We are a family with three small children. There is a five-hour layover in Vancouver before connecting to Calgary. The time is a bit long. Can we take an earlier flight or do you have any good suggestions? Thank you ?

Actually, a 5-hour layover is not long. To be conservative, disembarking, clearing customs, and collecting luggage will take you at least half an hour to an hour, and then another hour for security checks and baggage checks on the Canadian side. That only leaves three hours, which is enough time to have a meal and browse the airport. Time will pass quickly.

You should pay attention to carry your luggage with you instead of checking it in (your luggage will be checked in first when you transfer). Then you can board the plane when there are seats available at the Calgary gate. If your luggage has been checked in first, you will not be allowed to board even if there are seats available. Generally, 2 hours for transfer is enough. 5 hours is too long, it's better to arrive in Calgary early and drive to the scenic spot before it gets dark.