National Car Hire
British Columbia

Finding the car rental area at YVR, even in the evening, is straightforward because the airport is very well signed. After you collect your luggage, follow the overhead signs for car rentals or ground transportation. These will direct you to the parkade directly opposite the terminal building. The rental counters, including National's, are consolidated there and are reachable via a short covered walkway, making the transfer from terminal to vehicle simple.

The most direct route from YVR to downtown Vancouver is designed to be intuitive for visitors. You will leave the airport on Grant McConachie Way, which leads onto the Arthur Laing Bridge. That bridge connects directly to Granville Street, a main artery that takes you into the heart of the downtown peninsula. Canadian road signs are very similar to those in the US and use clear pictograms, so navigation is simple. Using a sat nav for extra confidence is always a good idea.

When a major event is taking place at Rogers Arena or BC Place, traffic into downtown Vancouver can become significantly congested. It is sensible to add at least 30 to 45 minutes to your estimated travel time from the airport to the Canada Place cruise terminal. This accounts for potential slowdowns on the bridges and on key downtown streets such as Georgia and Dunsmuir. For the most accurate planning, check a real‑time traffic app just before you leave YVR.

The safest and most convenient place to install a child seat and organise your luggage is in the designated parking stall where you collect your rental car in the YVR parkade. This lets you get sorted in a calm environment without traffic pressure. If you need more time or space after leaving the main airport area, you could drive a few minutes to a quiet spot in Richmond, such as a community park, before merging onto the busier highways towards Vancouver.

Navigating to a hotel in Richmond is generally less complex than driving into downtown Vancouver. After leaving the airport on Sea Island Way you cross a short bridge into Richmond. The city is laid out on a straightforward grid, making it easy to find your way. Major north–south roads like No. 3 Road or east–west arteries such as Westminster Highway and Cambie Road are the main thoroughfares you will likely use.

When driving in Vancouver, always be vigilant for cyclists, especially when turning right. Many bike lanes are located to the right of vehicle traffic, so it is crucial to check your mirrors and blind spots before making a turn. Give way to any cyclists in the lane before you proceed. Pay close attention to traffic signals, as some are designated specifically for bikes, and be aware of any signs that may restrict turning on a red light.

Dedicated bus lanes, marked with a diamond symbol, are common in downtown Vancouver and are typically restricted to buses during peak commuter hours. Driving in these lanes during posted times can result in a fine, so read the signage carefully. Additionally, many junctions have turn restrictions, particularly at rush hour, to improve traffic flow. Always look for signs indicating these limitations to avoid being forced into an unexpected detour.

Gastown's historic cobbled streets are best explored on foot, so parking once is ideal. Many visitors opt for one of the multi‑level public parkades, often run by companies such as EasyPark or Impark, located near main streets like Water Street or Cordova Street. Securing a space in one of these lots lets you leave your car for several hours or the whole day while you enjoy the neighbourhood's shops, restaurants and the famous steam clock.

Your choice between these two bridges depends on your North Vancouver destination. The Lions Gate Bridge is the iconic, direct route to downtown North Vancouver and West Vancouver, including Stanley Park and the Capilano Suspension Bridge, but it often has heavy traffic and a lane control system. The Ironworkers Memorial Bridge is further east, part of the Trans‑Canada Highway (Highway 1), and is the better option for reaching places such as Lynn Canyon, Deep Cove or for continuing eastward.

To ensure the smoothest drive to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, avoid crossing the Lions Gate Bridge during peak commuter hours. Plan to make the trip mid‑morning, after 09:30, or in the early afternoon before 15:00 on a weekday. This timing helps you miss the heaviest inbound and outbound rush‑hour traffic, making for a much more pleasant and predictable journey from the airport to the North Shore.

The most direct and well‑signed route to Grouse Mountain is designed for visitors and avoids confusing residential areas. After crossing the Lions Gate Bridge into North Vancouver, follow signs for Marine Drive, then turn north onto Capilano Road. Continue straight up Capilano Road for several kilometres; it leads directly to the base of the mountain and the main car park for the Skyride gondola.

The Sea‑to‑Sky Highway (Highway 99) is dotted with spectacular, easy‑to‑access viewpoints perfect for a road trip. Popular stops include Porteau Cove Provincial Park, offering stunning vistas of Howe Sound right from the car park. A bit further north, Shannon Falls Provincial Park has a large, dedicated lot and a short walk to the base of the towering waterfall. Just past Squamish, the Tantalus Lookout provides a breathtaking panoramic view of distant glaciers and mountain ranges.

While the Sea‑to‑Sky Highway features dramatic scenery with mountain and ocean cliffs, it is a modern and well‑engineered road that feels very safe for most drivers. The highway has good guardrails, clear lane markings and, for much of the southern portion, multiple lanes in each direction. If you are nervous, stay in the right‑hand lane, drive at a comfortable speed and use the frequent pullouts to take a break and enjoy the view without pressure.

When it's raining heavily in the Vancouver area, expect similar or even more intense conditions on the Sea‑to‑Sky Highway. Primary concerns are reduced visibility and slippery surfaces, so reduce your speed and increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead. Be mindful of potential water pooling on the road and pay attention to electronic signs that may warn of local issues such as rockfalls, which can be more common during severe storms.

A sensible plan is to start your journey to Whistler with a full tank of fuel, easily done at any station in Vancouver or Richmond. The town of Squamish, about an hour into the drive, is the last major service centre before the highway becomes more remote. It serves as a good stopping point for a restroom break, to grab a coffee, or to top up fuel if necessary before continuing the scenic drive north.

To visit both of North Vancouver's suspension bridges efficiently, it's best to start with the one further east. Drive to Lynn Canyon Park first to enjoy its trails and bridge. From there, travel west across North Vancouver on local roads such as Lynn Valley Road to reach Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. This sequence prevents doubling back and keeps you moving in a logical direction towards the Lions Gate Bridge for your return to Vancouver.

Driving in Stanley Park is simplified by its main road, Stanley Park Drive, which operates as a one‑way, counter‑clockwise loop around the park's perimeter. This makes navigation easy but means you cannot turn back if you miss your intended stop. Always be aware of the dedicated bike lane to your right and watch for pedestrians. Some roads within the park may have seasonal closures, especially in poor weather, and these will be clearly indicated at the park entrances.

Parking directly on Granville Island around midday can be very difficult and stressful. A much easier strategy is to use one of the large pay car parks located just off the island, particularly those under the south end of the Granville Street Bridge. Parking there saves you from navigating the island's congested narrow lanes and leaves you a short, pleasant walk from the Public Market and the main attractions.

For a sunrise photography session, parking is typically very easy at Vancouver's most popular beaches. At Spanish Banks and Kitsilano Beach you will find large, free car parks that are almost always empty in the early morning. Near English Bay in the West End, metered street parking is available along Beach Avenue and adjacent streets. At that time of day, finding a space is simple, though it's still wise to check signs quickly for any specific restrictions.

The drive to the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus from downtown is not difficult. Major arterial roads such as West 4th Avenue, West 10th Avenue or West 16th Avenue lead directly to the university grounds. Once on campus, signage clearly points to visitor parking. For the Museum of Anthropology, the most convenient option is the Rose Garden Parkade, a large multi‑storey facility a short walk from the museum entrance.

For a scenic and low‑stress drive to the village of Deep Cove, take the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge (part of Highway 1) to the North Shore. Immediately after the bridge, take the exit for Dollarton Highway. This road offers a more relaxed drive as it winds along the shoreline of Burrard Inlet, featuring pleasant views and fewer complex junctions than routes that cut through central North Vancouver. It leads you directly to your destination.

To avoid crossing the same bridge during two rush hours, plan a circular route. A sensible approach is to visit Burnaby first, perhaps in the morning, by taking the Trans‑Canada Highway (Highway 1) east. From Burnaby, continue on Highway 1 west across the Ironworkers Memorial Bridge to access North Vancouver for the afternoon. Finally, return to downtown Vancouver via the Lions Gate Bridge later in the evening, after the worst of the traffic has cleared.

The drive to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal for an early sailing is usually smooth, as you'll miss the worst of the morning rush hour. The route is well signed, primarily following Highway 99 South. To ensure a stress‑free experience, plan to leave Vancouver about 90 minutes before your scheduled departure. This allows ample time for the drive itself and for the required check‑in at the terminal, which typically asks you to arrive 30 to 60 minutes ahead of sailing.

The process of driving onto a BC Ferry is highly organised and efficient. After passing through the ticket booth you will be directed into a specific numbered lane to wait for boarding. When it's time to load, ferry staff use clear hand signals to guide you and the cars in your lane onto the vessel's car deck. You simply follow the vehicle in front of you, and staff will show you exactly where to park before you turn off your engine for the crossing.

Victoria's main attractions are clustered around the Inner Harbour, making it ideal for a park‑once‑and‑walk approach. The most convenient options are the large public parkades located a few blocks from the waterfront on streets such as Broughton, View or Yates. Using one of these centrally located car parks allows you to explore the Royal BC Museum, Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel on foot without the hassle of moving the car.

A well‑paced Tofino trip often starts with an early ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. The drive from Nanaimo to Tofino itself takes about three hours without stops, so plan for a lunch break in a town such as Coombs or Port Alberni to break it up. It is advisable to complete the final winding section of Highway 4 well before dusk, as the road is unlit and requires more attention, especially for first‑time visitors.

The most challenging section of Highway 4 for inexperienced mountain drivers is the portion between Port Alberni and the Tofino‑Ucluelet junction. This stretch, known as Sutton Pass, involves significant elevation changes, sharp bends and some narrow passages through the mountains. Drivers should maintain a cautious speed, be prepared for changing weather, and use the designated pullouts to allow faster local traffic to pass safely.

To make the 4–5 hour drive to the Okanagan Valley more enjoyable, breaking it up with an overnight stop is a good idea. A popular and practical plan is to drive about two hours to the town of Hope, situated just before the main mountain highways begin. Alternatively, you could press on to Merritt, which is past the Coquihalla Summit. Either option lets you split the mountain driving into two manageable segments, ensuring you arrive in wine country feeling relaxed.

During summer the Coquihalla Highway (Highway 5) is a modern, multi‑lane road offering a straightforward drive through stunning mountain scenery. However, in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn conditions can be unpredictable. It's not uncommon to have sunny weather in the Fraser Valley and encounter heavy snow or icy patches at the high‑elevation Coquihalla Summit. It's crucial to check road reports before you depart and be prepared for potential winter weather.

Incorporating a planned stop is key to managing the long drive into BC's Interior. Hope is well placed about two hours from Vancouver, making it an ideal spot for a first break to stretch, get coffee and check conditions for the mountain passes ahead. Merritt is further along the route, after the Coquihalla Summit, and serves as an excellent place for a second break or a meal before you complete the final leg to Kamloops or the Okanagan.

The 9–10 hour drive from Vancouver to Banff is best enjoyed when split into at least two days. A common and highly recommended strategy is to plan an overnight stop in Revelstoke. This town sits roughly halfway and is set within a beautiful national park. Another popular option is to stay in Golden, which is nearer the Alberta border and sets you up for a shorter, scenic final drive through the Rockies on the second day.

While Highway 1 is the most direct route through the Fraser Valley, it is often subject to heavy congestion. If real‑time traffic apps show significant delays, consider Highway 7 as an alternative. Running along the north side of the Fraser River, Highway 7 is often more scenic and can be faster when the main highway is backed up. It's a good choice if you're not in a major rush and prefer a more relaxed drive.

When driving from coastal Vancouver into BC's mountain passes, be prepared for rapid and dramatic shifts in weather. A clear, mild day in the city can quickly become foggy, rainy or even snowy at a summit, regardless of the season. For safety, drive with your headlights on to improve visibility, reduce speed in changing conditions and be aware that the temperature can drop significantly as you climb in elevation.

On major BC highways you will encounter large, clear signs indicating the start of mandatory winter‑tyre or chain zones, which are typically in effect from 1 October to 30 April. These signs commonly feature a snowflake inside a tyre symbol. Additionally, large electronic message boards are positioned before mountain passes to provide real‑time updates on road conditions, closures or if chain‑up rules are currently being enforced.

Chain‑up areas are large designated pullouts where commercial vehicles are legally required to stop and fit tyre chains when conditions are severe. As a traveller in a rental car you normally will not need to fit chains yourself. However, seeing these areas in active use is a clear visual cue that the road ahead is experiencing serious winter weather. It serves as a strong reminder to proceed with extreme caution, reduce your speed significantly and be prepared for challenging driving.

Before planning a day trip to Seattle, first confirm that your rental agreement allows cross‑border travel into the United States. You and all passengers will need valid passports or other acceptable travel documents for the border crossing. To minimise delays, check border wait times online before you leave and try to cross during off‑peak periods, avoiding weekend mornings heading south and Sunday evenings heading north.

Driving in Richmond's main shopping districts, especially at weekends, requires patience and heightened awareness. The areas around major malls experience high volumes of traffic, with many cars entering and exiting large car parks. Expect a slower pace, be prepared for sudden stops and watch carefully for pedestrians and other drivers who may be distracted while searching for a parking space. The road system itself is a simple grid; the density of traffic is the main challenge.

First‑time drivers in downtown Vancouver often find the system of one‑way streets, particularly around Granville, Seymour and Howe, confusing. Another tricky spot is the approach to the Lions Gate Bridge via Georgia Street, where multiple lanes merge and diverge in quick succession. The various turn restrictions and dedicated bus or cycle lanes throughout the downtown core also require constant attention to signage to avoid making a wrong turn.

For a stress‑free early morning departure, plan to arrive at the YVR rental car return area about three hours before your flight. The drive to the airport is typically very light on traffic at that hour. Follow the airport signs for 'Rental Car Return', which will lead you directly to the designated drop‑off location in the main parkade. The return process is usually quick, and from there it is just a short, convenient walk back to the terminal for airline check‑in.

The key to an efficient multi‑stop itinerary is to group activities geographically and travel between areas during off‑peak hours. Dedicate separate days to different regions: one for downtown and Stanley Park, another for North Shore attractions like Capilano and Grouse Mountain, and a full day for a longer trip to a place such as Whistler. By avoiding travel across bridges or through the city centre during morning and evening rush hours, you'll maximise your sightseeing time.