Saint John Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Saint John

Renting a car in Saint John provides 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 while visiting key attractions such as the Reversing Falls Rapids, St. Andrew and St. David United Church, and the historic Musquash Head Lighthouse. These sites offer unique outdoor and cultural experiences that are best enjoyed without the constraints of public transportation.

Furthermore, having a car allows for convenient exploration of popular neighbourhoods like Uptown and East Saint John, where you can find additional points of interest such as Stone Church and the Saint John Coast Guard Base Lighthouse. If you wish to venture further into the scenic areas around Red Head, you can easily access beautiful spots like Second Eastern Lake and Flamingo Lake. Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or seeking adventure, a rental car in Saint John makes it easy to create a custom itinerary that suits your interests and schedule.

Most popular car rentals in Saint John

• Midsize: This car option is highly popular among travellers in Saint John, accommodating up to 5 people with enough space for 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for couples and families looking to explore the region comfortably. Midsize cars offer a good balance of space and fuel efficiency, making them an ideal choice for those who want a reliable vehicle for their adventures.
• Compact: Compact cars are another frequently booked option in Saint John. This type also accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or small families. Their smaller size allows for easy manoeuvring and parking, which can be particularly advantageous when navigating through busy areas or tight spaces.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is ideal for families and groups, comfortably fitting up to 5 people while providing space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for longer trips where additional luggage might be needed. Fullsize vehicles offer a spacious interior, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride as they explore the sights around Saint John.

Top rated car suppliers in Saint John

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 1 rental location in the area of Saint John, Alamo Rent A Car stands out for its friendly service and efficient operations. Boasting an impressive overall rating of 8.2 out of 10, travellers appreciate the short wait times and cleanliness of the vehicles. The most popular choices among renters are the Midsize and Compact cars, perfect for exploring the picturesque surroundings at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations in Saint John, making it a convenient option for visitors. Known for offering clean vehicles and pricing that meets expectations, Budget holds an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10. The Midsize and Fullsize Pickup vehicles are among the most booked options, providing great value and utility for your travels in and around the city.
• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations in Saint John, Enterprise offers maximum convenience for renters. While specific ratings are not mentioned, the supplier is well-regarded among travellers. Midsize and Compact vehicles are popular choices, providing flexibility for your journey as you explore the attractions in the area with ease and comfort.

Where to stay in Saint John

• Uptown: This vibrant neighbourhood offers an array of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the nearby national park and marina while enjoying local attractions such as the historic Stone Church and the breathtaking Reversing Falls Rapids. The area is perfect for those seeking a cultural experience, with highlights like the Saint John Coast Guard Base Lighthouse adding to the charm of Uptown.
• Orange Street: Known for its cultural landmarks, Orange Street provides a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The iconic Reversing Falls Rapids is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts, while the Stone Church and St. Andrew and St. David United Church offer rich cultural experiences. This neighbourhood is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the local scenery and heritage.
• Island View: A picturesque neighbourhood renowned for its outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, Island View is home to the Stonehammer UNESCO Global Geopark and the serene lake nearby. The Reversing Falls Rapids can also be found here, providing a stunning natural spectacle. Visitors can enjoy the cultural insights offered by St. Andrew and St. David United Church, making this area a great choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Saint John

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower prices 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 navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size options 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 categories—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 restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an additional fee for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Saint John

The best value period for renting a car in and around Saint John is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This can be followed by November, which also features slightly low prices and steady demand. June through August sees a rise in prices and demand, with August being the most expensive month, reflecting a peak in rental activity. July and August tend to have moderately high demand, making them busier times for rentals.