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Top destinations to rent a car in Mexico

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What you need to know for your Mexico car rental

These Mexico insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .

Reasons to book a car rental in Mexico

Renting a car in Mexico is an excellent choice for those seeking freedom and flexibility while exploring the country's diverse attractions. With a rental car, you can visit key sites at your own pace, manage your luggage easily, and tailor your travel plans to suit your preferences. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures or city experiences, having your own vehicle allows you to discover more of what Mexico has to offer. For example, you can tee off at the Moon Palace Golf Club in Cancun, catch a race at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City, or stroll along Paseo de la Reforma, immersing yourself in the vibrant urban atmosphere. Additionally, a rental car enables you to explore popular destinations like Cancun, known for its stunning beaches, and Playa del Carmen, which offers beautiful coastal views. The convenience of driving allows you to make impromptu stops, ensuring you get the most out of your trip. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a city explorer, renting a car enhances your experience in Mexico.

Most popular car rentals in Mexico

  • Midsize: This option accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples and families looking to explore Mexico. Midsize cars offer a balance of comfort and space, allowing for easy luggage management while navigating through various attractions at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice offers additional space and comfort, making it suitable for longer drives and diverse terrains, enhancing your travel experience in Mexico.
  • Fullsize: Accommodating 5 travelers with the flexibility of up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize vehicle is an excellent option for families and groups. This car type provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore Mexico's attractions with ease.

Where to stay in Mexico

  • Cancun: Known for its stunning beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, Cancun is an ideal spot for travelers seeking outdoor experiences. With attractions like the scenic Delfines Beach, only a short distance away, visitors can enjoy sunbathing and water activities. For golf enthusiasts, the Moon Palace Golf Club and Iberostar Cancun Golf Course offer excellent options for a day on the greens. The vibrant town neighborhood provides a variety of dining and drinking options, making it a perfect base for your adventures.
  • Cabo San Lucas: Famous for its outdoor sports and breathtaking scenery, Cabo San Lucas is a must-visit for those looking to experience the beauty of Mexico. Medano Beach is a popular destination for beach vacations, while Cabo San Lucas Bay offers stunning views and opportunities for various outdoor activities. Don't miss The Arch, a natural rock formation that provides a fantastic backdrop for photography. The area's wineries and bars add to the vibrant nightlife, making it an exciting place to stay.
  • Playa del Carmen: A vibrant city that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts, Playa del Carmen boasts beautiful beaches and recreational areas. The Playa del Carmen Main Beach is great for family outings, and Maroma Beach offers a relaxing beach vacation experience. The nearby Ferry to Cozumel allows for adventurous day trips, while local breweries and restaurants provide ample dining options. This lively destination is perfect for those looking to explore and enjoy the coastal charm of Mexico.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Mexico

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are 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 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—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 before making a reservation.
  5. 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 option is usually the most economical. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra fees.
  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 in Mexico

The best time to rent a car in Mexico is September, when prices and demand are both at their lowest. This month offers great value for travelers seeking to explore. The months of February and May also present decent options, with slightly lower prices and moderate demand. However, December stands out as the most expensive month, characterized by high demand and elevated rental prices. The period from January to April tends to be busy and pricier, especially during the holidays.

Find Mexico Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Mexico car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Mexico, 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 offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Mexico 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 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 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 rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Mexico car reservation?
We realize that plans can change at the last minute. That's why most reservations offer a complete refund if you cancel six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time. Your rental policy should contain all the information you need. If you can't find the answer there, our Customer Service Portal is always available.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Mexico with Expedia?
It's easy to score an awesome deal with Expedia. Just choose the car class, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off points, and browse offers from top rental brands. Save even more when you bundle your Mexico car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Mexico?
The youngest age you can rent a car in Mexico is 21. A young driver surcharge generally applies, so check before you book and take into account any additional costs. There could also be restrictions on the types of cars available to young drivers. For example, some companies will only rent out economy, compact and medium-sized cars to less-experienced motorists. Requirements may vary between companies, so read the fine print carefully.
What do you need to rent a car in Mexico?
The essentials are your driver's license and a credit card in your name. Most 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. We recommend checking your policy terms and conditions to avoid any hassles.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Mexico?
Whether you have plans to hang around Mexico or travel 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 car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Mexico companies will rent to drivers under 25 years of age, and others won't. Policies differ between suppliers, so be prepared to do some research. Also, find out if there are additional costs. Some outlets will pass on a surcharge to young customers between the ages of 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions to avoid any nasty surprises.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Mexico?
For a smooth, stress-free vacation, add Expedia's collision damage protection while booking your rental car. This insurance covers your vehicle against theft, vandalism and collision damage. It also provides customers with 24/7 emergency assistance in times of need. Opt in to this plan while finalizing your Mexico ride with Expedia and save time and money at the rental desk.

Car Rental Information

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