A weekend drive from Seattle to Vancouver is one of the easiest international trips you can take in the Pacific Northwest. You stay in control, the scenery is top-notch, and if you time it right, the border wait isn’t too painful.
It’s a popular route for locals and visitors who want to stretch their legs north of the border.
That said, some folks get caught up in small but avoidable mistakes — like timing the traffic wrong or getting jammed up at the border.
Let’s break down the drive to Vancouver from Seattle.
⚠️ Warning ⚠️: The average attraction in Vancouver in June is booked 42 days in advance.
Especially in high season, booking online is the only way to avoid sellouts.
- ⛰️ Buy now: Grouse Mountain Admission + Skyride (book now/pay later)
- 🌁 Buy now: Capilano Suspension Bridge + free downtown shuttle (free cancellation)
- 🚌 Buy now: Capilano Suspension Bridge + Grouse Mountain combo (all transport included)
- 🐳 Buy now: Vancouver’s top rated killer whale tour (plus free photo and beverage)
All the links above offer the chance to book now/pay later, allow free cancellation, and guarantee you the best price – or you’ll be refunded the difference 🤝
How to Drive from Seattle to Vancouver
I’ve done this drive more times than I can count, and there’s a rhythm to it. Stick to it, and you’re golden.
You don’t need a ticket or a fistful of cash to drive from Seattle to Vancouver. You just need a car, a full tank, your passport, and some patience at the border.
Interstate 5 essentially takes you the entire way. It becomes BC-99 once you cross into Canada, so the drive is simple and easy, even for out-of-towners.
🚙 Don’t have a vehicle? Visit our friends at rentalcars.com to secure the best rates, or click on the widget below:
🚌 Looking for an alternative? Check out our guides to the Seattle to Vancouver bus and the Amtrak Cascades train.
Seattle Drive to Vancouver Drive Duration
⚠️ Not feeling taking a car? As someone how has taken both, the best bus company to get there in my opinion is the Flixbus to Vancouver – it’s cheaper, has WiFi, and more legroom. Simple as!
First things first: how long is the drive from Seattle to Vancouver?
It usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. That said, the wait at the border can add 15 to 90 minutes, depending on when you go.
You can visit borderlineups.com for exact wait times.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Seattle → Peace Arch Border Crossing: ~2 hours
- Border Processing Time: 15–90 minutes
- Peace Arch → Downtown Vancouver: ~45 minutes
Weekday mornings? Not bad. Friday afternoons? Bring snacks.
Seattle to Vancouver Drive Prices
So, how much does the Seattle to Vancouver drive cost?
It depends on how you’re travelling. But if you have a larger group, the savings over alternative methods are significant.
Driving Cost (no rental)
- Gas (one-way, average car): $25–$40
- Toll roads: $0 (none on I-5 to BC-99)
- Border crossing fee: Free (with valid documents)
Let’s say your car gets decent mileage — a round-trip might cost around $60–$80 in gas.
A family of four in one car? Same fuel cost, just add snacks.
Expect a bump in 2026. Check the WA State DOT and CBSA wait times for updates.
⛴️ Prefer to visit Victoria? Check out our guide to the Victoria Clipper ferry.
Seattle to Vancouver Drive Schedule
Naturally, there’s no official schedule for driving. That’s half the appeal. Nonetheless, there are better times to go.
Peak season runs from June to early September. But you’ll find longer waits on long weekends and holidays throughout the year.
The Peace Arch border crossing is open 24/7. But remember, traffic gets heavy around:
- Friday afternoons (heading north)
- Sunday evenings (heading south)
- Long weekends (both directions)
My tip? Leave early in the morning (before 9 AM) or wait until after dinner. Border lines are usually shorter, and you’ll avoid the notorious afternoon traffic leaving Seattle.
Early/late options sometimes mean lighter traffic, so keep that in mind.
How to Book a Drive from Seattle to Vancouver
If you’re driving your own car, there’s nothing to book — check your fuel and go. If you’re renting:
- Get to Seattle rental pickup (SEA Airport or downtown)
- Buy your rental with cross-border approval
- Drive and enjoy the route
- Disembark and park in Vancouver
Aim to arrive at your rental office 45–60 minutes before pickup, especially on weekends.
Some companies charge a cross-border fee (around $20–$30). Booking more than 7 days out is cheaper. Less than 7 days can be pricier, and same-day bookings might leave you stuck with a massive SUV or nothing at all.
What to Expect on the Drive: My Experience
Getting to the Seattle Pickup Location
Most rental places are in downtown or at the airport. I recommend downtown since it’s easier to get out of the city without hitting airport traffic.
They’ll check your ID, confirm border travel, and you’re off. If you’re in your own car, just hit I-5 north and don’t overthink it.
Stops
There are a number of great rest stops along the way to break up the drive:
- Tulalip: Home of the Seattle Premium Outlets and a hotel/casino.
- Bow Hill/Edison: (in the Skagit Valley): Two small hidden gems popular with foodies.
- Bellingham: A plethora of food options if you need a break.
My personal trick is to pack a small cooler. Also, make a playlist. The radio cuts out right around the border.
Vancouver Drive Arrival
Once you pass the border and hit BC-99, it’s a straight shot into the city. Traffic usually builds again at the Deas Tunnel entering Richmond and the Oak Street Bridge leading into Vancouver, so expect another slowdown near the end.
I recommend heading right to your downtown hotel upon arrival. That makes it easier to ditch the car and explore Vancouver’s top attractions on foot.
Remember, transit in Vancouver is solid, and the downtown core is quite walkable. You don’t need to keep driving once you’re there.
🌞 Visiting during the summer? Check out the top Vancouver summer activities.
Drive to Vancouver from Seattle Tips
- Get there at least 60 minutes in advance
- Dress for weather/conditions (e.g., deck wind, cabin AC)
- Wi-Fi is spotty — download shows beforehand
- Bring snacks or a reusable water bottle
- Lock your vehicle or secure your bags properly
- Book early for weekends/holidays
- Consider package upgrades for flexibility
- Always check conditions and border wait times on the day of departure
Seattle to Vancouver Drive FAQ
What’s the fastest drive route from Seattle to Vancouver?
Interstate 5 north all the way to BC-99 is the fastest and most direct.
How long is the drive?
2.5 to 3 hours, when there are minimal border delays. Add 30–90 minutes for the crossing at peak times.
How much does it cost?
Around $60–$80 round-trip in fuel for one car. Rentals vary by company.
Is there a direct route?
Yes. I-5 to BC-99 is direct with zero transfers.
What’s the best time to avoid crowds?
Early morning before 9 AM, or late after 7 PM. Avoid long weekends.
Ready for your Drive from Seattle to Vancouver?
Driving from Seattle to Vancouver is one of the easiest and most scenic international trips out there.
Whether you’re in your own car or a rental, it’s flexible, smooth, and surprisingly low-stress.
If you’ve got questions, feel free to drop them in the comments — I’ll try to help before your engine’s even warmed up.
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