If you’re thinking about exploring Surrey or planning a road trip from this part of British Columbia, renting a car is one of the smartest choices you can make. Whether you’re flying in, visiting friends, or just need wheels for a few days, car rental in Surrey gives you the freedom to go where you want, when you want.

But before you hop behind the wheel, there are a few things you should know — especially if this is your first time renting a car in the area. Don’t worry, it’s all pretty straightforward. We’ve put together this guide to help you feel confident and make the most out of your rental experience.

Why Choose Surrey to Start Your Journey?

Let’s start with the obvious: Surrey is in a great spot. It’s just far enough from the busy downtown Vancouver core that you avoid most of the traffic headaches, but still close to everything — the coast, the mountains, the ferries, and even the U.S. border. Whether you’re heading to the Okanagan, Squamish, or just staying local, picking up a car rental in Surrey saves time and money.

And if you’re flying into Vancouver International Airport, good news — Mr. Rent a Car’s YVR location is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just be aware: there’s no one sitting in the office at night, but we’ve got a self-serve system that makes it easy to pick up your rental car anytime — even at 2 a.m. Just book ahead or call us in advance, and we’ll have everything ready for you. Super simple.

1. Book Early for the Best Rates and Options

Surrey is growing fast, and with that comes more demand for car rentals. If you’re planning to rent during holidays, long weekends, or even just a sunny Saturday, it’s a good idea to reserve your car in advance.

At Mr. Rent a Car, we offer everything from compact fuel-savers to roomy SUVs. We even offer hybrid options (when available) for travelers who want to reduce their carbon footprint. The earlier you book, the more choices you’ll have — and often at a better price.

2. What You’ll Need to Rent a Car

Renting a car in Surrey is pretty simple, but here’s what you’ll typically need:

• A valid driver’s license (International license holders are welcome too — just make sure it’s in English or comes with a translation).
• A credit card in your name for the security deposit.
• Be at least 21 years old (some age restrictions and fees may apply for drivers under 25).

Before you leave the rental lot, do a quick walk-around of the car. Check for any dings or scratches and make sure everything is noted in your rental agreement. We do our part to keep our cars clean and damage-free, but a double-check never hurts.

3. Think About Your Plans and Pick the Right Vehicle

Are you staying local and just need to run errands around Surrey? A compact car might do the trick. Heading into the mountains or traveling with kids and luggage? An SUV might be more your style.

At Mr. Rent a Car, we’ll help you find a car that fits your trip. We’re here to answer your questions — no pressure, no confusing upsells, just real people making sure your car matches your plans.

4. Don’t Forget About Fuel and Insurance

It’s easy to overlook, but insurance and fuel policies matter. We’ll explain everything clearly when you book — no hidden fees, no surprises.

You’ll usually need to return the car with the same amount of gas it had when you picked it up. Some customers also ask about extra insurance — it’s up to you, but we always recommend checking if your own auto insurance or credit card already covers rental cars.

5. Know the Rules of the Road (and Parking!)

Driving in Surrey is pretty laid-back, but it still helps to know a few local tips:

• Watch for school zones and speed signs — Surrey is a family-oriented city, and police do keep an eye out.
• Parking can vary. Some areas are free, others need a pay app or meter.
• If you’re heading to more rural spots or winter destinations, you may want to ask about winter tires. We can help you rent a car with winter tires in Vancouver if you’re planning a cold-weather trip.

6. Returning the Car — Easy and Painless

Returning your rental car is just as smooth as picking it up. If you’re returning it to our Vancouver Airport location outside regular hours, remember that we’ve got that easy self-serve drop-off system.

We just ask that you let us know your return time when you book, so we can prepare everything on our end. Simple communication goes a long way toward keeping things running smoothly.

Final Thoughts: Renting with Confidence

Car rental in Surrey doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it should feel like the opposite — easy, convenient, and built around your travel plans.

At Mr. Rent a Car, we’re proud to help visitors and locals alike explore Surrey and beyond with comfort and peace of mind. We keep our fleet clean and reliable, our pricing fair, and our customer service real and friendly — no gimmicks, no fine print.

So if you’re planning to hit the road, let us help you get there. Book your ride, pack your bags, and start your BC adventure from one of the best places to do it — right here in Surrey.