Nanaimo car rentals from $28/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car rental in Nanaimo with a pick-up date of 5/1 and drop-off date of 5/31. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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Cheap car rentals in Nanaimo

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Economy$28/day
Compact$29/day
Intermediate$29/day
Full-size$41/day
Pickup truck$42/day
Supplier choice$30/day
Compact SUV$34/day
Intermediate SUV$43/day
Luxury SUV$45/day
Standard SUV$47/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Nanaimo

  • If you want to do an extensive tour of the Vancouver Island city of Nanaimo, it would be smart to rent a vehicle from one of the top car rentals in Nanaimo. This is because you will enjoy the comfort and convenience of driving around the city instead of relying on public transportation. You can also move swiftly from one destination to another as you can travel on your own schedule. Moreover, if you so decide, you can easily take a road trip to neighboring towns such as Ladysmith, Cedar, Lantzville, and Qualicum Beach.
  • The nearest airport to Nanaimo is the Nanaimo Airport (YCD), as it is 11 miles south of downtown Nanaimo. When you land at YCD, you can easily rent a car from one of the top Nanaimo car rentals available, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Thrifty, and Budget. The counters of the car rentals are conveniently located in the Arrivals near the baggage claim area, so you will not struggle to find them. It is wise to reserve in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Driving in Nanaimo is generally a stress-free experience, as the roads are well-maintained, and most drivers adhere to traffic rules. Moreover, the city has a network of major roads and highways that provide access to different parts. Even so, it is imperative to exercise caution and drive defensively, as some drivers may be ignorant of traffic rules or exhibit aggressive driving behaviors. Also, you should be on the lookout for pedestrians who may cross the road absent-mindedly to avoid accidents. Overall, you should be able to easily navigate Nanaimo roads if you are a confident and experienced driver.
  • In Nanaimo, traffic is experienced in two main waves; early mornings as people commute for work and late afternoons as people travel back home. The first wave is usually from about 7:00 am to 9:00 am, and the second wave is usually from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Roads that are most affected by these waves include Highway 19, Departure Bay Road, and the Nanaimo Parkway. Other roads affected by traffic in Nanaimo are those that offer main routes to the city, such as the Terminal Avenue corridor, because of its commercial activity.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Nanaimo for $43 or less
  • Book your rental car in Nanaimo at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Mini rental cars in Nanaimo are around -168% cheaper than other car types, on average

Nanaimo car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in Nanaimo 
Verified travelerOct 2023
Drive from Nanaimo to Tofino is a winding route as you get closer to Tofino, however it was fine in a SUV type vehicle.
MarkJul 2023
Use small independent rental company, eg. PractiCar.

FAQs about renting a car in Nanaimo

  • How much does it cost to rent a car in Nanaimo?

    On average a rental car in Nanaimo costs $52 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Nanaimo found in the last 2 weeks is $30.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Nanaimo?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($28/day), Budget ($30/day) and National ($34/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Enterprise Rent-A-Car 3440 Shenton Rd V9T 5A3 (4 miles from city center).

  • How much is gas price in Nanaimo?

    The average gas price in Nanaimo is $5.22 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $63 and $83, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in Nanaimo?

    Mini (Dodge Grand Caravan or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Nanaimo.

  • Which car rental companies are at Vancouver Intl airport (YVR)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Vancouver Intl airport include Hertz, Economy Rent a Car, Thrifty, Dollar, Europcar and ACO Rent A Car.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Vancouver Intl airport (YVR)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Vancouver Intl airport to off-airport locations include Routes Car & Truck Rentals, Hertz, Thrifty, Alamo, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Avis, Budget, Dollar, and National.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Nanaimo?

    Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.

  • How much does a Mini car rental cost in Nanaimo?

    A Mini car rental in Nanaimo costs $173 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Economy car rental cost in Nanaimo?

    An Economy car rental in Nanaimo costs $47 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Compact car rental cost in Nanaimo?

    A Compact car rental in Nanaimo costs $55 per day, on average.

  • How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Nanaimo?

    On average a rental car in Nanaimo costs $365 per week ($52 per day).

  • How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Nanaimo?

    On average a rental car in Nanaimo costs $1,566 per month ($52 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in Nanaimo?

    Most car rental providers in Nanaimo offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Nanaimo, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.

  • How many car agencies are operating in Nanaimo?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 5 car rental agencies in Nanaimo.

  • What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Nanaimo?

    Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).

  • Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Nanaimo?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Nanaimo so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Nanaimo?

    Car rentals in Nanaimo provide you with an option of vehicles for your traveling needs. You can rent an Economy rental, Compact, Intermediate, Standard, Full-size, Pickup truck, or SUV, depending on the number of passengers and the nature of the road. For instance, if you are traveling solo, an Economy rental will suit you just fine. If there are 4 to 5 of you, you should rent an Intermediate or Full-size so you can travel comfortably. Suppose you want to take an off-road trip. If that is the case, an SUV would be the perfect traveling companion.

  • What’s the speed limit in Nanaimo?

    Speed limits in Nanaimo vary with location and road conditions. In residential areas, the speed limit is typically 30 km/h (19 mph) to prioritize pedestrian safety and reduce the risk of accidents. On most city streets and arterial roads, you can drive up to speeds of 50 km/h (31 mph). When driving on a highway such as Highway 19, you are allowed to drive at 80 km/h (50 mph) to 90 km/h (56 mph). Observing posted speed limits is important as they vary from road to road.

  • Where are the best places to park in Nanaimo?

    While renting a car from any of the car rentals in Nanaimo, you can rest assured that there are enough parking options in the city. The safest is street parking, and there are several in downtown Nanaimo. Good examples of street parking lots in the city include Terminal Avenue Parking, Commercial Street Parking, and Downtown Parking Meters, all of which charge between CA$1.30 (about $1) and CA$2.60 ($2) per hour. Besides street parking lots, there are also parking garages in the city.  

Nanaimo car rental reviews and directory

Budget

9.0

Wonderful

23 reviews
Best rated
Most popular

Cleanliness

9.2

Comfort

8.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.0

Value for money

8.8

4 locations in Nanaimo

Show locations

Locations in Nanaimo

2393 Hayes Road

+1 250 760 7368

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

33 Terminal Avenue

+1 250 760 7368

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

6450 North Island Highway

+1 250 760 7368

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

90 Front Street

+1 250 760 7368

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Great experience, staff very friendly and helpful. Price reasonable and included unexpected shuttle to get us to and from car hire.

10.0 Wonderful

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Great friendly staff and super quick, pick up and drop off.

10.0 Wonderful

Oct 2022

KAYAK
Pleasant and helpful staff. Car good and very clean

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

fast and easy

Cons:

I didn't know that there was a shuttle service from the airport, Kayak should have included this information in the booking confirmation

10.0 Wonderful

Jul 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Very Friendly Helpful Staff. Rental Vehicles was clean and ready when I arrived.

Cons:

Nothing

9.2 Wonderful

Sep 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

very comfortable Terrain. Handles well on the highway but would not buy one

Cons:

Terrain has doors that sound tinny when you close them. Interior finishes average

1 out of 5

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.4

Very good

29 reviews
Cheapest deal

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.6

Value for money

7.9

One location in Nanaimo

Show locations

Locations in Nanaimo

3440 Shenton Rd

+1 250 751 1200

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very good

Feb 2024

KAYAK
Price

2.0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
The shop was closed when i arrived

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Had a great and easy experience, needed a rental car urgently and staff was helpful and quick!

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

It was first time when rental staff explained everything in such detail way. There was no rush with car inspection. We walked around the car discussing what kind of scratches are under warranty and what to be aware of.

Cons:

I have no complaints.

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Fastest/friendliest staff I've ever encountered!

9.6 Wonderful

Jun 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Cameron at Nanaimo was very helpful with directions & local knowledge & he was a very pleasant person to deal with.

1 out of 6

National

8.0

Very good

28 reviews

Cleanliness

8.1

Comfort

8.2

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

7.6

One location in Nanaimo

Show locations

Locations in Nanaimo

1602 Northfield Rd

+1 250 758 3509

Monday07:15 - 18:00
Tuesday07:15 - 18:00
Wednesday07:15 - 18:00
Thursday07:15 - 18:00
Friday07:15 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday08:00 - 17:30

Filters

Reviews

8.4 Very good

Sep 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

The Kia really is a horrible car to drive

8.8 Very good

Apr 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly and professional

Cons:

NA

7.6 Good

Aug 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Great mileage Friendly staff who were very helpful

Cons:

We onlly had 1200 km and Vancouver Island is a big island which we did not realize. We were unable to get more km without paying what would have been an exorbitant amount of money so had to take it back and get another contract. In spite of paying much more for the car why are you penalized if you take it back at a different location?

2.8 Poor

May 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

They drove me back to where I needed to be, so I didn't have to call a cab.

Cons:

In Canada they charge you .35 cents a kil. after you drive 100 K.. That really adds up when driving from Victoria to Nanaimo! You have to read your contract VERY carefully. Our C$78.00 rental turned out to be almost C$200.00.! Also, when I returned the car I had forgotten to fill it up w/ fuel. The counter guy didn't want to let me fill it up myself and I had to demand that he did! Very poor service. They really rip you off. I will never rent another car from National again!

2.0 Poor

Sep 2017

KAYAK

Cons:

I reserved a compact car weeks in advance and when I arrived I was told National does rent to N drivers. Neither the website nor confirmation email indicated this, which is pretty important restriction. The lady said it's corporate policy and there's nothing she can do. Where is the accountability? Had to reserve last minute with another company 20min away at double the price.

8.0 Very good

Jul 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

service & tining eas good

Cons:

Extra charge on kilometers ... allowed 100 and went 117 ... extra $6.00

1 out of 5

Sunnycars

No score available yet

2 locations in Nanaimo

Show locations

Locations in Nanaimo

1602 Northfield Road

Opening times not available

3350 Spitfire Road

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

Discount Car & Truck Rentals

No score available yet

One location in Nanaimo

Show locations

Locations in Nanaimo

2474 Kenworth Road

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

80 travelers who rented a car in Nanaimo gave the car agency they used an average rating of 8.5

Car rental locations in or near Nanaimo

Good to know

Most popular agency

Budget

Most popular car type

Mini

Average price

$52/day

Good deal

$43/day

When to book a rental car in Nanaimo

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches