If you’ve got a layover in Poplar River, don’t let it go to waste sitting at XPP. The city, in Canada, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by Taxi / Local Car Service. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside XPP
Before heading into Poplar River, 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: Poplar River is roughly 60 minutes from XPP via Taxi / Local Car Service. 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
If you head into Poplar River, here are two things worth checking out:
Poplar River First Nation Overview (Drive-by) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Lake Winnipeg Shoreline View (Nearby) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
If you’d rather stay inside XPP — 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:
- Main Terminal Waiting Area
- Aircraft Spotting (Tarmac View)
Getting to Poplar River from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Poplar River is the Taxi / Local Car Service, which takes about 60 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 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Local Car Service is usually the smarter call.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Poplar River: Poplar River General Store and Community Kitchen Meals (Check Schedule). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Vending Machines or Coffee & Hot Beverage Station (Self-serve). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Poplar River might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$15 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$33 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Poplar River, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at XPP for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Poplar River or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Bag Storage Near XPP
Luggage storage options at XPP can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Poplar River for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Need a Nap? Options at XPP
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at XPP, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Poplar River count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave XPP. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.