$49 Car Rental Brainerd, MN

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Brainerd

Renting a car in Brainerd, Minnesota, offers travelers the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and have flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, or family-friendly experiences, having your own vehicle enhances your journey. Key attractions such as the Brainerd International Raceway, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts, and Paul Bunyan Land, an amusement park suited for family fun, are easily accessible. You can also visit Long Lake Upper, a beautiful spot for a romantic day by the water. Moreover, nearby cities like Baxter, just 4 miles away, and Nisswa, 12 miles away, are worth exploring for their scenic lakes and recreational opportunities. With a rental car, you can effortlessly navigate between these destinations, allowing for a comfortable and enjoyable experience in and around Brainerd. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply want to take in the stunning scenery, renting a car makes your trip more convenient and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in Brainerd

• Standard: The Standard car option is a popular choice among travelers in Brainerd, accommodating up to 5 passengers with enough space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal pick for couples or families who need extra room for luggage while exploring the area. With its spacious interior, you can enjoy a comfortable ride as you travel to various attractions at your own pace.
• Compact: The Compact car option is another highly booked choice in Brainerd, also accommodating up to 5 travelers but with space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a versatile option suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families. If you’re looking for a car that offers good maneuverability and easier parking while still providing sufficient space for your belongings, the Compact is a practical and efficient choice for your trip.

Top rated car suppliers in Brainerd

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 1 rental location in Brainerd, Alamo Rent A Car provides travelers with the convenience and flexibility they seek. Popular vehicles among customers include Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, perfect for navigating the scenic routes and attractions in the area. Alamo is known for its efficient service, allowing you to get on the road quickly and enjoy your exploration of Brainerd and beyond.
• National Car Rental: Also featuring 1 rental location in Brainerd, National Car Rental is a great choice for travelers looking for reliable vehicles. The most booked options include Midsize and Economy cars, ideal for those wanting to balance comfort and affordability. National is recognized for its customer-focused approach, ensuring a smooth rental experience that lets you customize your trip around Brainerd's attractions.

Where to stay in and around Brainerd

• Nisswa: Located 12 miles from Brainerd, Nisswa is a picturesque city perfect for outdoor lovers and those seeking a romantic getaway. With attractions like Lake Edward and Gull Lake, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery and beach activities. The area also features the Brainerd International Raceway for adventure seekers. Nisswa offers various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it an excellent spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Baxter: Just 4 miles away from Brainerd, Baxter is ideal for travelers who appreciate outdoor adventures and scenic views. Highlights include Gull Lake and Bay Lake, both great for beach outings and picturesque settings. For those interested in motorsports, the Brainerd International Raceway is also nearby. Baxter offers a selection of dining choices, including local restaurants and wineries, ensuring a delightful culinary experience during your stay.
• East Gull Lake: Situated within the Brainerd area, East Gull Lake invites visitors to enjoy its serene outdoor landscapes and romantic ambiance. The village is home to Gull Lake, a perfect spot for relaxing by the water, as well as Bay Lake for additional beach fun. Golf enthusiasts can also take advantage of the local golf courses. East Gull Lake features a variety of dining options, including wineries, making it a lovely destination for food and drink enthusiasts.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel 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 strike a good balance between price, 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—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agencies require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Other choices may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when reserving through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 Brainerd

The best value period to rent a car in and around Brainerd is March, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. April and May follow closely, offering similar value with moderate demand. As summer approaches, June and July see average prices but high demand, making it a busier time for rentals. August stands out as the most expensive month, with consistently high demand. Following this peak, September typically returns to average pricing and demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	11.7°F (-11.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
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	Low	Average
May	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
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	Slightly High
November	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
December	18.3°F (-7.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Brainerd

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Brainerd

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Brainerd. 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 Brainerd

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $49.

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