Montana Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Montana

A town with a prominent red brick building, a church with a steeple, and mountains in the background.
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Bozeman

Bozeman

What you need to know for your Montana car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Montana

Renting a car in Montana is an excellent choice for tourists seeking freedom and flexibility while exploring the state's diverse attractions. With a rental car, you can navigate the scenic routes at your own pace and manage your luggage easily. Montana is known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, making it ideal for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Key destinations such as Glacier National Park, renowned for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities, are easier to access with your own vehicle. You can also enjoy the beautiful Flathead Lake, perfect for outdoor activities and romantic getaways, or unwind at Chico Hot Springs, known for wellness and relaxation experiences. Additionally, having a car allows you to visit vibrant cities like West Yellowstone, Bozeman, and Missoula, each offering unique attractions such as Yellowstone Park's West Entrance, the Museum of the Rockies, and Fort Missoula. Overall, a rental car enhances your experience in Montana, providing the convenience to explore its remarkable outdoor and cultural offerings without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Montana

  • Midsize: This car type is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize vehicles are an excellent choice for couples and families looking to explore Montana comfortably. With a good balance of space and fuel efficiency, they make it easy to manage luggage while enjoying the freedom to travel at your own pace.
  • Standard SUV: Ideal for groups, this car type accommodates 5 travelers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. Standard SUVs offer a spacious interior, making them a great option for families and couples who desire a bit more room for both passengers and gear. With the added height and stability of an SUV, you’ll find it easier to navigate Montana's diverse landscapes.
  • Compact: A versatile choice for solo travelers, couples, and families, the compact car can fit up to 5 travelers and has room for 3 medium suitcases. This option is particularly well-suited for urban environments or those who prefer a smaller vehicle, making it easier to park while maintaining comfort for everyone onboard. Compact cars provide flexibility without compromising on the essentials for your trip.

Where to stay in Montana

  • West Yellowstone: A prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts, West Yellowstone offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes. It's located near the Yellowstone Park West Entrance, perfect for adventure seekers looking to explore the national park. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of Gallatin National Forest and Hebgen Lake, ideal for a romantic getaway or outdoor activities. The city features a variety of nearby restaurants and breweries, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Bozeman: Known for its vibrant outdoor scene, Bozeman is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes including the Bridger Canyon, which is excellent for adventure and scenery lovers. The city also hosts cultural attractions like the Museum of the Rockies and the Gallatin County Pioneer Museum, offering a glimpse into local history. With a range of dining options from breweries to restaurants, Bozeman is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking both adventure and culture in one place.
  • Missoula: Nestled in a picturesque area, Missoula is a hub for outdoor activities and scenic enjoyment. Key attractions include the Missoula County Fairgrounds, perfect for family outings, and Fort Missoula, rich in history. Caras Park offers a lovely urban park atmosphere for those looking to relax outdoors. With plenty of breweries and pubs, Missoula is an inviting choice for travelers wanting to experience local flavors while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Montana

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilizing filters on Expedia will help you identify the best option for your trip.
  2. 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 travel date. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, 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.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 in Montana

The best value period to rent a car in Montana is April, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. Following closely, October and November also offer moderately low prices with lower demand. June through August tend to be the busiest and most expensive months, especially July, which sees high demand and moderately high prices. While May and September maintain average pricing, they also experience higher demand, making them less ideal than early spring or late fall.

Find Montana Car Rentals

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

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Montana?
You can find cheap car rentals in Montana from $12 a day with Enterprise's economy 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Montana are picked up at the region's main gateway, Spokane Intl Airport (GEG). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Big Sky and Whitefish. Suppliers such as Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Montana.
What are the best car rentals in Montana?
Car rentals across Montana offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Avis, broadly available in the region's main cities - Big Sky, Whitefish, and Bozeman. The most common car classes include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Special
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Montana.

What are the best car rental companies in Montana?
For car rentals across Montana, well-rated providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Avis offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Big Sky, Whitefish, and Bozeman. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Spokane Intl Arpt (GEG) for exploring Montana?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Spokane Intl Airport (GEG) for exploring Montana. Providers including Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Avis operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day. GEG is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Big Sky to Whitefish.
Can I rent a car one-way in Montana?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Montana - pick up in one city, such as Big Sky, and drop-off in another, like Whitefish, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Montana?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Montana, including in Big Sky and Whitefish. Alamo Rent A Car and Avis both offer hybrid from $12 a day and electric options from $12 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Montana?
For luxury car rentals across Montana, Alamo Rent A Car offers fullsize SUVs from $44 a day, while Avis provides fullsize SUVs from $59 a day. Enterprise and Budget also add premium categories - high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Big Sky and Whitefish. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Montana.
What are the best car rentals in Montana for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Montana, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Big Sky to Whitefish:
  • Thrifty Car Rental: mini passenger van from $25 a day - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Budget: midsize SUV from $16 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: fullsize SUV from $43 a day - seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Montana.

What are the best car rentals in Montana for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Montana for solo travelers are economy and compact classes - small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Big Sky and Whitefish:
  • Economy car, from $12 a day - fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $15 a day - fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Montana.

What are the best car rentals in Montana for couples?
The best car rentals in Montana for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Big Sky and Whitefish:
  • Midsize car, from $15 a day - fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $15 a day - fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a fullsize car - fits up to 3 large suitcases - for scenic drives around Montana. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Montana.

What are the closest airports to Montana for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Montana and its surrounding areas offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Spokane Intl Airport (GEG)
  • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
  • Glacier Park International Airport (FCA)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Montana?
In Montana, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust - take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Montana?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Montana. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Montana?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Montana?
Budget car rental in Montana can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Montana?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Montana. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Montana car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Montana?
To rent a car in Montana, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Montana car rental?
If you need to cancel your Montana car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

Car Rental Information

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From the airport to your hotel:
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