Car Rental at Iowa City Airport (IOW)

Reasons to book a car rental at Iowa City Airport

Renting a car at Iowa City Airport (IOW) is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and travel at your own pace, making it convenient for family trips or sightseeing adventures. The airport is ideally located near several key attractions, such as the Iowa City Public Library, just 1 mile away, and the Old Capitol Museum and Iowa Old Capitol Building, both located 2 miles away. This accessibility allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and history without the stress of public transportation.

Additionally, a rental car provides the opportunity to visit nearby destinations like Coralville, 4 miles away, where you can discover the University of Iowa - Oakdale Campus and the Johnson County Historical Society. The charming neighborhood of University Heights, only 1 mile from the airport, features the same cultural highlights, ensuring you have plenty of options for exploration. Whether you are a family, a culture enthusiast, or someone looking for a friendly local experience, having a rental car enhances your trip in Iowa City.

Most popular car rentals near Iowa City Airport

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is a popular choice among travelers at Iowa City airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for families or groups looking for a spacious vehicle to explore the surrounding areas comfortably. With the extra room, you can easily manage your luggage while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace.
• Midsize: Midsize cars are another frequently booked option at Iowa City airport, also seating up to 5 travelers and allowing for 3 large suitcases. This makes them perfect for couples or small families who want a balance of space and efficiency. The Midsize option provides a comfortable and versatile driving experience, making it a great fit for those wanting to explore the attractions around Iowa City while keeping flexibility in their travel plans.
• Economy: The Economy car option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or smaller families, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is often chosen for its affordability and practicality, making it a great choice for those looking to save on rental costs while still enjoying the freedom of a personal vehicle. The Economy car allows for easy navigation through the area while keeping your travel plans flexible.

Top rated car suppliers near Iowa City Airport

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers at Iowa City airport, known for its friendly service and customer satisfaction. With a rental location less than 1 mile away from the airport, it offers convenient access for pick-up and drop-off. The most booked vehicles with Enterprise are Midsize and Premium SUVs, making it an excellent option for those seeking comfort and space during their travels.
• Hertz: Hertz also has a rental location situated less than 1 mile from Iowa City airport, providing easy accessibility for travelers. This supplier is popular among visitors for its reliable service and diverse vehicle selection. The most commonly rented cars through Hertz include Midsize and Fullsize options, catering to a variety of needs for individuals and families alike.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another great option available at Iowa City airport, located under a mile away for convenient access. Known for competitive pricing and efficient service, Thrifty offers a range of vehicles to suit different preferences. Midsize and Fullsize cars are among the most booked with this supplier, making it a solid choice for those looking for practicality and value.

Where to stay near Iowa City Airport

• Iowa City: Located at the heart of culture and education, Iowa City is home to notable attractions such as the Iowa City Public Library and the Old Capitol Museum, both perfect for those seeking a cultural experience. With its proximity to a modern college university and an arena entertainment facility, visitors can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. There are also various dining options nearby, including restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
• Coralville: Situated only 4 miles from Iowa City, Coralville offers a blend of family-friendly and business-themed experiences. Key points of interest include the University of Iowa - Oakdale Campus and the Johnson County Historical Society. This city features shopping centers and arena entertainment facilities, providing ample activities for visitors. Additionally, Coralville has several dining options, including wineries and distilleries, enhancing your stay.
• North Liberty: Approximately 8 miles from Iowa City, North Liberty is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in outdoor activities and scenic views. With attractions like Broadmor Pond and Swan Lake, this city is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The area also features urban parks like Penn Meadows Park, which are excellent for family outings. Visitors can find local wineries and distilleries nearby, adding to the overall experience.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Iowa City

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summertime fun, or an economy car for additional luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to book your airport car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Aiming to finalize your booking 1-3 months ahead of your travel dates is ideal, especially during peak seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also impact renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before confirming your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically less expensive 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 rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most cost-effective option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies necessitate a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always an option.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers additional peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a lot of time driving, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 Iowa City Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Iowa City Airport is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a quiet time for rentals. January also offers moderate prices with slightly low demand, providing a peaceful option for travelers. Moving into the summer, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand as many people travel. June and August also see slightly high prices and demand, reflecting the busier travel season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.6°F (-5.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
February	24.3°F (-4.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.2°F (22.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	29.5°F (-1.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average