Ottawa Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

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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

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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 the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and craft flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for tourists. Ottawa is home to several key attractions, including Ottawa University, the Old Depot Museum, and Forest Park, all of which provide enriching cultural and outdoor experiences. Additionally, you can venture to nearby cities such as Princeton, located 14 km away, or Pomona and Rantoul, both 16 km from Ottawa, where you can find further attractions like Pomona State Park and Hillsdale State Park. This convenience is especially beneficial for families and couples seeking romantic outings, as it allows for seamless travel without the constraints of public transport. A rental car enhances your ability to discover the historical and natural beauty of the region, ensuring a more personalised and enjoyable trip. By having your own vehicle, you can make the most of your visit to Ottawa and its captivating surroundings.

Where to stay around Ottawa

  • Princeton: Located 14 km from Ottawa, Princeton is a charming city that offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can explore notable sites such as Ottawa University, which provides educational opportunities, and the Old Depot Museum, a delightful history museum. For outdoor enthusiasts, Forest Park presents an urban park perfect for family outings and recreational activities. Princeton is ideal for those seeking a blend of culture and family-friendly adventures.
  • Pomona: Situated 16 km from Ottawa, Pomona is renowned for its stunning scenery and romantic ambience. The highlight here is Pomona State Park, a national state park that offers a range of outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy the serene beauty of the local lake and explore Outlet Park, an urban park suitable for family outings. Pomona is particularly appealing in the warmer months when outdoor experiences are abundant.
  • Rantoul: Rantoul, located 16 km from Ottawa, is a vibrant city known for its outdoor and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include Hillsdale State Park, a national state park that offers adventure and scenic views, and the Hillsdale Recreation Area, a nature reserve ideal for eco-friendly activities. The city also features a variety of nearby food and drink options, including breweries and wineries, making it a great spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and simpler to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This option is generally the best. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car from airports often incurs a surcharge; however, the convenience may 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 unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is required to hire a car.

Information on Car Rentals

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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!

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