University of Victoria Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental around University of Victoria

Renting a car around the University of Victoria offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This is particularly beneficial for families or those seeking tropical-related experiences. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as Fisherman's Wharf Marina, Government Street, and the Royal BC Museum, all located just 7 km away from the university.

Additionally, the nearby neighbourhood of Queenswood, only 1 km away, features the same attractions, making it a great starting point for your adventures. Exploring the vibrant city of Victoria, which hosts these attractions, becomes much easier with a rental car. You can also venture into Saanich East, where you can experience the beautiful Lochside Regional Trail. A rental car ensures that you have the freedom to discover the rich culture and friendly atmosphere of the area without relying on public transportation, making your trip as enjoyable and convenient as possible.

Most popular car rentals near University of Victoria

• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent choice for those visiting the University of Victoria, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a vehicle that is easy to manoeuvre through city streets while providing flexibility in travel plans.
• Midsize: Offering a bit more space, the Midsize car also accommodates 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples or families who desire comfort and room for their luggage when exploring the attractions around the University of Victoria. It strikes a great balance between space and fuel efficiency.
• Economy: The Economy car is designed for those who want to travel light. It accommodates up to 5 travellers with capacity for 2 medium suitcases, making it a suitable choice for solo travellers, couples, or small families. This option is perfect for those looking to navigate the area efficiently while keeping costs low.

Top rated car suppliers near University of Victoria

• National Car Rental: National Car Rental has 3 rental locations within a 5 km radius of the University of Victoria. With an overall rating of 8 out of 10, this supplier is praised for its friendly service, clean vehicles, and short wait times. Travellers particularly enjoy the convenience of renting Compact and Midsize cars, making it a reliable choice for exploring the local attractions at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget operates 2 rental locations within 5 km of the University of Victoria. Also rated 8 out of 10, Budget is known for its clean vehicles and service that meets customer expectations. With Midsize and Fullsize Pickup options being the most booked, Budget provides a great choice for those looking to manage their luggage and embark on a flexible road trip in the area.
• Enterprise: Enterprise features 2 rental locations that are conveniently located 5 km from the University of Victoria. While it has an overall rating of 7 out of 10, many customers appreciate the selection of vehicles, including Compact SUVs and Premium Pickups. Enterprise is recognized for its dependable service, making it a suitable option for both family outings and business travel in the region.

Where to stay near University of Victoria

• Saanich East: Located around the University of Victoria, Saanich East offers a charming blend of outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the Lochside Regional Trail, ideal for eco-friendly activities and family outings. The nearby marina and bay further enhance the area’s appeal for beach enthusiasts. Saanich East also features various dining options, including alcohol distilleries and restaurants, making it a convenient choice for food lovers. The proximity to the university makes it a popular spot for those looking to immerse themselves in an educational environment.
• Burnside: Situated just 5 km away from the University of Victoria, Burnside is a vibrant neighbourhood perfect for families and city-themed experiences. The area boasts access to several attractions, including Fisherman's Wharf Marina and Government Street, which are great for outdoor adventures and urban exploration. With shopping centres and cafes nearby, Burnside provides ample opportunities for dining and leisure. Visitors can also enjoy the Royal BC Museum, catering to those interested in culture and history, making it an excellent choice for a well-rounded stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental around University of Victoria

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal match 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. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in better rates and ensures greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a method of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, look for rental options 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 around University of Victoria

The best time to rent a car around the University of Victoria is January, when prices and demand are both moderately low. February follows closely with similar trends, making it another great option. During the spring, March through May sees average pricing and demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, as demand rises. August also experiences high demand and moderate pricing, marking the peak rental period for the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.0°F (5.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately Low
February	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Moderately Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.3°F (12.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.6°F (14.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
August	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
September	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
December	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average