How to find a cheap car hire deal in Saint John
Need a cheap rental car in Saint John? With an average price of $72 a day, you're on the road to big savings. Whether you're after a go-anywhere compact, a road trip-ready SUV, or something in between, we compare all the best deals to help you book smart.
The cheapest daily price for a rental in Saint John is $66.
Staying a little longer and want to explore beyond the tourist trail? $281 is the best rate for a weekly rental.
We've cracked the code on when to book. One week in advance gives you the best shot at finding the best price on a Saint John car hire.
Avis, Alamo and National are among the top-rated providers in the city. Use them as a starting point to compare offers.
The coverage Avis or another company includes with your Saint John car hire can differ, so always check the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will charge extra for it.
Booking one-way could score you a discount on your rental. Providers sometimes offer lower rates when vehicles need to be moved around. Just choose 'Return car to a different location' when searching the range of cars for rent in Saint John.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your ride with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. No surprise refueling fees tacked on at the end either.
Explore without limits by choosing a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you like without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
In the number-one spot for value is this company, with average prices of $99 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $101, this provider comes in next.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly $129 a day with this supplier.
The Premium rental category is a reliable option if you're not sure what kind of wheels you need. It's also the car type that's booked the most in Saint John.
Flying to Saint John? Think about an airport pick-up
Start exploring Saint John sooner by booking a car hire at Saint John Airport. The city centre is about 19 kilometres from this airport, which is a drive of around 20 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Saint John
Small: Whether you're darting along city streets or just planning a quick trip, this car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to easy handling and excellent mileage.
Medium: A solid choice when you need something that's easy to drive but doesn't skimp on features. This category includes compact and intermediate models that offer a bit of extra space compared to smaller cars.
Large: You've got the kids, the toys, the bags, the works. Large vehicles have got the capacity to fit it all in without a hassle. Ideal for longer drives, this Saint John car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country routes alike.
Van: Go for this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Saint John that makes light work of heavy loads. Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, they're built to carry more, whether that's supplies, suitcases or whoever's along for the ride.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers the fee you'd have to pay if your Saint John car hire is stolen or damaged. While not mandatory, it helps cover you in a tough spot. Keep in mind that not all insurance policies are the same, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
Travel smarter when you rent a car in Saint John by adding some nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to be your trusty co-pilot, or reverse cameras to park like you're pulling off a choreographed routine.
Good to know
Check each company's age requirements before booking your car hire in Canada. Rules can differ, and extra charges or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, just uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' filter and enter your age to explore your options.
Add a car seat to your Saint John car hire reservation if you're travelling with small kids. Rules vary from one location to another, but using a child seat suited to their age, size and weight is always the safest way to go.
You'll be asked for a few things when picking up your rental car: your physical driver's licence, extra photo ID, and a credit card that can cover the security deposit. Debit cards aren't widely accepted. Any other requirements will be listed in your booking.
Take a few moments to get used to your rental. Set up your seat and mirrors, learn where everything is, and get used to its handling before you set off. And importantly, stick to the right side of the road in Canada.
Stay within local speed limits of about 45kph through built-up areas and around 95kph on highways. Road signs will show if a different limit applies.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Canada is 0.08%. Because alcohol affects everyone differently, it's best to skip drinks entirely so you remain legal to drive.
One of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination is around 5pm. Make travel easier by steering clear of peak periods.
You'll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD) for everyday expenses on your trip. You may find it useful to carry a mix of cash and cards to make sure you're always covered.
English is the language you'll hear most people speaking in this country.
Best hotels in Saint John for drivers
Offering parking, Chateau Saint John, Trademark Collection by Wyndham takes the stress out of finding a place for your car. This hotel is around 0.80 kilometres from central Saint John and also comes with internet access and a 24-hour front desk.
Or make use of the parking at Crowne Plaza Saint John Harbour View. The city centre is roughly 0.80 kilometres from this stay, which also features a fitness centre and a casino.
Want more inspiration? Browse the full list of hotels in Saint John. You can narrow things down with filters — try 'Parking,' 'Outdoor parking,' or 'Valet parking.' If your car's electric, there's also an 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter.
After you've found a car hire deal in Saint John and your hotel, it's time to plan your adventures. Reversing Falls, Port Saint John and Stonehammer Geopark are a classic introduction to the city.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Saint John
Around 88 kilometres northwest of central Saint John, Fredericton easily earns a place on your itinerary. Head straight for must-see sights like Fredericton Botanic Garden and Historic Garrison District.
Go-to accommodation options with parking in Fredericton include The Fredericton Inn and Chateau Fredericton, Trademark Collection by Wyndham.
Or pick up your cheap car hire in Saint John and then head out to Oromocto. Roughly 72 kilometres northwest of Saint John, Gateway Wetlands and Conservation Area and NB Military History Museum are major attractions that are well worth the trip.
Oromocto has some great accommodation options including Travelodge by Wyndham Fredericton and Days Inn by Wyndham Oromocto Conference Centre. Both give you somewhere to leave your car while you're here.
Keep things moving and road-trip it to Dartmouth, roughly 209 kilometres east of Saint John. Kick things off at Sullivan's Pond, then take your time exploring Lake Banook.
Check out the room availability at The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites or The Prince George Hotel. They make it a breeze to experience everything Dartmouth has to offer. They also offer parking.