There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Kamloops into a quick city adventure. From AMN, the Kamloops Transit Bus (Route 10) can get you into town in around 75 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside AMN
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at AMN:
First, verify that you can enter Canada — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Kamloops Transit Bus (Route 10) takes about 75 minutes into Kamloops, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CAD is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Gratiot Community Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Kamloops is the Kamloops Transit Bus (Route 10), which takes about 75 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Kamloops Transit Bus (Route 10) is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Kamloops Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Kamloops, budget roughly $33 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $15 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $8 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kamloops.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at AMN may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Kamloops’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.
What to See and Do in Kamloops
If you head into Kamloops, here are two things worth checking out:
Riverside Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Downtown Kamloops Exploration is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside AMN — 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:
- Spirit of Kamloops Gift Shop
- YKA Terminal Relaxation & Seating
Best Bites Near AMN
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kamloops: The Noble Pig Brewhouse and Romeo’s Kitchen & Spirits. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Hunter’s Landing or . Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at AMN.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AMN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Kamloops and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kamloops doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 75 minutes from AMN, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.