Car Rentals in Ames, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Ames

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Ames, Iowa, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Ames, Iowa, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Ames, Iowa, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Ames, Iowa, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Ames car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Ames

Renting a car in Ames offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans on the go, making it ideal for families and those seeking cultural experiences. Key attractions such as the Main Street Cultural District, Reiman Gardens, and the Farm House Museum are all conveniently located within the area of Ames, allowing for effortless sightseeing.

Moreover, a rental car enables you to venture beyond Ames to nearby destinations. Kelley, just 9 km away, features attractions like Reiman Gardens and the Main Street Cultural District. Gilbert, located 10 km from Ames, offers additional sights, including the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum. Additionally, the city of Nevada, 13 km away, boasts parks and nature preserves worth exploring. Having your own car allows you to visit these locations without the constraints of public transport, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Where to stay around Ames

  • Kelley: Located 9 km from Ames, Kelley offers a delightful outdoor and city-themed experience. Travellers can enjoy scenic landscapes and engage in activities at local attractions such as the Reiman Gardens, which is ideal for family outings, and the Farm House Museum, perfect for culture enthusiasts. Additionally, the nearby Main Street Cultural District features quaint shops and eateries, making it an inviting destination for a relaxing stay.
  • Gilbert: Situated 10 km from Ames, Gilbert is a vibrant city known for its cultural and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Main Street Cultural District, which is teeming with local shops and restaurants. The Reiman Gardens also provide a lovely space for outdoor enjoyment, while the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad and Museum offers a glimpse into the region's history. Gilbert is a charming choice for those seeking a blend of culture and leisure.
  • Nevada: Approximately 13 km from Ames, Nevada is an appealing destination for travellers seeking outdoor and romantic experiences. The city boasts several urban parks, such as Meadow Lane Park and Hertz Family Woods and Nature Preserve, which are perfect for leisurely strolls and family activities. Nevada also offers nearby dining options, including local wineries, making it a lovely spot for a romantic getaway or a family holiday.

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

  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 the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better 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 crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  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 steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals offering unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is mandatory to rent a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
Our best deal of the day:
Our second best deal of the day:
Our third best deal of the day:
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Ames?
Within the past seven days, the lowest daily price for a budget car hire in Ames was .
What happens if I need to cancel my Ames car reservation?
Our Customer Service Portal has details about this. In nearly all cases, total refunds are provided if a reservation is cancelled more than six hours ahead of the collection time. Be sure to read the car hire agreement to see if there are any exclusions.
What types of cars can I rent in Ames?
Large SUVs, cute little minis or something luxurious... Grab the keys to almost any kind of vehicle you like! Economy is the most in-demand rental car category in Ames. Zippy, with good mileage and a piece of cake to park, these rides make cruising bustling city streets a joy. The best thing? They're easy on the purse strings. That means you'll have more money to splash on other things, like seeing as much of this awesome destination as you can.
Where can I go on a road trip from Ames?
It's no secret that Ames is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Story County. But you'll also find many other wonderful spots to explore when you lock in some wheels and head out on the open road. Here are some top tips to get your escape off to a winning start:
  • Around 110 miles from Ames, Iowa City shouldn't be missed. With top sights such as University of Iowa, there's no shortage of places to visit here.
  • Another destination that's a favourite with travellers is Waterloo, around 75 miles away. Lost Island Waterpark is just one of the many reasons people keep returning.
  • After all that driving, treat yourself to some time in nature at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park. It's approximately 160 miles from Ames.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Ames with Expedia?
It's easy to score the best deal with Expedia. Just choose the car class, select your dates and preferred pick-up and drop-off locations, and browse offers from top rental suppliers. Make even bigger savings when you combine your Ames car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Ames?
In Ames, the rule is usually 21 and over. Most companies will charge extra fees for young drivers, which can differ based on the hire location. Hire agreements for young drivers may restrict certain vehicles, such as large cars, and require inclusive insurance to be taken out. Be sure to check the fine print before choosing your wheels.
What do you need to rent a car in Ames?
Your driver's license and a credit card in the same name are necessities. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? Then there's a good chance you'll also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental suppliers, so be sure to read through your policy.
What is the cheapest car hire in Ames?
Based on prices within the past seven days, you could've taken the wheel of a rental car for just a day. The second lowest daily price offered in Ames was . These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Ames?
Yes, which means you won't need to rebook a hire car in the middle of your holiday. Head over to our long-term car hire deals page, enter your information and lock in a ride to call your own for however long you need.
Where can I find an Ames hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental companies, so be prepared to do a little research. Found an Ames supplier that does hire to under 25s? That's great! Just keep in mind that extra charges often apply to drivers aged between 21 and 24. The fine print of each hire car you're considering will have all the details you need.
Can I drive in Ames with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in the United States, you may be required to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before hiring a car. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S, be aware that you'll also have to show your valid driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, your credit card used to hire the car must match the name on your driver's license and passport in order to confirm your hire. Other things you should know about hiring a car in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 in many states in order to hire a car, although in some places the minimum age is 21. We recommend checking local regulations, as well as the car hire website before you travel to understand all the terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you drive off so you can avoid unnecessary fees. When hiring a car in the U.S, it's usually prohibited to cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive onto ferries or traverse certain types of rugged terrain with your car hire. Please read the details before you book!
Why should I rent an Ames car with Expedia?
With years of experience finding the best deals for travellers around the world, Expedia is the perfect place to rent your car. We've got multiple suppliers in Ames to take your pick of, offering everything from small and zippy models to roomy, full-size rides. Why not bundle your car with your hotel and flights and save even more? From our holiday packages to our member prices and exclusive offers, Expedia will get you in the driver's seat for less. Plus, when you're a member of our free One Key™ rewards programme, you can earn OneKeyCash™* and redeem it on eligible flights, hotels, activities and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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