Ottawa Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Compare rent a car rates in Ottawa from popular car rental companies

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers to unlock big savings

Explore Ottawa with Cheap Car Rentals and Car Hire Deals

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Ottawa, Kansas, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Ottawa, Kansas, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Ottawa, Kansas, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Ottawa, Kansas, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car hire in Ottawa
View all cars

What you need to know for your Ottawa car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ottawa

Renting a car in Ottawa offers excellent freedom and flexibility for your travel plans. With a vehicle at your disposal, you can explore attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and adapt your itinerary as you go. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or a romantic getaway, a rental car caters to all these needs. You can visit key sites in Ottawa such as Ottawa University, the Old Depot Museum, and Forest Park, all located conveniently within the city. Additionally, you can venture to nearby towns like Princeton, just 14 km away, or Pomona and Rantoul, both around 16 km from Ottawa, to discover more parks and historical sites. This allows you to experience the diverse offerings of the region without the constraints of public transport schedules. Families can enjoy city parks and outdoor spaces, while culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in local history and education. Overall, a rental car enhances your ability to explore Ottawa and its surroundings comfortably and conveniently.

Where to stay around Ottawa

  • Princeton: Located 14 km from Ottawa, Princeton offers a vibrant cultural and outdoor experience ideal for families. Key attractions include Ottawa University, perfect for educational visits, and the Old Depot Museum, which showcases local history. For those seeking outdoor activities, Forest Park provides a lovely urban park setting, making Princeton a great choice for a family-friendly stay.
  • Pomona: Situated 16 km away from Ottawa, Pomona is a charming city known for its romantic and scenic outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Pomona State Park, which is perfect for outdoor adventures and enjoying nature. Additionally, Ottawa University is nearby for educational pursuits, while Outlet Park serves as a lovely urban space for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
  • Rantoul: Just 16 km from Ottawa, Rantoul is a delightful destination for outdoor lovers and families. The area features Hillsdale State Park, offering stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Rantoul also has a variety of dining options, including local breweries and wineries. For a relaxing day, Hillsdale Recreation Area provides a nature reserve ideal for eco-friendly activities, making it a compelling choice for your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Ottawa

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such instances.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unexpected arise during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when reserving through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Information on Car Rentals

Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Economy, Luxury, Full Size
Car Rental Suppliers Available:
Today's Best Car Rental Offer:
Second Best Car Rental Deal:
Third Best Car Rental Deal:
Airport to hotel transportation:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Ottawa?
The daily price of rental cars in Ottawa within the past seven days was as low as . With your own affordable ride, the sights in and around this destination are easily within your reach.
What happens if I need to cancel my Ottawa car reservation?
We realise that things can change at the last moment. That's why the majority of prepaid bookings offer a refund if you cancel six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time. Your rental policy should include all the details you need. If you can't locate the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is available 24/7.
What types of cars can I rent in Ottawa?
Small in size but big on perks, economy cars are the pick of the bunch in Ottawa. They're a cinch to park and handle, which is perfect if you'll be doing mostly city driving. And with terrific mileage, these reliable wheels will have you cruising around on the cheap. Want a larger car? Check out our full-size and premium vehicles.
Where can I go on a road trip from Ottawa?
Ottawa is full of adventures, but don't restrict yourself to just one place. Arrange a set of wheels and hit the road to see what's in the surrounding region. Here are some great options we've come up with:
  • You'll discover Arrowhead Stadium and loads of other intriguing attractions in Kansas City. From Ottawa, it's 80 kilometres away.
  • Next stop? It has to be Kansas City, which is around 80 kilometres away. Legends Outlets Kansas City is one local draw card you shouldn't miss.
  • Make tracks to Chaplin Nature Centre to feel grounded in nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just relax and unwind. From Ottawa, it's 241 kilometres away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Ottawa with Expedia?
It's easy to pick up an awesome deal with Expedia. All you have to do is choose your preferred car type, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off points, and browse offers from all the trusted providers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Ottawa car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Ottawa?
If you're aged 21 and over, you can rent a vehicle in Ottawa. Keep in mind that most rental companies will charge an extra fee if you're a young driver, which helps cover the higher damage risk involved. Also, young drivers are generally restricted from renting specialty or luxury vehicles. Browse the fine print before booking so there are no hassles when it's time to pick up the keys.
What do you need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Before you can hop behind the wheel in Ottawa, you'll need a driver's licence and a credit card that matches the name on your licence. If you decline to take out the rental company's insurance plan, you may also have to provide proof of your own coverage. Rules can vary, so read the contract terms and conditions before you choose a rental supplier.
What is the cheapest car rental in Ottawa?
With rates starting as low as and per day in Ottawa within the past seven days, you'll be zooming away with your own fantastic deal in no time. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Ottawa?
You can. We partner with reputable providers that offer long-term rentals for many categories of cars. Pick up one of our long-term car rental deals and explore every corner of Ottawa — or far beyond!
Where can I find an Ottawa car rental if I am younger than 25?
Whether or not you can rent a car if you are under 25 years old in Ottawa often depends on the rental provider you choose. Some outlets have a surcharge for drivers between 21 and 24 years of age, yet other companies may not have any extra costs for this age group. Be sure to understand the terms and conditions of your preferred rental dealer to avoid unnecessary costs on pickup.
Can I drive in Ottawa with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a license issued in the United States, you may be required to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before starting the home process. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S, know that you'll also have to show your valid driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, the credit card that was used to rent the vehicle must match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to confirm your home. Some additional requirements for renting a car in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 in many states in order to rent a car, although in some places, the minimum age is 21 years. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as with the rental car company before your trip to understand all the regulations that may apply to you.
  • Driving limitations: Read the fine print before you drive off the lot so you can avoid unnecessary fees. When renting a car in the U.S, you usually can't cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive on ferries or traverse rough terrain with a rental car. Please read the details before you book!

Explore a world of travel with Expedia