Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Charlo. Charlo Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Charlo, 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: Charlo is roughly 30 minutes from YCL 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.
Getting from YCL to Charlo
From YCL, the local transport gets you to Charlo in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Charlo Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Charlo:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Exploring Charlo on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Charlo, two standouts are:
- Charlo Beach Provincial Park — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
- Heron’s Nest Trail (Charlo Nature Trails) — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside YCL — 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:
- Charlo Airport Waiting Area & Wi-Fi
- Local Tourism Information Display
Eating Well on a Charlo Layover
For food in Charlo, local travelers recommend Le Fourneau de Grand-Mère (Grandma’s Oven). If you have time for a second stop, Mike’s Bar & Grill (Dalhousie) is another popular pick.
Back at YCL, Charlo Airport Café is the go-to. Grab-and-Go Snack Corner rounds out your in-terminal options.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at YCL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Charlo’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at YCL 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.
Need a Nap? Options at YCL
Long overnight layover? Your options at YCL 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 Charlo exploring the streets or relaxing at YCL, 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.