Car Rental at Iowa City Airport (IOW)

Reasons to book a car rental at Iowa City Airport

Renting a car at Iowa City Airport is an excellent choice for travelers seeking freedom and flexibility in their journey. With a rental car, you can explore the beautiful countryside and enjoy key attractions at your own pace. Notably, the University of Iowa, Carver-Hawkeye Arena, and Iowa City Public Library are all conveniently located within 2 miles of the airport, making them easily accessible for family travelers and adventurers alike.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture beyond Iowa City. Coralville, just 4 miles away, offers more attractions like Xtream Arena & GreenState Family Fieldhouse, while North Liberty, located 8 miles from the airport, features scenic spots such as Swan Lake and Quail Ridge Park. For those looking for a friendly atmosphere, the nearby neighborhood of Mann, only 2 miles away, is home to the Old Capitol Museum and other cultural experiences. Renting a car ensures you can manage your luggage easily and adapt your travel plans as needed, making your visit to Iowa City and its surroundings enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals near Iowa City Airport

• Midsize: The midsize car option at Iowa City airport is a popular choice among travelers, accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples and families who want a comfortable ride while exploring the countryside. Renting a midsize car allows you to travel at your own pace, making it perfect for leisurely drives through the scenic areas surrounding Iowa City.
• Fullsize: If you are traveling with a larger group or family, the fullsize car is the way to go. It fits 5 travelers and offers ample room for either 3 large suitcases or up to 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility is beneficial for families or groups who need extra space for luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore attractions around Iowa City airport. The fullsize option ensures that everyone can travel together comfortably.
• Economy: For those seeking a budget-friendly option, the economy car is an excellent choice. It comfortably fits 5 travelers and can accommodate up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. This option is particularly appealing for those who want to manage costs without sacrificing the ability to navigate the beautiful countryside near Iowa City airport. An economy car allows for efficient travel, making it a smart choice for your adventure.

Top rated car suppliers near Iowa City Airport

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers seeking friendly service and reliability. With a rental location only 0.8 miles away from Iowa City airport, it’s convenient for quick access. Enterprise is known for its wide selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, making it ideal for families or those needing extra space. Their commitment to excellent customer service is a standout feature, ensuring a pleasant rental experience.
• Hertz: Located just 0.6 miles from Iowa City airport, Hertz presents a great option for car rentals with a focus on convenience and variety. Travelers often choose Hertz for their popular Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, perfect for both business and leisure trips. With a reputation for efficient service and well-maintained cars, Hertz is a reliable supplier that can help you get on the road quickly and smoothly.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another excellent choice, also situated 0.6 miles away from Iowa City airport. Known for its competitive rates and an efficient rental process, Thrifty is favored by travelers looking for Midsize and Fullsize options. Their service is designed to cater to various needs, making it a practical selection for those exploring the Iowa City area.

Where to go near Iowa City Airport

• Coralville: Located 4 miles from Iowa City, Coralville offers a mix of city, family, and business experiences. Visitors can explore key attractions like the University of Iowa, a modern college campus, and the Xtream Arena & GreenState Family Fieldhouse, ideal for arena entertainment. The presence of shopping centers and a cultural village makes Coralville a vibrant place to stay, especially during peak months in April, July, and September.
• North Liberty: Situated 8 miles away from Iowa City, North Liberty is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Highlights include Swan Lake, which provides a picturesque spot for relaxation and romance, and Quail Ridge Park, an urban park suitable for family outings. The University of Iowa - Oakdale Campus also lies within proximity, making it a great cultural stop. Visitor numbers peak in April, July, and September, ideal for outdoor activities.
• Mann: Only 2 miles from Iowa City, the Mann neighborhood is rich in culture and sports. Visitors can immerse themselves in education and entertainment at the University of Iowa and Carver-Hawkeye Arena, which hosts various events. The Old Capitol Museum offers a glimpse into local history and culture. Peak travel times in July and September make it an ideal location for those interested in city experiences and sports activities.

9 tips to save on your Iowa City Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it’s generally advisable to book your airport car rental as early as possible. Aim to finalize your booking 1-3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—like SUVs or premium models—may have restricted availability. This can also apply to 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 more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also work well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, and debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend significant time on the road, look for 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 mandatory 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. January also offers similar advantages, making it a good time to consider. Following this, April shows slightly low demand, while prices remain average, providing another opportunity for reasonable rentals. In contrast, May marks the most expensive month with slightly high prices and average demand, which continues through the summer months of June and July with high demand and prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	21.6°F (-5.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
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	Average	Slightly High
June	71.4°F (21.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	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	Average
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