Best pickup & drop off locations for car rental in Vancouver and Toronto

It only takes a few minutes to book a vehicle in Canada, nothing complicated. But what really matters is your pickup & drop-off spots. Choosing these locations wisely can save you time, money & unnecessary headache.

So let’s know about the best pickup & drop off locations for car rental in Vancouver and Toronto to make your experience amazing from start to finish!

Why locations matter for car rentals

Sometimes, in order to save just a few dollars, we reserve cheap deals without considering location problems. But you must understand:

• Some pickup spots have longer waiting hours
• Some are better connected by transit
• Some let you drop off early or after hours, whatever suits you the best
• Some are closer to highways for quick departures

Getting all such points sorted means less stress and more exploring.

Vancouver: Best pickup & drop off locations

You will find a mix of airport, downtown and neighborhood rental hubs in Vancouver. That also means having a great flexibility in choosing the location as per your travel needs.

Vancouver International Airport

This is the most convenient option if you are arriving in the city. Major rental companies are located right by the terminal.

If you are staying in Sea Island hotels, car rental at YVR is the best option. You even get quick access to Highway 99, including Whistler, Squamish or U.S. border roads.

It is convenient for after hours rental pickup and return, as there are many suppliers who offer 24/7 services.

Downtown Vancouver

Choose downtown if you are spending time in the city first, before making any road trip plans. It is also a great drop off spot if you are coming from a different city in a hired vehicle & want to spend some days in Vancouver.

Here, you will find various rental companies in the center of the city that are easily walkable. It saves you from airport hustle and has many affordable cafes to spend time while you finalize paperwork.

West Georgia Street near Burrard, Robson Street corridor and Waterfront/Granville Square are some best options that you can consider either to start or end your journey in downtown.

Other handy spots around Vancouver

Don’t worry if you are staying outside downtown or want something even closer to your neighborhood, you still have good alternatives:

• Metrotown (Burnaby) – great for rentals near big shopping or hotel zones.
• Surrey Central (Guildford area) – it is an ideal option for travelers based in South Surrey or heading to the Fraser Valley.
• Richmond City Centre – an alternative to YVR if you are south of the river.
• North Vancouver (Lonsdale Ave) – perfect if your plan involves spending time near the mountains or Lynn Canyon.

Toronto: Best pickup & drop off locations

Toronto’s massive metro area means you have multiple choices from airport hubs to urban hotspots.

Toronto Pearson International Airport

This is Canada’s busiest airport with tons of self drive vehicles to choose from! It is a classic choice for quick arrivals and departures.

Popular rental counters are only a short walk away on level 1 of the terminals 1 & 3 of the airport. Local suppliers provide shuttle services to reach easily. You also get immediate highway access (401/Gardiner). Just go with the company that gives the best deals.

Downtown Toronto

Toronto’s downtown is a practical pickup or drop-off location for car rental if you are planning a short city trip before leaving the area. It also works well if you want to return the vehicle close to your final destination.

Near major transit stations

• Union Station vicinity (Bay/Front) provides a great connection to buses and trains.
• The Yonge & Bloor area is walkable, central and is near to the hotel chains of that area.
• King West is perfect for foodies or if you are fond of culture trips.

Some other strategic locations in Greater Toronto

Sometimes, to avoid city traffic, off-airport and non-downtown areas can prove to be beneficial. The waiting time is also comparatively short for such locations:

• Scarborough Town Centre is great for east side pickup/drop, best for trips to the 401.
• Mississauga City Centre is a good option if you arrive via GO transit or from west of downtown.
• North York (Yonge/Sheppard) provides a balance between downtown and broader GTA access.

Few suggestions for your car rental pickup & drop-off success

• Reserve your vehicle for the best rates as supply fluctuates in summers, holiday season or during some major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026.
• You must check your arrival time before selecting a location. For example, Airport locations stay open later than city offices, which is preferable if your flight lands after 10 PM.
• If you are picking up in Vancouver & dropping off in Toronto or vice-versa, look out for one-way charges. You must compare the round-trip vs. one-way pricing on different platforms.
• Make sure to plan how you reach the rental office unless it is an airport. For downtown and nearby areas, you must know whether it is a walk away, or if you have to take a train, uber ride? Knowing all this ahead saves time & money.
• Ask about the after hours rental policies. Some suppliers let you return or pick up the keys at any time of day.

Common queries

• Can I pick up my rental car in Vancouver and drop it off in Toronto?

  Yes, most major car rental companies in Canada like Alamo, Hertz, National & Dollar, allow one way rentals between cities, including Vancouver to Toronto.

• Do car rental locations in Canada offer after-hours drop-off?

  Many locations in Canada, especially airport rental centers, offer after-hours drop-off services with a secure key box. Some downtown branches also provide this option, but hours can be shorter and you will have to confirm it with your supplier. If you’re catching an early flight or arriving late at night, airport locations are the safest options.

• When is the cheapest time to rent a car in Toronto & Vancouver?

  The cheapest time to rent a car in Toronto & Vancouver is during shoulder months or off-peak seasons and mid-week. Booking early online and choosing non-airport neighborhood locations can also save money.

• Is it better to pick up a rental car at the airport or downtown in Vancouver or Toronto?

  It totally depends on your schedule. Select airport car rental locations if you are flying in because they offer a bigger vehicle selection & after-hours pickup or return services.

  On the other hand, downtown locations can be cheaper if you are already staying in the city and don’t need a vehicle right away. Many travelers explore the city first, then rent later from a downtown branch.