Durham Region Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Durham Region

Renting a car in Durham Region offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel plan that suits your needs. This option is particularly appealing for those looking for outdoor adventures, romantic scenery, or simply a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes. Key attractions such as Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts, and Darlington Provincial Park, ideal for outdoor experiences, are easily accessible by car. You can also visit Millennium Square for a taste of urban charm. Additionally, having a rental vehicle allows convenient access to popular destinations like Oshawa, where you can enjoy Lakeview Park Beach and Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, or Pickering, home to Rouge National Urban Park. Whitby offers its own attractions, including the Whitby History Museum & Children's Centre. Overall, renting a car in Durham Region enhances your travel experience by providing the convenience to explore diverse sights and activities that cater to various interests.

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: A vibrant city perfect for family, business, or city-themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at local venues, including shopping malls and an arena entertainment facility. Key attractions include the scenic Lakeview Park Beach, the beautiful Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, and the outdoor adventure opportunities at Darlington Provincial Park. Dining options abound, with a range of restaurants and wineries nearby, making Oshawa an ideal base for exploring Durham Region.
• Whitby: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and cultural experiences, Whitby offers visitors access to shopping centres and a charming resort. Explore the Whitby History Museum & Children's Centre for a taste of local culture, or relax at Lakeview Park Beach. The Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, shared with Oshawa, is also nearby. With a variety of dining options including wineries and restaurants, Whitby provides a well-rounded experience for all travellers.
• Pickering: A lovely city that caters to city, family, and romantic experiences. Pickering boasts shopping malls and resorts, and is surrounded by attractions such as Rouge National Urban Park and Veterans' Point Gardens, both ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. For a cultural touch, Markham Village offers a glimpse into the area's history. With various restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Pickering serves as a delightful backdrop for your stay 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 vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy greater 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 busy 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 the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily 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 of unexpected events during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional costs.
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 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.