Exploring Quebec City: An R.V. Adventure Across Eastern Canada

Exploring Quebec City: A Journey in an R.V.

Quebec City is designed to leave a lasting impression. Perched on a steep hill overlooking the majestic St. Lawrence Seaway and fortified by 17th-century ramparts, the city features narrow, cobbled streets that seem ill-suited for a bulky, modern recreational vehicle. At least, that was my initial thought as I curated an ambitious solo R.V. road trip across eastern Canada, stretching from the vibrant Halifax, Nova Scotia, to the historic Montreal. This journey promised to immerse me in one of the oldest European cities in North America.

However, colonial streets were not the only challenge I faced as I embarked on my adventure in May, taking advantage of an enticing six-night relocation deal offered by CanaDream, a Canadian R.V. rental company. For just 39 Canadian dollars a night (approximately $28), I secured a vehicle that would typically cost around 136 dollars per night. This opportunity arose because R.V. companies often seek to reposition their vehicles to meet seasonal demand, frequently offering relocation or one-way trips at significantly reduced rates.

For instance, Cruise America refers to these as “one-way specials,” recently promoting discounts of up to 75 percent for a trip from Las Vegas to Orlando in July. Similarly, El Monte RV has advertised one-way sales with reductions ranging from 30 to 90 percent. CanaDream, based in Calgary, manages a fleet that circulates among seven locations across Canada. With their relocation deals, the company specifies the vehicle type as well as the departure and arrival dates, while renters are responsible for covering fuel, food, and campsite fees in addition to the attractive rental rate.

R.V. travel surged in popularity during the pandemic, as many North Americans discovered the convenience and privacy that comes with taking a home on the road. As someone accustomed to traveling light, I initially viewed this style of travel as cumbersome, slow, and potentially stifling to spontaneity. Yet, the allure of the open road and the unique experiences that awaited me in Quebec City beckoned me forward on this unconventional journey.