Arizona Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Arizona

Renting a car in Arizona is a practical choice for those looking to explore the state's stunning attractions at their own pace. With the freedom to manage your luggage easily and flexible travel plans, a rental car allows you to visit places like the breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, located approximately 370km from Phoenix, ideal for outdoor and adventure experiences. You can also make your way to Antelope Canyon, about 443km from the capital, renowned for its stunning scenery. For a unique perspective, consider the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a lookout that offers unforgettable views and is roughly 386km away from Phoenix.

A car hire is particularly convenient for visiting vibrant cities like Phoenix, where you can explore Camelback Mountain and Tempe Town Lake, or Sedona, famous for its beautiful Red Rock State Park and Oak Creek Canyon. Additionally, Mesa offers attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and the Mesa Arts Center. With a rental car, you can easily navigate between these destinations, enhancing your Arizona experience whether you seek adventure, outdoor activities, or simply stunning scenery.

Most popular car hires in Arizona

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle is a popular choice among travellers in Arizona, comfortably accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a spacious ride while exploring the beautiful attractions Arizona has to offer. The Midsize SUV provides ample room for luggage, making it a practical option for those who want to travel at their own pace.
• Fullsize: Another frequently booked option, the Fullsize car also accommodates up to 5 travellers and can carry either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it a great choice for families or larger groups who need extra space for their belongings. With its generous capacity, the Fullsize vehicle ensures that everyone can travel comfortably without compromising on luggage space.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is perfect for couples, families, or groups of up to 5 people, providing space for 2 medium suitcases. While it may have slightly less luggage capacity than the other options, it still offers a comfortable ride for those looking to explore Arizona. This vehicle strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, making it an excellent choice for diverse travel plans.

Where to stay in Arizona

• Phoenix: A vibrant metropolis, Phoenix is ideal for family, business, and city-themed experiences. With attractions such as Camelback Mountain, Tempe Town Lake, and Phoenix Raceway, there is something for everyone. Enjoy shopping at local malls and dining at nearby restaurants and wineries. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to March, when outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
• Sedona: Known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, Sedona is a perfect destination for nature lovers. Explore the breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon, Red Rock State Park, and Slide Rock State Park. With numerous recreational areas and golf courses, the city offers an array of activities. The ideal season to visit is spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant for outdoor exploration.
• Tucson: This lively metropolis provides a blend of outdoor activities and city life. Tucson boasts attractions like Saguaro National Park, Pima Air and Space Museum, and Sabino Canyon, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The shopping centres and local restaurants add to the city's appeal. The best time to experience Tucson is during the mild winter months, from December to March, when outdoor adventures are most enjoyable.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Arizona

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget considerations, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car 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 this might be worthwhile for 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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to evade 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 Arizona

The best time to rent a car in Arizona is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is also slightly low. May and November are good shoulder months, offering slightly low prices with moderate demand. April, however, tends to be the busiest and most expensive time for rentals, with high demand and slightly high prices. Following that, December usually sees higher prices alongside moderately low demand levels.