How to find a cheap car hire deal in Thunder Bay
Pick up a cheap rental car in Thunder Bay and get on your way for around 112 € a day. From short drives to open-road adventures, we'll match you with a rental that works for you.
The cheapest daily price for a rental in Thunder Bay is 28 €.
Planning a longer trip and want to explore beyond the usual highlights? 196 € is the best rate for a weekly rental.
Timing is everything when it comes to finding the best price on a Thunder Bay car hire. Try booking around three weeks before your departure date.
Browse the offers available with Enterprise, National and Budget. They're among the top-rated providers in the city.
The coverage Enterprise or another supplier offers for your Thunder Bay car hire can vary, so remember to go over the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will charge a fee for it.
Booking a one-way car hire can be your secret weapon for cheaper deals. Simply click 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often have to move vehicles between locations, which means you can bag some excellent one-way prices on a car for rent in Thunder Bay.
Skip the hidden fees by booking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, paying only for what you use.
Want to explore without worrying about the number of miles you clock up? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and drive as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car hire options right now
You get the best value with this company, with average prices at 57 € a day.
Offering daily rates of around 51 €, this provider comes in next.
The third option won't break the bank either. You'll pay roughly 77 € a day with this supplier.
The Fullsize rental category is a dependable choice if you can't decide what kind of wheels you need. It's also the most commonly booked car type in Thunder Bay.
Flying to Thunder Bay? Think about an airport pick-up
Get a head start on your Thunder Bay trip by booking a car hire at Thunder Bay Airport. The city centre is about 14 kilometres from this airport, which is a drive of around 15 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Thunder Bay
Small: Whether you're zipping around the city or simply planning a quick trip, this car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and excellent fuel efficiency.
Medium: Not too small, not too big, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of interior space and fuel efficiency and are great for couples and small families.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this Thunder Bay car hire category. Also known as full-size, they have the engine size to match the journey. The extra space and comfort make them an excellent choice for families and groups of friends.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a better view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're winding through tough terrain or cruising along uninterrupted highways, many offer all-wheel drive to help you tackle any road.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you want a car for rent in Thunder Bay that makes light work of heavy loads. With options like commercial vans and trucks, they're made to carry more, whether that's equipment, luggage or large groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your Thunder Bay car hire is stolen or damaged. While not compulsory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that policies differ from one provider to another, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can seriously upgrade your ride. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Thunder Bay.
Good to know
Check each company's age requirements before booking your car hire in Canada. Rules can vary, and added fees or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, simply uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to browse your options.
Travelling with kids? Car seat rules vary according to the location, and the right setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Make sure you add the right one to your Thunder Bay car hire booking.
You'll have to provide some documents when collecting your car. As a general rule, bring a valid driver's licence, a credit card with room for the security deposit (most companies don't accept debit cards), and additional photo ID. Your booking confirmation will spell it all out.
Driving in Canada may feel unfamiliar if it's your first time. Be aware that traffic travels on the right side of the road.
Keep within the local speed limits. Most of the time that's around 45kph in urban areas and 95kph or so on highways, unless signed otherwise.
In Canada, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you're planning to have a drink or two, pass the keys to someone else or take another form of transport.
One of the busiest times to be out on the roads in this destination is around 5pm. Make things easy by driving outside rush hours in general.
You'll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD) for all your purchases and expenses on your trip. You may find it helpful to carry a mix of cards and cash for more flexibility when paying.
Best hotels in Thunder Bay for drivers
Pull in and settle straight into your stay at Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Thunder Bay. Offering accessible parking as well as room service and internet access, this hotel is around 5 kilometres from central Thunder Bay.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Thunder BAY by IHG is also a smart pick if a few road trips are on your itinerary. It features accessible parking, plus a pool and a barbeque. Make this your base and you'll be roughly 3 kilometres from the city centre.
Browse the full range of hotels in Thunder Bay for even more choices. Use the 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' and 'Outdoor parking' filters to tailor your results to your trip. You can also use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to limit results to EV-friendly stays.
It's time to get out and explore now you've found a car hire deal in Thunder Bay and your hotel. From Terry Fox Monument to Fort William Historical Park and Albany River Provincial Park, the city's packed with places worth visiting.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Thunder Bay
Around 27 kilometres southwest of central Thunder Bay, Neebing should be on your itinerary. Steer straight toward can't-miss sights like Thunder Bay Observatory and Mink Mountain.
Shuniah Township has plenty of appeal too. Collect your cheap car hire in Thunder Bay and travel about 19 kilometres northeast to take in attractions like Mount Baldy Ski.
For a longer drive out, type Atikokan into your navigation app and take in Little Falls Scenic Lookout. This city is about 177 kilometres west of Thunder Bay.
