Car Rentals in Hilo, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Hilo

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Hilo, Hawaii, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Hilo car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Hilo

Renting a car in Hilo offers the freedom and flexibility to fully explore this beautiful region at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it especially convenient for families and adventure seekers. Key attractions such as Carlsmith Beach Park, known for its stunning beach experiences, and Rainbow Falls, ideal for outdoor and romantic outings, are easily accessible. You can also visit Coconut Island Park, which provides a lovely setting for family activities.

The convenience of a rental car extends beyond Hilo itself. You can take short drives to nearby cities like Keaau, located 11 km away, where you can explore Ha'ena Beach and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. Alternatively, a quick trip to Papaikou, just 10 km from Hilo, allows you to discover the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and Liliuokalani Park and Gardens. With a rental car, you can maximise your sightseeing opportunities and enjoy the scenic beauty of Hilo and its surroundings without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires in Hilo

  • Midsize SUV: This car type is a fantastic choice for those travelling in groups. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, a midsize SUV provides ample space for families, couples, or small groups. Its versatility makes it ideal for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Hilo while ensuring everyone travels comfortably with their belongings.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for families and groups, the standard SUV offers room for 5 travellers along with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it a popular pick among those looking to navigate Hilo's attractions. With a standard SUV, you can enjoy your travels without feeling cramped.
  • Compact: If you're travelling solo or with a partner, the compact car is an excellent choice. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and has room for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples and families alike. The compact design allows for easier manoeuvrability in Hilo while still providing enough space for your luggage, making it a convenient option for your trip.

Top rated car suppliers in Hilo

  • Thrifty Car Hire: Thrifty Car Hire offers a convenient location in Hilo, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking flexibility during their visit. Known for their reliable service, most customers opt for their Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, which provide comfort and practicality for exploring the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Thrifty ensures a smooth rental experience for all its clients.
  • Avis: Avis stands out in Hilo with its attentive service and quality vehicles. With a focus on customer needs, their Standard SUV and Midsize options are particularly popular among renters looking for spacious and comfortable rides. Avis's commitment to maintaining well-kept vehicles enhances the driving experience, allowing you to enjoy your Hawaiian adventure with peace of mind.
  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is well-regarded for its efficient service and a great selection of vehicles in Hilo. Travellers frequently choose their Midsize SUV and Fullsize cars for their spaciousness and reliability, ideal for both solo adventures and family trips. Alamo is committed to providing a hassle-free rental experience, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying the stunning sights of Hilo and its surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Hilo

  • Keaau: Located 11 km from Hilo, Keaau is a great choice for travellers seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like Ha'ena Beach, perfect for a beach holiday, or visit the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory for a taste of local produce. For a touch of nature, Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden offers a delightful botanical experience suitable for families and couples. With nearby options for golf and campgrounds, Keaau provides an excellent base for your Hawaiian getaway.
  • Keaukaha: Situated around Hilo, Keaukaha is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes. The area features beautiful spots like Carlsmith Beach Park, perfect for a relaxing beach day, and Coconut Island Park, which is excellent for family outings. Bayfront Park offers urban park experiences suitable for city explorations and family adventures. Additionally, Keaukaha's proximity to wineries makes it a fantastic choice for food and drink enthusiasts looking to indulge in local flavours.
  • Mountain View: Approximately 17 km from Hilo, Mountain View is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. You can visit the stunning Rainbow Falls, a captivating waterfall that is ideal for romance and outdoor activities. For art enthusiasts, 2400 Fahrenheit Art Glass provides a unique cultural experience. Mountain View also offers access to national parks and volcanic landscapes, making it a great spot for those wanting to explore Hawaii's natural beauty. Don't forget to sample the local wineries for a sweet treat.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, make use of the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it is advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre and park in busy urban areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to drivers over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this may be justified by the added convenience it offers.
  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 unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extended road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Hilo

The best value period to rent a car in and around Hilo is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderate. September also offers slightly low prices with low demand, making it a good shoulder month. June is another quiet time with slightly low prices, providing a peaceful rental experience. In contrast, April is typically the most expensive month with higher demand, followed closely by March and February, which also see elevated prices and average to low demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly High
March68.0°F (20.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
April68.2°F (20.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
June70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
July72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August72.5°F (22.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
September73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
October73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
November71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

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 Hilo?
The lowest daily rate for car rentals in Hilo within the past seven days was . In the comfort of your own vehicle, you can easily cruise to whichever landmarks are calling your name.
Can I hire a car from Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO)?
Touch down at Hilo Intl. Airport (ITO) and then head to Dollar or Avis, a short commute away. You'll be exploring the sights and sounds of Hilo in your rental in next to no time.
What happens if I need to cancel my Hilo car reservation?
Don't stress! If you can cancel your hire more than six hours prior to pick-up, you're likely to qualify for all of your money back. It's a good idea to read the rental agreement as there are some exemptions. Click through to our Customer Service Portal if you still have questions.
What types of cars can I rent in Hilo?
Many visitors hire economy cars in Hilo. Motorists love them because they're easy on the budget. Plus, their smaller size makes them well-suited to driving around cities, where streets are crowded and parking can be tough. But your options don't end there. SUVs, full-size cars and compacts are up for grabs too. Whether you're sticking around Hilo or journeying beyond, we'll have a ride that suits your needs.
Where can I go on a road trip from Hilo?
With your own wheels, adventuring around the surrounding regions is a breeze. Hilo is an obvious place to begin, but there's loads more to see in the region. Grab the keys to a rental, toss your bags in the trunk and check out these other terrific locations:
  • You'll feel the vibrant spirit of a city bursting with life the minute you pull into Kahaluu-Keauhou. Some 60 miles from Hilo, it's home to loads of excellent places to visit, like Magic Sands Beach.
  • Wailea, around 110 miles away, also promises a good time. Need some sightseeing inspiration? Wailea Beach is our top pick.
  • No holiday is complete without spending a day at Kaanapali Beach. This renowned nature spot is roughly 130 miles from Hilo. Get out into the fresh air and relax!
How do I find the best car hire deals in Hilo with Expedia?
Expedia makes it a cinch to compare rates, offers and rental companies, and to check customer recommendations. Combine your Hilo car rental with hotel or flight bookings and you'll make even bigger savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Hilo?
Anyone with a valid driver's license 21 and above can rent a car in Hilo. While some companies may be willing to rent to drivers younger than 21, this will come with additional fees. Find out what age range the young driver surcharge applies to, and associated costs, before making your reservation. There are also restrictions on the categories of cars young drivers can rent. Higher age limits apply for luxury and specialty vehicles.
What do you need to rent a car in Hilo?
In most cases, all you'll need is a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name when picking up the vehicle. Proof of coverage may also be required if you choose to opt out of the company's insurance policy. Requirements are likely to differ between rental providers, so it's a good idea to check before you book.
What is the cheapest car rental in Hilo?
Based on prices within the past seven days, you could've slid into the driver's seat of your own hire car for just a day. The second lowest daily rate offered in Hilo 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 Hilo?
Yes, so there's no need to rebook a hire vehicle halfway through your holiday. Go to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip details and lock in a ride that's all yours for the next month or so.
Where can I find a Hilo hire car if I am younger than 25?
Age policies differ between rental suppliers, so be prepared to do a bit of research. Found a Hilo outlet that does rent to drivers under 25 years of age? Great! Just be aware that some companies charge additional fees to drivers between 21 and 24. The terms and conditions of each rental car you're interested in will have all the details you need.
Can I drive in Hilo with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a license issued in the U.S, you may be required to organise an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country before starting the car hire process. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S., know 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 vehicle needs to match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car hire. Additional requirements for car hire 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 rules and regulations, as well as with the hired car company before you go to understand all the terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you drive off to avoid unnecessary fees. When hiring a car in the United States, you typically can't cross country borders into Canada or Mexico, drive onto ferries or traverse rough terrain with your hired vehicle. Please read the regulations before booking!
Why should I rent a Hilo car with Expedia?
There are tons of reasons to book your wheels with Expedia. We have multiple suppliers to select from in Hilo, and we'll make sure you score the very best deal with our member prices and exclusive offers. Want to save even more? Bundle your car, hotels and flights into a holiday package. The more you travel and book with Expedia, the more perks you get! Plus, when you sign up for our One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and use it on eligible hotels, activities, flights and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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