Cheap Car Rentals at Nanaimo Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome Airport

Reasons to book a car rental at Nanaimo Airport

Renting a car at Nanaimo Airport is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the beautiful attractions around the area at their own pace. With the convenience of a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans. This is particularly beneficial for families or groups, as it allows for comfortable journeys to nearby destinations without the stress of public transport.

Within a short drive from the airport, you can visit the picturesque Departure Bay Beach, located just 5 km away, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. For those interested in culture, the historic Bastion and the Nanaimo Museum are both less than 1 km from the airport, offering enriching experiences. Additionally, the city of Nanaimo, where the airport is situated, features attractions like Long Lake and Newcastle Island, just 3 km away, which are ideal for scenic outings. With a rental car, you have the freedom to explore these sites and more, making your trip to Nanaimo both enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals near Nanaimo Airport

• Midsize: The midsize car option is a popular choice among travellers at Nanaimo airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent fit for couples or families looking to explore the beautiful surroundings at their own pace while managing luggage comfortably.
• Compact: If you prefer a smaller vehicle, the compact car is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, also seating 5 people and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those who want to navigate the area efficiently while keeping travel costs down and enjoying great fuel economy.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option offers ample space for 5 passengers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or up to 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a fantastic choice for families or groups who need extra room for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore the attractions near Nanaimo airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Nanaimo Airport

• Budget: Budget is a popular choice for travellers at Nanaimo Airport, boasting 4 rental locations, with the nearest being less than 1 km away. This accessibility makes it incredibly convenient for those looking to quickly pick up a vehicle. The most booked cars with Budget are the Midsize and Economy options, offering a balance of comfort and value for your journey around Nanaimo and its attractions.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental offers excellent service with a single rental location situated 14 km away from Nanaimo Airport. This supplier is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Midsize cars, catering to those who desire a bit more space and comfort during their travels. The quality of their vehicles and customer service makes them a reliable option for your car rental needs.

Where to stay near Nanaimo Airport

• Nanaimo: Situated right at the heart of the city, Nanaimo offers a vibrant atmosphere with access to outdoor activities, beaches, and family-friendly experiences. Notable attractions include the scenic Departure Bay Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the water, and Long Lake, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking beautiful scenery. The city also features numerous local eateries, pubs, and shopping centres, making it a convenient base for travellers.
• Gabriola Island: Located 10 km away, Gabriola Island is a picturesque destination renowned for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the Elder Cedar Nature Reserve, which is perfect for eco-friendly and adventure activities. The island also boasts beautiful beaches, including Departure Bay Beach, and charming local wineries. Gabriola Island provides a serene escape while remaining close to Nanaimo's amenities.
• Cassidy: Approximately 13 km from Nanaimo, Cassidy is a tranquil area that features beautiful landscapes and outdoor recreation. Highlights include the Roberts Memorial Provincial Park, perfect for those seeking adventure amidst stunning scenery. The local Quennell Lake Car Top Boat Launch is ideal for families looking to enjoy a day outdoors. Cassidy also offers nearby breweries and pubs, providing a relaxed atmosphere for travellers to unwind.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Nanaimo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, make use of the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to secure your ZNA car rental as early as possible to enjoy lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Nanaimo Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Nanaimo Airport is February, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. January also offers good value, with average demand and moderately low prices. Following this, March and April see average prices and demand. However, September stands out as the most expensive month, marked by high demand and moderately high prices. August is also busy, with high demand and similar pricing trends.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
February	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	64.4°F (18.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
December	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average