$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 this beautiful area at your own pace. With a rental, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed, making it ideal for families or outdoor enthusiasts. Hilo is home to many attractions such as Carlsmith Beach Park, Rainbow Falls, and Coconut Island Park, all of which are easily accessible by car. You can also venture to nearby destinations like Keaau, just 7 miles away, where you can visit Ha'ena Beach and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. Alternatively, a short drive of 6 miles to Papaikou will take you to the stunning Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Having a rental car allows you to enjoy these scenic spots without the constraints of public transportation, ensuring a more enjoyable experience. Whether you are looking for adventure, romance, or family-friendly activities, a rental car in Hilo makes it convenient to discover the rich landscapes and attractions of the area.

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 Rent A Car provides a great option for travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for its friendly service and short wait times, Alamo boasts an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10. The most popular vehicles booked with this supplier include Midsize and Fullsize cars, making it an excellent choice for those needing a comfortable ride while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Hilo.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental has 2 locations in Hilo, offering travelers a convenient way to pick up their rental car. This supplier is favored for its selection of Midsize and Compact SUVs, ideal for navigating both city streets and scenic drives. Thrifty is known for providing reliable vehicles at competitive prices, making it a solid choice for tourists looking to explore Hilo at their own pace.
• Hertz: With 2 rental locations in Hilo, Hertz is another popular choice for car rentals in the area. Travelers appreciate the availability of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, which provide ample space and comfort for exploring the beautiful landscapes of Hawaii. Hertz is recognized for its efficient service, ensuring a smooth rental experience for visitors eager to start their adventure in Hilo.

Where to stay in and around Hilo

• Keaau: Located 7 miles away from Hilo, Keaau is a vibrant city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The area boasts stunning scenery and popular attractions such as Ha'ena Beach, ideal for a beach vacation, and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory. Visitors can also explore Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden, a botanical garden suitable for family outings. Keaau offers various dining options, including local wineries and sweet treats, making it a delightful place to stay while exploring the surroundings.
• Keaukaha: Situated around Hilo, Keaukaha is a charming neighborhood that draws travelers looking for adventure and scenic beauty. Highlights include Carlsmith Beach Park, perfect for beach vacations, and Coconut Island Park, which features a stunning rock garden. Families can enjoy the recreational areas at Bayfront Park, an urban park that offers a blend of nature and city life. Keaukaha also provides nearby food and drink options, including local wineries, enhancing your stay in this picturesque locale.
• Mountain View: Approximately 11 miles from Hilo, Mountain View is a city known for its breathtaking outdoor experiences and adventure opportunities. Visitors can explore the magnificent Rainbow Falls, ideal for romantic and adventurous outings, or visit the 2400 Fahrenheit Art Glass gallery for a dose of culture. The area also features Hiʻiaka's Healing Hawaiian Herb Garden for family-friendly activities. With local wineries and sweet treats nearby, Mountain View is a great choice for those seeking a blend of nature and relaxation.

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 require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old may also face restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable; just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Renting a car from an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek 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 Hilo

The best time to rent a car in and around Hilo is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is minimal. May follows closely as another value month, with slightly lower prices and steady demand. Throughout June and August, prices and demand are generally moderate. However, December tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by average demand levels. January and February also see higher demand and prices, making them busier times for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	68.2°F (20.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

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