Car Rental at Goodwin Field Airport (ELD)

Reasons to book a car rental at El Dorado Airport

Renting a car at El Dorado Airport is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Murphy Arts District and The Newton House Museum, both located 9 miles away, or the beautiful South Arkansas Arboretum State Park, just 7 miles from the airport. This convenience allows for easy luggage management and the ability to create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests.

For those seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, a rental car makes it simple to reach popular destinations like the nearby city of Smackover, 11 miles away, where you can explore more cultural sites, or Louann, located 12 miles from El Dorado, featuring the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources. Whether you're traveling with family or looking for a relaxing, scenic experience, having a car at your disposal enhances your journey, enabling you to discover the beauty and attractions around El Dorado at your own pace.

Most popular car rentals near El Dorado Airport

• Midsize: The midsize car option at El Dorado airport is a popular choice among travelers, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for couples or families looking to explore the area comfortably. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy the freedom of venturing out to nearby attractions while managing your luggage easily.
• Economy: The economy car option is another highly booked choice at El Dorado airport, also accommodating 5 travelers but with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it a great fit for solo travelers, couples, or small families. An economy car allows for flexible travel plans, ensuring you can navigate the region efficiently while keeping costs down, making it ideal for an economical road trip.

Where to stay near El Dorado Airport

• El Dorado: Staying in El Dorado puts you in the heart of the city, where you can easily access attractions such as the Murphy Arts District and the Newton House Museum. Enjoy the beautiful scenery at the South Arkansas Arboretum State Park, perfect for outdoor adventures. With various cafes and wineries nearby, you'll have plenty of dining options to enhance your stay.
• Smackover: Located 11 miles from El Dorado, Smackover offers a charming atmosphere with access to the South Arkansas Arboretum State Park and the historic Newton House Museum. This city is great for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking adventure. Local wineries and restaurants provide delightful options for meals and relaxation after a day of exploration.
• Louann: Just 12 miles from El Dorado, Louann is a peaceful retreat known for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Explore the Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources or take a stroll through the nature reserve. The South Arkansas Arboretum State Park is also nearby, making it an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying local culture.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near El Dorado

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's generally best to book your ELD car rental as early as possible. Aiming to finalize your reservation 1-3 months ahead of time is ideal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. 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 have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Compact vehicles, like economy or small cars, are usually 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 require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the best option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies expect a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a simple process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you'll be spending considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges 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 El Dorado Airport

The best value period to rent a car from El Dorado Airport is November, when prices are lower and demand is steady. October also offers slightly lower prices with moderately low demand, making it a good option. Following these months, December tends to see slightly low prices, but demand remains average. In contrast, January is usually the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand. February and March can also be pricier as demand picks up.