How to find a cheap car hire deal in Ottawa International (YOW)
Whether you need a compact for zipping around town or a bigger ride for the open road, we'll help you find a cheap Ottawa International rental car. Pick from options averaging £74 a day and get on the road for less.
£17 is the cheapest daily price listed for a rental at Ottawa International.
Thinking of staying longer? Pick up a weekly rental from £82 and see more than just the top attractions in Ottawa.
Here's your inside scoop on when to book. Two weeks in advance is when you're most likely to find the best price on a YOW car hire.
Check out the offers from Routes Car Rentals, Alamo and Budget. These are some of the better-known providers at Ottawa International.
Whether you book with Routes Car Rentals or a different supplier, double-check the coverage on your Ottawa International car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid extra.
Consider getting a one-way rental. You might be able to land a good deal if the provider needs to shift vehicles between branches. Find the best available rates for a car for hire in YOW by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Spend less on fuel by choosing a car hire in Ottawa International that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect your vehicle with a full tank and drop it off full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Want to explore more without stressing about the number of miles you clock up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and travel as far as you like without the extra charges.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company. Prices average £55 a day.
Taking second place is this provider, offering daily rates of around £52.
The third option also stays competitive on price. Pick up one of their rentals for roughly £70 a day.
After a car that's a safe bet for most journeys? The Compact rental category ranks as the top pick for travellers at YOW.
Compare car hire types from Ottawa International (YOW)
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap Ottawa International rental car gets you moving without breaking the bank. These nimble, fuel-efficient rides are excellent for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, comfort and fuel efficiency. Easy to handle in cities and with enough space for longer drives, they're a great all-rounder.
Large: You've got the kids, the toys, the bags, the lot. Large vehicles have got the capacity to fit it all without breaking a sweat. Great for longer journeys, this YOW car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a better view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged country lanes or zipping along smooth highways, many come with all-wheel drive to help you take on any road.
Van: Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Ottawa International handles big loads and group travel with ease. They're roomy, hardworking, and ready for whatever task you throw at it.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something you should consider. If your vehicle is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a big excess fee. Different YOW car hire providers have varying insurance policies and coverage levels, so check the terms before booking.
Take your ride to the next level with nifty extras like mobile Wi-Fi or a reverse camera. These features can turn your drive into a smoother experience when you rent a car in Ottawa International.
Good to know
Age requirements for rentals often vary by supplier and even car type, so be clear on the rules before you book. Some suppliers in Canada may rent to younger drivers for an extra fee. If you fall outside the typical age bracket, just uncheck 'Driver aged between 25–70' and then enter how old you are to browse your options.
Add a car seat to your YOW car hire booking if you're planning to travel with the kids. Rules vary from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their size, age and weight is always the safest way to go.
You'll likely be asked for these three things when collecting your rental car: a current driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with enough funds for the security deposit. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. Any additional requirements will be listed in your booking.
Driving in Canada can take some adjustment if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the right side of the road.
Make sure you follow the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 45kph (30mph) in built-up areas and 95kph (60mph) or so on highways, unless road signs indicate differently.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% applies in Canada. The only sure way to stay legal to drive is to skip the drinks.
The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and activities. Pay with your card where you can, and keep a little cash when electronic payments aren't accepted.
Drive smarter from the start
After you've picked up the keys to your YOW car hire, it's time to write your own itinerary. Central Ottawa is about 14 kms (9 miles) north and a drive of around 20 minutes if that's where your trip starts.
At peak travel times, expect the drive from Ottawa International to the centre to take up to 30 minutes.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times for traffic around this destination. Try to avoid rush hours if you want a smoother run.
Don't need a set of wheels the moment you land? Think about picking up a car hire in Ottawa instead of at the airport. That way, you won't be paying for days you don't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Ottawa International (YOW)
You'll want to take in the biggest attractions in Ottawa before you do anything else. Rideau Canal National Historic Site and Parliament Hill are a great way to kick things off.
Alternatively, start up your Ottawa International car hire and travel around 80 kms (50 miles) southeast to Cornwall. Featuring Co-cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Grey's Creek Conservation Area, its attractions make a strong case for visiting.
Not done driving yet? Longueuil is another fun destination that's about 177 kms (110 miles) east of YOW. Co-Cathedral of Saint-Antoine-De-Padoue and Parc Michel-Chartrand - Gardens' Sector are the perfect pit stops.
