$74 Car Rental Imperial, MO

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Top Car Deals in Imperial

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What you need to know for your Imperial car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Imperial

Renting a car in Imperial, Missouri, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like the Mastodon State Historic Site and the Kimmswick Historical Society Museum, both located in the area. Families will appreciate the convenience of managing luggage and traveling without the constraints of public transportation, making trips to places like the Jefferson County Library Windsor Branch, just 3 miles away, enjoyable and stress-free. The nearby cities of Arnold and Barnhart, only 4 miles from Imperial, also offer additional experiences such as Route 66 State Park and Sun Valley Park. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, a rental car allows you to tailor your itinerary to suit your needs. This flexibility is particularly appealing for families and those seeking adventure, enabling you to explore the beauty of the region without time limitations. Overall, a rental car enhances your visit to Imperial, making it easier to discover the rich history and natural attractions the area has to offer.

Where to stay in and around Imperial

  • Arnold: Located 4 miles from Imperial, Arnold is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy the arcade adventure zone and amusement park. Key attractions include the Arnold Historical Society & Museum for culture lovers, Route 66 State Park for scenic outdoor adventures, and the Mastodon State Historic Site for a glimpse into history. With a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, Arnold offers a balanced experience for both fun and relaxation.
  • Kimmswick: Nestled in the area of Imperial, Kimmswick is a charming village ideal for romantic getaways and scenic outings. Outdoor activities abound, with recreational areas and a golf course nearby. Notable highlights include the Kimmswick Historical Society Museum for cultural exploration, the Mastodon State Historic Site for history buffs, and the Jefferson County Library Windsor Branch for family-friendly visits. Enjoy local wineries and bars to complement your stay in this picturesque setting.
  • Barnhart: Just 4 miles from Imperial, Barnhart is a family-friendly city that offers a blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore recreational areas and enjoy the arcade adventure zone. Key points of interest include the Jefferson County Library Windsor Branch for family-oriented activities, Sun Valley Park for eco-friendly outdoor experiences, and the Mastodon State Historic Site for a touch of history. With nearby restaurants and wineries, Barnhart provides a refreshing getaway.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and ensure better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  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 generally the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well; just make sure to return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Imperial

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Imperial

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $74.

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
$74
 
Our second best deal of the day
$77
 
Our third best deal of the day
$81
 
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 Imperial?
You can find cheap car rentals in Imperial from $17 a day with Enterprise's midsize 2/4 door. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $17 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $20 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Imperial that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Imperial.
What are the best luxury car companies in Imperial?
For luxury car rentals in Imperial, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Enterprise and Payless. Enterprise offers premium crossover vehicles starting from $26 a day, while Payless provides luxury elite 2 or 4 door options starting from $43 a day. These rentals offer enhanced comfort and features for a more refined travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Imperial.
Can I rent a car one-way in Imperial?
A one-way car rental in Imperial is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $21 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car may have flexible one-way policies, making it convenient to pick up your car in Imperial and drop it off at a different location. These are good options for one-way car rental in Imperial. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Imperial.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Imperial?
Imperial is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $17 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 the area around Imperial and returning to the same spot. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Imperial.
What are the best car rentals in Imperial?
Car rentals in Imperial offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
Automatic transmission is standard across these options. Families prefer SUVs or minivans for space and comfort; couples and solo travelers often find economy or compact cars suitable for their needs. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and travel plans. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Imperial.

What are the best car rentals in Imperial for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Imperial 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 car, starting from $26 a day—fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact car, starting from $26 a day—fits 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're planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $22 a day, for extra highway comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Imperial.

What are the best car rentals in Imperial for couples?
The best car rentals in Imperial for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize car, starting from $17 a day—fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $22 a day—fits 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 premium crossover, starting from $26 a day, for enhanced features and a more luxurious experience around Imperial. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Imperial.

What are the best car rentals in Imperial for families?
The best car rentals in Imperial for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $26 a day—seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $41 a day—seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have ample room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Imperial. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the June-July peak, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Imperial.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Imperial?
Imperial offers electric and hybrid vehicle options from several providers. Avis offers hybrid vehicles starting from $17 a day and electric vehicles starting from $20 a day. Budget also provides hybrid options starting from $17 a day and electric vehicles starting from $20 a day. These eco-friendly choices are widely available on Expedia. Booking these vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead is advisable as demand can be high.
What is the best time to book a car in Imperial?
From January, prices in Imperial are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $17 a day during this period. June tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. 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 is the weather like for driving in Imperial?
Driving in Imperial experiences shifting conditions through the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around June. For varied road conditions, a standard SUV class, starting from $29 a day, offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit.
What are the best car companies in Imperial?
Car rentals in Imperial are available from providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Avis, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise has midsize 2 or 4 door and fullsize 2 or 4 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers midsize SUV and compact SUV vehicles with more space and stability for longer drives. Avis rounds out the choices with midsize 2 or 4 door and midsize SUV vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on general highway travel. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Imperial.
What are good day trip destinations from Imperial by rental car?
Exploring the area around Imperial by rental car offers a variety of excellent day trip options for families, couples, and solo travelers.
  • Mastodon State Historic Site is less than a mile away, offering a quick and fascinating visit for history and nature enthusiasts.
  • For family fun, Six Flags St. Louis in Eureka is just 23 miles away—a drive of about 30 minutes—perfect for a day of thrilling rides and entertainment.
  • St. Louis city attractions like Forest Park (24 miles) and the iconic Gateway Arch (25 miles) are both about 30 to 40 minutes from Imperial, providing cultural experiences, museums, and scenic views.
  • For a longer adventure into nature, Johnson's Shut-ins State Park is 75 miles away, approximately a 1 hour 15 minute drive, ideal for hiking and enjoying Missouri's natural beauty.
When planning your car rental in Imperial for these trips, consider a midsize SUV starting from $26 a day, a standard SUV starting from $29 a day, or a fullsize SUV starting from $40 a day for families or groups needing extra space for luggage and comfort on longer drives. Couples or solo travelers might find a midsize car starting from $17 a day or a fullsize car starting from $20 a day to be a great value option for city exploration and shorter distances. Booking a car rental for families in Imperial that suits your group size ensures a comfortable journey to these diverse destinations. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Imperial.

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 Imperial?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Imperial. 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 Imperial?
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 Imperial?
Budget car rental in Imperial can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $74. 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 Imperial?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Imperial. 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 Imperial car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Imperial?
To rent a car in Imperial, 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 Imperial car rental?
If you need to cancel your Imperial 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 Imperial 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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