Car Rentals in Calgary, CAN

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Calgary

Renting a car in Calgary provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those with a lot of luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while travelling. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Calgary Tower, which offers stunning city views, or Calaway Park, perfect for family outdoor experiences.

Additionally, having your own vehicle makes it easier to discover popular destinations like Downtown Calgary, where you can explore Stephen Avenue and TELUS Spark, or venture to nearby cities like Airdrie, which features Ironhorse Park and Nose Creek Valley Museum. Cochrane is another easily accessible location, known for its Studio West Bronze Foundry and Art Gallery. With straightforward navigation and the ability to create flexible travel plans, renting a car in Calgary enhances your sightseeing experience, allowing you to make the most of your trip.

Most popular car hires in Calgary

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates up to 5 travellers and provides space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a balance of comfort and versatility, allowing you to explore Calgary and its surroundings with ease while ensuring that you have ample room for luggage and personal belongings.
• Compact SUV: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and supports up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for navigating urban areas and offers a more manoeuvrable experience while still providing the benefits of an SUV's elevated driving position and cargo space.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize vehicle can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers, with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families and groups requiring extra space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable and flexible travel experience in and around Calgary.

Top rated car suppliers in Calgary

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo features 2 rental locations in the Calgary area, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for its reliable service, Alamo is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV AWD and Premium SUV options. Customers appreciate the efficient pickup process and the cleanliness of their vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With a reputation for friendly staff and easy returns, Alamo is a solid option for those seeking comfort and flexibility during their trip.
• Hertz: With 5 rental locations in Calgary, Hertz is a top choice for many visitors. It offers a diverse fleet, with the Midsize SUV and Compact cars being the most popular options among renters. Hertz is praised for its customer service and the convenience of its locations, allowing travellers to quickly access their vehicles. The combination of a wide selection and efficient service makes Hertz an excellent choice for exploring Calgary and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations within Calgary, providing an accessible option for car hires. The Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are the most booked vehicles, offering comfort and space for your travels. Customers often highlight Budget's competitive pricing and straightforward rental process, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious travellers. With a focus on convenience and value, Budget is a great option for exploring Calgary's attractions.

Where to stay in Calgary

• Downtown Calgary: This vibrant neighbourhood is ideal for family, city, and business experiences. With attractions like the iconic Calgary Tower and the bustling Stephen Avenue, it offers a lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the shopping mall centre and convention centre, while dining options abound in the area. Notably, TELUS Spark science museum is a great educational spot for families. Downtown Calgary is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in urban culture.
• Northwest Calgary: Known for its blend of city life and family-friendly activities, Northwest Calgary features educational venues and shopping centres. Key highlights include the expansive Nose Hill Park and the striking Peace Bridge, both suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. Bowness Park offers a serene escape for families looking to enjoy nature. With numerous restaurants nearby, this neighbourhood is a fantastic choice for those wanting a balance of urban convenience and green spaces.
• Southwest Calgary: This area is perfect for city exploration, family outings, and romantic getaways. Southwest Calgary boasts shopping mall centres and areas, along with attractions such as 17 Avenue SW for vibrant street life. Heritage Park Historical Village and The Military Museums provide cultural insights for visitors. With a range of dining options available, this neighbourhood is well-suited for those seeking a blend of leisure and historical experiences.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Calgary

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and have access to a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a reasonable compromise 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 can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this may be justified by the added convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides invaluable peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent any additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Calgary

The best time to rent a car in and around Calgary is November, which offers slightly low prices and low demand. This period is ideal for those seeking value. January and February also provide good options, as they feature slightly low prices with average to low demand. However, the busiest and most expensive months are July through September, when demand peaks and rental rates tend to rise. August, in particular, is usually the most expensive month for car hires.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	17.6°F (-8.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	27.0°F (-2.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	37.8°F (3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	54.1°F (12.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
October	40.1°F (4.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	16.2°F (-8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average