Canadians studying in the US make short, frequent trips as well as the usual holiday journeys. That changes what matters: fare rules and bag fees often count for more than the calendar.
Canada at a glance
- Main gateways: Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) and Calgary (YYC).
- Busiest fare periods: the December holidays, and July to August.
- Often better-value periods: October, November, and January to February.
When to fly
Canadian students travel for Thanksgiving, long weekends and spring break as well as the main holidays, so there are more booking windows. Book the holiday trips early, and compare nearby airports for the short ones.
Routings and baggage
Air Canada, WestJet, Porter and the major US airlines fly between US cities and Canadian hubs. Basic economy fares on these short routes often charge for checked bags, so compare a standard fare with a bag included against basic plus fees if you are carrying more than a backpack.
Airports and getting around
Toronto Pearson has a rail link, the UP Express, to Union Station downtown. Returning to the US from major Canadian airports, you clear US border control before boarding, so arrive earlier than for a domestic flight. If you cross by land, carry the same documents you would at an airport.
How to pay less on flights to Canada
- Book the holiday trips early. Fares rise in the December holidays and in July and August. October, November, and January to February are often better value.
- Compare nearby airports. For short trips, a different US or Canadian airport within reach can change the fare a lot.
- Count the bag fees. Basic economy on these short routes often charges for checked bags, so compare a standard fare with a bag included against basic plus fees.
- Allow for preclearance. US border control happens in the Canadian airport before you board, so arrive earlier, and never choose a tight connection to save a little.
For the general method, see how we find cheap flights. Send us your dates and a specialist compares the options for this route.
Before you go
International students should confirm with their school’s international office that their I-20 travel signature and visa are current before leaving the US. Check Canada’s entry rules for your nationality through the official government source. No special vaccines are normally needed. See the CDC page for Canada.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline routes, schedules, baggage rules and entry requirements change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Planning a trip? See our Canada flights page, our student travel page, or send us your dates for a quote.
Questions, answered.
When are flights to Canada most expensive?
Fares rise in the December holidays and in July and August. October, November, and January to February are often better value.
What is US preclearance?
At several major Canadian airports you clear US customs and immigration before boarding, so allow extra time before your flight.
What do international students need at the border?
Typically a valid passport, an I-20 with a current travel signature, and a valid visa where required. Confirm with your school’s international office before you travel.
