How to find a cheap car hire deal in Ottawa
Whether you need a compact for cruising the city streets or a bigger ride for bigger plans, we'll help you find a cheap rental car in Ottawa. Pick from options averaging R 2,007 a day and go your own way for less.
Lock in your ride in September and watch the savings roll in. It's the cheapest month to rent a car in Ottawa, with average daily rates of R 684.
Here's your clue on when to book. Two weeks in advance gives you the best shot at finding a cheap rental car in Ottawa.
Check out car hire deals in Ottawa from leading providers like Routes Car Rentals, Enterprise and Alamo.
Whether you go with Routes Car Rentals or a different supplier, make sure you understand the coverage on your Ottawa car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others charge extra for it.
Booking one-way could score you a discount on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved between branches. Simply select 'Return car to a different location' when looking for a car for rent in Ottawa.
Avoid any unexpected fees by booking a car hire in Ottawa with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Start and end your trip with a full tank, and only pay for what you actually use.
Hit the highway without watching the miles and racking up additional charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and choose 'Unlimited mileage' to find a ride that lets you travel without limits.
Picking up a ride in the city isn't your only option. If you're jetting into Ottawa, check out the range of car rentals in Ottawa Gatineau Airport. You'll also find car rentals in Ottawa/Macdonald-Cartier International Airport.
Compare car hire types in Ottawa
Small: Whether you're zipping around the city or taking a short trip, a cheap rental car in Ottawa from this category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to easy handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to handle in cities and with enough space for longer drives, they make sense for just about any journey.
Large: Offering a more comfortable ride and extra tech features, this Ottawa car hire option includes full-size cars. With larger rear seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: When wanderlust strikes, an SUV is ready to roll. It's your ultimate road trip buddy, ready for country roads, highways, and everything in between. These sports utility vehicles also promise extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Ottawa that can handle the heavy stuff. Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to carry more, whether that's equipment, luggage or big groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but is something to think about. If your car is damaged, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a big excess fee. Different Ottawa car hire providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the terms before booking.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can seriously upgrade your ride. Look into which add-ons could improve your trip when you rent a car in Ottawa.
Good to know
Younger driver? Check each supplier's age requirements before booking your rental in Canada. Rules can vary, and added costs or restrictions may apply. At the start of your search, just uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to browse your options.
Add a car seat to your Ottawa car hire booking if you're planning to travel with the kids. Rules change from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their age and size is always the safest option.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Ottawa
Discover the biggest attractions in the city once you've lined up a car hire deal in Ottawa. Rideau Canal National Historic Site and Parliament Hill are a great lead-in to the rest of your trip.
Make the most of your time in Ottawa by staying at Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport or DoubleTree by Hilton Ottawa Downtown.
Shift gears and make tracks to Kanata. Around 21 kilometres south-west of central Ottawa, you'll find must-do sights like McKinley Park and St. Paul's Anglican Church.
They know how to treat guests at Wingate by Wyndham Kanata West Ottawa and TownePlace Suites by Marriott Ottawa Kanata, two comfortable accommodation options in Kanata.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car hire in Ottawa and drive about 88 kilometres south-east to Cornwall. Featuring The Art Gallery (TAG) Cornwall and Terry Fox Memorial Park, its highlights live up to the buzz.
Put your feet up after a long day in Cornwall at Super 8 by Wyndham Cornwall on. Or spend your downtime at Elect Inn 5.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Longueuil, around 177 kilometres east of Ottawa. First, swing past Parc Mégantic, then spend some time at Parc Fontainbleau.
Look into staying at DoubleTree By Hilton Montreal or Hotel Zero 1 Montreal. They're an ideal base for exploring everything Longueuil has to offer.
