$38 Car Rental Hilo, HI

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Hilo

Renting a car in Hilo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. With convenient luggage management, you can easily visit key attractions like Carlsmith Beach Park, perfect for beach experiences, and Rainbow Falls, ideal for outdoor adventure and romance. A rental car allows you to discover other nearby destinations, such as Keaau, only 7 miles away, where you can enjoy Ha'ena Beach and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. Additionally, the charming city of Papaikou, located 6 miles from Hilo, features the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and Liliuokalani Park and Gardens. Families will appreciate the opportunity to visit Coconut Island Park and Bayfront Park, both accessible with a rental vehicle. Whether you are seeking outdoor activities, scenic views, or family-friendly experiences, having a car makes it easy to navigate Hilo and its surroundings. Explore the beautiful landscapes and local attractions without the constraints of public transportation, allowing for a more personalized adventure in Hawaii.

Most popular car rentals in Hilo

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a popular choice for travelers in Hilo, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families who appreciate the balance of space and maneuverability. With a Midsize vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Hilo at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: If you are looking for a vehicle that offers a bit more space and versatility, the Standard SUV is an excellent option. Also accommodating up to 5 travelers, this SUV can handle up to 2 medium suitcases. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups who may need extra room for equipment or luggage. This option provides the comfort and capability to tackle Hilo's diverse terrains.
• Compact: The Compact car is a smart choice for those seeking efficiency and ease while traveling in Hilo. Accommodating up to 5 travelers with the ability to fit up to 3 medium suitcases, it’s well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families. The Compact option allows for easy navigation through city streets and gives you the flexibility to explore Hilo's attractions without the hassle of a larger vehicle.

Top rated car suppliers in Hilo

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 1 rental location in Hilo, Alamo is a popular choice among travelers. It boasts an overall rating of 7.6 out of 10, highlighting its friendly service and short wait times. Customers frequently book Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, making it easy to find the right car for your needs while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Hilo.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty operates 2 rental locations in Hilo, offering travelers flexibility and convenience. This supplier is especially favored for Midsize and Compact SUV rentals, providing options suited for both urban and adventurous drives. Thrifty's presence in Hilo makes it a reliable choice for those looking to enjoy the sights at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz has 2 rental locations in Hilo, ensuring easy access for all your car rental needs. Known for its reliable service, Hertz specializes in Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, making it a great fit for families or groups wanting to explore the stunning landscapes of the Big Island. With Hertz, you can expect a seamless rental experience in Hilo.

Where to stay in and around Hilo

• Keaau: Located 7 miles away from Hilo, Keaau is a charming city ideal for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy scenic experiences with access to attractions like Ha'ena Beach, perfect for a beach vacation, and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. Additionally, the Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden offers a botanical experience suitable for families and couples alike. Keaau also has nearby food options, including wineries and sweet treat spots that enhance the local experience.
• Keaukaha: This neighborhood, situated around Hilo, is known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Travelers can explore Carlsmith Beach Park and Coconut Island Park, both excellent for family outings. Bayfront Park provides a lovely urban setting for relaxation and recreation. With nearby wineries, Keaukaha offers great dining options, making it an appealing place for those seeking adventure and scenic views.
• Mountain View: Located 11 miles from Hilo, Mountain View is an excellent choice for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore Rainbow Falls and the stunning landscapes of national parks and volcanoes in the area. The local 2400 Fahrenheit Art Glass gallery adds a cultural touch, while the Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden is perfect for family outings. With wineries and sweet treat shops nearby, Mountain View offers a delightful blend of experiences.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need a spacious SUV, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure lower prices and have a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance while booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Hilo

The best time to rent a car in and around Hilo is September, when prices are typically at their lowest and demand is minimal. May also offers a good option with slightly low prices and average demand. June through August see average prices and demand, making them decent months as well. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and increased prices, while January and February are also busy times for rentals.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Hilo

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Hilo into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Hilo and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Hilo

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Hilo. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Hilo

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $38.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals