How to find cheap options for long-term car rental?

Long-term car rental in Calgary can be a great alternative to buying or leasing, especially for those who need transportation for several months. Below is an overview of available options, money-saving tips, and a comparison of offers from local companies.

Main long-term rental options

1. Traditional rental companies

Avis

  • Terms: Rent for 1 month or longer with the option to extend.
  • Prices: From 98 CAD/day (for SUVs).
  • Advantages: Free cancellation, optional insurance.
  • Website: Avis Long-Term Rentals.

Budget

  • Discounts: Up to 30% for rentals over 28 days.
  • Example: Full-size sedan – from CAD 36/day.
  • Special feature: No mileage restrictions for certain rates.
  • Website: Budget Calgary.

Hertz Multi-Month

  • Minimum term: 63 days.
  • Included: Maintenance, no deposit.
  • Prices: From CAD 1,200/month (economy class).
  • Website: Hertz Multi-Month.

2. Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms

Turo

  • Advantages: Cheaper due to renting cars from private owners.
  • Prices: From 23 CAD/day (economy class), discounts up to 20% for monthly rentals.
  • Example: Toyota Corolla – 1,100 CAD/month.
  • Website: Turo Calgary.

Roam

  • Format: Car subscription with the option to change models.
  • Included: Insurance, technical inspection, roadside assistance.
  • Prices: From 1,500 CAD/month (sedan).
  • Website: Roam.

3. Renting through lease takeover

LeaseBusters

  • Essence: You take over someone else's short-term lease agreement (e.g., 6 months).
  • Advantages: Fixed monthly payment, often lower than market rent.
  • Example: Honda Civic – $350/month + insurance.
  • Website: LeaseBusters.

6 tips to save money

  1. Book in advance: Prices increase by 15-30% two weeks before the start of the rental period.
  2. Use filters: On Kayak or Skyscanner, select the “long-term rental” and “unlimited mileage” options.
  3. Avoid the airport: Renting in the city (for example, at Routes Car & Truck Rentals) is 20-40% cheaper.
  4. Choose economy class: Compact cars (such as Hyundai Elantra) consume less fuel (6.5 l/100 km).
  5. Check included services: Some companies (Hertz, Roam) include technical inspection in the price.
  6. Negotiate: For rentals longer than 3 months, ask for individual rates.

Comparison of options

Criterion Traditional companies P2P (Turo) Lease Takeover
Minimum term 1 month 1 day 3-6 months
Insurance included Partial (for an additional fee) Yes (all plans) No (separate)
Mileage Partial restrictions Depends on the owner As per the lease agreement
Average cost 1,500–2,500 CAD/month 1,100–1,800 CAD/month 300–700 CAD/month

Hidden costs: what to look out for?

  • Insurance: With traditional companies, up to CAD 30/day. Insurance is already included with Turo.
  • Fuel: Return the car with a full tank to avoid a 50-100% surcharge.
  • Additional drivers: Free with Turo; with rental companies, up to CAD 15/day.

Conclusion

The cheapest options are lease transfer through LeaseBusters or rental through Turo. For those who value convenience, Hertz Multi-Month or Roam programs are suitable. Always compare terms, check reviews, and don't ignore the fine print in contracts. With the right strategy, you can find a reliable car for $1,000–$1,500/month even during peak season.