Mexico and Central America Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Mexico and Central America

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What you need to know for your Mexico and Central America car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Mexico and Central America

Renting a car in Mexico and Central America is an excellent choice for adventure seekers, road trippers, and cultural explorers. It offers the freedom to discover attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can conveniently access stunning sites such as the Moon Palace Golf Club in Mexico, known for its beautiful golf courses, or explore the breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures at Arenal Volcano National Park in Costa Rica, roughly a two-hour drive from San José.

Additionally, a visit to the picturesque Lake Atitlán in Guatemala is more accessible when you have your own vehicle, allowing you to enjoy the romantic and scenic views without the constraints of public transport. Whether you're driving through Mexico to see the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, navigating Costa Rica's lush landscapes, or uncovering the wonders of Belize, having a rental car enhances your travel experience. The convenience of a rental car makes it ideal for families and groups, offering ample space for luggage and the flexibility to create your own itinerary as you explore this vibrant region.

Most popular car rentals in Mexico and Central America

  • Midsize SUV: This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV offers a blend of comfort and space, making it an excellent choice for those who want to explore Mexico and Central America at their own pace while managing their luggage effectively.
  • Fullsize: Ideal for families and larger groups, the fullsize car fits 5 travelers comfortably and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it a popular choice among travelers seeking ample space and flexibility on their journey through the diverse landscapes and cultures of the region.
  • Standard SUV: A great option for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, offering enough room for a pleasant travel experience while navigating the beautiful roads of Mexico and Central America.

10 tips to save on your Mexico and Central America car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you’re in need of an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to pinpoint the ideal vehicle 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 reservation well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and can be easier to navigate and park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between price, 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 the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements follow a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs an additional surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your travels. It's simple to add car rental insurance when making a booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your travel plans include long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Find Mexico and Central America Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Mexico and Central America car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Mexico and Central America, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Mexico and Central America offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Mexico and Central America car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Mexico and Central America to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Mexico and Central America airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Mexico and Central America rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Mexico and Central America airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Mexico and Central America car reservation?
If you have to switch your plans around, most prepaid reservations qualify for a full refund. Cancellations will need to be made a minimum of six hours ahead of the collection time. Have a thorough scan of your policy for any exemptions. Your confirmation will have more details, or you can visit our Customer Service Portal for more info.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Mexico and Central America with Expedia?
Expedia makes it simple to compare prices, offers and rental providers, and to check customer reviews. Bundle your Mexico and Central America car rental with flight or hotel bookings and you can save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Mexico and Central America?
Rental vehicle rules in Mexico and Central America require drivers to be 21 and above. Are you a younger driver? Some restrictions and surcharges may apply. Rental suppliers impose what's known as a young driver surcharge, which is an additional fee to the car rental cost. Restrictions generally apply to the categories of cars young people can rent as well. Age limits may differ between companies, so check before booking.
What do you need to rent a car in Mexico and Central America?
The main requirements are a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. Many car rental companies will offer you insurance, which is optional. But you may be asked to provide proof of alternative coverage if you choose to opt out. Check with your rental agency to avoid any issues.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Mexico and Central America?
Whether you have plans to stick around Mexico and Central America or venture beyond, it's easy to book a long-term rental with Expedia. Enter your trip information and pick-up/drop-off locations and we'll find you cheap long-term car rental deals.
Where can I find a Mexico and Central America car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Mexico and Central America providers will rent to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Age policies differ between suppliers, so be prepared to do some research. Also, find out if there are additional costs. Some places will apply a surcharge to young customers between 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Mexico and Central America?
After carefuly planning your big trip, don't scrimp on safety — choose collision protection while reserving your Mexico and Central America rental vehicle with Expedia. There are plenty of advantages to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for theft, accident damage and vandalism. Plus, with a zero-dollar deductible and 24-hour emergency help, you'll be able to breathe a little easier should the unexpected occur.

Car Rental Information

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