Durham Region Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Durham Region

Renting a car in Durham Region offers the freedom and flexibility needed to explore this beautiful area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while accessing various attractions and outdoor experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure or romantic scenery, Durham Region has much to offer. You can visit Canadian Tire Motorsport Park for thrilling motor racing or head to Darlington Provincial Park for picturesque outdoor activities. Millennium Square provides a charming city experience, perfect for leisurely strolls.

A rental car also allows you to conveniently explore notable cities within Durham Region. In Oshawa, you can enjoy Lakeview Park Beach, or visit the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens and Darlington Provincial Park. Pickering offers attractions such as Rouge National Urban Park and Veterans' Point Gardens. In Whitby, the Whitby History Museum & Children's Centre and the beautiful Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens are must-see spots. Renting a car makes it simple to navigate these destinations, ensuring you can make the most of your visit to Durham Region.

Most popular car rentals in Durham Region

• Standard Pickup: This vehicle option accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for adventure travellers, families, or small groups. With its robust design, the Standard Pickup is perfect for those needing extra cargo room while exploring the diverse attractions in Durham Region.
• Midsize: Designed for comfort, the Midsize car also accommodates 5 travellers and has room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples or families who want a balance of space and fuel efficiency. Renting a Midsize car allows you to navigate Durham Region with ease while enjoying ample legroom and luggage space.
• Compact: If you’re travelling solo or as a couple, the Compact car is a great option. It accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for those looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle that is easy to maneuver, especially in urban areas of Durham Region, ensuring you can explore with convenience and style.

Where to stay in Durham Region

• Oshawa: This vibrant city offers a variety of experiences for families and business travellers alike. Stay close to attractions such as the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, perfect for outdoor lovers and romantic getaways. The Lakeview Park Beach is ideal for a beach holiday, while the Darlington Provincial Park offers scenic adventures. Enjoy local dining options that include restaurants and wineries, ensuring a delightful culinary experience during your stay.
• Whitby: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Whitby is an excellent choice for your trip. Explore the Whitby History Museum & Children's Centre for a taste of local culture. The Lakeview Park Beach and Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens are nearby, offering outdoor activities and relaxation. With a selection of restaurants and wineries in the area, you'll have plenty of dining options to choose from, making it a well-rounded destination for all types of visitors.
• Pickering: This city blends romance and family experiences beautifully. Discover the natural beauty of Rouge National Urban Park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The historic charm of Markham Village adds a cultural touch to your visit. Veterans' Point Gardens offers urban park settings for leisurely strolls. With a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, Pickering is a lovely spot for dining and enjoying wine tastings, making it a great base for your adventures in Durham Region.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Durham Region

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre 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 fees, and specific vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you are required to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports usually incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 steer clear of unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in Durham Region

The best value period to rent a car in Durham Region is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. Nearby months like January and February also offer slightly low prices with moderately low demand, making them great options. However, from June through August, prices tend to be slightly high and demand remains moderately high, particularly in July, which is the busiest month. This trend continues into August, when rental costs are at their peak.