Car Hire
Canada

For maximum convenience, hire a car directly from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and begin driving south straight away. This avoids navigating city transport with luggage. Alternatively, to bypass Toronto’s busiest motorways, you could take an airport bus or shuttle to a location closer to Niagara, such as Burlington or Hamilton, and collect your hire car from a local branch there. That way you can start your scenic drive feeling more relaxed and away from the heart of city traffic.

When arriving on an international flight at a major Canadian airport, it’s sensible to allow at least 90 minutes to two hours from touchdown to driving away. This accounts for possible delays disembarking, passing immigration and customs, and waiting for checked luggage. The rental counter itself can have queues, especially at peak times, so this buffer helps ensure you won’t feel rushed.

For US travellers, renting a car in Canada is generally straightforward. You will need to show a valid, government-issued driving licence from your home state. Rental companies also usually require a major credit card in the primary driver’s name for the security deposit. To ensure a smooth collection, it’s always a good idea to confirm any specific documentation requirements with your chosen rental provider before you travel.

The most noticeable difference is the metric system: all speeds and distances are in kilometres and kilometres per hour (km/h). You’ll also encounter bilingual road signs, particularly in provinces like Québec and New Brunswick, which can feel unfamiliar at first. Additionally, some intersection rules, such as the protocol for all-way stops and the widespread use of roundabouts, may differ slightly from what you’re used to. Paying close attention to posted signs will help you adapt quickly.

In Canada, all speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour (km/h). Typical limits are about 50 km/h in towns, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100–110 km/h on major motorways. Road signs use internationally recognised symbols, making them easy to understand for most visitors. The key is to be vigilant when transitioning from a motorway to a town, as speed limits can drop significantly over a short distance and are often strictly enforced.

All distances on Canadian road signs and on your hire car’s odometer will be in kilometres. A useful mental conversion is that 100 kilometres is roughly 62 miles. To avoid confusion, set your GPS or navigation app to metric units for the duration of your trip. This ensures the distances you see on signs match the instructions from your navigation, making it easier to judge how far you are from your next turn or destination.

You may encounter regional terms such as 'concession road' in rural Ontario or 'range road' on the prairies, but these are unlikely to cause navigation issues. Modern GPS apps primarily rely on standard highway numbers and official street names for turn-by-turn directions. These local terms are more historical or administrative and generally won’t be the primary name used by your navigation system, so you can confidently follow your app’s instructions.

While driving in Québec you’ll see many signs in French, but don’t be put off. Most critical traffic signs, like stop signs ('Arrêt'), use internationally recognised shapes and symbols. It helps to learn a few key words such as 'Sortie' (Exit), 'Est' (East) and 'Ouest' (West). Your GPS will typically give instructions in English, so relying on it for specific directions is the most effective way to keep the drive stress-free.

At an all-way stop in Canada, the rule is that the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way to proceed first. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right goes first. The most common mistake visitors make is not coming to a complete stop or assuming the traffic flow is different. Always be sure to stop fully and take a moment to establish the order of arrival before proceeding safely.

Across most of Canada, turning right on a red light is permitted after a complete stop unless a sign specifically prohibits it. However, there is one major exception: it is illegal to turn right on red anywhere on the Island of Montréal. This rule is strictly enforced and is a common mistake for visitors. Always look for signs at junctions, but when driving in Montréal, assume you cannot turn right on red.

When approaching a roundabout, yield to all traffic already circulating within it. Once there is a safe gap, enter and proceed to your exit. For multi-lane roundabouts, the key is to choose your lane before you enter: use the right lane for the first or second exit, and the left lane for later exits or to go full circle. Always signal your intention to exit just before you reach your desired road to alert drivers behind you.

The least stressful approach for downtown Toronto is to minimise driving. Choose a hotel with dedicated parking and plan to explore central areas on foot or by using the city’s excellent public transport (the TTC). If you must drive, do so outside rush hour, use a reliable GPS app to navigate the grid of one-way streets, and be especially mindful of tram tracks and lanes designated for public transport.

Driving in Montréal requires extra attention due to its unique challenges. The city has many one-way streets, so trusting your GPS is essential. Be aware that construction is very common, especially in summer, leading to frequent diversions and lane closures that may not be reflected on your map. Allow extra travel time and remember the strict no-right-on-red rule that applies across the entire island.

First-time drivers in Vancouver should be prepared for congestion, particularly in rush hour on the bridges and in the tunnels connecting the city to its suburbs. The Lions Gate Bridge and Ironworkers Memorial Bridge to the North Shore can become significant bottlenecks. Plan travel across these key routes for off-peak hours. Using a real-time traffic app is highly recommended to help anticipate delays and find the most efficient route.

The most straightforward way to head toward Banff is to collect your hire car at Calgary International Airport (YYC). The airport offers direct and well-signed access to major thoroughfares that connect seamlessly to the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) heading west. This route allows you to bypass most of downtown Calgary’s traffic, putting you on the open road to the mountains in minutes.

If you’re not used to winter driving, expect conditions that demand full attention. Roads can be covered in snow or ice, significantly reducing traction and increasing stopping distances. Always drive more slowly than the posted limit, leave ample space to the vehicle ahead, and avoid sudden braking or steering movements. Be aware that in some provinces, such as British Columbia and Québec, hire cars are legally required to be fitted with winter tyres during certain months.

For winter driving in Canada, choosing a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) can provide enhanced stability and traction on snowy or icy roads. It is also crucial to ensure the car is fitted with appropriate winter tyres, which offer superior grip in cold conditions compared with all-season tyres. Many rental agencies in snowy regions equip their fleets accordingly, but it’s advisable to confirm this when you book.

When driving in the Canadian Rockies, be prepared for steep gradients and sharp bends. To prevent brake overheating on long descents, select a lower gear so the engine helps control your speed. Weather can change rapidly at high altitude, so check road conditions before you set off. Stay alert for wildlife, especially on scenic routes like the Icefields Parkway, and use designated pull-offs to enjoy the views safely rather than stopping on the carriageway.

The best strategy for long-distance driving in Canada is to make a habit of filling the tank whenever you’re in a larger town, even if you’re not near empty. On routes such as the Trans-Canada through Northern Ontario or the Icefields Parkway in Alberta, service stations can be hundreds of kilometres apart. Never let your fuel gauge drop below a quarter tank before looking for the next station, providing a safe buffer in remote areas.

Wildlife encounters are a common and memorable part of a Canadian road trip, but they require caution. Animals such as deer, moose, elk and bears are most active at dawn and dusk, so be especially vigilant when driving at those times. Scan the sides of the road ahead, particularly in wooded areas and national parks where warning signs are posted. If you see an animal, slow down and be prepared to stop, as their behaviour can be unpredictable.

For a one-way trip from Vancouver to Calgary, first confirm that your rental company allows different drop-off locations and enquire about any one-way fees. Plan your route through the mountains, deciding on key overnight stops in places like Kelowna or Revelstoke to break up the long drive. Remember that you will also cross a time zone, moving from Pacific Time to Mountain Time, so you will lose an hour en route.

This is a very popular and realistic itinerary. Driving distances between these cities are manageable, typically ranging from two to five hours. To enjoy each destination without feeling rushed, plan for at least seven to ten days. That allows a couple of days to explore each city’s culture and attractions while keeping driving segments relaxed and enjoyable.

A classic and highly recommended route is to drive west from Calgary on the Trans-Canada Highway to Banff and Lake Louise. From there, head north on the spectacular Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) to Jasper. For the return journey you can retrace your steps down the Icefields Parkway to experience the views from the opposite direction or create a loop by taking a different route east from Jasper before heading south back towards Calgary. This loop offers some of the world’s most scenic driving.

After collecting your hire car in Vancouver, the drive to Whistler along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) is incredibly scenic and straightforward. The drive itself takes about two hours without stops, but you should plan for at least half a day to enjoy it fully. Popular, well-signed stops along the way include the Britannia Mine Museum, Shannon Falls and the Sea to Sky Gondola, all offering stunning views of Howe Sound.

Most car rental companies in Canada permit their vehicles on ferries, but it is essential to confirm this with your specific provider when you book. For popular routes, such as BC Ferries from Vancouver to Victoria or Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, make a vehicle reservation well in advance, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Arrive at the ferry terminal at the recommended time to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Driving on Prince Edward Island is a highlight of any visit, characterised by rolling hills and scenic, well-maintained country roads. The Confederation Bridge is a straightforward, modern tolled bridge providing easy access to the island. Once on PEI, be mindful of slower-moving agricultural vehicles on rural roads and take your time to enjoy the coastal views. The island’s compact size makes it easy to explore multiple towns and beaches in a single day.

Driving in Nova Scotia is generally pleasant, with a mix of modern highways and charming coastal roads. The famous Cabot Trail in Cape Breton is a must-do but requires careful driving because of steep gradients and sharp, winding bends. Take your time, use the many designated look-offs to pull over safely for photos, and consider driving it clockwise for more dramatic, unobstructed ocean views from the outer lane.

When planning a trip in Newfoundland, be prepared for vast, remote landscapes and rapidly changing weather, including fog and high winds. Always start the day with a full tank, as service stations can be scarce in rural areas like the Great Northern Peninsula. Check weather and road conditions before you depart, and be extremely cautious of moose, which are very common and pose a serious driving hazard, especially at dawn and dusk.

Driving in the Rockies during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn means being prepared for all four seasons in a single day. A sunny drive out of Banff can quickly turn into a snowstorm at higher elevations near Lake Louise or on the Icefields Parkway. Always check road reports before you depart, as mountain passes can close with little warning. Ensure your hire vehicle is equipped with appropriate all-weather or winter tyres for safety.

During peak season (July and August), parking at iconic spots in Canadian national parks, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff, fills extremely early, often before sunrise. To avoid disappointment, plan to arrive very early in the morning or, better yet, use the park-and-ride shuttle services provided by Parks Canada. These shuttles are a reliable and stress-free way to guarantee access to the most popular sites.

The most frequent mistake is trying to navigate complex motorway interchanges immediately after leaving the rental lot while still getting used to the vehicle. This can be overwhelming and lead to wrong turns. To avoid this, take a few minutes while still parked to programme your destination into your GPS and review the first few steps of the route. This allows you to pull out onto the road with confidence and focus on driving.

Mobile signal is generally excellent in and around Canadian cities and along major corridors like the Trans-Canada Highway. However, reception can become patchy or completely absent in remote areas or mountainous national parks, such as the Icefields Parkway or northern regions. The best preparation is to download offline maps of your entire route to your smartphone before you lose signal, ensuring you have reliable navigation at all times.

Before you travel, check with your US mobile provider to confirm that your plan includes roaming for voice and data in Canada to avoid costly charges. Most major carriers offer this, but it’s crucial to verify. Remember that distracted driving laws are strictly enforced across Canada, so be sure to use a hands-free mount for your phone if you’re using it for navigation. This ensures you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

To avoid the complexity of on-street parking rules, the easiest and often safest option is to use paid public car parks or underground garages, known as 'parkades'. While on-street parking can be available, it often has time limits, residential permit restrictions and rush-hour no-parking zones that can be confusing. Using a dedicated car park removes the guesswork and reduces the risk of a ticket, allowing you to explore the city with peace of mind.

Planning a one-way rental is a great way to maximise travel time on a multi-city or cross-province trip. Most major hire companies offer this service between their airport and city locations across Canada. When booking, simply enter your different pick-up and drop-off locations to see available vehicles. Be sure to book in advance and be aware that a one-way fee may be included in the total rental cost.

For a late-night arrival, the safest plan is to book a hotel near the airport for your first night. This allows you to collect your hire car without pressure and avoid a long, unfamiliar drive when you are likely tired from your flight. You can then get a good night’s rest and start your journey fresh and alert the next morning after reviewing your route in daylight.

When travelling with young children, consider hiring a larger vehicle like a mid-size SUV or a minivan to ensure you have enough room for car seats, buggies and luggage. While rental agencies often provide child seats, many families prefer to bring their own for comfort and familiarity. It’s also a good idea to check provincial regulations for child seat use, as they can vary slightly across the country.

For bulky sports equipment, an SUV or a minivan is the best choice. A standard or full-size SUV typically offers ample cargo space and often features a split-folding rear seat, allowing you to fit long items like skis or hockey sticks while still accommodating passengers. A minivan provides maximum interior volume, which is ideal for multiple large bags and gear. Always check the vehicle’s specifications when booking to ensure it meets your needs.

The most effective way to prevent theft is to never leave valuables visible in the car. Before you arrive at a tourist spot or trailhead, place all luggage, shopping bags and electronics in the boot or out of sight. Always lock your doors and try to park in well-lit, high-traffic areas. The best practice is to take essential items like passports, wallets and phones with you whenever you leave the vehicle.

It is essential to confirm with your hire company that they permit their vehicles to be taken across the US border, as policies can vary. Most major companies allow it, but you must declare your intention when you book. At the border, you and all passengers will need to present valid passports or other approved travel documents to the border services officer. Be prepared to answer questions about your itinerary and the purpose of your trip.