species to spotting wildlife in their natural habitats, every moment becomes a valuable lesson. Vancouver Island’s diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, beaches, and mountains, provide a rich educational landscape for young explorers.

Bonding Opportunities

Overlanding encourages families to disconnect from the distractions of modern life and reconnect with each other. Spending extended periods in close quarters fosters strong bonds and creates lasting memories. Whether it’s setting up camp together, cooking meals over a campfire, or sharing stories under the stars, overlanding offers countless opportunities for meaningful interactions and quality time as a family. We just spent 8 days in northern Vancouver Island with our children. When asked about their favourite memory, they both screamed “ALL OF IT!”

Sense of Adventure

For children, overlanding on Vancouver Island is like embarking on a real-life treasure hunt. Every winding trail, hidden waterfall, and remote beach becomes an exciting discovery waiting to be found. The sense of adventure is palpable as families navigate rugged terrain, cross rivers, and conquer challenges together. From exploring ancient forests to stargazing in pristine wilderness areas, overlanding sparks a sense of wonder and curiosity in children, igniting their imagination and thirst for exploration.

Outdoor Skills Development

Overlanding provides an excellent opportunity for children to develop essential outdoor skills and gain confidence in their abilities. From setting up tents to navigating trails using maps and compasses, kids learn valuable survival skills in a safe and supportive environment. They also develop an appreciation for nature and the importance of responsible stewardship through activities like Leave No Trace camping and wildlife observation.

Unforgettable Scenery

British Columbia, and Vancouver Island especially, boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in Canada, making it the perfect backdrop for an overlanding adventure. From the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to the towering peaks of Strathcona Provincial Park, the island offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore. Children will be awe-struck by the sheer beauty of their surroundings, from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to sparkling lakes and snow-capped mountains.