$45 Car Rental Lafayette, LA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lafayette

Renting a car in Lafayette, Louisiana, offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for cultural explorers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience Lafayette’s rich culture and delicious cuisine without the constraints of public transportation. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Cajundome, a hub for family entertainment, and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, which provides cultural experiences. You can also explore Acadian Village, a historic site that showcases local heritage.

Additionally, having a rental car makes it convenient to venture to nearby destinations like Youngsville, just 9 miles away, known for its sports complex, or Breaux Bridge, located 8 miles from Lafayette, which offers additional cultural and outdoor experiences. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking sports and entertainment, a rental car ensures easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making your trip to Lafayette both enjoyable and hassle-free.

Most popular car rentals in Lafayette

• Fullsize: This car option fits 5 travelers comfortably and can accommodate up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. The Fullsize car is ideal for families or groups looking to explore Lafayette together while managing their luggage with ease. With its spacious interior, this vehicle allows for a more relaxed travel experience, making it perfect for those planning to visit various attractions at their own pace.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a great choice for 5 travelers, offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly suited for families, couples, or small groups who want to enjoy the flexibility of exploring Lafayette and its surroundings. With its elevated seating position, a Midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride and enhanced visibility, which can be beneficial when navigating local roads and attractions.
• Standard SUV: This car accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. The Standard SUV is perfect for couples, families, or groups who prioritize comfort and space while exploring Lafayette. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for those who may require additional room for passengers or gear. The flexibility of an SUV ensures that travelers can enjoy their adventures without feeling cramped, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Lafayette

• Budget: With 1 rental location conveniently situated in the area of Lafayette, Budget is a popular choice for travelers looking for flexibility and value. Most booked vehicles from this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it an excellent option for those who need space for luggage or want a comfortable ride while exploring the region.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out with 3 rental locations throughout Lafayette, offering travelers multiple convenient options for picking up their vehicles. Known for their reliability, Hertz's most frequently booked cars include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, catering to a variety of travel needs and preferences, ideal for both solo travelers and families.
• Dollar Rent A Car: With 2 rental locations in Lafayette, Dollar Rent A Car provides easy access for tourists. They are particularly favored for their Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, ensuring that you have the space and comfort needed for your adventures in and around Lafayette. Renting from Dollar offers a straightforward and efficient experience for your travel plans.

Where to go in and around Lafayette

• Youngsville: Located 9 miles from Lafayette, Youngsville is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals in April and June to July. It is an ideal destination for sports and outdoor activities. Key attractions include the Youngsville Sports Complex, perfect for sports enthusiasts, and the historic University of Louisiana at Lafayette for those interested in culture. Additionally, Acadian Village offers a glimpse into local history, making Youngsville a diverse place to explore.
• Downtown Lafayette: Situated around the area of Lafayette, Downtown Lafayette is a lively neighborhood known for family-friendly entertainment and cultural experiences. Visitor numbers peak in March to April and July. Explore the historic University of Louisiana at Lafayette for an educational experience, or enjoy events at the Cajundome, a well-known arena entertainment facility. For football fans, Cajun Field is a must-visit stadium, ensuring a dynamic stay in this bustling area.
• Breaux Bridge: Just 8 miles away from Lafayette, Breaux Bridge offers a charming atmosphere with a balance of outdoor scenery and family experiences. The best times to visit are in March to April and July. Attractions include Parc Hardy, a lovely park for outdoor activities, and the historic University of Louisiana at Lafayette for cultural insights. The local recreational area and casinos provide additional options for entertainment, making Breaux Bridge a delightful stop during your trip.

10 tips to save on your Lafayette 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 extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
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 often the most economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you 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 it may be worth it for the added convenience.
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 provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lafayette

The best value period to rent a car in and around Lafayette is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low. Following closely are February and April, which also offer lower demand and moderate pricing. However, June through August see the highest prices and demand, making them the most expensive months to rent a vehicle in the area. As summer approaches, rentals become pricier and busier, shifting the dynamics of availability and cost.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Car rental prices in Lafayette

Lafayette, LA is a surprisingly affordable city – and the same goes for its car rental prices: the rates for car rentals in Lafayette start from just $45* so you can save more of your hard-earned cash for the city's delicious Cajun soul food. Lafayette car rental deals can be found in the winter when there are fewer tourists and lower prices – and you won't miss out on anything thanks to Louisiana's mild winters.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Lafayette

To find the best car rental deals in Lafayette, think about the type of vehicle you're going for. Smaller vehicles, like a mini, will tend to give you some of the best Expedia car rental deals, as opposed to larger or luxury vehicle classes, for instance. And whether you're based in Lafayette itself for your whole stay or planning on visiting nearby Baton Rouge, Lafayette is primarily a place for city driving. So, by opting for a smaller, compact car you'll make street parking a breeze and help you maximize that all-important fuel efficiency.

Best car rental companies in Lafayette

You've got so many choices when it comes to finding some of the best car rental companies in Lafayette. International company Avis comes highly recommended by travelers – and with a counter right at Lafayette Regional Airport, you can hop into your car as soon as you get off the plane. If you're heading downtown, Enterprise car rentals have no fewer than three branches across the city to give you maximum flexibility. These are just two of Expedia's partners: the best car rental company in Lafayette for you depends on your specific needs. And don't forget to search using your specific dates to see other rental car companies in Lafayette.

Best places to rent a car in Lafayette

If you're flying into Lafayette Regional Airport, your best bet is to hire a car directly at the airport itself and make the most of the airport car rental deals. Public transportation from the airport to downtown is somewhat patchy, so you might find a car handy for getting to your accommodation. If you're coming into the city by Amtrak train, you might prefer to have your car hire in Lafayette's downtown or near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette so it's ready and waiting when you step onto the platform.

Types of Lafayette car rentals

While most travelers will opt for a standard compact or economy car rental in Lafayette, many other options are available. If you want to stand out, a sports car rental in Lafayette will take you to the bayou and back in style. An SUV rental is great for those who need more space – families and over-packers will appreciate it. And for those down south who want to celebrate a special day, a luxury car would be a great option for your Lafayette wedding car rental.

Advice on car rental in Lafayette as an American

To rent a car in Lafayette, you'll need a valid US driver's license – your rental car company will help you with an international permit if you need one. Besides this, many rental car companies have age thresholds for car rental and charge an extra fee for drivers under the age of 25. Finally, you'll often need a credit card to cover your deposit: make sure to check the specific T&Cs of your chosen provider, as some companies let you rent a car with a debit card, too.

Benefits of booking a car rental in Lafayette with Expedia

With Expedia, finding a cheap rental car in Lafayette is a breeze – just enter your dates and pick-up time to see all the options available to you – and voilà, cheap rental cars in Lafayette. Once you've got your list of available cars, use the "Total Price" option to make sure your discount car rental in Lafayette isn't going to break the bank. Pssst: use the "Great deals" checkbox at the top to see some of the very best Expedia car rental deals for the day. Sometimes things crop up last-minute and your plans go awry – we get it. That's why the bulk of Lafayette car rental deals on Expedia comes with free cancelation. Make sure to carefully check the terms and conditions before booking.