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Thunder Bay car rentals from $27/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 Thunder Bay with a pick-up date of 5/3 and drop-off date of 5/4. 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.
Sat 5/4
Sat 5/11

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Cheap car rentals in Thunder Bay

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
Choose your dates
Economy$27/day
Compact$45/day
Intermediate$30/day
Standard$31/day
Full-size$47/day
Full-size SUV$60/day
Premium$53/day
Pickup truck$46/day
Compact SUV$40/day
Intermediate SUV$41/day
Standard SUV$42/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Thunder Bay

  • Driving car rentals in Thunder Bay is a wonderful way to see this breathtaking city situated on the shores of Lake Superior. In Thunder Bay car rentals, you can save time over using public transportation and you can see who you want and go where you want according to your own timetable. You can take in local sites including Fort William Historic Park, the Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout on Mount McKay, and the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. In car rentals in Thunder Bay, you can explore more of the vast province of Ontario or you can cross into Manitoba to the west and visit Winnipeg.
  • Situated less than 5 miles from downtown Thunder Bay, the Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) serves as the perfect place to secure car rentals in Thunder Bay. When you land at YQT, you will easily find the car rental counters in the arrivals area, lined up against the wall near the baggage claim carousels. You will find your rental vehicle parked outside in the airport parking lot, and this is where you will return your rental vehicle, as well.
  • Thunder Bay is largely a residential town with a more densely populated built-up downtown clustered near the shores of Lake Superior. Those driving car rentals in Thunder Bay should not encounter much traffic congestion, even during the peak rush hours of 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Because of severe weather, Thunder Bay roads suffer damage, so be prepared for cracks, bumps, and potholes in the road as you drive through town.
  • One challenge that those driving car rentals in Thunder Bay will face is wildlife crossing the road. This wildlife could include lynx, coyote, and deer. Huron Avenue is especially prone to having deer crossings in the winter. If you see animals crossing, wait for them to cross and then proceed slowly and with caution because there may be more animals to cross that you don't immediately see. This is especially true for deer, and you would not want one to ram into your car. Thunder Bay also gets a lot of snow in the winter, so if you are renting a car in winter, be prepared to reduce your speed, stick to plowed roads, and if local reports warn of a coming storm, refrain from driving.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Thunder Bay for $39 or less
  • Book your rental car in Thunder Bay at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Off-airport rental car locations in Thunder Bay are around 2% cheaper than airport locations on average
  • Standard rental cars in Thunder Bay are around 33% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Thunder Bay

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

    On average a rental car in Thunder Bay costs $48 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 Thunder Bay found in the last 2 weeks is $39.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in Thunder Bay?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Budget ($27/day), National ($30/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($37/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Budget 100 Princess Street P7E 6S2 (3 miles from city center).

  • How much is gas price in Thunder Bay?

    The average gas price in Thunder Bay 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 Thunder Bay?

    Standard (Kia Forte or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Thunder Bay.

  • Which car rental companies are at Thunder Bay airport (YQT)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Thunder Bay airport include Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National, Budget and Driving Force.

  • Which car rental companies will pick you up at Thunder Bay airport (YQT)?

    Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Thunder Bay airport to off-airport locations include Enterprise Rent-A-Car, National, and Budget.

  • How can I find car rentals near me in Thunder Bay?

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

  • How much does a Standard car rental cost in Thunder Bay?

    A Standard car rental in Thunder Bay costs $49 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Thunder Bay?

    An Intermediate car rental in Thunder Bay costs $117 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Economy car rental cost in Thunder Bay?

    An Economy car rental in Thunder Bay costs $38 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular rental car location in Thunder Bay?

    In Thunder Bay, cars are most frequently rented at National 450 Sifton Ave (3 miles from city center).

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

    On average a rental car in Thunder Bay costs $337 per week ($48 per day).

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

    On average a rental car in Thunder Bay costs $1,445 per month ($48 per day).

  • Should I get insurance when renting a car in Thunder Bay?

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

  • How many car agencies are operating in Thunder Bay?

    KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 8 car rental agencies in Thunder Bay.

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

    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 Thunder Bay?

    KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Thunder Bay 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 Thunder Bay?

    An SUV makes an ideal rental in Thunder Bay year-round. Thunder Bay is known for being an outdoorsy city, with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation as well as wonderful places to visit and spend time that are outdoors. An SUV can help you transport outdoor adventure gear as well as picnic supplies, not to mention family and friends. In the winter months, the power and traction of an SUV will help you navigate through the snow.

  • What's the speed limit in Thunder Bay?

    For those driving car rentals in Thunder Bay, keep in mind that the speed limit will be posted in kilometers per hour, not miles per hour. Therefore, the number you see on the speed limit sign will be higher than its corresponding speed in mph. The speed limit on Highway 17, a major road running through Thunder Bay, is 90 km/h (56 mph). In Thunder Bay, most residential streets and streets downtown have a speed limit of 50 km/h (31 mph). School zones, hospital zones, and areas near beaver dams have a speed limit of 40 km/h (25 mph).

  • Where are the best places to park in Thunder Bay?

    While parking in much of Thunder Bay is free, parking downtown is metered. Short-term meters are enforced Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm. Short-term parkade paid parking is enforced 24/7. The rate for street meters is about C$1.50 (about $1.10) or C$1.25 (about $0.90) per hour with a maximum of C$6.50 (about $4.80) a day. The rate for parkades is about C$2.50 (about $1.85) per hour for the first 2 hours and C$1.25 (about $0.90) per hour after that with a maximum of C$7 (about $5.20) per day.

Thunder Bay car rental reviews and directory

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.5

Very good

61 reviews
Most popular

Cleanliness

8.4

Comfort

8.7

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.9

Value for money

8.4

3 locations in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess St.

+1 807 473 5222

Monday20:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:00
Tuesday20:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:0000:00 - 01:00
Wednesday20:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:0000:00 - 01:00
Thursday20:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:0000:00 - 01:00
Friday00:00 - 01:0020:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:0009:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

1100 Arthur St. W

+1 807 622 1222

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00

727 Memorial Ave.

+1 807 344 2800

Monday07:30 - 17:00
Tuesday07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday07:30 - 17:00
Thursday07:30 - 17:00
Friday07:30 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Dec 2023

KAYAK
I was happy with everything so far

10.0 Wonderful

Jun 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was very friendly - transaction was quick and painless!

9.2 Wonderful

Sep 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff were great, very friendly. Car was clean and in good condition with good options.

8.8 Very good

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

Car wasn’t the cleanest inside

10.0 Wonderful

Jun 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was great, ride was great

Cons:

Knowing how to open the hatch - bit figured it out eventually

8.4 Very good

Oct 2018

KAYAK

Cons:

The windows on the inside were marked by a dog, needed a cleaning & excess dog hair in side

1 out of 9

Budget

8.4

Very good

13 reviews

Cleanliness

8.6

Comfort

8.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.3

Value for money

8.3

2 locations in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 473 5040

Monday09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday09:00 - 17:00
Thursday09:00 - 17:00
Friday09:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

230 Waterloo Street South

+1 807 622 3366

Monday08:00 - 19:00
Tuesday08:00 - 19:00
Wednesday08:00 - 19:00
Thursday08:00 - 19:00
Friday08:00 - 19:00

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Communication of terms

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

Nothing! Customer service at Thunder Bay airport was exceptional! Easy process picking up car and dropping it off

7.6 Good

Aug 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

At could have been ready at designated pick up time. Car could have been in pick up area instead of in front of the airport

10.0 Wonderful

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

Will always go with BUDGET anytime anywhere any day.

8.0 Very good

Jun 2022

KAYAK
More friendly when checking in

2.0 Poor

Apr 2022

KAYAK
Very poor experience at pickup and no staff available at dropoff and outrageous price for add on insurance

1 out of 3

National

8.2

Very good

24 reviews
Cheapest deal

Cleanliness

9.1

Comfort

8.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.4

Value for money

8.3

2 locations in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

450 Sifton Ave

+1 807 577 5783

Monday08:00 - 19:00
Tuesday08:00 - 19:00
Wednesday08:00 - 19:00
Thursday08:00 - 19:00
Friday08:00 - 19:00
Saturday08:00 - 19:00
Sunday08:00 - 19:00

Thunder Bay Airport

+1 807 577 5783

Monday09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday09:00 - 17:00
Thursday09:00 - 17:00
Friday09:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 23:59

Filters

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Jul 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

Person at counter was knowledgeable.

Cons:

Mobile website deceptive. Confirmation email said"$total rental: $286" was told at pickup that let per km fee would bring cost to over $1800.00. Travel plans messed up. Never again

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2023

KAYAK
Very helpful people on staff.

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2023

KAYAK
Everything went very quickly and efficiently for pick up and drop off.

10.0 Wonderful

Jul 2023

KAYAK
All around stress free rental experience

8.0 Very good

Jun 2023

KAYAK
They gave me a hybrid car but didn't know it was. When I went to start it... it didn't start the engine... It created confusion. A good briefing would have been required. Thanks

10.0 Wonderful

May 2023

KAYAK
Great service and dealing with Kathy Randle was awesome!!

1 out of 4

Avis

8.0

Very good

3 reviews

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

8.0

One location in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 473 5040

Monday09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday09:00 - 17:00
Thursday09:00 - 17:00
Friday09:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

6.0 Okay

Jun 2022

KAYAK
The customer representative put a earlier time to drop off the vehicle even though I booked for twenty four hours.

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2021

KAYAK
The kiosk is close to the baggage pickup area. Our flight was 4 hours late arriving and the clerk stayed long by past their work hours so that we could have our car at 1 am. Loved the Kia van clean and new.

1 out of 1

Alamo

8.6

Very good

1 review

One location in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess St

+1 807 344 3331

Monday09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday09:00 - 17:00
Thursday09:00 - 17:00
Friday09:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 23:59

Filters

No reviews available

Hertz

7.4

3 locations in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 473 8111

Monday08:00 - 19:0000:00 - 01:00
Tuesday08:00 - 19:0000:00 - 01:00
Wednesday00:00 - 01:0008:00 - 19:00
Thursday00:00 - 01:0008:00 - 19:00
Friday00:00 - 01:0008:00 - 19:00
Saturday10:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Sunday10:00 - 23:59

1142 Alloy Drive

Monday08:00 - 19:00
Tuesday08:00 - 19:00
Wednesday08:00 - 19:00
Thursday08:00 - 19:00
Friday08:00 - 19:00

951 Memorial Ave

+1 807 475 3334

Monday08:00 - 19:00
Tuesday08:00 - 19:00
Wednesday08:00 - 19:00
Thursday08:00 - 19:00
Friday08:00 - 19:00

Filters

No reviews available

Driving Force

9.4

Wonderful

No reviews available

Best rated

3 locations in Thunder Bay

Show locations

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 789 4522

Opening times not available

1170b Waterford Street

+1 807 789 4522

Opening times not available

1475 W Walsh Street

+1 807 789 4522

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

103 travelers who rented a car in Thunder Bay gave the car agency they used an average rating of 7.9

Car rental locations in or near Thunder Bay

Good to know

Most popular agency

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Most popular car type

Standard

Average price

$48/day

Good deal

$39/day

When to book a rental car in Thunder Bay

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