Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Macdonald-Cartier Intl. Airport, Ottawa

Reasons to book a car hire at Ottawa International Airport

Renting a car at Ottawa Airport provides a convenient way to explore the beautiful city of Ottawa and its surrounding areas at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy the flexibility of creating your own travel itinerary. This is particularly appealing for those looking for a friendly and engaging experience while visiting key attractions. For instance, the iconic Rideau Canal is located just 9 km from the airport, perfect for a leisurely visit. The National Arts Centre, situated 11 km away, offers rich cultural experiences, while Elgin Street, also 11 km from the airport, presents vibrant local attractions. Beyond the immediate vicinity, you can venture into the metropolis of Ottawa, where you can explore landmarks like Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History. Additionally, the neighbourhoods of Nepean and Ledbury - Heron Gate - Ridgemont - Elmwood, both just 5 km away, feature beautiful parks and cultural sites, making your journey even more enriching. Renting a car truly enhances your travel experience, providing the freedom to discover everything this region has to offer.

Most popular car hires near Ottawa Airport

• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV is a popular choice for travellers at Ottawa airport, comfortably accommodating up to 5 passengers and 3 medium suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families who appreciate the versatility and ease of navigating both urban and rural areas. With a Compact SUV, you can enjoy the freedom to explore the surroundings at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, offering space for 5 travellers and accommodating up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a comfortable ride with ample room for both passengers and belongings, making it an excellent choice for those planning to travel with larger items or additional gear. With its robust build, the Midsize SUV is well-suited for diverse driving conditions around Ottawa.
• Premium Pickup: If you're an adventure traveller or part of a small group or family, the Premium Pickup is an exceptional option. It can accommodate 5 travellers and handle up to 3 large suitcases, ensuring you have the space you need for your journey. This vehicle is designed for those who prefer a bit more luxury and capability, allowing you to tackle various terrains while enjoying a comfortable driving experience.

Top rated car suppliers near Ottawa International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Known for its efficient service, Alamo features a rental location less than 1 km away from Ottawa airport. Travellers frequently choose Alamo for their Midsize and Premium Pickup vehicles, making it a popular choice for those looking for a reliable and comfortable driving experience. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Alamo ensures a smooth rental process, allowing you to embark on your journey around Ottawa with ease.
• Budget: With a rental location conveniently situated less than 1 km from Ottawa airport, Budget is a great option for travellers seeking affordability and accessibility. Popular among customers for its Midsize and Compact vehicles, Budget offers a variety of choices to suit different needs. The supplier's reputation for excellent value and efficient service makes it an attractive choice for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• National Car Hire: National Car Hire is another excellent provider, with a rental location less than 1 km away from Ottawa airport. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Compact SUVs and Midsize vehicles, catering to diverse travel requirements. National's commitment to customer service and a hassle-free rental experience makes it a preferred choice for many, enabling you to enjoy your time in Ottawa and beyond without worry.

Where to stay near Ottawa International Airport

• Nepean: Located 5 km from Ottawa airport, Nepean is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of city themes and family experiences. Enjoy the urban parks like Andrew Haydon Park, which is ideal for outdoor activities. The area also boasts shopping mall centres and educational venues, making it suitable for both leisure and business travellers.
• Ledbury - Heron Gate - Ridgemont - Elmwood: Also situated 5 km from Ottawa airport, this neighbourhood offers a mix of business, city, and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the National Arts Centre, perfect for cultural exploration, and the scenic Rideau Canal. With nearby recreational areas and shopping options, it provides a convenient base for visitors.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car hire near Ottawa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're after an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise 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 book your YOW car hire as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Reserving your vehicle 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak 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 restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, tend to be more affordable to rent and simpler to park in crowded 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, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this instance.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provides you with added peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan on spending considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Ottawa Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Ottawa Airport is March, when prices are lower and demand is at its lowest. Following closely are April and November, which also tend to offer slightly lower prices with average demand. In contrast, August is the most expensive month, characterised by higher demand and prices. June and July also see increased demand and slightly elevated pricing, making them less appealing for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average