Car Rental in Vancouver and British Columbia: Airports and City Pickups

Quick summary: A rental car is the simplest way to explore Vancouver and British Columbia if you’d rather stay in hotels and lodges. Vancouver International Airport has rental counters in its terminal parkade, around 30 minutes from downtown, and city locations suit those starting after a few days in town. Victoria and Nanaimo cover Vancouver Island, Kelowna serves the Okanagan, and Calgary is the gateway to Banff.

At a glance
Main pickup	Vancouver International Airport
Downtown	City rental locations
Vancouver Island	Victoria and Nanaimo airports
Okanagan	Kelowna Airport
Rockies	Calgary Airport
Tours	Airport transfers

Compare car rental at Vancouver Airport

Where can you pick up a rental car?

Pickup	Best for	Guide
Vancouver Airport	Arrivals and road trips anywhere	Vancouver Airport
Vancouver city	Starting after time downtown	Vancouver city
Victoria and Nanaimo	Vancouver Island	Victoria and Nanaimo
Whistler	Mountain trips	Whistler
Kelowna Airport	The Okanagan	Kelowna Airport
Calgary Airport	Banff and the Rockies	Calgary Airport

What do you need to rent a car in Canada?

You’ll be asked for your driver’s license, a passport or other ID, and a credit card held by whoever is driving first. Some cars carry a surcharge for drivers under 25 or over 65, so read the terms of your chosen car. A license not in English or French may need an International Driving Permit.

What should you know about driving in BC?

You drive on the right, distances are in kilometers, and winter tires are required on many highways in the colder months. See driving in British Columbia.

Should you choose a car or a motorhome?

A car is easier in cities and cheaper on ferries, while a motorhome combines transport and accommodation. See comparing the options.

Compare car rental in Vancouver city

Frequently Asked Questions