Calgary Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Calgary

Renting a car in Calgary offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and those looking for outdoor or city-themed experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Calgary Tower, which provides stunning views of the city, or Calaway Park, a fairground perfect for family fun. You can also stroll along 17 Avenue SW, known for its vibrant city atmosphere.

A rental car simplifies your travel plans, allowing you to manage your luggage easily and venture to popular destinations like Downtown Calgary, where you’ll find attractions like Stephen Avenue and TELUS Spark. You can also take day trips to nearby cities such as Airdrie, home to Ironhorse Park and the Nose Creek Valley Museum, or Cochrane, featuring Cochrane Lake and the Studio West Bronze Foundry and Art Gallery. With the convenience of your own vehicle, you can create your itinerary without the constraints of public transportation, making your trip to Calgary both enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals in Calgary

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a comfortable and spacious ride. Whether you're heading out for a day of exploration or planning a longer road trip, this option provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it a popular choice among renters in Calgary.
• Compact SUV: A great option for those travelling solo or with a partner, the Compact SUV comfortably seats 5 travellers and has space for up to 3 medium suitcases. Its size makes it versatile for navigating city streets while still offering enough room for your belongings. This car type is well-suited for couples and families alike, providing a balance of comfort and convenience for your travels in and around Calgary.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is designed to accommodate up to 5 travellers and can fit 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for couples, families, or groups who need a bit more space without going for the larger options. With its spacious interior, the Standard SUV allows for comfortable journeys whether you're heading to Calgary's attractions or exploring the surrounding areas. It’s a reliable choice for those looking for flexibility and comfort during their car rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Calgary

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has 2 rental locations in Calgary, making it convenient for travellers. Known for friendly service, Alamo has an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10. Most booked vehicles from this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which are perfect for exploring the Calgary area comfortably. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the vehicles and hassle-free returns, making it a reliable choice for your car rental needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With 3 rental locations in Calgary, Thrifty Car Rental provides ample options for visitors. This supplier is popular for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Compacts, catering to various travel preferences. Thrifty has established a solid reputation among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Many customers highlight the ease of the rental process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
• Avis: Avis stands out with over 5 rental locations in Calgary, offering great accessibility for tourists. Known for an extensive selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize Pickup trucks, Avis caters to different needs, whether for adventure or utility. Customers value the well-maintained vehicles and efficient service, making it a dependable option for exploring Calgary and its surroundings. Avis is a fantastic choice if you require a reliable vehicle during your travels.

Where to stay in Calgary

• Downtown Calgary: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a blend of family, city-themed, and business experiences. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue, both ideal for exploring the urban landscape. With nearby shopping centres and a variety of dining options, Downtown Calgary is particularly lively, especially during festivals and events that take place throughout the year.
• Northwest Calgary: Known for its educational institutions and family-friendly atmosphere, Northwest Calgary features landmarks such as Nose Hill Park and the Peace Bridge. This area is well-suited for outdoor activities, making it a great choice for nature lovers. The shopping centres and urban parks provide ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment, especially in the warmer months.
• Southwest Calgary: Ideal for those seeking a romantic or cultural experience, Southwest Calgary is home to attractions like Heritage Park Historical Village and The Military Museums. The neighbourhood boasts a range of shopping areas and restaurants, catering to diverse tastes. The streets come alive during summer events, making it an enchanting time to explore the local scene.

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

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 summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 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 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 provides peace of mind in case something unexpected arises during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is mandatory for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Calgary

The best value period to rent a car in and around Calgary is November, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. This month is followed closely by January and April, which also feature moderate pricing and slightly low demand. Conversely, July tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and slightly high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. June and August also see increased demand, further contributing to higher rental costs during the summer months.

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