$81 Car Rental Clear Lake, IA

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Clear Lake

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Clear Lake

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Compact

Nissan Versa
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
MASON CITY, USA
Nissan Versa

$81

includes taxes & fees
$70 per day
found 1 day ago
Compact Nissan Versa

Economy

Mitsubishi Mirage
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Mason City, Iowa, USA
Mitsubishi Mirage

$81

includes taxes & fees
$70 per day
found 1 day ago
Economy Mitsubishi Mirage

Special

Vehicle determined upon pick-up Compact or Larger
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Mason City, Iowa, USA
Vehicle determined upon pick-up Compact or Larger

$82

includes taxes & fees
$71 per day
found 1 day ago
Special Vehicle determined upon pick-up Compact or Larger

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
MASON CITY, USA
Toyota Corolla

$83

includes taxes & fees
$72 per day
found 1 day ago
Midsize Toyota Corolla

Mini Van

Chrysler Pacifica
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Mason City, Iowa, USA
Chrysler Pacifica

$86

includes taxes & fees
$75 per day
found 1 day ago
Mini Van Chrysler Pacifica

Standard

Volkswagen Jetta
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
MASON CITY, USA
Volkswagen Jetta

$86

includes taxes & fees
$75 per day
found 1 day ago
Standard Volkswagen Jetta

Fullsize

Nissan Altima
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
MASON CITY, USA
Nissan Altima

$86

includes taxes & fees
$75 per day
found 1 day ago
Fullsize Nissan Altima

Premium

Acura Integra
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
MASON CITY, USA
Acura Integra

$131

includes taxes & fees
$115 per day
found 1 day ago
Premium Acura Integra

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Clear Lake
View all cars

What you need to know for your Clear Lake car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Clear Lake

Renting a car in Clear Lake provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This is especially beneficial for those seeking outdoor experiences, romantic getaways, or scenic views. Key attractions like the Surf Ballroom and Museum offer rich cultural experiences, while Clear Lake State Park and its beach provide opportunities for adventure and relaxation in nature.

Additionally, a rental car makes it easy to visit nearby destinations such as Mason City, located 9 miles away, where you can explore The Historic Park Inn Hotel and Lime Creek Nature Center. Ventura, just 5 miles from Clear Lake, features McIntosh Woods State Park and stunning beach experiences. Garner, 12 miles away, is home to Eagle Lake State Park and other attractions. Having a car allows you to navigate these areas comfortably, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Where to stay around Clear Lake

  • Clear Lake: Offering a picturesque setting, Clear Lake is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and scenic views. The area is known for its beautiful lake and nearby parks, making it a great base for enjoying nature. Various accommodations are available, ranging from cozy inns to lakeside hotels that cater to different budgets.
  • Ventura: Located 5 miles away from Clear Lake, Ventura is perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Highlights include McIntosh Woods State Park and Clear Lake State Park Beach, which are great for relaxation and recreation. Visitors will find charming lodgings that provide easy access to both nature and local dining options.
  • Mason City: Situated 9 miles from Clear Lake, Mason City offers a vibrant city experience with cultural attractions like The Historic Park Inn Hotel. It is suitable for families and couples alike, with various dining options and shopping nearby. Staying in Mason City provides access to recreational areas and historical sites, making it a well-rounded choice for travelers.
  • Garner: About 12 miles from Clear Lake, Garner is a delightful option for those interested in culture and outdoor activities. With attractions like Eagle Lake State Park and a variety of wineries, Garner provides a unique experience. The accommodations here are cozy and intimate, ideal for romantic getaways or cultural explorations.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Clear Lake

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. Booking early often secures lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically 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 the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also impact renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Renting from an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth 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 provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add insurance when you book with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Clear Lake

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Clear Lake

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $81.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

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

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
$81
Our second best deal of the day
$82
Our third best deal of the day
$83
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Clear Lake?
You can find cheap car rentals in Clear Lake from $21 a day with National Car Rental's fullsize 2/4 door. Enterprise offers a special car starting from $22 a day and Budget offers a fullsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $22 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Clear Lake that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
What are the best luxury car companies in Clear Lake?
For luxury car rentals in Clear Lake, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Enterprise. They offer fullsize elite and premium elite vehicles, including convertibles and special car types. Avis also provides luxury category vehicles, such as convertibles and sports cars, at competitive rates. Luxury rentals can include enhanced features and attentive service at pickup. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
Can I rent a car one-way in Clear Lake?
A one-way car rental in Clear Lake is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $22 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Avis may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for one-way car rental in Clear Lake, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Clear Lake and drop it off at a different location. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Clear Lake?
Clear Lake is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $22 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Clear Lake, such as Lake of the Ozarks, Rathbun Lake, and Lake Red Rock, and returning to the same spot. Providers like Enterprise and Avis also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
What are the best car rentals in Clear Lake?
Car rentals in Clear Lake offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Special
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
Most come with automatic transmission, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
What are the best car rentals in Clear Lake for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Clear Lake for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door car, starting from $31 a day—fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door car, starting from $23 a day—fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives to spots like Lake of the Ozarks, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $30 a day, for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
What are the best car rentals in Clear Lake for couples?
The best car rentals in Clear Lake for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door car, starting from $27 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $29 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible, which offers a fun way to experience scenic drives around Clear Lake. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
What are the best car rentals in Clear Lake for families?
The best car rentals in Clear Lake for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $29 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $36 a day—seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door car, starting from $22 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Clear Lake. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the June-July peak, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Clear Lake?
Clear Lake has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options: Enterprise offers hybrid vehicles from $21 a day, and Avis provides electric and hybrid options also starting from $21 a day. Budget also carries electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. Clear Lake has public charging infrastructure, and planning charging stops is recommended for trips beyond 200 miles.
What is the best time to book a car in Clear Lake?
From January, prices in Clear Lake are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $22 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • Lake of the Ozarks
  • Rathbun Lake
  • Lake Red Rock
  • Field of Dreams Movie Site Guided Home Tour in Dyersville
  • Scavenger hunts
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Clear Lake?
Car rentals in Clear Lake are available from providers like Enterprise, Avis, and Budget, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise has special and compact 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets, while Avis offers economy 2 or 4 door and midsize SUV vehicles with more space and stability for highways. Budget rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles. Choose a midsize SUV or standard SUV for more space and comfort on longer drives, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
What are good day trip destinations from Clear Lake by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and activities within easy reach from Clear Lake include:
  • Lake of the Ozarks, approximately 417 miles away
  • Rathbun Lake, approximately 190 miles away
  • Lake Red Rock, approximately 145 miles away
  • Field of Dreams Movie Site Guided Home Tour in Dyersville
  • City scavenger hunt
These distances are manageable for most car types, though a midsize or fullsize car offers more comfort for longer drives. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Clear Lake.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Clear Lake?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Clear Lake. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Clear Lake?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Clear Lake?
Budget car rental in Clear Lake can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $81. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Clear Lake?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Clear Lake. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Clear Lake car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Clear Lake?
To rent a car in Clear Lake, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Clear Lake car rental?
If you need to cancel your Clear Lake car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Clear Lake with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia