Vancouver Island car rentals
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Cheap car rentals in Vancouver Island
| Mini |
| Economy |
| Compact |
| Intermediate |
| Standard |
| Full-size |
| Luxury |
| Minivan |
| Passenger van |
| SUV |
| Commercial |
| Pickup truck |
Top tips for renting a car in Vancouver Island
- Child safety laws on Vancouver Island are aimed at protecting children travelling in motor vehicles and are enforced by the police. Specific requirements may vary depending on the age and weight of the child, as well as the type of vehicle and safety equipment used. Infants and young children must be placed in an appropriate car seat or booster seat that matches their age, size, and weight. Rear-facing car seats are required for infants under one year of age who weigh less than 9 kg, or until they outgrow the weight or height limit of the seat.
- An intermediate SUV is highly recommended for driving in Vancouver Island. This type of vehicle provides a perfect balance between size, comfort, and power, making it suitable for the island's diverse terrain and road conditions. Vancouver Island has several areas with unpaved and rugged roads, which can be challenging for smaller cars to manoeuvre. With an intermediate SUV, you can easily navigate through these roads and have a comfortable ride while exploring the island's natural beauty.
- The drink-driving laws on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, are strict, and drivers who violate these laws face severe consequences. It is crucial to comply with these laws when driving your Vancouver Island car hire, to ensure your safety and the safety of other road users. It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content level above 0.08% on Vancouver Island, and there are severe penalties for violating this law.
- Most car hire companies on Vancouver Island allow cross-border travel, but they may charge an additional fee for it. If you plan on crossing the border between the United States and Canada, you will need a valid passport or appropriate travel documents, such as a visa or permanent resident card. You may also require an International Driving Permit (IDP), which is a recognised translation of your driving licence in many international jurisdictions. Some car hire companies may also have restrictions on the types of cars that can be taken across the border.
- Book your rental car in Vancouver Island at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
FAQs about renting a car in Vancouver Island
What is the most popular rental car in Vancouver Island?
Economy (Kia Rio or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Vancouver Island.
What is the best rental car company in Vancouver Island?
Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car rental companies in Vancouver Island are Budget (8.9, 67 reviews), National (8.2, 103 reviews), and Hertz (7.6, 56 reviews).
How can I find car rentals near me in Vancouver Island?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
Should I hire a car on Vancouver Island?
Yes, you should hire a car on Vancouver Island. Hiring a car on Vancouver Island gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, without being tied to public transport schedules or tour groups. With a car, you can easily get to popular tourist attractions that are otherwise hard to reach by public transportation. In addition, Vancouver Island's rugged and diverse terrain requires a sturdy and comfortable vehicle, making hiring a car a more comfortable option compared to other modes of transport. Some of the well-known attractions worth driving to on Vancouver Island include Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino, and Whale Watching Tours.
What is driving like on Vancouver Island?
The driving style and culture on Vancouver Island is laid-back and relaxed. Generally speaking, drivers on Vancouver Island tend to respect the rules of the road and are courteous to fellow drivers. It's also worth noting that there are many cyclists on the island, so drivers need to be aware of them and give them plenty of space. There are some unique driving regulations on Vancouver Island that visitors should be aware of. For instance, it is mandatory to carry chains or have winter tyres on certain roads during the winter months. Additionally, there are certain areas, such as Pacific Rim National Park, where speed limits are strictly enforced and fines can be hefty.
How old do you have to be to hire a car on Vancouver Island?
On Vancouver Island, the minimum age to hire a car varies depending on the car hire company and the type of vehicle you want. Generally, most car hire companies on Vancouver Island require the driver to be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driving licence for a minimum of one year. Some companies may have additional age restrictions and surcharges for drivers under 25, due to the increased risk of accidents, theft, and damage. Therefore, it's advisable to check with the specific hiring company for their age policy before making a reservation.
Car rental locations in Vancouver Island
Car rental directory
Budget car rental locations in Vancouver Island
7 Locations
National car rental locations in Vancouver Island
5 Locations
Sunnycars car rental locations in Vancouver Island
4 Locations
Hertz car rental locations in Vancouver Island
3 Locations
Enterprise Rent-A-Car car rental locations in Vancouver Island
2 Locations
Avis car rental locations in Vancouver Island
1 Location
Discount Car & Truck Rentals car rental locations in Vancouver Island
1 Location
Thrifty car rental locations in Vancouver Island
1 Location
keddy by Europcar car rental locations in Vancouver Island
1 Location
Good to know
Most popular car type | Economy |
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