Reasons to book a car rental in and around Tacoma

Renting a car in Tacoma offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis and its surroundings at your own pace. Outdoor enthusiasts, road trippers, and family travelers will find having a rental car particularly advantageous, as it allows for easy luggage management and the ability to create flexible travel plans. With a rental vehicle, visiting key attractions such as the Tacoma Dome, Washington State Fair Events Center, and the Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center becomes a seamless experience.

A car also opens up the opportunity to explore nearby destinations like SeaTac, just 15 miles away, where you can enjoy Angle Lake Park and the Seattle Waterfront. Federal Way and Puyallup, both in the vicinity of Tacoma, offer additional attractions such as Wild Waves Theme and Water Park. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking scenic experiences, having a rental car ensures you can navigate the area conveniently, making it easier to enjoy everything Tacoma and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Tacoma

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice among travelers in Tacoma, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 passengers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. With its versatility and comfort, a midsize SUV provides the perfect balance of space and maneuverability, making it great for outdoor adventures or leisurely drives.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is perfect for those traveling with family or in larger groups, fitting up to 5 travelers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious choice ensures that everyone can travel comfortably without worrying about luggage constraints. The fullsize vehicle is well-suited for road trips around Tacoma, providing ample legroom and storage for a hassle-free experience.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the economy car fits 5 travelers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly choice without sacrificing comfort. The economy car allows for easy navigation through Tacoma and its surroundings while keeping costs low, making it a practical option for anyone looking to explore the area at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Tacoma

• Hertz: Hertz operates 4 rental locations in the Tacoma area, providing travelers with convenient access to their vehicles. Known for their reliable service, the most booked cars with Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Economy vehicles, making it an excellent choice for those looking for both comfort and affordability. Customers appreciate the ease of pickup and the availability of well-maintained cars, ensuring a smooth start to your Tacoma adventure.
• Enterprise: With over 5 rental locations in Tacoma, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and a wide selection of vehicles. The most popular rentals include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, catering to various travel needs. Travelers frequently highlight the friendly staff and smooth check-in process, making it a preferred option for families and business travelers alike. Enterprise is dedicated to providing a positive rental experience.
• Budget: Budget operates 3 rental locations in Tacoma, offering competitive pricing and a solid selection of vehicles. Travelers often opt for Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which strike a balance between comfort and cost-effectiveness. Customers appreciate Budget's straightforward rental process and the convenience of its locations, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore Tacoma and its surroundings at their own pace.

Where to go in and around Tacoma

• SeaTac: Located 15 miles from Tacoma, SeaTac is a city that offers a variety of attractions for visitors. It's ideal for outdoor and family experiences, especially during peak travel months from June to August. Highlights include Angle Lake Park, a great spot for family outings, and the Seattle Waterfront, which provides beautiful scenery along the harbor. Additionally, the area is home to The Boeing Company, and nearby points of interest include a marina and sports facilities, ensuring a well-rounded visit.
• Federal Way: Situated within the Tacoma vicinity, Federal Way is known for its family-friendly and adventurous activities. Peak visits occur in April and during June to July. Key attractions include the Tacoma Dome, an arena for entertainment events, and the Wild Waves Theme and Water Park, perfect for outdoor fun. The Greater Tacoma Convention and Trade Center also offers event spaces for business travelers. With its recreational areas and casino, Federal Way provides diverse options for all types of travelers.
• Puyallup: Also located in the Tacoma area, Puyallup is a city that attracts visitors looking for outdoor and scenic experiences. The best times to visit are in April and June to July. Notable attractions include the Washington State Fair Events Center, which hosts various outdoor events, and the Tacoma Dome for entertainment. The city is also home to shopping centers and proximity to national parks, making it a convenient base for exploring the beauty of the region.

10 tips to save on your Tacoma 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 room, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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're likely to find lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle categories—like SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the best choice. Other options might include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worth it for the extra convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only 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 unforeseen events occur during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, search for 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 Tacoma

The best time to rent a car in and around Tacoma is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low, making it a great value period. April and May also offer moderate pricing with slightly lower demand. In contrast, July through August sees prices rise significantly along with high demand, making it the most expensive time to rent a car. September and October follow with average prices and steady demand, while November returns to slightly lower pricing levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	40.3°F (4.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
May	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	44.2°F (6.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Tacoma

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Tacoma

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $28.

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