Car Rentals in Tampa, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Tampa

Renting a car in Tampa offers you the freedom to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit major attractions such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, which is perfect for family outings, or the beautiful Tampa Riverwalk, ideal for outdoor strolls with loved ones. The Florida State Fairgrounds also provides great options for family-friendly activities. Having your own transport allows for seamless luggage management and flexibility in your travel plans, making it easier to enjoy your time in the area. You can venture into Downtown Tampa to experience the local culture or head to nearby cities like Wesley Chapel and Brandon, where you will find additional attractions like Saddlebrook Golf Course and more entertainment options. The convenience of a rental car means you won’t have to rely on public transport schedules, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the sights and less time waiting. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, family experiences, or a relaxing day at the beach, renting a car in Tampa enhances your travel experience and ensures that you can explore everything this wonderful area has to offer.

Most popular car hires in Tampa

• Midsize SUV: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV provides ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring comfort during your travels around Tampa and its surroundings.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the Standard SUV can also accommodate 5 travellers but offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. It strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, allowing for a flexible exploration of Tampa while comfortably handling your luggage.
• Premium SUV: Ideal for business travellers, the Premium SUV can accommodate 5 travellers along with up to 2 medium suitcases. This option combines elegance with functionality, ensuring you travel in style while still having enough room for your belongings as you navigate the Tampa area.

Top rated car suppliers in Tampa

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers for its friendly service and clean vehicles. With 2 rental locations in the Tampa area, Alamo boasts an impressive overall rating of 8.6 out of 10. Customers appreciate the service as expected, making it a reliable option for your car hire needs. The most booked vehicles with Alamo include Premium SUVs and Standard SUVs, perfect for those looking for comfort and space during their travels.
• Avis: Avis offers a robust selection of vehicles with 5 rental locations in and around Tampa, making it convenient for tourists. Known for its excellent range of Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, Avis caters well to various travel needs. Although specific ratings are not mentioned, the popularity of Avis suggests a solid reputation among travellers. This supplier is ideal for those who desire flexibility and ease while exploring the Tampa vicinity.
• Sixt: Sixt is another commendable option for car hires in Tampa, with 2 rental locations available. Travellers frequently choose Sixt for their Standard SUVs and Midsize SUVs, which are well-suited for both solo explorers and families. The supplier is recognised for its reliable service, allowing you to embark on your adventures around Tampa with confidence. Sixt provides a comfortable and efficient car hire experience, adding convenience to your itinerary.

Where to stay in Tampa

• Downtown Tampa: Centrally located, Downtown Tampa offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous family-friendly activities. The area is known for the Tampa Riverwalk, perfect for outdoor strolls, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, an exciting theme park. The Florida State Fairgrounds also hosts various events throughout the year. With plenty of dining options, including restaurants and breweries, Downtown Tampa is an ideal base for a city-themed experience.
• Wesley Chapel: This city provides a family-oriented environment with attractions like the Saddlebrook Golf Course and the nearby Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Wesley Chapel boasts shopping malls and educational venues, making it suitable for those looking to combine leisure with learning. The area also features various restaurants and wineries, ensuring that you can enjoy local flavours during your stay.
• Brandon: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Brandon features attractions such as the Tampa Riverwalk and the thrilling Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. The community also offers a range of body treatment options and a selection of restaurants and wineries. With proximity to the Florida State Fairgrounds, Brandon serves as a great location for those interested in outdoor activities and engaging in local events.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Tampa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a favourable balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to include car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Tampa

The best value time to rent a car in and around Tampa is October, as it features lower prices and demand is typically low. September also offers decent rates with minimal demand, making it a good option for budget-conscious travellers. While November sees moderate prices and steady demand, it’s important to note that December is usually the most expensive month with higher demand levels, making it less ideal for those looking for value.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	83.5°F (28.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
November	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High