Arkansas Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Arkansas

Renting a car in Arkansas provides the freedom to explore this beautiful state at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions like Crater of Diamonds State Park, known for outdoor adventures, and Beaver Lake, perfect for enjoying scenic beach experiences. If you have a passion for art, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville offers a rich cultural experience. The flexibility of having your own vehicle makes it easy to travel to popular destinations such as Hot Springs, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Hot Springs National Park and the charm of Bathhouse Row. Eureka Springs, with its unique Thorncrown Chapel and Christ of the Ozarks, is another must-see, and a rental car allows you to navigate these sites effortlessly. For those seeking outdoor scenery, adventure, or romantic getaways, renting a car is the ideal choice. It simplifies luggage management and allows you to create flexible travel plans tailored to your interests, enhancing your visit to Arkansas.

Most popular car rentals in Arkansas

• Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy a comfortable ride while having ample space for your luggage, allowing you to explore Arkansas at your leisure.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, the fullsize car option also accommodates 5 travelers and can manage up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for those traveling with more gear or larger groups, ensuring that everyone has enough space for their belongings during your trip in Arkansas.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, and groups, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a higher driving position and more cargo space, making it suitable for those who want a comfortable and versatile vehicle for their adventures in Arkansas.

Where to stay in Arkansas

• Hot Springs: Hot Springs is a vibrant city known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Travelers can enjoy attractions such as Hot Springs National Park, a beautiful national state park perfect for nature lovers. Bathhouse Row offers a glimpse into the area's cultural history, while Magic Springs and Crystal Falls provides family-friendly entertainment. Nearby amenities include a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it an ideal spot for food and drink enthusiasts.
• Eureka Springs: Known for its romantic charm, Eureka Springs is a picturesque city that offers outdoor activities and scenic views. Key attractions include Thorncrown Chapel, a stunning church ideal for visitors interested in cultural experiences, and the historic Eureka Springs & North Arkansas Railway. The area is also home to nature reserves and lakes, with plenty of dining options at local restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful destination for couples.
• Bentonville: Bentonville is a charming city that combines outdoor recreation with cultural experiences. Notable highlights include the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary, both offering rich artistic experiences. The Walmart Museum provides a glimpse into the area's history. Surrounded by beautiful lakes and national parks, Bentonville is a great place to explore, with numerous dining options including restaurants and wineries to enhance your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Arkansas

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure lower rates and have a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver 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 before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
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 only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra costs.
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 Arkansas

The best time to rent a car in Arkansas is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. These months offer good value and less competition for rentals. Following this, May provides another opportunity with slightly low prices, although demand starts to rise. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand making it a busy time for rentals. June also sees high prices and demand, making it less favorable.