Seven ways to find cheap car rental
- Book early. Rental car rates generally climb as the pickup date gets closer and the fleet sells down, so booking ahead usually saves money.
- Compare airport and city pickup. Airport locations often add airport fees and taxes, so a nearby city location can sometimes cost less.
- Pick the right size. An economy car costs less to rent and to fuel, but only if your luggage fits.
- Watch the extras. Child seats, GPS, extra drivers and prepaid fuel add to the total, so choose only what you need.
- Check driver rules. Drivers under 25 may pay an extra fee, and payment requirements vary by company.
- Mind one-way trips. Dropping a car at a different location can add a fee, so compare it with a round trip.
- Return it on time. Late returns and low fuel can cost more than the rental itself.
Cheap car rental at popular airports
Atlanta (ATL)Los Angeles (LAX)Chicago (ORD)Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)Denver (DEN)New York (JFK)San Francisco (SFO)Seattle (SEA)Las Vegas (LAS)Orlando (MCO)Miami (MIA)Boston (BOS)Phoenix (PHX)Houston (IAH)Newark (EWR)Minneapolis (MSP)
Cheapest car types
Economy rental cars usually cost the least. Step up to an SUV or minivan when you need space.
Pair with a train
Combine a train ride with a short rental to save on fuel and parking. See car rental with train tickets and cheap train tickets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to rent a car?
Book early, choose a smaller car, compare airport and city pickup and skip extras you do not need.
Are airport car rentals more expensive?
They often include airport fees, so compare with a city location.