How to find a cheap car hire deal in Canada
Whether you need a small car for zipping around town or a bigger ride for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Canada. Choose from options that start from £12 a day and hit the road for less.
£81 is the lowest rate for a weekly rental if your travel plans run a little longer.
Browse the car rentals in Ottawa and keep more cash in your pocket. It's the most affordable place in Canada to book a set of wheels.
Mississauga is the most popular city to rent a car.
If you're not sure which provider to go with, check out Turo. It ranks first for booking in Canada.
You won't need to go far after touching down to pick up your ride. Car rentals are available at major airports including Toronto Pearson International Airport, Vancouver International Airport and Montreal Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport.
Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary and Edmonton are a few of the most convenient cities to pick up a set of wheels.
Think about going with a one-way rental. Providers often reduce prices on certain routes to move vehicles between sites. When searching for a car for rent in Canada, select 'Return car to a different location' to access those deals.
Planning a multi-week rental? It could be cheaper to book a full month, so test a few date combinations to find out what works best.
Book a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy' to avoid refueling costs. It arrives with a full tank and goes back the same way, so it's easier to keep track of what you're paying.
Rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' give you the freedom to explore without worrying about added charges. Search for this option under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like.
Best time to book a car hire in Canada
Here's your insider tip for booking at the right time. One week in advance gives you the best window to grab the best price on a car hire in Canada.
Time your visit for November and make the most of average daily rates of £42. It's the most affordable month to rent a car.
April is typically the most expensive.
Compare car hire types in Canada
Economy: Living up to its name, this option is designed with value in mind. It pairs some of the cheapest rates around with excellent fuel efficiency to help keep the total spend down. When you'd rather save than splurge, this is the clear winner.
Small: This category includes mini and economy cars that focus on doing the basics well. Compact dimensions, fuel-efficient engines and good manoeuvrability make it a reliable choice when you need a cheap rental car in Canada.
Medium: If you want more space without going big, this hits the mark. Medium rentals offer more room for passengers and luggage, as well as a good mix of efficiency and performance. You'll find compact and intermediate models here.
Large: No cramming everyone in. No bags sliding around your feet. Also known as full-size, large cars offer real passenger space and the luggage capacity to go with it. Choose this level when you're covering some serious ground or bringing everyone with you.
SUV: From highways to unexpected detours, SUVs are ready for it all. With a higher driving position, flexible seating layouts, and the ability to handle varied terrain with ease, they're ideal for road trips across Canada.
Van: When you've got plenty to carry, a van gets the job done. This type of car for rent in Canada makes room for everything and everyone. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a solid choice for group travel, moving or business transport.
Luxury: Want the best of the best? This is more than getting from A to B — it's about showing up in style. Luxury vehicles combine premium design, cutting-edge tech, and refined performance in one exceptional package.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't mandatory, but it's something to think about. If your vehicle is damaged, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a hefty excess fee. Different providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the terms before booking.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can seriously level up your drive. Consider which add-ons could enhance your trip when you rent a car in Canada.
Driving in Canada: What you need to know
Age requirements can vary by supplier (and even car type), so be clear on the rules before you book. Some providers in Canada may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you fall outside the typical age bracket, simply uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to browse your options.
Add a car seat to your car rental reservation in Canada if you're travelling with small kids. Rules change from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their age, size and weight is always the safest way to travel.
Come prepared to avoid delays at pick-up. You'll typically need your physical driver's licence (no digital copies) and another form of photo ID. Have a credit card ready for the deposit too. If there's anything extra, it'll be listed in your booking.
Get familiar with your rental. Set up your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get used to how it handles before you set off. And don't forget to stay on the right side of the road in Canada.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's typically around 45kph (30mph) in built-up areas and 95kph (60mph) or so on highways. Always obey the road signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Canada is 0.08%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, it's best to skip drinks entirely so you remain legal to drive.
You'll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD) here. In addition to your debit and credit cards, have some cash handy for smaller purchases.
