Car Rental at Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD)

Reasons to book a car rental at Brainerd Airport

Renting a car at Brainerd Airport is a practical choice for travelers looking to explore the area with ease. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace, manage your luggage conveniently, and enjoy flexible travel plans. The beautiful Gull Lake, located 10 miles away, offers a perfect spot for relaxation and scenic views. For those seeking adventure, the Brainerd International Raceway is just 7 miles away and provides an exciting motorsport experience. Families can enjoy a day at Paul Bunyan Land, situated only 6 miles from the airport, which is perfect for outdoor fun and adventure.

Additionally, having a rental car allows you to explore nearby cities such as Baxter, just 8 miles away, and Merrifield, 5 miles away, where you can find more recreational opportunities like Upper Mission Lake and Bay Lake. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or friends, a rental car enhances your ability to discover the beauty and attractions around Brainerd, ensuring a memorable trip tailored to your interests.

Most popular car rentals near Brainerd Airport

• Standard: The Standard car option is a popular choice at Brainerd airport, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples or families looking to explore the Brainerd area comfortably. With this vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and enjoy the freedom of traveling at your own pace, making it perfect for flexible travel plans.
• Compact: The Compact car is another well-booked option at Brainerd airport, also accommodating 5 travelers but with room for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families who prefer a smaller vehicle. Compact cars are great for navigating the local area with ease while providing efficient use of space for luggage, allowing you to enjoy your trip without hassle.

Top rated car suppliers near Brainerd Airport

• Enterprise: With a rental location situated 5 miles away from Brainerd airport, Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers. They offer a solid selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. Their reputation for excellent customer service makes them a reliable option for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Located less than 1 mile from Brainerd airport, Alamo Rent A Car provides convenient access for travelers. They are known for their competitive pricing and a friendly service experience. The most popular vehicles from Alamo include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, making it a great option for travelers looking for flexibility without breaking the bank.
• National Car Rental: Also positioned less than 1 mile away from Brainerd airport, National Car Rental is a top choice for many. They offer a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Economy cars being the most frequently rented. National is recognized for its efficient service and ease of booking, making it a favorable option for those needing a dependable ride during their stay.

Where to stay near Brainerd Airport

• Brainerd: Staying in Brainerd offers convenient access to popular attractions like the Brainerd International Raceway, perfect for sports and adventure enthusiasts. The city is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, including nearby lakes and parks. Enjoy a romantic experience by visiting Long Lake Upper, where you can relax on the beach and take in the picturesque views. Brainerd is also home to a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries.
• Baxter: Located only 8 miles from Brainerd, Baxter is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Attractions such as Gull Lake provide opportunities for beach activities and romantic outings. The Brainerd International Raceway is also nearby, making it a great spot for motorsports fans. Baxter features a shopping mall center and a selection of eateries, ensuring that you have everything you need during your stay.
• Crosby: Situated 11 miles from Brainerd, Crosby is ideal for travelers looking for outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. You can explore Crosby Memorial Park, a national state park offering hiking trails and stunning landscapes. Adney Lake is another nearby gem, perfect for enjoying a beach day or a romantic outing. Crosby also hosts various dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, providing a delightful culinary experience.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Brainerd

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re seeking an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilizing filters on Expedia can help you discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and greater selection, it’s advisable to book your BRD car rental as early as possible. Ideally, aim to finalize your booking 1-3 months in advance, particularly ahead of peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This also applies to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before completing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, tend to be less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unexpected costs and offers peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that include unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Brainerd Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Brainerd Airport is in April, when prices are slightly low and demand is also moderate. March can be a good option as well, with similar price and demand characteristics. After April, May sees average prices and demand. However, July through August tend to be the most expensive months with high demand, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters. June also experiences higher prices and heavy demand during this time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	11.7°F (-11.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	13.1°F (-10.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	68.5°F (20.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	18.3°F (-7.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average