Charlottetown Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Charlottetown

Renting a car in Charlottetown 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 and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. This is particularly advantageous for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy outdoor experiences. You can visit key attractions such as the Historic Charlottetown Waterfront, the Charlottetown Port, and the Confederation Centre of the Arts without the constraints of public transportation.

Additionally, a rental car allows for convenient day trips to nearby destinations like Cornwall, located 7 km away, or Stratford, just 4 km from Charlottetown. In Cornwall, you can explore Victoria Row and Beaconsfield Historic House, while Stratford offers access to the same attractions as Charlottetown. By having your own vehicle, you can easily navigate between these areas, ensuring you make the most of your time on Prince Edward Island.

Most popular car rentals in Charlottetown

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a popular choice for travellers in Charlottetown, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples or families who appreciate a comfortable ride without sacrificing luggage capacity. Renting a Midsize car allows you the freedom to explore the beautiful surroundings while ensuring you have enough room for your belongings.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, the Fullsize car option comfortably fits 5 passengers and offers the flexibility to carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those planning to travel with more gear or who want extra space for their adventures. With a Fullsize car, you can easily navigate Charlottetown and enjoy your journey with ample room for everyone.
• Compact: The Compact car is a versatile choice that suits solo travellers, couples, or families alike. It accommodates up to 5 passengers and provides space for 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly appealing for those looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle that is easy to manoeuvre while still offering enough room for travel necessities. A Compact car allows for a convenient and flexible exploration of Charlottetown.

Top rated car suppliers in Charlottetown

• Budget: Budget has 1 rental location in the Charlottetown area, making it a convenient choice for travellers. With an overall rating of 7 out of 10, Budget is a reliable option for those looking to explore the city. Popular vehicle choices include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the flexibility that comes with renting a vehicle.
• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations in Charlottetown, Enterprise stands out for its excellent customer service and diverse vehicle selection. Many travellers opt for Midsize and Compact SUV AWD models, which provide comfort and efficiency for navigating the island's scenic routes. Enterprise is known for its helpful staff and seamless check-in process, ensuring a pleasant rental experience for visitors.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 1 rental location in the Charlottetown area and is a popular choice among travellers. With a focus on Midsize and Compact vehicles, Hertz offers options that are perfect for both solo adventurers and small groups. Customers often highlight the cleanliness of the cars and the quick service, making it easy to hit the road and start exploring the beautiful attractions in and around Charlottetown.

Where to stay in and around Charlottetown

• Downtown Charlottetown: A vibrant neighborhood, Downtown Charlottetown offers a perfect blend of outdoor, family, and romantic experiences. Key attractions include the Charlottetown Port, ideal for beach holidays, and the Confederation Centre of the Arts, a cultural hub. The Historic Charlottetown Waterfront is also nearby, great for family and outdoor activities. This area is rich in dining options, featuring breweries and pubs, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
• Cornwall: Located 7 km from Charlottetown, Cornwall is known for its family-friendly and beach experiences. Visitors can enjoy local attractions such as the Confederation Centre of the Arts and Victoria Row, perfect for cultural exploration. The nearby beaches and shopping mall add to the area's appeal, providing a mix of relaxation and retail therapy. Cornwall also features various dining options, including breweries and wineries, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts.
• Stratford: Situated 4 km away from Charlottetown, Stratford is ideal for outdoor and adventure seekers. The area boasts stunning beaches and urban parks, perfect for family outings. Notable attractions include the Historic Charlottetown Waterfront and Charlottetown Port, both suitable for outdoor activities. Stratford is also home to a variety of food and drink venues, including breweries and coffee shops, providing ample options for a refreshing break after a day of exploration.

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

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 the summer, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you 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 in advance, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be 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 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may 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 must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but it could be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Charlottetown

The best value period for renting a car in and around Charlottetown is January and February, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. April offers a slight increase in demand but remains moderately priced, making it a decent shoulder month. As the summer approaches, June through August see a rise in prices and high demand, with August typically being the most expensive month for rentals. September then shifts back to average prices, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.5°F (-4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
February	21.9°F (-5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
March	27.5°F (-2.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
May	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	66.2°F (19.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average