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Vancouver is a city of breathtaking vistas, where ocean meet mountain summits and cosmopolitan city avenues give way to verdant, green parks. To truly experience all it has to offer, from the Granville Island Market to the Sea-to-Sky Highway, you require the freedom that only your own vehicle can give. But hiring a car in the midst of a busy city centre can appear daunting, with concerns over parking, traffic, and getting the correct vehicle. Don’t fret. This guide explains it all and will guide you through how to rent a car effortlessly in downtown Vancouver.
Your ideal Vancouver experience begins with a suitable vehicle. What you intend to do will decide on your ideal option.
City Driving: In case you are just going around the downtown area, visiting areas such as Gastown or Kitsilano, your best friend here is a compact vehicle. It facilitates easier driving on narrower roads and fitting into those restricted parking spaces.
Mountain Trips: Planning a day-trip to Whistler or Cypress Mountain? You’ll be requiring an SUV. From October 1 to March 31, M+S (mud and snow) or winter tires are required on highways such as the Sea-to-Sky. An SUV provides the security, traction, and peace of mind you require.
Family/Group Travel: For families or groups traveling with luggage, a minivan or a larger SUV is the way to go. You’ll get the comfort and cargo space needed for everyone to enjoy the ride without feeling cramped.
A bit of planning makes a difference. In order to guarantee that you have the car of your choice at a fair price, it’s always better to book ahead, particularly if you are traveling during peak season such as summer or over the holidays.
When you’re talking about insurance, you’ll hear about Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and liability coverage. They’re created to protect you if there is an accident. But before you purchase additional coverage, it’s a good idea to consult with your own car insurance company or your credit card issuer, as they many times have rental car benefits that you might already be paying for.
When you hire a car in downtown Vancouver, some insider information will make your driving experience that much easier.
Traffic: As with any big city, Vancouver has rush hours. Attempt to avoid driving between 7-9 am and 3-6 pm on weekdays if possible.
Rules of the Road: Take note that downtown has numerous one-way streets and a well-developed network of bike lanes. Always scan your mirrors for cyclists prior to turning.
Parkades: Parkades can be costly and difficult to find. We strongly suggest employing a parkade app such as PayByPhone, which is utilized by most street parkades in the city. Search for public parkades along your destination before going out to avoid the frustration of driving around the block.
Selecting a local business makes a huge impact. Our easy downtown location saves you valuable time, with no shuttle or taxi required to an off-site parking lot. As locals, we are able to provide helpful tips and recommendations about routes and points of interest that large online businesses can’t. We are proud of an easy, efficient process that gets you on the road as soon as possible so you can begin your adventure without delay.
With a bit of planning, car rental in Vancouver is easy and the absolute best way to discover the city and its stunning surroundings. Ready to go? Reserve your vehicle with Westcoast Car Rentals today and begin your Vancouver adventure.
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