$39 Car Rental Lakeland, FL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lakeland

Renting a car in Lakeland, Florida, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for theme park enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, allowing you to manage your luggage easily and create flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as the Sun N Fun Air Museum and the RP Funding Center, both ideal for family and entertainment experiences. You can also enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Mirror, perfect for outdoor and romantic outings.

Beyond Lakeland, a rental car opens up access to nearby destinations like Winter Haven, just 13 miles away, where you can experience LEGOLAND® Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park. Haines City, located 20 miles from Lakeland, features Snodgrass Island and ChampionsGate Golf Club, while Plant City, only 11 miles away, is home to Dinosaur World and the same attractions as Lakeland. Whether you are traveling with family or seeking adventure, renting a car ensures you make the most of your visit to Lakeland and beyond.

Most popular car rentals in Lakeland

• Standard SUV: This vehicle is a popular choice among travelers in Lakeland, accommodating up to 5 passengers and 2 medium suitcases. It's perfect for couples, families, or groups seeking the flexibility to explore the area comfortably. With its spacious interior, a Standard SUV allows for easy luggage management and provides a smooth ride for theme park enthusiasts or outdoor adventures.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV fits 5 travelers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a great balance between size and comfort, making it perfect for those planning to venture out on road trips or day trips around Lakeland. Its ample luggage space ensures that you can bring along everything you need for your journey.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize vehicle is an excellent choice for families or larger groups, accommodating 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type provides the roomy interior and extra luggage space needed for an enjoyable trip. Whether you’re heading to local attractions or embarking on a longer journey, the Fullsize offers the comfort and flexibility needed for a memorable experience in and around Lakeland.

Top rated car suppliers in Lakeland

• Budget: Budget has 2 rental locations in the Lakeland area, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Known for its reliable service, the most booked vehicles with Budget are Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, providing options suitable for various travel needs. This supplier is a great option for those looking for flexibility and accessibility while exploring the attractions around Lakeland.
• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations in and around Lakeland, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and extensive vehicle selection. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Premium Pickups, which are perfect for both leisure and business trips. Enterprise’s helpful staff and smooth rental process make it a top choice for those seeking a hassle-free experience during their stay in Lakeland.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 1 rental location in the Lakeland area, offering a range of vehicles to suit different preferences. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize cars are among the most popular choices for travelers. Hertz is known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, making it a reliable option for tourists wanting to explore Lakeland comfortably.

Where to go in and around Lakeland

• Winter Haven: Located 13 miles away from Lakeland, Winter Haven is a vibrant city where travelers can enjoy family-friendly outdoor adventures. The peak visitor numbers are from March to April and September, making it a great time to explore attractions like LEGOLAND® Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida. For those looking for a scenic experience, Lake Conine offers beautiful views and a romantic setting.
• Haines City: Situated 20 miles from Lakeland, Haines City is ideal for outdoor and family experiences. Visit during peak seasons in March to April and September for a chance to explore local attractions like LEGOLAND® Florida and Snodgrass Island. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at ChampionsGate Golf Club, a top-tier destination for golf lovers.
• Plant City: Just 11 miles away from Lakeland, Plant City welcomes visitors with a blend of family and outdoor activities. The best times to visit are January to March. Highlights include Dinosaur World, an engaging theme park perfect for families, and the Sun N Fun Air Museum, which offers a glimpse into aviation history. The RP Funding Center is a lively arena that hosts various entertainment events throughout the year.

10 tips to save on your Lakeland car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for those summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most beneficial option. Other agreements might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in those scenarios.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 if anything unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lakeland

The best time to rent a car in and around Lakeland is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is quite low. May is another good month, with slightly low prices and average demand. Conversely, March stands out as the most expensive month, characterized by slightly high prices and high demand. Other months like January and December also experience higher demand, making them less favorable for budget-conscious renters.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
February	64.2°F (17.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	81.7°F (27.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Lakeland

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Lakeland

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $39.

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.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals