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Thunder Bay car rentals from $25/day

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Cheap car rentals in Thunder Bay

Chevrolet Spark car
Chevrolet Spark
or similar Small
2
2
4-5
$25/day
View deal
Nissan Versa car
Nissan Versa
or similar Small
4
2
4-5
$28/day
View deal
Kia Forte car
Kia Forte
or similar Medium
5
3
4-5
$30/day
View deal
Chevrolet Malibu car
Chevrolet Malibu
or similar Large
5
2
4-5
$31/day
View deal
Chrysler Pacifica car
Chrysler Pacifica
or similar Van
5
5
4-5
$46/day
View deal
Ford Edge car
Ford Edge
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$56/day
View deal
Chevrolet Suburban car
Chevrolet Suburban
or similar SUV
5
5
4-5
$103/day
View deal
Class Special Car car
Class Special Car
or similar Category
5
5
2/4
$34/day
View deal
Nissan Kicks car
Nissan Kicks
or similar SUV
4
2
4-5
$40/day
View deal
Class Intermediate SUV car
Class Intermediate SUV
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$41/day
View deal
GMC Terrain car
GMC Terrain
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$51/day
View deal
Booking Insights

KAYAK’s insights & trends for Thunder Bay car rentals

Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in Thunder Bay with confidence.

How far in advance should you book a rental car in Thunder Bay?

You should book your rental car in Thunder Bay around 72 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.

What is the cheapest car rental company in Thunder Bay?

In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Budget ($25/day), National ($30/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($37/day). The cheapest rental car price was found at Budget, 230 Waterloo Street South (0.7 mi from city center).

What is the most popular rental car in Thunder Bay?

Rentals in the SUV category (Class Compact SUV or similar) are the most popular option in Thunder Bay, costing $60/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $34/day.

What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Thunder Bay?

The cheapest month to rent a car in Thunder Bay is February at an average cost of $40/day. August is the most expensive month to rent a car in Thunder Bay when prices are $54/day on average, which tends to be 20% above the yearly average rental price for Thunder Bay.

What rental car company in Thunder Bay has the most locations?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Avis each operate 3 locations in Thunder Bay, more than any other rental company.

Find deals

Thunder Bay car rental price comparison by vehicle type

Find the right rental car in Thunder Bay by comparing prices across vehicle types.

Small cars

$35 - $51

All Car Types

$55 - $75

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

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

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

How much does it cost to rent an SUV in Thunder Bay?

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

How much does it cost to rent a pickup truck in Thunder Bay?

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

Small car rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $40 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $35 per day which is about 13% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 36% cheaper than the average rental in Thunder Bay, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Medium car rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $58 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $51 per day which is about 13% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 7% cheaper than the average rental in Thunder Bay, offering a good balance of space and value.

Large car rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $65 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $53 per day which is about 19% less than the yearly average. Large cars are typically 5% more expensive than the average rental in Thunder Bay, but offers more comfort for longer trips.

SUV rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $75 per day. The best time to book is November, when prices average $61 per day which is about 19% less than the yearly average. SUVs are typically 18% more expensive than the average rental in Thunder Bay, but provide extra space and capability for groups or road trips.

Van rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $74 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $59 per day which is about 21% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 17% more expensive than the average rental in Thunder Bay, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.

Pickup truck rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $60 per day. The best time to book is November, when prices average $49 per day which is about 19% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are 4% cheaper than the average rental in Thunder Bay, a practical choice for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.

Luxury car rentals in Thunder Bay typically cost around $87 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average $61 per day which is about 30% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 29% more expensive than the average rental in Thunder Bay, but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.

Good to know

Most popular agency

Most popular car type

Average price

Good deal

National
Medium
$47/day
$38/day

Thunder Bay car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in Thunder Bay 
Verified travelerOct 2026
I would recommend picking up at the airport and doing a thorough internal check of the car before pick up and after.
AnitaSep 2026
Book early for the best prices!
olgaAug 2025
Have one person stand on the sidewalk while the other one goes and gets the car.
RickMay 2024
Important to have some sort of vehicle when visiting Thunder Bay because city is spread out.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Careful crossing divided highway, be prepared to stop

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 $38 or less

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 $47 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 $42.

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

    Car rental companies onsite at Thunder Bay airport include National, Budget, Avis 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 National, Budget, and Avis.

  • 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 Medium car rental cost in Thunder Bay?

    A Medium car rental in Thunder Bay costs $36 per day, on average.

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

    A Small car rental in Thunder Bay costs $48 per day, on average.

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

    A Special 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 Budget 230 Waterloo Street South (1 miles from city center).

  • 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

8.4

Very good

Cleanliness

8.4

Comfort

8.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.6

Value for money

8.2

3 locations in Thunder Bay

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess St.

+1 807 473 5222

Monday20:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:00
Tuesday00:00 - 01:0008:00 - 19:0020:45 - 23:59
Wednesday20:45 - 23:5900:00 - 01:0008:00 - 19:00
Thursday08:00 - 19:0020:45 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Friday00:00 - 01:0020:45 - 23:5908:00 - 19:00
Saturday09:00 - 17:0000:00 - 01:00
Sunday09:00 - 19:00

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
Saturday
Sunday

727 Memorial Ave.

+1 807 344 2800

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday

Filters

Reviews

8.0 Very good

olga, Aug 2025

Compact SUV

KAYAK
I didn’t like that the Enterprise lot was far from the airport. It was a long walk dragging a suitcase.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Oct 2024

Compact

KAYAK
It’s great! I love it!

10.0 Wonderful

Rick, May 2024

Supplier choice

KAYAK
Good value, good price, efficient pickup/drop-off

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Dec 2023

Economy

KAYAK
I was happy with everything so far

1 out of 6

National

8.6

Very good

Cleanliness

9.2

Comfort

8.7

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.8

Value for money

8.6

2 locations in Thunder Bay

Locations in Thunder Bay

450 Sifton Ave

+1 807 577 5783

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 15:00
Sunday08:00 - 10:00

Thunder Bay Airport

+1 807 577 5783

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

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anita, Sep 2026

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
Fastest rental car pick-up ever - and very friendly and helpful.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Aug 2025

Intermediate

KAYAK
Pick-up was simple and quick. I did notice damage on the vehicle though, that was not initially noted by the rental company. I took photos and went back in, and they updated their records. Everything went smoothly.

8.0 Very good

Anonymous, Jul 2025

Intermediate

KAYAK
Everything went smoothly

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jun 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
Excellent!

1 out of 5

Budget

8.1

Very good

Cleanliness

8.4

Comfort

8.7

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.6

Value for money

7.8

2 locations in Thunder Bay

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 473 5040

Monday09:00 - 23:59
Tuesday09:00 - 23:59
Wednesday09:00 - 23:59
Thursday09:00 - 23:59
Friday09:00 - 23:59
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 23:59

230 Waterloo Street South

+1 807 622 3366

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

4.0 Mediocre

Anonymous, Oct 2026

Intermediate SUV

KAYAK
When we got the car, we found someone else’s rental agreement in the glove box and their matching credit card left in the console in the middle. Our flight was changed by just a little bit so we requested an extra hour and a half with the car instead of dropping off at 8:30 AM we have to drop it off at 10 AM and they told us they would charge us an extra day plus insurance plus taxes to keep it till 10. We just wanted to take the kids for breakfast before the flight so that was disappointing. The representative at pick up was a little cold and not very pleasant to deal with wasn’t necessarily rude. But the representative at drop off was very kind.

6.0 Okay

Anonymous, Apr 2025

Compact

KAYAK
The staff were friendly, but their policy for charges is poor in comparison to other companies. They automatically charge you for a full tank of gas before you even return it(which is credited back to you upon return of full tank)and if you go over your return time by even an hour they charge you for it. Poor customer service in my opinion. I will NOT rent with Budget again and I rent a vehicle every 2 weeks. I'd rather pay a bit more with Enterprise and get exceptional customer service.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Jul 2024

Economy

KAYAK
Very friendly ask us how our day was going

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Sep 2023

Intermediate

KAYAK
Communication of terms

1 out of 3

Avis

8.0

Very good

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

8.0

One location in Thunder Bay

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 473 5040

Monday09:00 - 23:59
Tuesday09:00 - 23:59
Wednesday09:00 - 23:59
Thursday09:00 - 23:59
Friday09:00 - 23:59
Saturday09:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 23:59

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Aug 2024

Standard SUV

KAYAK
Very good. Seamless process and excellent vehicle.

1 out of 1

Driving Force

2.0

Poor

Cleanliness

2.0

Comfort

2.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

2.0

Value for money

2.0

3 locations in Thunder Bay

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

Reviews

2.0 Poor

Anonymous, Sep 2024

Intermediate

KAYAK
Issue was with Kayak and Driving Force. Kayak confirmed we had a Honda civic with unlimited milage. Driving Force does not even carry civics in Thunder Bay and although there was on truck available that day, the manager wanted to charge me $120. a day with a 100 km limit for the day. The original confirmed civic would have cost $61. I believe that as a customer with a confirmed reservation, the truck should have been rented to me for the same conditions as the civic - $61 with unlimited milage. As a result I was without a vehicle for the entire business trip. Thanks Kayak and thanks Driving Force....

1 out of 1

Alamo

8.6

Very good

One location in Thunder Bay

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess St

+1 807 344 3331

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

Filters

No reviews available

Hertz

7.2

Good

3 locations in Thunder Bay

Locations in Thunder Bay

100 Princess Street

+1 807 473 8111

Monday08:00 - 23:5900:00 - 02:00
Tuesday00:00 - 02:0008:00 - 23:59
Wednesday08:00 - 23:5900:00 - 02:00
Thursday08:00 - 23:5900:00 - 02:00
Friday08:00 - 23:5900:00 - 02:00
Saturday00:00 - 02:0010:00 - 16:00
Sunday10:00 - 19:00

1142 Alloy Drive

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00

951 Memorial Ave

+1 807 475 3334

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

No reviews available

78 travelers who rented a car in Thunder Bay gave the car agency they used an average rating of 7.8

Car rental locations in or near Thunder Bay

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Thunder Bay car rental information

Pick-up locationThunder Bay
Car typesSmall, Medium, Large, SUV, Van
Rental locations16
Airport locations8
Popular agenciesEnterprise Rent-A-Car, National, Budget