Shuttle vs Rental Car

Both options work. Which one is better depends on your group size, gear, itinerary, and budget. Here's how they compare.

SEE THE COMPARISON

At a Glance

Shuttle

No winter driving — someone else handles the roads

No parking needed in Revelstoke or at the resort

Cheaper for solo travelers on a short trip

Fixed schedule — you go when the shuttle goes

Limited luggage and gear capacity

No side trips to hot springs, Rogers Pass, etc.

Cost per person adds up fast for groups

Rental Car

Go anywhere, anytime — completely flexible schedule

Carry all your ski gear, luggage, and passengers

One-way airport pickup available (YLW, YYC, YVR, YEG)

Day trips: hot springs, Rogers Pass, national parks

Cost per person drops fast with 2+ passengers

You do the driving (mountain roads in winter)

Parking needed at the resort (free) and in town

When the Shuttle Wins

Solo traveler or couple with light luggage

Staying in downtown Revelstoke and only skiing at the resort

Short trip (2–3 days) without plans to leave town

Prefer not to drive mountain highways in winter

Budget priority and traveling alone

When a Rental Car Wins

Family or group of 3+ (cost per person drops below shuttle fares)

Traveling with ski gear, boards, and luggage for multiple people

Flying into Kelowna (YLW) or Calgary (YYC) — one-way rental is the simplest option

Want to visit hot springs, Rogers Pass, Nakusp, or Glacier National Park

Late or early flights that do not match shuttle schedules

Need flexibility to change plans during your trip

Local resident needing a replacement vehicle

Approximate Cost Comparison

Actual costs depend on season, provider, and availability. These are rough estimates to help you plan.

Shuttle (per person)

One-way Kelowna → Revelstoke~$60–100

Round trip~$120–200

Family of 4, round trip~$480–800

Rental Car (total, split among passengers)

3-day rental (winter, crossover)~$300–360

Per person, group of 2~$150–180

Per person, group of 4~$75–90

Includes mountain-rated tires and roadside assistance. One-way drop-off fee additional if using airport pickup.

See our rates page for current RevyCar pricing by season and vehicle.

FAQ

Is there a direct shuttle from Kelowna airport to Revelstoke?

Shuttle services operate between Kelowna and Revelstoke, though schedules and availability vary by season. Check with local shuttle providers for current timetables. The drive takes about 2.5 hours.

How much does a shuttle to Revelstoke cost?

Shuttle fares from Kelowna to Revelstoke typically run $60–100+ per person one-way depending on the provider and season. A private transfer for a group will cost more. Compare this to a rental car split among passengers.

Can I use public transit within Revelstoke?

BC Transit operates local bus service in Revelstoke. Revelstoke Mountain Resort also runs a free shuttle from downtown during the ski season. For getting around town, these options work well. For trips outside town, you will need a car.

Is it safe to drive to Revelstoke in winter?

Yes. BC highways are well-maintained and regularly plowed in winter. Winter tires are legally required October 1 to April 30. All RevyCar vehicles come with mountain-rated tires that meet BC requirements, so you are covered.

Related Guides

Do You Need a Car?

Full breakdown of when you do and don't

Rates & Pricing

Current seasonal pricing

Airport Routes

One-way pickup from YLW, YYC, YVR, YEG

Our Fleet

SUVs, crossovers, sedans, minivan

Decided on a Rental Car?

Mountain-rated tires, transparent pricing, and one-way airport pickup. Book online or call us to discuss your options.

Book Now View Rates

Questions? Call us at +1 250-814-6000