Car rentals in Canada: All you need to know

Canada is the second largest country by territory in the world, making it impossible to see all that this location has to offer by foot. This North American country is home to ten unique provinces with geographical features varying from snowy Saint Elias Mountains in the Yukon to warm prairies of Saskatchewan. Hit the Trans-Canada Highway and tour the country effortlessly from behind the wheel of a rental car in Canada.

How can I get a cheap car rental in Canada?

To bag a cheap car rental in Canada, just follow these simple dos and don'ts:

• Do compare car rental rates before making your final booking;
• Do collect and drop off your rental at a non-airport location;
• Do know how much fuel and mileage you need so you can filter for the best rental deals; 
• Do book in advance for the best rental deals;
• Don't add drivers to your booking, if possible.

What do I have to keep in mind when renting a car in Canada?

If you plan on crossing any borders with your rental, remember that there can be restrictions on going to certain locations by car, such as Alaska, Yukon, and Mexico and some parts of the USA. It's a good idea to check these details with your car rental company first.

What Canadian car rental companies are good?

When browsing, check company reviews to help you decide who to get your car rental from. Along with big names like Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Alamo, Thrifty, and Avis, there are local ones in your destination who all offer a great service on rental cars.

What kind of car rental should I get?

This really depends on your style of vacation and size of your travel party. If staying within a strict budget is your priority, browse our range of economy car rentals. If you'll be transporting the whole family along with your skiing or camping kit, you can still get a cheap car with lots of space; take a look at our vans and SUVs.

How old do I have to be to rent a car in Canada?

If you're 21 years old or over, you are able to rent a car in Canada, provided that you've held a license for a year. There could be a young-driver surcharge if you’re under 25, and bigger cars may be have a higher minimum age, so check in advance.

Do I need rental insurance when renting a car in Canada?

Yes, you do. If you are a US citizen, you can buy insurance from CarRentals.com at the checkout or directly from your rental car company, but check first if your credit card insurance covers your car rental.

Can I book with unlimited mileage?

Many rental companies offer unlimited miles as part of their packages, but if not, plan your itinerary so that you don't rack up the miles and get charged extra.

Can I use a debit card for a hire car?

No, only credit cards are acceptable forms of payment. Prepaid cards and cash are not accepted either. 

Is it possible to hire a car one-way in Canada?

While one-way car rentals are often forbidden internationally, they are available for an additional fee with some suppliers. Check with the company when booking your car hire if you can pick up and drop off your vehicle at different rental locations. 

Which sights and/or cities are must-sees in Canada?

Renting a car in Canada opens up a world of possibilities. Drive the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape Breton and view Niagara Falls from Toronto. Picnic in Stanley Park and Vancouver and make a splash at the Vancouver Aquarium. Make your way to the country’s capital, Ottawa, where you can snap a picture of the Peace Tower, toss a Frisbee along the Rideau Canal, and visit the National Gallery of Canada to marvel at stunning works of art.

What is a good road trip in Canada?

Whether you're starting your journey in Quebec or British Columbia, Toronto or Calgary, Canada's size makes it the perfect location for a long road trip. The Icefields Parkway in Alberta is a 144-mile route that runs through the Rocky Mountains. You can pitch up and camp in Jasper National Park and star gaze after a day of hiking. If Quebec is your territory of choice, drive from Montreal to the Gaspé Peninsula, where you can go whale watching and fishing, passing through Quebec City and New Brunswick on the way. 

Traffic tips to keep you safe

Many of the road signs in Quebec will be in French, since it's a bilingual province, so be prepared by learning some basic phrases in advance. Canada is a vast country so you may be driving for long periods of time. Take regular pit stops to rest and drink some water. Since gas stations can be few and far between on isolated roads, always ensure you have enough fuel for your planned journeys.

No matter where your journey takes you, one thing is for certain. Reserving your Canadian car rental is the most convenient way to get around and the most affordable selection of vehicles can be found here on CarRentals.com.