Do I really need bear spray?

Yes. This is grizzly and black bear country. Keep it accessible on your belt, not inside your backpack, and learn how to use the safety clip.

Is it better to stay in Banff or Canmore?

Canmore is cheaper and less crowded than Banff, but it is a 20-minute drive outside the park gates. If you want convenience, pay the premium for Banff.

How to Visit the Canadian Rockies Without Breaking the Bank

Fly into Calgary and rent a car to drive the Icefields Parkway, which connects Banff and Jasper. Plan your trip for late September to avoid the summer peak crowds while still catching clear mountain weather.

Book your national park pass early. Purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass online before you arrive. A family pass costs $151.25 CAD and covers entry for a full year, which is cheaper than daily fees if you are staying longer than 7 days.
Secure your rental car. Rent your vehicle at the Calgary International Airport (YYC). Public transit into the parks is limited, and you will need a car to reach trailheads and the Icefields Parkway.
Map your route along the Icefields Parkway. Allocate at least one full day to drive Highway 93 North between Lake Louise and Jasper. Start at 7:00 AM to beat the tour buses and stop at Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield.
Book accommodations 6 months out. Lodging in Banff and Jasper sells out months in advance. If you're on a budget, look for campsites or hostels in Lake Louise or Canmore instead of central Banff.

Do I really need bear spray?: Yes. This is grizzly and black bear country. Keep it accessible on your belt, not inside your backpack, and learn how to use the safety clip.
Is it better to stay in Banff or Canmore?: Canmore is cheaper and less crowded than Banff, but it is a 20-minute drive outside the park gates. If you want convenience, pay the premium for Banff.