Car Rentals in Missoula, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Missoula

Renting a car in Missoula provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures or scenic experiences. Key attractions such as the Missoula County Fairgrounds, Fort Missoula, and Caras Park are all within a short drive, allowing for enjoyable family outings or cultural explorations. Additionally, you can discover vibrant neighbourhoods like the Heart of Missoula and the University District, each featuring lovely parks and cultural sites like the Missoula Art Museum and Montana Natural History Center. A rental car also makes it straightforward to access beautiful spots along the Clark Fork River and explore local outdoor activities, ensuring that you make the most of your visit to Missoula. Whether you're travelling with family, friends, or on your own, having a car enhances your ability to enjoy all that this charming city and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car hires in Missoula

• Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families. The midsize vehicle offers a balance of comfort and space, allowing for a pleasant travel experience while exploring Missoula and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a popular choice for those travelling in groups or with family, as it comfortably seats 5 travellers and offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a higher driving position and more room for luggage, making it suitable for journeys where flexibility and comfort are key.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travellers and allows for the transport of up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option offers ample space, making it ideal for those who wish to travel with extra luggage or enjoy a more spacious interior during their adventures around Missoula.

Top rated car suppliers in Missoula

• Budget: Budget has a rental location in Missoula, making it a convenient option for travellers seeking flexibility. Known for offering Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, Budget provides suitable choices for various preferences and budgets. Many customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and adjusting their itineraries, making Budget a reliable choice for exploring the area.
• Avis: Avis operates a rental location in Missoula, catering to those looking for a comfortable travel experience. With popular choices including Standard and Premium SUVs, Avis is well-regarded for its quality vehicles. Travellers enjoy the ability to explore Missoula and its surroundings at their own pace, enhancing their overall experience.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car also has a presence in Missoula, providing options like Premium Pickups and Compact SUV AWDs. Customers frequently highlight the convenience of Alamo's offerings, which allow for easy navigation through the city and beyond. The combination of vehicle quality and service makes Alamo an appealing choice for those wishing to explore Missoula effectively.

Where to stay in Missoula

• Heart of Missoula: This vibrant neighbourhood is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Located centrally, it offers close proximity to attractions such as Caras Park and the Clark Fork River, both suitable for family-friendly outings. Visitors can also explore the Missoula Art Museum for a taste of local culture. The area boasts various food and drink options, including pubs and breweries, making it a lively spot for evening relaxation.
• Grant Creek: Nestled near natural landmarks, Grant Creek is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and scenic beauty. Key attractions include the Montana Natural History Center and the nearby lake, which offer excellent recreational opportunities. The neighbourhood also features a range of food and drink venues, including breweries and pubs, ensuring a delightful culinary experience after a day of exploration.
• University District: Known for its educational atmosphere and scenic surroundings, the University District is a prime location for those keen on adventure and culture. It is home to historic college landmarks and is near natural parks and lakes. Visitors can enjoy Caras Park and the Clark Fork River for outdoor activities, along with the Missoula Art Museum for cultural enrichment. The area’s breweries and pubs provide ample options for dining and socialising.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the type of vehicle and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies solely accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out 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 Missoula

The best value period to rent a car in and around Missoula is May, when prices are lower and demand remains moderate. April also offers slightly lower prices, making it a good shoulder month. June through August see high demand, with average prices, while November stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.7°F (-4.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
March	33.1°F (0.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
May	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly Low
August	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
October	43.2°F (6.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
November	30.9°F (-0.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	23.2°F (-4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average