Planning Whistler holiday transportation

The holidays are the most magical time to be in Whistler, and the hardest to get around. A little planning makes the difference between a relaxed arrival and hours of waiting.

The busiest weeks

Demand peaks over Christmas and New Year, and again over long weekends such as BC Family Day and US Presidents' Day in February, and during spring break in March. Flights, hotels, restaurants and transfers fill up at the same time.

If your trip falls on any of these dates, book your airport transfers as soon as your flights are confirmed.

Getting there

The drive from YVR to Whistler takes around two to two and a half hours in good conditions, and longer in snow or heavy traffic. Winter tires are required on the Sea-to-Sky Highway from October 1 to March 31.

A private transfer tracks your flight, so a delay does not leave you stranded, and the vehicle is chosen for your group, your luggage and your ski bags. Tell us how many bags and skis you are bringing when you book.

Getting around Whistler

Whistler Village is built for walking, but many chalets and condos are in Creekside, the Upper Village or the residential neighbourhoods around them. Over the holidays, taxis can be hard to find at the end of the night.

An hourly chauffeur in Whistler keeps a car and driver with you for dinners, ski days, shopping in the village or a day trip to Squamish or Pemberton.

New Year's Eve and special nights

Restaurant reservations, private parties and fireworks make New Year's Eve the busiest night of the year in Whistler. Book your car early, agree a pickup time and point in advance, and let us know if your plans might run late.

Getting home

For the return to YVR, allow for the two to two and a half hour drive, your airline's check-in time and a buffer for winter conditions. On the busiest days, an early start avoids the worst of the southbound traffic.

A quick checklist

• Book transfers as soon as flights are confirmed.
• Share your flight numbers, passenger count, bags and skis.
• Plan evenings out with a car booked by the hour.
• Check DriveBC for road conditions before travel days.
• Leave extra time for the trip back to the airport.