A long layover in Broughton Island is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Qikiqtarjuaq Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Broughton Island, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Broughton Island is roughly 60 minutes from YVM via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Broughton Island:
Start with Qikiqtarjuaq Hamlet Stroll. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Arctic Ocean Shoreline View. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
If you’d rather stay inside YVM — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- YVM Terminal Arctic Views
- Local Information Board & Brochures
Transport from Qikiqtarjuaq Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Broughton Island: Northern Store Qikiqtarjuaq Deli and Northern Store Qikiqtarjuaq Bakery Corner. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for YVM Snack & Beverage Vending or YVM Grab-and-Go Essentials. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Broughton Island, budget roughly $49 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $26 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Broughton Island.
Staying Connected
WiFi at YVM should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Canada and you’re good to go.
Storing Your Luggage at Qikiqtarjuaq Airport
Specific locker facilities at YVM aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Broughton Island itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at YVM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Canada also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Broughton Island exploring the streets or relaxing at YVM, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.