Car Rentals in Austin, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Austin

Renting a car in and around Austin offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a hire car, you can effortlessly manage your luggage and create a travel plan that suits your needs. This is particularly beneficial for families, couples seeking a romantic getaway, or anyone looking to engage with outdoor activities. Within Austin, you can easily visit key attractions such as Sixth Street, known for its bustling city life, or the historic Texas State Capitol, which provides a glimpse into the local culture. A short drive can take you to Lake Austin, perfect for enjoying scenic views and outdoor experiences. Beyond the city, destinations like Round Rock and Dripping Springs are just a drive away, featuring parks and natural preserves like Hamilton Pool Preserve and Lake Travis. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a leisurely tour, having a rental car ensures you won’t miss out on the diverse experiences Austin has to offer.

Most popular car hires in Austin

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular option among travellers in Austin, accommodating up to 5 individuals along with space for 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who require a balance of comfort and capacity. Renting a midsize SUV allows for easy management of luggage while providing the versatility needed for exploring the vibrant city and its surrounding areas at your leisure.
• Fullsize: The fullsize vehicle is another top choice, accommodating up to 5 travellers and capable of holding either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it perfect for families or larger groups who need extra space for their belongings. With a fullsize car, you can enjoy the freedom to travel comfortably and conveniently, ensuring that everyone and their luggage fit without hassle during your adventures around Austin.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers along with 2 medium suitcases. This car type offers a good balance between size and manoeuvrability, making it suitable for navigating both urban environments and more rural areas. If you appreciate a bit of extra space without opting for a larger vehicle, the standard SUV is a solid choice for your driving needs in and around Austin.

Top rated car suppliers in Austin

• Thrifty Car Hire: Thrifty Car Hire has a rental location in the Austin area, making it a convenient choice for travellers. This supplier is popular for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which provide ample space and comfort for exploring the region. Many customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the quality of the vehicles, making it a reliable option for your trip.
• Avis: With over 5 rental locations in and around Austin, Avis offers excellent accessibility for tourists. The most frequently booked cars include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are perfect for navigating both the city and the beautiful Texas countryside. Avis is well-regarded for its customer service and the availability of a diverse fleet, ensuring a pleasant rental experience.
• Budget: Budget operates 4 rental locations in Austin, providing flexibility and convenience for those looking to explore at their own pace. The supplier is known for its popular Midsize SUV and Fullsize options, catering to various travel needs. Customers often highlight Budget's competitive pricing and efficient service, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Where to stay in Austin

• Downtown Austin: A vibrant neighbourhood, Downtown Austin is perfect for those seeking a family-friendly, outdoor, and city-themed experience. Enjoy the bustling shopping areas and recreational spots, while landmarks like Sixth Street, the Texas State Capitol, and Lady Bird Lake are all within easy reach. The area also boasts a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a great base for exploring the city's culture and scenic beauty.
• Round Rock: Known for its family-oriented and entertainment-themed offerings, Round Rock is an excellent choice for visitors looking for outdoor activities. With attractions such as Chisholm Trail Crossing Park and Round Rock West Park nearby, you'll find plenty of recreational spaces to enjoy. The local restaurants and wineries add to the charm, ensuring a delightful stay in this vibrant city, perfect for family outings.
• Dripping Springs: Ideal for those desiring outdoor adventures and romantic scenery, Dripping Springs offers stunning natural beauty. Key attractions include the Hamilton Pool Preserve and the picturesque Lake Travis, both perfect for a relaxing day out. The area is also known for its wineries and distilleries, providing a unique local flavour to your visit. This city is particularly lovely in spring and autumn, making it an attractive option year-round.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type 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 perfect match 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak periods.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This may also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning the car must be returned with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Other agreements might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Collecting your rental car from airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Most car hire companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Austin

The best value period for renting a car in and around Austin is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low. February follows closely with average prices and moderately low demand, making it another good option. As spring arrives, however, April tends to be the most expensive month, with demand ramping up. March and May also see slightly high demand and prices, reflecting the busy season ahead. June through August maintain average pricing and demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
May	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	85.1°F (29.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	86.5°F (30.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
November	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average