Car Rental Gaylord, MI

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Gaylord

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 Gaylord

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Gaylord, Michigan, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Gaylord, Michigan, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Gaylord, Michigan, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Gaylord, Michigan, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Gaylord
View all cars

What you need to know for your Gaylord car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Gaylord

Renting a car in Gaylord offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for sightseeing. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or seeking scenic views, having a car allows you to visit attractions like Otsego Lake State Park, known for its adventure experiences, right in Gaylord. For a romantic beach day, Lake Thumb, located 12 miles away, is perfect for enjoying the scenery. Golf lovers can head to Loon Golf Resort in Gaylord for a relaxing round of golf.

Your rental car also opens up opportunities to explore the Northern Lower Peninsula, just 7 miles from Gaylord, featuring multiple lakes and parks. Neighborhoods like Lake Manuka and Michaywe offer additional attractions such as Hartwick Pines State Park and Guthrie Lake. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, renting a car enhances your experience by providing the convenience to visit these diverse destinations without the constraints of public transportation.

Top rated car suppliers in Gaylord

  • Enterprise: With a rental location in Gaylord, Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers seeking flexibility. Known for excellent customer service, they provide a range of vehicles, with Midsize and Premium SUVs being the most booked options. This supplier allows you to explore the beautiful surroundings of Gaylord at your own pace, making it easier to manage your luggage and adjust your itinerary as you go.

Where to stay in and around Gaylord

  • Northern Lower Peninsula: Located 7 miles from Gaylord, this area is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore attractions like Otsego Lake State Park, ideal for hiking and picnicking, or enjoy the romantic ambiance at Little Bear Lake and West Twin Lake. The region also features local restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful spot for a weekend getaway or a scenic day trip.
  • Lake Manuka: Situated around Gaylord, Lake Manuka offers a blend of outdoor activities and picturesque views. Travelers can enjoy the nearby Otsego Lake State Park and Hartwick Pines State Park for hiking and nature walks. For golf enthusiasts, the Loon Golf Resort provides a fantastic golfing experience. This neighborhood is also home to various wineries and distilleries, perfect for tastings after a day of exploration.
  • Waters: Found in the vicinity of Gaylord, Waters is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. The area is home to Otsego Lake State Park and Hartwick Pines State Park, both offering ample opportunities for hiking and enjoying nature. For water lovers, the Au Sable River provides scenic views and recreation. Visitors can also discover local wineries and breweries, enhancing the area's appeal for those looking to unwind after a day of outdoor activities.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use 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 wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent 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 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. Renters over 70 years old may also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable—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 might justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans involve long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Gaylord

The best time to rent a car in and around Gaylord is May, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderate. April and November also offer good value, with slightly low prices and less demand. In contrast, December tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining moderate. June through August see higher demand and average pricing, making them busier times for rentals. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January19.2°F (-7.1°C)Light RainVery CloudyModerately LowSlightly High
February19.0°F (-7.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Very CloudyAverageAverage
March28.8°F (-1.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly Low
April39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May53.8°F (12.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June62.4°F (16.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
July67.5°F (19.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
August66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November35.8°F (2.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
December26.4°F (-3.1°C)Light RainVery CloudyModerately LowSlightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Gaylord

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Gaylord

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

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

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
 
Our second best deal of the day
 
Our third best deal of the day
 
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 Gaylord?
You can find cheap car rentals in Gaylord from $16 a day with Budget's standard elite special cars. Budget offers some of the most affordable car rental options in Gaylord, with a midsize special electric vehicle starting from $16 a day. Dollar Rent A Car also provides competitive rates, with a midsize 2 or 4 door car starting from $17 a day. These providers offer great value for travelers looking for a cheap car rental in Gaylord that fits their budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Gaylord.
What are the best luxury car companies in Gaylord?
For luxury car rental in Gaylord, you can find premium options through providers like Alamo and Enterprise. Alamo offers a premium pickup regular cab starting from $39 a day and a premium elite SUV from $40 a day. Enterprise also provides premium elite SUVs starting from $38 a day, along with a premium pickup regular cab from $38 a day. Avis offers a premium 2 or 4 door car starting from $88 a day. These vehicles provide enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Gaylord.
Can I rent a car one-way in Gaylord?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Gaylord is available, offering flexibility for travelers planning to pick up their vehicle here and drop it off at a different location. One-way rentals start from $22 a day. This option is ideal for road trips or if your travel plans involve flying out of a different airport. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Gaylord.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Gaylord?
Yes, round-trip car rentals are readily available in Gaylord, starting from $16 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location in Gaylord is often the most cost-effective choice, as it typically avoids additional one-way drop-off fees. This is perfect for exploring nearby attractions such as Boyne Mountain, Torch Lake, and Otsego Lake State Park, and then returning to Gaylord. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Gaylord.
What are the best car rentals in Gaylord?
Car rentals in Gaylord offer a wide range of vehicle types to suit various travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Special cars for unique travel needs
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door cars for comfortable travel
  • Standard elite SUVs for enhanced space and capability
  • Midsize SUVs for a balance of comfort and versatility
  • Compact SUVs for easier maneuverability and fuel efficiency
These options ensure you can find a vehicle that fits your group size, luggage requirements, and planned activities in and around Gaylord. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Gaylord.

What are the best car rentals in Gaylord for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Gaylord for solo travelers are typically economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly.
  • Economy 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $18 a day, fit up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, making them nimble for city driving.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $19 a day, offer a bit more space for up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases while remaining easy to handle.
Both options provide comfortable seating and enough room for a solo traveler's luggage. If you plan on longer scenic drives to places like Otsego Lake State Park, a compact SUV starting from $32 a day could offer extra comfort and a higher vantage point. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Gaylord.

What are the best car rentals in Gaylord for couples?
The best car rentals in Gaylord for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two.
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door cars, starting from $17 a day, provide comfortable seating for up to 5 people and space for 3 large suitcases, ideal for smooth cruising.
  • Compact SUVs, starting from $32 a day, offer a higher driving position and room for up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases, which is great 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 for scenic drives around Gaylord. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Gaylord.

What are the best car rentals in Gaylord for families?
The best car rentals in Gaylord for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear.
  • Midsize SUVs, starting from $21 a day, comfortably seat up to 5 people and can accommodate 3 large suitcases, making them versatile for family outings.
  • Mini passenger vans, starting from $34 a day, are excellent for larger families, seating up to 8 people with ample room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for strollers and extensive luggage.
  • Fullsize SUVs, starting from $43 a day, offer even more space for up to 6 people and 3 large or 5 medium suitcases.
These vehicles provide the necessary room for passengers, car seats, and gear, ensuring a comfortable family trip. For travel during the July-August peak months, it is advisable to book 4 or more weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have higher demand. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Gaylord.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Gaylord?
Yes, Gaylord offers electric and hybrid vehicle options for environmentally conscious travelers. Budget provides electric vehicles starting from $16 a day, and also has hybrid options available from $16 a day. Alamo and Enterprise both offer hybrid vehicles, also starting from $16 a day. Avis also has electric and hybrid options available from $16 a day. These vehicles can help reduce fuel costs, and planning your route with charging stops in mind is recommended for longer journeys.
What is the best time to book a car in Gaylord?
From January, prices in Gaylord are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $16 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:
  • Boyne Mountain
  • Torch Lake
  • Otsego Lake State Park
  • Mackinaw City Sunset Cruise
  • 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24 or more hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.

What is the weather like for driving in Gaylord?
Driving conditions in Gaylord can vary significantly throughout the year. The July-August period sees higher demand, which can mean more traffic on routes to popular destinations like Boyne Mountain. For potentially wet or slippery road conditions, especially outside of summer, a standard elite SUV, available from Alamo starting from $29 a day, offers good grip and traction. Always check the local weather forecast before embarking on longer drives, and consider carrying an emergency kit, particularly if venturing into more remote areas.
What are the best car companies in Gaylord?
Car rentals in Gaylord are available from providers like Alamo, Enterprise, and Budget, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Alamo provides options like special cars starting from $22 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars from $27 a day, which are comfortable for general travel. Enterprise offers fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $26 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars from $29 a day, providing good choices for highway driving. Budget features economical options such as midsize special electric vehicles from $16 a day and economy 2 or 4 door cars from $18 a day, ideal for budget-conscious travelers. When choosing, consider a higher-clearance SUV for exploring varied terrain or a compact car for better fuel efficiency on longer trips. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Gaylord.
What are good day trip destinations from Gaylord by rental car?
Gaylord serves as an excellent base for exploring several appealing day trip destinations by rental car. Consider visiting:
  • Boyne Mountain, approximately 19 miles away, offering outdoor activities.
  • Torch Lake, about 38 miles away, known for its beautiful waters.
  • Otsego Lake State Park, just 9 miles away, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Mackinaw City Sunset Cruise, a scenic experience.
  • 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula, ideal for couples or groups.
These destinations are easily accessible with most car types, though an SUV might offer more comfort for longer drives or if you plan to carry extra gear. Always ensure your rental car has enough fuel for the round trip, and check local conditions before you depart. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Gaylord.

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