Car Rental Vancouver Airport (YVR)
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.
Renting a car at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is one of the most convenient ways to explore the city and the surrounding region of British Columbia. With easy access to downtown Vancouver, mountains, and coastal routes, a rental car offers flexibility and independence, especially for day trips and scenic drives.
Location of Rental Facilities
Car rental facilities at YVR are conveniently located on-site, making the process quick and efficient:
- Main rental counters are located on the ground floor of the parkade, just steps from the terminal
- Vehicles are parked nearby for immediate pick-up
- Off-airport companies provide shuttle transport from designated pick-up zones
Follow airport signs for “Car Rentals” after baggage claim—everything is within walking distance for major providers.
Prices and Cost Overview
Rental prices at YVR vary depending on demand, season, and vehicle type:
- Cheapest deals: from $10–$20 per day (low demand periods)
- Average price: around C$48–C$70 per day
- SUVs: around C$70–C$75 per day on average
Prices increase during summer and holiday seasons.
Booking several weeks in advance can significantly reduce costs.
Most Popular Car Types
- Intermediate cars (most commonly rented category)
- Economy and compact cars – cheapest and ideal for city driving
- SUVs – popular for exploring mountains and national parks
- Vans and minivans – suitable for families and groups
If you plan to drive to Whistler or mountain areas, an SUV is often the most practical option.
Popular Destinations by Car
Renting a car at YVR opens access to some of Canada’s most scenic destinations:
- Downtown Vancouver – 20 minutes from the airport
- Whistler (Sea-to-Sky Highway) – one of the most scenic drives in the world
- Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain
- Vancouver Island (via ferry)
- Squamish and coastal routes
The Sea-to-Sky Highway is a must-drive route with spectacular ocean and mountain views.
Car Rental Insurance Explained
Car rental insurance in Canada is essential and can include several components:
- Basic Liability Insurance
Included in all rentals in Canada, covering damage to third parties - Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
Covers damage to the rental vehicle - Theft Protection
Covers vehicle theft - Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
Covers medical expenses (often optional, around CAD $6–$7/day)
Many rentals already include basic coverage, and credit cards may provide additional protection.
Always check your existing insurance or credit card benefits before purchasing extra coverage to avoid unnecessary costs.
Practical Tips for Renting a Car at YVR
- Book early to secure better rates
- Inspect the vehicle before leaving the rental area
- Be aware that drivers under 25 may pay extra fees
- Avoid rush hour in Vancouver (especially late afternoon)
- Consider whether you need a car for your entire stay—public transport is excellent in the city
Car rental companies
In Vancouver Airport you can find the following car rental companies:
Alamo
Avis
Budget
Enterprise
National
Priceless
Thrifty
West Coast Car Rentals
Off-site car rentals
- Enterprise Rent-a-Car
- Discount Car and Truck Rentals
- Routes Car Rental
- Car2Go
- Evo Car Share
Location
In YVR Airport here are two different car rental spaces: on-site and off-site car rental facilities.
You can get to the off-site car rental facilities by the Shuttle service provided from the curbside Courtesy Shuttle zones.