Car Rentals in Phoenix, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Phoenix

Renting a car in Phoenix offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families and those on business trips alike. Key attractions such as Camelback Mountain, known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, and Tempe Town Lake, perfect for romantic outings and leisurely activities, are easily accessible by car. The Phoenix Raceway also caters to sports enthusiasts seeking adventure.

A rental vehicle allows you to venture beyond Phoenix to nearby cities like Mesa, where you can visit the Mesa Arts Center and Desert Botanical Garden, or Scottsdale, home to the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West. In Tempe, you can enjoy the beautiful Tempe Town Lake alongside Camelback Mountain. With straightforward navigation and a range of attractions close by, hiring a car ensures you can maximise your experience in and around Phoenix.

Most popular car hires in Phoenix

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers a good balance of space and comfort, allowing you to explore Phoenix and its surroundings with ease while ensuring that your luggage is well-managed.
• Fullsize: With the capacity for 5 travellers and the ability to carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize vehicle is perfect for families or larger groups. This option provides ample space for everyone, making it a great choice for longer journeys where comfort and luggage capacity are paramount.
• Standard SUV: This car type can accommodate 5 travellers along with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it a suitable option for couples, families, or small groups. The Standard SUV combines comfort with practicality, allowing you to navigate Phoenix and its vicinity while ensuring that your belongings are comfortably stored.

Top rated car suppliers in Phoenix

• Avis: Avis is a highly regarded car hire supplier with over 5 rental locations in and around Phoenix, providing great accessibility for travellers. Known for their diverse range of vehicles, Avis has a strong reputation for excellent service. The most popular choices among customers include the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, making it easy for you to navigate the beautiful Arizona landscape in comfort and style.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car operates with 2 convenient rental locations within Phoenix, making it a solid option for your car hire needs. They focus on providing a hassle-free experience for travellers, allowing you to get on the road quickly. Alamo's most booked vehicles are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, which are perfect for exploring the area's attractions with family or friends.
• Budget: Budget is a popular choice among car hire suppliers in Phoenix, offering more than 5 rental locations throughout the area. They pride themselves on providing affordable rates without compromising on quality. Their most frequently booked vehicles include Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, both of which are ideal for those looking to experience Phoenix and its surroundings comfortably.

Where to stay in Phoenix

• Scottsdale: Scottsdale offers a vibrant city atmosphere perfect for family, business, and cultural experiences. It features shopping malls and resorts, alongside attractions such as the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West, ideal for culture enthusiasts, and Camelback Mountain, a great spot for outdoor adventures. Tempe Town Lake nearby provides scenic views and romantic settings, making Scottsdale a versatile choice for travellers.
• Mesa: Mesa is an excellent destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts shopping centres and golf courses, with highlights including the Mesa Arts Center, which is perfect for culture lovers, and the Desert Botanical Garden, ideal for family outings and nature appreciation. Tempe Town Lake is also in close proximity, offering beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
• Paradise Valley: Paradise Valley is a charming city that caters to family and business travellers alike. With access to shopping centres and golf venues, it presents a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere. Key attractions include the Franciscan Renewal Center for those interested in culture and the adventurous Camelback Mountain. The scenic Tempe Town Lake is also nearby, providing a lovely setting for relaxation and romance.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're after an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise 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 in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and 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 congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. Renters over the age of 70 may also be affected. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which can be acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for collecting your rental car at airports, though it may be worth it for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs.
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 Phoenix

The best time to rent a car in and around Phoenix is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderate. May can also be a good choice, as it offers slightly low prices with moderately high demand. However, April tends to be the busiest and priciest month for rentals, followed closely by June. December is usually the most expensive month overall, with demand remaining moderately low but prices staying high.