Southwest Calgary Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southwest Calgary

Renting a car in Southwest Calgary offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, couples, and those with luggage, as a rental car makes it easy to manage your travel plans without the constraints of public transportation. You can easily visit local highlights such as 17 Avenue SW, known for its vibrant city experiences, and the Heritage Park Historical Village, which provides a glimpse into the region's culture. The Military Museums are also nearby, making it convenient to delve into military history.

Moreover, having a car allows you to venture beyond Southwest Calgary to popular destinations, including Downtown Calgary, located 6 km away, where you can see the Calgary Tower and explore Stephen Avenue. Garrison Green, less than 1 km away, also features Heritage Park and TELUS Spark. With a rental car, you can tailor your itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in this dynamic region of Alberta.

Most popular car rentals in and around Southwest Calgary

• Compact: The Compact car option is one of the most booked in Southwest Calgary, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a practical vehicle for their journey. With its efficient size, the Compact car offers easy maneuverability in urban areas while providing the comfort needed for longer drives.
• Midsize: Another popular choice is the Midsize car, which also accommodates 5 travellers but offers room for 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for couples and families who require a bit more space without sacrificing fuel efficiency. The Midsize car provides a balance of comfort and practicality, making it well-suited for various travel needs and ensuring a smooth ride around Southwest Calgary.
• Standard Pickup: For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the Standard Pickup is a highly booked option in the area. It accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for adventure travellers, families, and small groups. This vehicle type provides the robustness needed for exploring rugged terrains or transporting outdoor gear, while still being spacious enough for comfortable travel.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Southwest Calgary

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for car rentals in Southwest Calgary, featuring over 5 rental locations in the area. Known for its friendly service and short wait times, this supplier has an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10. Travellers particularly appreciate the variety of vehicles available, with Midsize and Compact SUVs being the most booked options. The convenience and flexibility offered by Enterprise make it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the region at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 1 rental location in Southwest Calgary, making it easy for travellers to secure their vehicles. This supplier is recognized for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which cater to a range of travel needs. Hertz’s streamlined rental process and dependable vehicles have made it a popular option among visitors. Whether you're planning a day of sightseeing or a longer road trip, Hertz provides a reliable choice for your transportation needs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental also has 1 location in Southwest Calgary, offering a solid selection of vehicles. The most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Standard Pickup trucks, appealing to both families and those needing extra space for gear. Customers value Thrifty’s straightforward rental process and the quality of their vehicles. This supplier is an excellent option for those looking for a practical and economical choice when exploring the Calgary area.

Where to stay around Southwest Calgary

• Southwest Calgary: A vibrant area in Calgary, Southwest Calgary offers a mix of family-friendly activities and outdoor experiences. With proximity to attractions like the Calgary Tower and Calaway Park, it is ideal for visitors seeking both city life and outdoor fun. The neighborhood is also close to various dining options, making it a practical choice for those wanting to explore local cuisine.
• Downtown Calgary: Located 6 km from Southwest Calgary, Downtown Calgary is perfect for tourists looking for a bustling city vibe. This area features iconic sites such as the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue, renowned for shopping and dining. It's a hub for family and business-themed experiences, with easy access to shopping centres and entertainment facilities, making it a convenient base for visitors.
• Garrison Green: Situated less than 1 km away from Southwest Calgary, Garrison Green is a neighbourhood that caters to city-themed and outdoor enthusiasts. It is home to attractions such as Heritage Park Historical Village and The Military Museums, providing cultural experiences for visitors. The area is also known for its golf courses, making it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy sports amidst their travel adventures.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and desired features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those sunny days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel periods.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a nice balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the expense.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Southwest Calgary

The best time to rent a car in and around Southwest Calgary is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is average, making it a great value period. February also offers low demand and moderately low prices, while October sees demand drop, providing another opportunity for good rates. However, come August, prices are moderately high with demand peaking, making it the most expensive month for rentals. July can also be quite busy, further driving up rental costs.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	17.6°F (-8.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately 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	Moderately Low	Average
May	50.4°F (10.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
July	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
August	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	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	Moderately Low	Average
November	26.2°F (-3.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
December	16.2°F (-8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average