$45 Car Rental Washington University in St. Louis, MO

Reasons to book a car rental around Washington University in St. Louis

Renting a car around Washington University in St. Louis offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby attractions such as Forest Park, located just 2 miles away, which is perfect for outdoor experiences with family and friends. The City Museum, 6 miles from the university, provides a cultural experience that is enjoyable for visitors of all ages. Additionally, the Missouri Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, situated 4 miles away, is a beautiful location ideal for family outings and romantic strolls.

Having a rental car also allows you to conveniently explore the vibrant city of St. Louis, where you can see iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch. You can venture into the nearby neighborhoods of Clayton and Richmond Heights, both featuring attractions like Forest Park and the City Museum. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families managing luggage or those looking for a friendly environment to experience the local culture. Overall, renting a car enhances your visit, letting you discover the rich offerings around Washington University in St. Louis comfortably.

Most popular car rentals near Washington University in St. Louis

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is a popular choice for travelers around Washington University in St. Louis. Accommodating up to 5 passengers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases, this option is ideal for couples and families who need a balance of comfort and capacity. With its spacious interior, the Midsize car allows for a relaxed travel experience, making it easy to manage luggage while exploring the surrounding attractions at your own pace.
• Economy: If you're looking for a budget-friendly and efficient option, the Economy car is highly booked by travelers visiting Washington University in St. Louis. This car type can accommodate 5 travelers along with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Its compact size makes navigating city streets and finding parking easier, while still providing the essential comfort for your journey.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is an excellent choice for those needing extra space. Accommodating up to 5 travelers and capable of holding up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, this option is particularly favored by families and groups. Its generous interior room ensures that everyone can travel comfortably, making it a smart pick for those planning to explore the attractions around Washington University in St. Louis with ample luggage.

Top rated car suppliers near Washington University in St. Louis

• Enterprise: With 5 rental locations within a 2-mile radius of Washington University in St. Louis, Enterprise provides excellent convenience for travelers. Known for high customer satisfaction, this supplier offers a diverse selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. Renting from Enterprise allows you to easily explore the surrounding attractions at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget features 2 rental locations situated 2 miles away from Washington University in St. Louis, making it a great choice for those seeking affordable options. Known for providing value, Budget predominantly offers Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, catering to various travel needs. With Budget, you can enjoy a flexible and economical way to navigate the area.
• Hertz: Hertz operates 3 rental locations within 3 miles of Washington University in St. Louis. This supplier is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize and Economy options. Renting from Hertz ensures you have reliable transportation to explore local attractions, giving you the freedom to tailor your itinerary as you wish.

Where to stay near Washington University in St. Louis

• Clayton: Clayton is a charming neighborhood near Washington University in St. Louis, offering a blend of urban and outdoor experiences. This area is home to attractions such as Forest Park, ideal for family outings and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore local shops and dine at various restaurants and wineries nearby. The modern college atmosphere enhances the vibrant community feel, making it a great choice for travelers seeking both culture and convenience.
• Richmond Heights: Located just 1 mile from Washington University in St. Louis, Richmond Heights is a lively city known for its family-friendly ambiance and city-themed experiences. Key attractions nearby include Forest Park and the Missouri Botanical Gardens and Arboretum, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The neighborhood features shopping centers and a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, ensuring a delightful stay close to the university.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Washington University in St. Louis

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to make your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
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 charges. This is often the most cost-effective option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car around Washington University in St. Louis

The best value time to rent a car around Washington University in St. Louis is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. These months offer a quieter rental experience. March through May sees average pricing and demand, making them decent shoulder periods. However, July stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand and rental rates. June through August also experience increased costs and busyness, making them less ideal for budget-conscious renters.