posted on December 10, 2024
Driving across Canada is a bucket list dream for many, and it’s easy to see why! Few other countries offer the vast natural landscapes, stunning coastlines, and sheer size and distance that Canada does. No matter your destination, you’re bound to experience the scenic drive of a lifetime.
Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the Rockies, conquering the Cabot Trail, or cruising the Gaspésie coastline, planning an adventure this size comes with its own challenges. In this article, we’ll cover tips for choosing a rental car, planning your route, and packing everything you need for your journey.
When it comes to choosing the best car to rent, there are a few ways you can go. Is the traditional rental car route the best fit for you, or should you opt for an alternative? We’ll break down the pros and cons of each option so you can plan your Canadian adventure with confidence.
Choosing the best car rental option for your Canadian road trip
Traditional car rentals vs. peer-to-peer car rental platforms
Car rental isn’t one size fits all, and traditional car rentals aren’t the only option. When searching for the right rental car, it’s important to know the difference between these options and to consider their advantages and disadvantages based on your plans and personal travel style.
Advantages of traditional car rental
Traditional car rental companies offer the familiarity of a recognized brand, the reliability of a standardized fleet of cars, and the option to pick-up and drop-off rentals at offices in different cities and provinces.
However, the process of picking up and returning a car with a traditional rental company can be time-consuming and requires more paperwork than other options.Additionally, traditional car rental prices are fixed at daily or weekly rates, but tend to be higher than other rental options.
Pros
- Standardized pricing
- Personal or credit card insurance is more likely to apply
- One-way rental options
Cons
- Pick up and drop off can be time-consuming
- Additional paperwork
- May not get the exact car you want
- Extra fees for additional drivers
Advantages of peer-to-peer car rental
Variety is the name of the game when it comes to renting from platforms like Turo. Hosts on these platforms make their own decisions about how to price their vehicle, the add-ons they offer, and pick-up and drop off locations. Although this means experiences can vary, it offers the advantage of a more flexible and customizable experience compared to traditional options.
Turo offers greater flexibility and selection than traditional car rental agencies, as well as the personal touch of being able to rent from a community of trusted local hosts. Additionally, you can book your trip instantly on the Turo app, eliminating the need to line up at a car rental counter and complete the usual paperwork.
Pros
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Flexible pick-up and drop-off options, including delivery
- Flexible cancellation
- Get the car you booked
Cons
- Pricing isn’t standardized
- Your credit card insurance may not apply
- Limited options for one-way rentals
Key considerations when renting a car for a road trip
- Vehicle size: Make sure you have enough space for your passengers, luggage, and any extra gear you’ll bring with you.
- Vehicle type: Choose a car best suited to the terrain and weather conditions you’ll encounter on your trip.
- Rental duration: Look for rental options that offer weekly or monthly discounts to find the best rates for the duration of your trip.
- Flexibility: Unlimited mileage and flexible cancellation options can offer peace of mind and more freedom to explore if you don’t have a strict itinerary.
- Pickup/drop-off points: Make sure that you can pick up or drop off your rental car at a location that is convenient for you, like a nearby airport.
- Additional costs: Be mindful that insurance, one-way rental fees, and add-ons can drive up the cost of your rental. Turo simplifies these costs by allowing you to filter by extras, delivery options, and choose the protection plan that best fits your needs.
Why Turo stands out for road trips
Comprehensive benefits
- Free cancellation: Plans not set in stone? Book now and cancel later up to 24 hours before the start of your trip (unless you chose to book a non-refundable trip for an additional discount).
- Free add-ons: Enjoy additional drivers and built-in third-party liability insurance at no extra cost, so you can travel with peace of mind and share the driving with as many co-pilots as you like!
- Ease of use: Book instantly on the Turo app and conveniently customize your trip on the go.
Flexible booking
- Discounts available: With Turo, you can lock in cheaper rates for road trips that last weeks or months, and save money when you book in advance.
- Pricing that works for you: Don’t let steep rental rates cut your adventure short. Choose from hundreds of local hosts that offer deals and add-ons that are the best fit for your trip and budget.
Wide selection of vehicles
- Unbeatable selection: Whether you’re looking for a luxury SUV for comfort, an electric vehicle to test drive, or simply the cheapest car rental for a budget holiday, Turo has you covered with a wide variety of vehicles.
- The perfect car for your adventure: No two road trips are alike, and on Turo you can find the right car for your journey. Driving from Toronto to Vancouver is an adventure that can be enjoyed as a family in a minivan, as a couple in a luxury SUV, or with your best friend on a budget in something more economical. Browse cars now and find your perfect match.
Tips for planning your Canadian road trip
Planning your route
- Choose your route: There are countless options for a memorable road trip across Canada. Not sure where to go? Get inspired by these routes that take you through some of the country’s most popular destinations:
- Icefields Parkway
- Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99)
- Vancouver to Tofino
- Toronto to Vancouver
- Georgian Bay Coastal Route
- Gaspé Peninsula
- Halifax to the Cabot Trail
- Fundy Coastal Drive
- Use the right tools: Organize your route, packing list, and more with the help of the right road trip planning apps and tools. For more inspiration and information on popular routes, check out our guides on the Turo blog.
- Know your charging points: If you rent an EV for your road trip, research charging points in advance to ensure you’ll never be out of juice. Resources like ChargeHub can help you plan your stops.
Packing essentials for a long road trip
It’s important to be prepared when you hit the road. Here are our must-have items to bring on any long-distance road trip:
- Snacks
- Water
- First-aid kit
- Reusable water bottle
- Entertainment like books, games, and your favourite playlists
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Chargers and cables
- Portable power bank
- GPS or navigation apps
If you’re travelling through remote areas or camping in a national or provincial park, it’s worth downloading offline maps and bringing other essentials like a cooler, insect repellant, a flashlight, and batteries.
Turo hosts often offer add-ons like bike racks or camping equipment that can simplify your packing list. Filter by features when you book to find exactly what you need for your trip.
Staying safe on the road
No matter where your road trip takes you, it’s important to stay safe on the road. Keep these tips in mind to help for a smooth and safe journey.
- Check the forecast: Weather in Canada can change dramatically. You might encounter rain, fog, ice, or snow, depending on the season and elevation. Pack appropriate gear, and if you don’t feel comfortable driving, find a safe spot to take a break.
- Watch out for wildlife: Canada is home to bears, moose, deer, and more! For your safety and theirs, drive carefully in wilderness areas. If you see animals by the road, slow down, stay in your vehicle, and keep moving.
- Prepare for long distances: Canada is a vast country, and you may be driving for long stretches at a time, depending on your itinerary. Plan your fuel stops ahead of time and pack essentials like snacks and water for long gaps between rest stops.
- Choose the right vehicle: The best car rentals for road trips match your destination and planned activities. If there’s a chance of travelling through rugged conditions or winter weather, opt for an SUV or a vehicle with AWD to help navigate your route.
Frequently asked questions about renting a car for a road trip across Canada
How many days does it take to drive across Canada?
It takes 7 to 10 days to drive across Canada if you’re starting in the Maritimes, but that doesn’t account for sightseeing or exploring. The journey spans over 7,000 km, so it’s best to slow down and enjoy it. Budget anywhere from two weeks to three months for this epic trip to make the most of it. The time you spend on the road will depend on your personal travel style, the ideal pace of your trip, and the detours you plan to take as you explore.
What’s the most comfortable vehicle for long trips?
Generally, an SUV or a minivan will be the most comfortable option for a long trip. A larger vehicle provides more room for luggage and passengers, and also makes a great car camping option for a solo or couples’ trip.
How can I save money on car rentals?
It’s important to compare rental options before you book to make sure you’re getting the best price. Booking early, looking for discounted rates on longer trips, and redeeming rewards and promotional codes are great ways to keep costs down. Turo offers different discounts to help you get the best deal for your trip. Turn on email notifications in the Turo app to be the first to know when we offer a promotion.
Can I rent a car and drive to another province?
This depends on the policies of the rental company or peer-to-peer car rental platform you decide to use. Take note of whether you’re limited to driving within a specific province before your book, as well as your mileage allowance.
There are no restrictions for driving across provincial borders when you book with Turo. You can drive anywhere within Canada as well as across the US-Canada border.
What’s the best company to rent a car from?
If you plan to book with a traditional car rental company, make sure you do your research to determine which one is the best fit for the road trip experience you want to have.
If you’re unsure, remember that booking with traditional car rental companies isn’t the only option. When you book a rental car with Turo, you can enjoy the advantages of peer-to-peer car sharing, including a wider selection and greater flexibility than most rental companies.
Rent the perfect car with Turo
Planning a road trip across Canada is a big project, and taking the time to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each car rental option will help you make the right choice for the journey.
With an unbeatable selection of makes and models, instant and flexible booking, and the unique insight of local hosts, Turo offers everything you need to find the perfect car for your dream trip. Browse available cars on Turo and start planning your adventure today. The open road awaits!
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