$33 Car Rental Ellendale, MN

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Top Car Deals in Ellendale

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What you need to know for your Ellendale car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ellendale

Renting a car in Ellendale allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit local attractions such as the scenic Fountain Lake, located 15 miles away, perfect for romantic outings and outdoor experiences. Culture enthusiasts can enjoy the Owatonna Arts Center and the Steele County History Center, both situated 15 and 14 miles from Ellendale, respectively. The convenience of a rental car is especially beneficial for those traveling with luggage or family, making it easier to manage your belongings while exploring. Additionally, nearby cities like Geneva, just 4 miles away, and Hope, 6 miles away, offer more attractions including the Marion Ross Performing Arts Center and Lake Kohlmeier. Having a car gives you the opportunity to create flexible travel plans, ensuring that you can make the most of your visit to Ellendale and its charming surroundings. Whether you are seeking outdoor scenery or cultural experiences, renting a car enhances your ability to discover everything this area has to offer.

Where to stay around Ellendale

  • Owatonna: Located 15 miles from Ellendale, Owatonna offers a city-themed experience perfect for families and business travelers. Enjoy activities at local attractions such as the Owatonna Arts Center, which showcases local culture, or relax by Lake Kohlmeier, ideal for outdoor and romantic outings. Additionally, the Steele County History Center provides a glimpse into local history. Visitors can find ample dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making Owatonna a well-rounded choice for your stay.
  • Geneva: Just 4 miles from Ellendale, Geneva is a charming destination for those seeking outdoor activities and scenic views. Key attractions include Fountain Lake and Lake Kohlmeier, both perfect for enjoying nature, romantic moments, and outdoor recreation. The Marion Ross Performing Arts Center adds a cultural touch to your visit. Geneva's cozy atmosphere and access to beautiful landscapes make it an excellent choice for travelers looking to unwind.
  • Hope: Situated 6 miles from Ellendale, Hope is known for its eco-friendly vibe and outdoor experiences. With a focus on family activities, visitors can explore local parks and the serene Lake Kohlmeier, which offers stunning scenery. The Owatonna Arts Center and Steele County History Center are also within reach, providing cultural insights. Hope is an inviting spot for those who appreciate nature and want a peaceful retreat.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific 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 identify the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you're likely to access lower rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between cost, 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. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payments.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Ellendale

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Ellendale

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $33.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$33
 
Our second best deal of the day
$37
 
Our third best deal of the day
$40
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Ellendale?
You can find cheap car rentals in Ellendale from $11 a day with Budget's standard elite special cars. Sixt offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $12 a day, and ACE Rent A Car has economy crossover cars starting from $12 a day. Enterprise also provides competitive rates, with fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $13 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Ellendale that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Ellendale.
What are the best luxury car companies in Ellendale?
For luxury car rentals in Ellendale, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt and Avis. Sixt offers premium elite and luxury vehicles, while Avis provides luxury and premium categories. These companies offer high-end options for travelers seeking enhanced comfort and features during their trip to Ellendale. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Ellendale.
Can I rent a car one-way in Ellendale?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Ellendale is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your car in Ellendale and drop it off at another location. These are good options for one-way car rental in Ellendale. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Ellendale.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Ellendale?
Ellendale is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it a cost-effective option for exploring the area and returning to the same spot. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability for your car rental in Ellendale. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Ellendale.
What are the best car rentals in Ellendale?
Car rentals in Ellendale offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard elite SUV
Most come with automatic transmission, and both automatic and manual options are generally available. Families visiting the area prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do well with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and your planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Ellendale.

What are the best car rentals in Ellendale for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Ellendale for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy crossover, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day—fits up to 5 people and 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, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Ellendale.

What are the best car rentals in Ellendale for couples?
The best car rentals in Ellendale for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $17 a day—fits up to 5 people and 3 medium 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. These options provide a good balance of space and maneuverability for exploring Ellendale. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Ellendale.

What are the best car rentals in Ellendale for families?
The best car rentals in Ellendale for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $15 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $23 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Ellendale. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the July-August peak, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Ellendale.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Ellendale?
Yes, Ellendale has electric and hybrid vehicle options available from several rental companies. Sixt offers electric vehicles starting from $11 a day, and Avis also provides electric options starting from $11 a day. For hybrid choices, you can find them from Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car, all starting from $19 a day. These eco-friendly options are widely available on Expedia for your car rental in Ellendale.
What is the best time to book a car in Ellendale?
January is typically the lowest month for car rental prices in Ellendale, with rentals starting from as little as $12 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, and July and August are the peak months when high demand can lead to higher prices. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing, especially during these busier times. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24 hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Ellendale?
Car rentals in Ellendale are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize 2 or 4 door and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets, while Enterprise offers fullsize 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles with more space and stability for highways. ACE Rent A Car rounds out the choices with economy crossover and special vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Ellendale.
What are good day trip destinations from Ellendale by rental car?
For memorable day trips from Ellendale, consider exploring nearby natural beauty and engaging activities.
  • Fountain Lake, Albert Lea, Minnesota, is a short drive of about 19 miles, taking around 19 minutes, perfect for a quick scenic escape.
  • Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota, offers a longer excursion at 89 miles, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes away, ideal for couples or families seeking lakeside relaxation.
  • For adventure seekers, the Kerfoot Canopy Zipline Tour provides an exciting experience.
  • Scavenger hunts and the Red Wing Ghost Walk offer unique walking tour experiences for those who enjoy exploring and local history.
For these trips, a comfortable and spacious rental car is recommended. Families and small groups might prefer a midsize SUV starting from $15 a day, a standard SUV starting from $24 a day, or a compact SUV starting from $17 a day, which offer ample room for passengers and any gear. Couples or business travelers might find a fullsize sedan starting from $13 a day or a standard sedan starting from $14 a day to be a comfortable and value-conscious choice for road trips. Always ensure your car rental in Ellendale has enough space for luggage and any equipment for your chosen activities. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can provide peace of mind if your plans change. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Ellendale.

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 Ellendale?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Ellendale. 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 Ellendale?
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 Ellendale?
Budget car rental in Ellendale can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $33. 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 Ellendale?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Ellendale. 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 Ellendale car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Ellendale?
To rent a car in Ellendale, 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 Ellendale car rental?
If you need to cancel your Ellendale 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 Ellendale 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.

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