Top 5 Car Rental Services in Ottawa
Alongside the increasing popularity of traveling comes the rise in the demand for rental services.
To help you find the most affordable deals, we have gathered the best car rental services in Ottawa in this list.
But before moving on to that, let’s first take a look at the average costs.
How much do vehicle rental services cost in Ottawa?
The cost of renting a vehicle depends on several factors. Among these include the availability of the vehicle, its popularity, and how far out the reservation is made.
But to give you an idea of how much you might need to prepare for rental services, below is a table that shows the average daily rates of various types of vehicles:
Top Car Rental Services in Ottawa
In our selection process, we used the following criteria to get to the best ones in the business:
1. Hertz
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Promos and Discounts | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Number of Locations | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Fleet Size | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer Feedback | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
With more than 3,000 locations across the US alone, Hertz is currently one of the biggest car rental services.
Its good reputation over the years is attributed to the affordable rates it offers and the superb customer service it provides.
Today, it has 8 branches within the city and takes pride in its wide array of vehicles. It even has its “Hertz Dream Collection” for people who are into sports cars like Lamborghini.
When it comes to cars, customers may choose from models like Chevrolet Spark, Kia Rio, and Toyota Camry. There is also a Ford Mustang, a Chrysler 300, and other similar variants available.
Another thing we like about its services is the Hertz Instant Return, which lets you drop off the vehicle you rented with less hassle.
Processes can be further hastened through its Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, which allow skipping counter check-ins and e-returns options.
If you frequently need to rent cars, the generous loyalty program that awards 1 point for every dollar spent will interest you.
However, while points can be redeemed anytime without blackout periods, you’ll first have to accumulate 750 points to avail of cost-free rental.
Pros
- A wide array of choices
- Price matching
- 10% discount for reservations
- Loyalty reward system
- Multiple locations
Cons
- Prepaid reservations’ high cancellation charges
- High redemption rates
Customer Reviews
Thank you
“Quick service, got the car type I had reserved and everyone I dealt with were very friendly and got us on our way quickly. There was an issue with the toll amount, but Godfrey took care of it very quickly and was very polite about it. Will definitely be booking with these folks next time we’re in town. Thank you.” — Lisa Ann Robinson, Google Reviews
Personalized service
“I am a local mover who has rented trucks from Hertz for over 15 years and the main reason I keep going back is the personalized service that I get from Phil and his team. These guys have taken the stress out of booking vehicles because I know that without question, my truck will be ready and waiting for the days that I’ve booked. On last minute jobs Phil has always been the one to step up and find a vehicle suitable to my needs, even in the busiest of times. Phil is a total rockstar and I can’t thank him enough for the hard work and dedication he puts forth day to day! Thanks Phil…. someone give this man a raise!” — Scott Corkery, Google Reviews
2. Avis
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Promos and Discounts | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Number of Locations | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Fleet Size | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer Feedback | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
Avis was the first to offer car rental services in different airport locations. Because of its dedication, it was named the “World’s Leading Business Car Rental Company” by the World Travel Awards in 2012.
Currently, its massive fleet offers countless cars you can choose from. You may want to go for a Mitsubishi Mirage or a compact Hyundai Accent.
There are also convertibles like Ford Mustang and luxurious ones like the Chrysler 300S.
Despite having relatively higher base rates, the discounts it offers are quite generous. One of which lets you avail up to 30% off the standard fee should you pay in advance.
Further, aside from a 10% discount on base rates on monthly rentals, there are also several promo codes and special offers that can help lower costs.
But since cancellation fees are steep, make sure that you’re certain before placing reservations. Canceled reservations may cost you $50 to $150.
On a different note, there’s the Avis Preferred Loyalty Program, which lets you earn points you can use to reduce rental charges. Alternatively, you may opt to use your points for upgrades and car accessories.
The TripIt services, which organize your itineraries, are great as well as they help make your holidays hassle-free. With 7 locations within the city, pick-ups and returns won’t be a problem.
Pros
- A decent fleet size
- Great advanced payment discount
- Avis Preferred Loyalty Program
- Has 7 locations
Cons
- Costly base rates
- High cancellation charges
Customer Reviews
Best car rental experience
“Best car rental experience ever. I needed a car at the last minute and Chad (Avis-Budget, Bells Corners) went above and beyond to ensure that I could be accommodated, even though there were no cars available when I called. He kept his word and called me on Saturday morning to let me know that there was a car available for me. He was professional and personable, and I drove off with a smile.” — Rosalind Ashe, Google Reviews
Will come back for sure
“Very professional. Excellent services and good pricing. I rented cars there twice and will come back for sure.” — Đăng Quân Nguyễn, Google Reviews
3. Enterprise
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Promos and Discounts | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Number of Locations | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Fleet Size | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer Feedback | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
Enterprise can be considered one of the most successful car rental services today. Founded in 1957, it now operates with over 7,000 branches in more than 85 countries around the world.
One of the biggest factors behind its success is its competitive rates. While its prices may not be the most economical, the rates are relatively lower compared to others.
Getting extras like the GPS service if you’re new in the area and child seats when traveling with small kids would cost you less. Long-term rentals are also made affordable through its unlimited mileage deal.
As of writing, Enterprise offers 12 different car classes — from economy and compact to premium and luxury. Some of its car models include a Chevrolet Spark, a Nissan Versa, and a Toyota Camry.
There are also sporty cars like the MINI Countryman and convertibles like the Ford Mustang. For winter, its intermediate cars with specially designed tires could be a great option.
Just like its competitors, Enterprise also has “Enterprise Plus,” a loyalty program. It has various tiers, giving you more freedom to choose which best suits your preference and budget.
But unlike others, it has CarShare, which offers a wide variety of vehicles that can be accessed within the area 24/7. With over 15 locations within Ottawa, finding it will be a breeze.
Pros
- A large collection of vehicles offered
- Enterprise Plus Loyalty Program
- 24/7 CarShare rental access
- Cheaper charges for extras
- With more than 15 locations
Cons
- Loyalty points are dependent on the tier
- Unavailable on Sundays
Customer Reviews
Super organized location
“This place has good customer service. The car I reserved was there on time, and properly cleaned. They are good at making genuine small talk but quickly getting me checked in with the car. Super organized location.” — Jonathan Caithesan, Google Reviews
My first choice
“Enterprise in this specific location (Cyrville, Ottawa) has some awesome staff rendering stellar service. They really make you at home, as their moto says. They followed up after the rental with level of satisfaction. Rental and return are fairly hassle-free. I rented from them several times (through insurance, and also personally). I need to rent again, they would be my first choice in Ottawa with eyes closed. Kudos!” — Mohammad Shaheedul Ameen, Google Reviews
4. National
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Promos and Discounts | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Number of Locations | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
| Fleet Size | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer Feedback | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
National is a car rental service that is hard to miss. Despite having relatively fewer locations compared to others and higher base rates, it has become popular because of its great customer service and large fleet.
Apart from having countless trucks and SUVs, National also offers cars that come in 38-class options. Among the choices include a Mitsubishi Mirage, a Nissan Versa, and a Toyota Corolla.
There are also convertibles like the Ford Mustang, sporty cars like the Dodge Challenger, and electric luxury sedans such as the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan.
Then there’s the Emerald Club — its loyalty program that is great for those who travel and rent cars so often.
One of the things we like about this is that customers get 1 credit point for every rental of an eligible vehicle. The best part is that enjoying 1 day of rent only requires 7 credit points for most and less for those that have executive memberships.
Also worth noting is the hassle-free checkout process customers can enjoy through the loyalty program’s Emerald Aisle.
If you’re into CAA perks such as discounted GPS and free additional drivers, then booking with National is the way to go.
The convenience you get from its strong partnerships with airlines and hotels is another reason why this car rental service is worth a try.
Pros
- A large fleet
- Emerald Club loyalty program
- Offers perks such as free additional drivers
- Has partnerships with airlines and hotels
Cons
- Higher base rates
- Fewer branches in Ottawa
Customer Reviews
The best and smoothest rental process
“As a long time Emerald Club Member I had one of the best smoothest rental process! Moe was very professional, answered all my questions, and was able to accommodate my same day reservation. This is a high level of standard all staff should attain.” — Greg Bell, Google Reviews
Great rental car service
“Great rental car service! Got upgraded to Mercedes suv, after a major flight delay. Super staff and easy drop off service!” — Elizabeth Kim, Google Reviews
5. Budget
| Criteria | Ratings |
| Promos and Discounts | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Number of Locations | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Fleet Size | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
| Customer Feedback | ★★★★✩ (4/5) |
If you’re looking for a car rental service that offers cheaper base rates, then Budget is what you’re looking for. In fact, its prepaid payments can help one save as much as 35% off.
But then again, it is advised that you’re certain before placing reservations as cancellation fees can cost you as much as $150.
Looking at its fleet, there are countless cars you can choose from. There are economy cars like the Mitsubishi Mirage, compact ones like the Hyundai Accent, and intermediate cars such as the Hyundai Elantra.
It also has luxury cars, and one of them is the Chrysler 300S. As for the exotic ones, the Dodge Challenger and the Chevrolet Cruz with winter tires are included in the list.
If you’re traveling as a group with at least 2 who can drive, you’ll find its free additional driver offer enticing. But if you’re into hassle-free transactions, its Fastbreak Loyalty Program might just work for you.
Signing up means no long lines and waiting time. From picking up your keys to dropping off your car, everything else gets fast-tracked.
Another thing we like about Budget is how it gives back to its loyal patrons through exclusive deals. Among these include sending members $25 Budget Bucks, which can be used for car rental services.
With 7 convenient locations within the city, finding them will be the least of your worries.
Pros
- A decent array of car options
- 35% discount on prepaid payments
- Fastbreak Loyalty Program
- With 7 locations within the city
Cons
- Pricey cancellation fees
- The long wait during peak seasons
Customer Reviews
Love this place
“Adding 5 more stars to this place. Excellent customer service. I had booked a car but unfortunately I had to cancel due to weather conditions. They understood the problem and cancelled without any further questions or penalties. This is how loyal customers are made. Love this place. They always give me good deal. I have rented for weeks on multiple occasions. Well maintained cars. Awesome staff” — Anish Joy, Google Reviews
Never been disappointed
“Absolutely excellent customer service and the most accommodating in my experience. I always rent vehicles from here and was never been disappointed so far. Got a great clean and affordable car every time even on very short notice. Definitely recommend this location.” — Ferdous Shamaun, Google Reviews
FAQs about Car Rentals
There you have it! We hope that you make good choices and have fun on your next adventure!
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