Alaska Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Alaska

What you need to know for your Alaska car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Alaska

Renting a car in Alaska is a great choice for travelers seeking the freedom and flexibility to explore this vast state. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and travel at your own pace, allowing for spontaneous stops along the way. Whether you're drawn to the outdoor adventure of Denali National Park or the relaxing atmosphere of Chena Hot Springs, having a car makes it convenient to visit these key attractions without the constraints of public transportation. You can also explore popular destinations like Anchorage, where you can visit Prince William Sound and the Anchorage Museum, or head to Seward to see the stunning Exit Glacier and Resurrection Bay. Fairbanks offers unique experiences too, such as the Fairbanks Ice Museum and Pioneer Park. A rental car is ideal for families looking to enjoy outdoor experiences at Icy Strait Point or for anyone wanting to soak in the remarkable scenery that Alaska has to offer. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by providing the flexibility to create your own itinerary and explore at your leisure.

Most popular car rentals in Alaska

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travelers comfortably and has room for up to 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Alaska. The midsize SUV offers the perfect balance of space and maneuverability, making it suitable for both city driving and more rugged terrains.
  • Standard SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is a versatile option for couples, families, or groups. It provides a little more space than smaller vehicles while still being manageable on the roads. This option is great for those who want to enjoy the stunning landscapes of Alaska without sacrificing comfort.
  • Fullsize: Offering space for 5 travelers and the ability to carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is perfect for families and groups. With its generous capacity, this vehicle ensures that you can comfortably transport both passengers and luggage, making it an excellent choice for longer trips across Alaska's diverse terrain.

Where to stay in Alaska

  • Anchorage: Anchorage is a vibrant metropolis known for its breathtaking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can easily access attractions such as the Anchorage Museum, perfect for those interested in culture, and Chugach State Park, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure. The nearby Prince William Sound offers a beautiful bay environment for beach and outdoor vacation experiences. Anchorage also features a variety of food and drink options, including local breweries and distilleries, enhancing your stay with culinary delights.
  • Seward: Seward is a charming city that draws travelers looking for outdoor activities and picturesque scenery. Key points of interest include the Seward Boat Harbor, which is great for beach and scenic views, and Exit Glacier, renowned for its stunning visual appeal. Resurrection Bay adds to the region's charm, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor vacations. With its recreational areas and ski venues, Seward is a fantastic choice for those eager to explore Alaska's natural beauty.
  • Fairbanks: Fairbanks offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions. Visitors can explore the Fairbanks Ice Museum for a glimpse into local culture or relax at Chena Hot Springs, a perfect spot for wellness and relaxation. Pioneer Park provides a historic village atmosphere that is enriching for families. With various dining options available, Fairbanks ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay for those venturing into Alaska's fascinating landscapes.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Alaska

  • Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  • 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 a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  • Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  • Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain 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 requirements prior to booking.
  • 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 typically the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  • Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  • Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  • Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides added peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  • Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  • Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.
  • Best time to rent a car in Alaska

    The best value period to rent a car in Alaska is April, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. This month offers a quieter experience, making it ideal for travelers. March and May also present decent opportunities with average prices and demand. However, July sees the highest demand and moderately high prices, as many people flock to Alaska during the summer months. June through August continue this trend, making them the busiest and most expensive times for car rentals.

    Tips for Alaska car rentals in 2026

    Car rental prices in Alaska in 2026

    Alaska 4x4 rentals are particularly popular, and Alaskans love pickups and SUVs, as they are often best suited for the rugged terrains of the Last Frontier State. However, you can find all manner of compact and midsize sedans for rent with Expedia. Prices for car rental in Alaska tend to be in a similar range across the different types of entry-level price models. To find some of the best car rental deals in Alaska, make sure to check out different rental periods, as renting a car during the low season could be cheaper.

     

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

    To find cheap car rentals in Alaska, use Expedia's powerful search engine. Experiment with different pickup and drop-off dates to find some of the best deals for Alaska car rental. Summer is peak tourist season. It's one of the best times to enjoy the state's stunning national parks and visit highlights such as Anchorage and Juneau. By looking at dates outside of the summer months, you may find the car rental cost in Alaska. If your plans aren't set in stone yet, keep an eye out for "Free cancellation" in the description.

     

    Some of the best car rental companies in Alaska

    Some of the best car rental companies in Alaska are trusted names in the business, such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz. Expedia gives you plenty of options to explore and find some of the best deals available, plus you might be able to find some with free cancellation – just keep an eye out for "Free cancellation" in the description. Alaska car rentals can be found across the state, particularly in big and medium cities. For Fairbanks or Juneau car rental, you'll find all types of vehicles, from SUVs to minivans, economy-class sedans, and more. Make the best of the beautiful drives across the wild and rugged Alaskan landscapes with Expedia.

     

    Some of the best places to rent a car in Alaska in 2026

    Some of the best places to rent a car in Alaska include the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, Juneau International Airport, and Fairbanks International Airport. These three locations will often act as your main gateway when you visit Alaska. Rental companies tend to offer a wider range of options at airports, and these locations are particularly suited for long-term car rental in Alaska. Check Expedia for some of the best car rental deals in Alaska.

     

    Alaska car rental types

    With Expedia, you can narrow your Alaska car rental search down according to your preferred criteria. For a luxury car rental in Alaska or sports car rental in Alaska, simply use Expedia's search filters to find some of the best deals. You can tailor your search according to your budget, search through the recommendations of fellow drivers, and even pickup or drop-off points. Whether you're a solo traveler landing in beautiful Seward or a big crew passing through buzzing Anchorage, you're almost always bound to find what you're looking for with Expedia.

     

    Advice on car rental in Alaska

    One of your best options for car rental in Alaska is to pick up your rental car at the airport you're landing at. Not only will you typically find more categories of vehicles available for rent, but it's also where you'll likely find some of the best deals for car rental in Alaska. Don't forget: Alaska is huge. At almost three times the size of Texas, it is by far America's largest state. If you're considering traveling to some of the more remote parts of the state, you'll almost always need to rent a car. Consider adding options such as unlimited mileage, as it will likely come in handy.

     

    One-way and long-term car rentals in Alaska

    A one-way car rental in Alaska is often a great idea when you know how far apart some of the main cities are – Anchorage to Juneau is a good 20-hour drive. With one-way car rentals, you save yourself the trouble of having to bring your car back to its initial pick-up point. You could rent a van in Anchorage and drop it off in Juneau to save yourself a great deal of time and money. Given how vast the state is, a long-term car rental in Alaska is also a great option and one you can easily explore using Expedia's search engine.

     

    Benefits of booking an Alaska car rental with Expedia

    When you book with Expedia, you have access to one of the most comprehensive and varied choices of car rental options in Alaska. With rental prices starting from *, you can greatly reduce the cost to rent a car in Alaska using Expedia's powerful search filters. You can highlight special discounted offers and find out about recommended vehicles based on the opinions of your fellow travelers. Expedia is one of the best one-stop shops to book the rest of your holiday, from accommodation to activities, flights, and much more.


    *Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.


    Car Rental Information

    Popular car types:
    SUV, Full Size, Economy
    From the airport to your hotel:
    Airport Transportation