$12 Car Rental Tampa, FL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Tampa

Renting a car in Tampa offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for beachgoers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking to experience everything Tampa has to offer. With a rental car, you can easily access popular attractions such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, ideal for family entertainment, or the Tampa Riverwalk, perfect for a leisurely stroll with loved ones.

Additionally, having your own vehicle makes it convenient to visit key destinations like Downtown Tampa, where you can explore the Tampa Convention Center and Benchmark International Arena, or venture to Ybor City, known for its vibrant culture. The proximity of Wesley Chapel, home to attractions like Saddlebrook Golf Course and the University of South Florida, is easily navigable with a rental car. Whether you have luggage to manage or are planning outdoor adventures, a rental car ensures a comfortable and efficient travel experience in and around Tampa.

Most popular car rentals in Tampa

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a top choice for travelers in Tampa, comfortably seating up to 5 people and accommodating up to 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area with ease. Its spacious interior allows for easy luggage management, making it an ideal vehicle for beach outings and outdoor adventures.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is well-suited for larger families or groups, also fitting up to 5 travelers and offering space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility means you'll have ample room for everyone's gear while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace. If you're planning on bringing along more luggage, the fullsize is the way to go.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is an excellent choice for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it a solid option for those looking to navigate the Tampa area while enjoying a little extra space for personal belongings. It's ideal for those who want to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Tampa

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 2 rental locations in the Tampa area, Alamo is renowned for its friendly service, making it a favorite among travelers. The most popular vehicles booked through Alamo include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, offering comfort and space for both individuals and families. This supplier is perfect for those who value both convenience and a welcoming atmosphere during their car rental experience.
• Fox Rental Cars: Located in the Tampa vicinity, Fox Rental Cars has 1 rental location and is known for providing a great selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Fullsize SUVs. Travelers appreciate the ease of booking and the quality of service offered by Fox, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore the area with flexibility and comfort.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With over 5 rental locations in the Tampa area, Thrifty Car Rental stands out for its wide accessibility and variety. Popular among customers are the Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which cater to a range of travel needs. Thrifty's numerous locations ensure that you're never far from a rental option, making it a convenient choice for visitors eager to explore Tampa and its surroundings.

Where to go in Tampa

• Downtown Tampa: Located in the heart of Tampa, Downtown offers a vibrant mix of family-friendly activities, outdoor experiences, and city life. Key attractions include the scenic Tampa Riverwalk, perfect for family and romantic outings, and the Tampa Convention Center for business travelers. The Benchmark International Arena also provides a great venue for entertainment. Peak travel times are from January to March, making it an ideal winter getaway.
• Wesley Chapel: This city is a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Notable points of interest include Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a theme park that promises fun for all ages, and the Saddlebrook Golf Course for golf lovers. Additionally, the University of South Florida adds a modern educational vibe. Peak travel periods are in March to April and September, making it a great spot for spring and fall visits.
• Ybor City: A historic neighborhood known for its rich culture, Ybor City is ideal for those seeking family activities and outdoor fun. Notable attractions include the Tampa Riverwalk for leisurely strolls, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for thrilling experiences, and the Tampa Convention Center for business events. Peak visitor arrivals occur from February to March, making it a vibrant time to explore the area's unique offerings.

10 tips to save on your Tampa car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilizing filters on Expedia will help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well before your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars come with lower rental costs and are easier to park 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This age-related restriction can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is typically the best choice. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this added cost may be justified by the convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra fees.
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 Tampa

The best time to rent a car in and around Tampa is September, offering the lowest prices and demand. June is another favorable month, featuring slightly low prices and average demand. April also provides a moderate option with average prices and demand. In contrast, March stands out as the most expensive month, with both rental prices and demand peaking. February follows closely, seeing high demand and elevated prices as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	83.5°F (28.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Tampa

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Tampa

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Tampa. We partner with 26 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 Tampa

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $12.

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

Tampa - Road Trip Ideas

For the best road trip around, pick up a Tampa Bay car rental. From here, you can tear up the open road, taking in the very best Floridian sights and sounds. Hop on board for a Tampa to Nashville road trip and you can tick Georgia and Tennessee off your list. Steam from the Big Guava to Music City in a little under ten hours, or find all the adventure you need, in state. Florida road trips from city to city serve up everything you could possibly want from a wander behind the wheel—and plenty more!

Tampa to Orlando

No one tires of Tampa. Its beautiful gardens, humongous zoo, and abundant amusements make sure of that. But if you want to hang with Mickey and friends, only one place in the Sunshine State will do. Clutch the keys in a car rental from Tampa to Orlando and feast your eyes on the very best Floridian sights. Stop off in Lakeland for out-of-this-world architecture or make light of the 1-hour Tampa to Disney World® drive time. There is much more than Disney out here, too. Wow your way around Universal Studios or eat your way across ICON Park’s 40 restaurants. For an even faster foray across Florida, book a one-way car rental from Tampa to Orlando, drop your ride at the airport and fly back in 40 minutes.

Tampa to Miami

Cruise from coast to coast in a car rental from Tampa to Miami. The distance between Tampa, FL, and Miami, FL is a little over 280 miles, but ducking into Fort Myers is a must. And take the time to stop in the Everglades and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to a new world—where it’s all aboard the airboat to croc county! Once you reach the big city, take the Miami trolley on a stupendous street-art tour, head bayside for sensational sky views, or escape it all beneath the swaying palms of Lummus Park. If you book a one-way car rental from Tampa to Miami, you can fly back in just over an hour.