Car Rental at Macdonald-Cartier Intl. Airport (YOW) from $24

Reasons to book a car rental at Ottawa International Airport

Renting a car at Ottawa Airport is an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore the vibrant surroundings of Ottawa. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a business traveler, having a rental car offers the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, you can effortlessly navigate the area. Key attractions, such as the Rideau Canal, located 6 miles away, and Carleton University, just 4 miles from the airport, are easily accessible. You can also experience the lively Elgin Street, situated 7 miles away. Additionally, renting a car allows you to explore nearby neighborhoods like Nepean and South End, each just 3 miles from the airport, featuring sites such as Algonquin College and the University of Ottawa. Barrhaven, located 6 miles away, also boasts attractions like Prime Minister's House and Rideau Hall. With a rental car, you’ll enjoy a convenient and enriching experience, making your visit to Ottawa truly memorable.

Most popular car rentals near Ottawa International Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice among travelers renting at Ottawa airport, fitting up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility. Its spacious interior allows for easy luggage management, making it perfect for those planning to explore the surrounding attractions at a leisurely pace.
• Compact SUV: The Compact SUV accommodates 5 travelers and offers room for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it a great option for solo adventurers, couples, or families. This car type strikes a balance between maneuverability and comfort, perfect for navigating Ottawa's roads while providing enough space for your belongings. Renting a Compact SUV allows you the freedom to explore without feeling cramped.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is designed to fit 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for couples, families, or groups that prioritize comfort and space. With its robust build, the Standard SUV ensures a smooth ride, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a friendly people-related experience while exploring the area around Ottawa airport.

Top rated car suppliers near Ottawa International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 1 rental location situated only 0.1 miles away from Ottawa airport, Alamo is a popular choice for travelers seeking convenience. This supplier is well-known for its Midsize SUV and Compact SUV offerings, making it ideal for those who need flexibility and space during their trip. Expect efficient service and a straightforward rental process to kickstart your adventure around Ottawa.
• Enterprise: Featuring 3 rental locations, with the nearest just 0.2 miles from Ottawa airport, Enterprise is a reliable option for car rentals. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs from this supplier, ensuring you have a comfortable and spacious vehicle to explore the area. Their extensive network and commitment to customer service make Enterprise a top contender for your rental needs.
• Budget: Also located 0.2 miles away from Ottawa airport, Budget offers a single rental location that provides a range of vehicles to suit various travel preferences. With Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars among the most booked options, Budget ensures you can find the right vehicle for your journey. Their focus on affordability and convenience makes them a popular choice for visitors looking to explore Ottawa and beyond.

Where to go near Ottawa International Airport

• Nepean: Located 3 miles from Ottawa airport, Nepean is ideal for a family or business experience. Visitors can explore attractions such as Algonquin College, the Rideau Canal, and Andrew Haydon Park, an urban park perfect for outdoor activities. The best times to visit are June to July and September, when traveler numbers peak.
• South End: Also situated 3 miles from Ottawa airport, South End is a vibrant neighborhood offering access to Carleton University, the historic University of Ottawa, and the Rideau Canal. This area is suitable for city vacations and family experiences, with peak visitation occurring in June to July and September.
• Barrhaven: Located 6 miles away from Ottawa airport, Barrhaven caters well to family, city, and business travelers. Key attractions include Carleton University, the Rideau Canal, and the Prime Minister's House & Rideau Hall, a historic government building. Peak visitor numbers are seen in February, April, and July, making it a lively spot during those months.

9 tips to save on your Ottawa International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to reserve your YOW car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
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 usually the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable; just remember to return the car empty in this case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan on spending considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Ottawa International Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Ottawa Airport is March, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderately low. February and April also offer slightly lower prices with manageable demand. As the summer approaches, June through August see a rise in prices and demand, with August being the most expensive month for rentals. July and August are particularly busy, making it less ideal for those seeking budget-friendly options.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.3°F (-9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	17.2°F (-8.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	27.9°F (-2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	67.5°F (19.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average