Vancouver Island car hire

Compact (Buick Encore or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Vancouver Island.

Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies in Vancouver Island are Budget (8.6, 102 reviews), Avis (8.6, 63 reviews), and National (8.3, 111 reviews).

Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

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.

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.

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.