Planning a trip can be overwhelming, but don’t let it be. The first thing you should do is forget about any preconceived notions you have about travel to Canada—or more precisely British Columbia—and instead focus on the experience. Of course you’ll want to visit the museums of Vancouver, take afternoon tea in Victoria, explore the region’s six national parks, and maybe even try surfing off Long Beach, but try to think less about specific “sights” and open yourself to discovery.

Start by trying to identify the places you want to see, which parks you just can’t miss, the towns that sound most appealing, and how much money you want to spend. Once you have put together an outline of your trip, book lodging—as far in advance as possible—especially if you’re traveling in July or August.

It is possible to visit British Columbia without your own vehicle (or a rental), but you’ll be confining yourself to the major cities and relying on public transportation and guided tours to get around. Driving is more practical, especially if you plan on visiting the parks and pursuing outdoor endeavors. Even though wilderness dominates the interior, central, and northern regions, British Columbia is dotted with towns and cities linked by well-traveled highways.