Car Rental at Flying Cloud Airport (FCM)

Reasons to book a car rental at Minneapolis Airport

Renting a car at Minneapolis airport is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, business travelers, and family explorers. With a rental vehicle, you have the freedom to explore key attractions around Minneapolis airport at your own pace. For instance, the Minneapolis Convention Center, located 13 miles away, is perfect for business experiences, while Nickelodeon Universe, situated 11 miles away, offers adventure and family fun. If you're looking for scenic relaxation, Lake Minnetonka, just 10 miles from the airport, provides a romantic and picturesque setting.

Additionally, having a rental car makes it convenient to visit nearby cities. Bloomington, only 8 miles away, is home to both Nickelodeon Universe and the Minneapolis Convention Center. Shakopee, a mere 4 miles from the airport, features attractions like Valleyfair Amusement Park and Paisley Park. Minnetonka, located 6 miles away, also offers the Minneapolis Convention Center and Target Center. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, renting a car enhances your experience, allowing you to discover the friendly people and beautiful scenery that the Minneapolis area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals near Minneapolis Airport

• Midsize: The midsize option is a popular choice among travelers at Minneapolis airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples and families looking for a comfortable ride that balances space and fuel efficiency. With this vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore the beautiful scenery around Minneapolis at your own pace.
• Economy: An economical choice for those traveling solo or in pairs, the economy car also accommodates 5 travelers but is designed for up to 2 medium suitcases. It’s perfect for couples and small families seeking a budget-friendly option that still offers the flexibility to navigate the area. Renting an economy car allows you to take advantage of Minneapolis's attractions without breaking the bank.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is an excellent option for families or groups, providing ample space for up to 5 passengers and the ability to fit 3 large or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for those who need extra room for luggage and enjoy traveling together. With the fullsize option, you can comfortably embark on your adventure around Minneapolis with ease and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers near Minneapolis Airport

• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations situated within 3 miles of Minneapolis airport, Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers. Known for its friendly service and short wait times, this supplier boasts an overall rating of 7 out of 10. The most frequently booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, making it an excellent option for both families and individuals looking for comfort and space during their travels.
• Nextcar: Located 5 miles away from Minneapolis airport, Nextcar offers a convenient rental option with 1 location. This supplier is favored for its Economy and Midsize vehicles, providing budget-friendly choices without sacrificing quality. Nextcar is a great choice for those who prioritize affordability and straightforward service, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.
• Budget: With a rental location situated 7 miles from Minneapolis airport, Budget provides travelers with access to competitive rates and a range of vehicle options. This supplier specializes in Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to a variety of needs, whether you're traveling solo or with a group. Budget's focus on value and convenience makes it a reliable option for your car rental needs.

Where to go near Minneapolis Airport

• Bloomington: Located 8 miles from Minneapolis, Bloomington is a vibrant city offering diverse experiences for travelers. It's popular for family, city, and business visits, especially peaking during March to April and July. Visitors can explore attractions such as the Nickelodeon Universe amusement park, the Minneapolis Convention Center for business events, and Normandale Lake Park for outdoor family activities. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the local shopping mall centers and casinos available in the area.
• Shakopee: Just 4 miles from Minneapolis, Shakopee is an ideal destination for city and family experiences. Its visitor numbers peak from June to August. Key attractions include the Valleyfair Amusement Park for family fun, the cultural site of Paisley Park, and scenic views at Lake Minnetonka. Shakopee also features shopping mall centers and casinos, providing a variety of leisure options for travelers.
• Minnetonka: Located 6 miles from Minneapolis, Minnetonka is known for its outdoor and romantic experiences, attracting visitors especially in April and June to July. Travelers can enjoy the Minneapolis Convention Center for business purposes, visit the cultural museum Paisley Park, or catch an event at the Target Center arena. The city is also home to recreational areas and shopping mall centers, making it a well-rounded choice for those looking to explore.

9 tips to save on your Minneapolis Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need 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 options for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's generally advisable to book your FCM car rental as early as possible. Ideally, aim to make your reservation 1-3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and specific vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—could be limited in availability. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable 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 rental agreements may require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable; just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, as debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional costs 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 Minneapolis Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Minneapolis Airport is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderate. This month is ideal, especially following January and February, which also feature lower prices and demand. However, as summer approaches, June through August become slightly high in both price and demand, with July being the most expensive month for rentals. September and October then see a return to average pricing with stable demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	15.1°F (-9.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	17.1°F (-8.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	64.2°F (17.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	22.1°F (-5.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average