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What you need to know for your University car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around University

Renting a car in University, Tampa, Florida, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area and its attractions at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking city-themed experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit popular destinations like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, located only 3 miles away, ideal for family fun and entertainment. For a scenic outing, head to the Tampa Riverwalk, situated 9 miles from University, perfect for outdoor activities and romantic strolls. The Florida State Fairgrounds, 7 miles away, also provides great family experiences.

Having a rental car allows for convenient travel to nearby neighborhoods such as University Square and Lake Magdalene, both just 2 miles away, enriching your exploration of the region. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, a rental car simplifies your journey, ensuring you can make the most of your time in and around University. Whether you're planning day trips or just want to explore the local sights, a car rental is a practical choice for your visit.

Most popular car rentals in and around University

  • Midsize SUV: This car type is one of the most popular choices for travelers in University. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases, a midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and space. It provides the flexibility needed for exploring the area at your own pace while ensuring everyone and their luggage can travel together comfortably.
  • Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the compact car option can comfortably seat 5 travelers and hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is a great choice if you’re looking for a balance between efficiency and practicality, making it easy to navigate through University and its surroundings while still having enough room for your essentials.
  • Fullsize: Offering versatility for families and groups, the fullsize car option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing extra space for luggage while ensuring everyone travels comfortably. Whether you're planning a longer trip or just need room for more gear, a fullsize vehicle provides the reliability you need.

Top rated car suppliers in and around University

  • Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travelers in University, with 2 rental locations available and the nearest only 1 mile away. They are known for their reliable service and a wide selection of vehicles. The Midsize and Fullsize cars are the most booked options, providing travelers with comfortable and spacious choices for their journeys around Tampa.
  • Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations in and around University, Enterprise stands out for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options. The nearest location is conveniently located in the area, making it easy for travelers to access. Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles are the top choices among customers, offering a great balance of comfort and space for your adventures.
  • Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car offers 2 rental locations near University, ensuring that travelers have easy access to their services. Known for their competitive pricing and a variety of vehicle options, Midsize and Fullsize cars are frequently booked by customers. This makes Dollar a solid choice for those looking to enjoy the freedom of exploring the area at their own pace.

Where to stay around University

  • University Square: Located 2 miles from University, University Square is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the Florida State Fairgrounds nearby, visitors can enjoy a mix of fun and adventure. The neighborhood also features a variety of restaurants, making it a convenient choice for dining options after a day of exploring the theme park or enjoying the Tampa Riverwalk, which is perfect for family outings.
  • Lake Magdalene: Situated 2 miles from University, Lake Magdalene offers a scenic retreat for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. This neighborhood is known for its beautiful surroundings, including nearby golf courses and access to the bay. Visitors can explore attractions such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and enjoy the Tampa Riverwalk. Local dining options include wineries and restaurants, providing a delightful end to an adventurous day.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for ample space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the 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. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, 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 primarily 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 incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around University

The best value period to rent a car in and around University is May, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. June and September also offer slight savings with lower demand. In contrast, February is the most expensive month, featuring higher prices and average demand, while March sees the highest demand, making it a busy time for rentals. Additionally, April tends to have average prices but slightly high demand, which can affect availability.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January60.8°F (16.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
February64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March67.6°F (19.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April73.4°F (23.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June82.0°F (27.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July83.1°F (28.4°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August83.5°F (28.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October76.1°F (24.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November68.9°F (20.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$5
 
Our second best deal of the day
$6
 
Our third best deal of the day
$7
 
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 near University?
You can find cheap car rentals near University from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door. Easirent offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $10 a day, and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $10 a day. Sixt provides midsize SUVs starting from $11 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental near the University area that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in University.
What are the best luxury car companies near University?
For luxury car rentals near University, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt and Enterprise. Sixt offers fullsize elite SUVs starting from $25 a day, providing a blend of space and upscale features. Enterprise provides premium crossovers starting from $29 a day and premium SUVs starting from $32 a day, which are excellent for travelers seeking enhanced comfort and style. Luxury rentals may include premium features and attentive service at pickup. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in University.
Can I rent a car one-way near University?
A one-way car rental near the University is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in the University area and drop it off at a different location. These are good options for a one-way car rental starting near the University. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in the University area.
Can I rent a car round-trip near University?
The area near University is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $10 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 University, such as Raymond James Stadium (5 miles away) and Tampa Riverwalk (1 mile away). Providers like Sixt and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in University.
What are the best car rentals near University?
Car rentals near University offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
Most come with automatic transmission standard. 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 your trip in the University area. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in University.

What are the best car rentals near University for solo travelers?
Good options for car rentals near University for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 4-5 door, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and 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 are planning longer drives to spots like Tampa Bay, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in University.

What are the best car rentals near University for couples?
The best car rentals near University 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 up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $15 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 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. For a special trip, consider a fullsize open air all terrain vehicle, which can fit up to 4 people and up to 2 large suitcases, for scenic drives around the University area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in University.

What are the best car rentals near University for families?
The best car rentals near University for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 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 the University area. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the March-April peak months, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in University.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near University?
The area near University has excellent electric and hybrid vehicle options. Sixt offers electric vehicles starting from $11 a day, and Enterprise also provides electric options starting from $11 a day. Multiple rental companies near University carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. The area has public charging infrastructure, and electric vehicles can help save on fuel costs, as charging often costs less than equivalent gas cars. Book electric vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead as demand is high.
What is the best time to book a car near University?
From August, prices near University are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $10 a day during this period. March 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:
  • Raymond James Stadium
  • Tampa Riverwalk
  • Halloween Horror Nights
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 near University?
Car rentals in the University area are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize SUVs and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door and compact SUVs with more space and stability for highways. Alamo Rent A Car rounds out the choices with midsize 2 or 4 door and fullsize 2 or 4 door 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 University.
What are good day trip destinations from University by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and events within easy reach from University include:
  • Raymond James Stadium, approximately 5 miles away
  • Tampa Bay, approximately 17 miles away
  • Halloween Horror Nights
These distances are manageable for most car types. 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 University.

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 University?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in University. 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 University?
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 University?
Budget car rental in University can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $5. 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 University?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in University. 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 University car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in University?
To rent a car in University, 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 University car rental?
If you need to cancel your University 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 University 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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