Car Rentals in Thunder Bay, CAN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Thunder Bay

Renting a car in Thunder Bay allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and travel plans, making it ideal for families and those seeking outdoor adventures. You’ll have easy access to key attractions such as Fort William Historical Park, Prince Arthur's Landing, and Hillcrest Park, all located within the area. Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations like Neebing, just 25 km away, where you can visit Pigeon River Provincial Park or explore the scenic Devon Road Mesa Provincial Park. Fort William First Nation, only 9 km from Thunder Bay, offers stunning views from Mount McKay and the serene Kaministiquia River Heritage Park. Oliver Paipoonge, situated 21 km away, features the picturesque Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park among other sights. With a rental car, you can easily navigate these attractions and enjoy the diverse scenery that Thunder Bay and its surroundings have to offer, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience tailored to your interests.

Most popular car hires in Thunder Bay

• Economy: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases, the Economy car is a practical choice for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. It offers the flexibility to navigate Thunder Bay comfortably while keeping costs manageable, making it a popular option among budget-conscious visitors.
• Midsize: Ideal for couples or families, the Midsize car can accommodate 5 travellers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and space, providing a more spacious interior for longer journeys around Thunder Bay, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
• Fullsize SUV: Perfect for families or groups, the Fullsize SUV can comfortably seat up to 6 travellers and handle 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatile option is excellent for those needing extra space, making it ideal for larger groups exploring the varied attractions of Thunder Bay together.

Top rated car suppliers in Thunder Bay

• Avis: Avis is a popular choice for car hire in Thunder Bay, boasting one rental location in the city. Travellers favour this supplier for its reliable service and flexibility, allowing you to explore attractions at your own pace. The most booked vehicles from Avis are Midsize and Economy cars, perfect for those looking to manage luggage easily while navigating the beautiful landscapes of Thunder Bay.

Where to stay around Thunder Bay

• Neebing: Located 25 km from Thunder Bay, Neebing offers a beautiful blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. It is an excellent base for those looking to explore the Pigeon River Provincial Park, perfect for hiking and nature activities. Other highlights include the historic Fort William Historical Park and the serene Devon Road Mesa Provincial Park. After a day of exploration, enjoy local food and drinks at nearby wineries, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure.
• Kakabeka Falls: Situated 27 km from Thunder Bay, Kakabeka Falls is renowned for its breathtaking waterfall and lush nature reserves. Visitors can enjoy the Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, a scenic spot ideal for outdoor activities and romance. The area also features the historical Fort William Historical Park and Mount McKay, perfect for those seeking both culture and adventure. This village is particularly beautiful in the warmer months, making it a great destination during spring and summer.
• Fort William First Nation: Just 9 km away from Thunder Bay, Fort William First Nation is a vibrant community offering outdoor experiences and cultural insights. Key attractions include the historic Fort William Historical Park and Mount McKay, which provide opportunities for exploration and appreciation of local heritage. The Kaministiquia River Heritage Park is also a wonderful urban park for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This area is particularly delightful in autumn when the foliage adds to the scenic beauty.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Thunder Bay

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the perfect match 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure more favourable rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy 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 accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of any unexpected incidents during your trip. It is straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Thunder Bay

The best value period to rent a car in and around Thunder Bay is March, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. Following closely are April and November, which also feature lower demand and moderate pricing. However, January is the most expensive month, characterised by slightly high prices and average demand. As summer approaches, July and August experience high demand along with average prices, making them busier times for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	10.4°F (-12.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
February	10.6°F (-11.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	23.5°F (-4.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
April	34.0°F (1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
May	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
July	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
November	30.6°F (-0.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	18.1°F (-7.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High