Alberta Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Alberta

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Calgary

Calgary

What you need to know for your Alberta car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Alberta

Renting a car in Alberta is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the province's breathtaking scenery and attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking romantic experiences. Key destinations like Banff National Park and Moraine Lake are accessible, allowing you to immerse yourself in stunning natural landscapes. A visit to the Banff Gondola offers fantastic views and adventure opportunities, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Moreover, a rental car provides the convenience of exploring popular cities such as Calgary, known for Calgary Tower and vibrant 17 Avenue SW, and Banff, featuring attractions like the Upper Hot Springs. You can also discover the charming town of Canmore, home to the Silvertip Golf Course and Grassi Lakes. With so much to see and do, having a vehicle at your disposal allows you to experience Alberta’s beauty and charm fully, whether you're on a scenic drive or seeking outdoor adventures.

Most popular car rentals in Alberta

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. With its spacious interior and ample luggage capacity, a midsize SUV offers comfort and flexibility for exploring Alberta's attractions at your own pace.
  • Compact SUV: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact SUV accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This option offers a balance of space and maneuverability, allowing you to navigate through Alberta's diverse landscapes while ensuring that you have enough room for your belongings.
  • Standard SUV: Designed for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This type provides a comfortable ride and sufficient space for both passengers and luggage, making it a solid choice for those looking to travel across Alberta with ease.

Where to stay in Alberta

  • Calgary: As a vibrant metropolis, Calgary is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of family, city-themed, and outdoor experiences. Within proximity, you can explore attractions like the Calgary Tower, offering stunning views of the city, and Calaway Park, an ideal spot for family fun. For shopping enthusiasts, the local shopping mall center and shopping centre provide numerous options. Additionally, nearby landmarks such as the national parks and racetrack enhance your stay, while the diverse food scene, including breweries and restaurants, ensures delightful dining experiences.
  • Edmonton: Known for its rich cultural and business offerings, Edmonton is a bustling city that caters to family and city-themed experiences. Key attractions include Galaxyland, a fantastic theme park, and Fort Edmonton Park, where you can delve into the city’s history. The convention centre and sports facility stadium are also notable venues for business travelers. Explore local shopping centers and enjoy the vibrant dining scene with numerous breweries and restaurants nearby, making it a convenient spot for both leisure and business travelers.
  • Banff: Nestled in a stunning natural landscape, Banff is the ultimate destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. With its breathtaking scenery and recreational areas, you can experience activities like skiing at nearby ski resorts or take a ride on the Banff Gondola for amazing views. Don't miss the Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing wellness experience after a day of exploration. The area's national parks and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, making Banff a must-visit destination for those who appreciate nature's beauty.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Alberta

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible to enjoy the summer, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 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 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 extra fees. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be acceptable as well—just remember to 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 might justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s easy to add insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional 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 Alberta

The best value period to rent a car in Alberta is November, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. Surrounding this month, both April and December offer similar advantages with their low demand and moderate prices. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, marked by high demand and moderately high prices, making it less ideal for budget-conscious travelers. June through August also see elevated demand and pricing, further emphasizing the value of renting in the quieter months.

Find Alberta Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Alberta car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Alberta, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Alberta offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Alberta car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Alberta to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Alberta airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Alberta rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Alberta airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Alberta car reservation?
Canceling a prepaid rental six hours before the scheduled pickup time should allow for a complete refund. But this is not always the case. It's worth reading through your booking details and rental agreement. Still can't find the answer? Head over to our Customer Service Portal.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Alberta with Expedia?
Getting an awesome deal on your Alberta rental car is a piece of cake with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add some details and compare prices from top suppliers. Why not add hotels and flights to your booking? You'll score even more savings when you create a vacation package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Alberta?
Drivers 21 and over can road trip around Alberta in a rental vehicle. If you're a young motorist, a daily surcharge applies. You'll generally have fewer car categories to pick from, such as compact and mid-size, and may also have to purchase inclusive insurance. Always enter the correct age of the primary driver when booking to find out if any restrictions or surcharges apply.
What do you need to rent a car in Alberta?
A valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name are two essentials. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? Then there's a good chance you'll also need proof of other coverage. Rules can differ between suppliers, so be sure to read through your policy.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Alberta?
Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then lock in your ideal ride. Whether you're staying put in Alberta or venturing beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at a fantastic rate.
Where can I find an Alberta car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies are different between rental suppliers, so you'll have to do a bit of research. Managed to find an Alberta supplier that does rent to under 25s? That's great! Just bear in mind that a surcharge often applies to drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. The terms and conditions of each rental car you're looking at should have all the details you need.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Alberta?
After perfectly planning your vacation, don't skimp on safety — choose collision protection while booking your Alberta rental vehicle with Expedia. There are many advantages to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for theft, accident damage and vandalism. Plus, with a zero-dollar deductible and 24-hour emergency help, you can breathe a little easier if a mishap occurs.
What are the cheapest car rentals in Alberta?
You can find cheap car rentals in Alberta from $11 a day with Zoom's standard suv. The cheapest car rentals for exploring Alberta start from around $11 a day, picked up at Calgary Alberta Airport (YYC). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Calgary and Canmore, where rates also start from $11 a day. Suppliers such as Avis and Enterprise operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Alberta.
What are the best car rentals in Alberta?
Car rentals across Alberta offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities like Calgary, Edmonton, and Canmore. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Special
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact crossover
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Alberta.

What are the best car rental companies in Alberta?
For car rentals across Alberta, well-rated providers like Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, and Canmore. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Calgary Alberta Airport (YYC) for exploring Alberta?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Calgary Alberta Airport (YYC) for exploring Alberta. Providers including Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. Calgary Alberta Airport (YYC) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Calgary to Canmore.
Can I rent a car one-way in Alberta?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Alberta - pick up in one city, such as Calgary, and drop-off in another, like Edmonton, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $13 a day. Providers like Avis and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Alberta?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Alberta, including in Calgary and Edmonton. Avis offers electric cars from $11 a day and hybrid options from $26 a day, while Enterprise also provides hybrid vehicles from $26 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Alberta?
For luxury car rentals across Alberta, Avis offers luxury cars from $11 a day (and a premium SUV from $42 a day), while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car add premium categories - high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Calgary and Edmonton. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Alberta.
What are the best car rentals in Alberta for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Alberta, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Calgary to Edmonton:
  • Avis: midsize SUV from $11 a day - seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $22 a day - seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Avis: fullsize SUV from $28 a day - seats up to 6 people with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Alberta.

What are the best car rentals in Alberta for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Alberta for solo travelers are economy and compact classes - small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Calgary and Edmonton:
  • Economy car, from $11 a day - fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $11 a day - fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Alberta.

What are the best car rentals in Alberta for couples?
The best car rentals in Alberta for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Calgary and Edmonton:
  • Midsize car, from $11 a day - fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $19 a day - fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives around Alberta. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Alberta.

What are the closest airports to Alberta for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Alberta offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Calgary Alberta Airport (YYC)
  • Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Alberta by rental car?
From Alberta, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Calgary hub include:
  • Calgary Tower, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, approximately 1 mile away
  • Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, approximately 2 miles away
  • Canada Olympic Park, Calgary, Alberta, Canada, approximately 9 miles away
Consider adding activities such as Discover Banff National Park - Premium Day Trip. With cities like Edmonton and Canmore also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Alberta.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Alberta?
In Alberta, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust - take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Alberta?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Alberta. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Alberta?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Alberta?
Budget car rental in Alberta can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Alberta?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Alberta. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Alberta car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Alberta?
To rent a car in Alberta, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Alberta car rental?
If you need to cancel your Alberta car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

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