Arkansas Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Arkansas

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What you need to know for your Arkansas car rental

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.

Find Arkansas Car Rentals

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

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Arkansas?
You can find cheap car rentals in Arkansas from $11 a day with Hertz's fullsize 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Arkansas are picked up at the region's main gateway, Memphis Tn Airport (MEM). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Hot Springs and Eureka Springs. Suppliers such as Dollar Rent A Car, Avis, 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 Arkansas.
What are the best car rentals in Arkansas?
Car rentals across Arkansas offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Budget, broadly available in the region's main cities - Hot Springs, Eureka Springs, and Bentonville. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Special
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
These options cater to various traveler needs, whether you're a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family. 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 Arkansas.

What are the best car rental companies in Arkansas?
For car rentals across Arkansas, well-rated providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Dollar Rent A Car, and Enterprise offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Hot Springs, Eureka Springs, and Bentonville. 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 Memphis Tn Airport (MEM) for exploring Arkansas?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Memphis Tn Airport (MEM) for exploring Arkansas. Providers including Dollar Rent A Car, Avis, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates starting from around $13 a day. Memphis Tn Airport (MEM) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Hot Springs to Eureka Springs.
Can I rent a car one-way in Arkansas?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Arkansas - pick up in one city, such as Hot Springs, and drop-off in another, like Eureka Springs, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $19 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car 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 Arkansas?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Arkansas, including in Hot Springs and Eureka Springs. Budget and Avis both offer electric from $11 a day and hybrid options from $11 a day. Dollar Rent A Car also provides electric vehicles from $11 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Arkansas?
For luxury car rentals across Arkansas, Enterprise offers luxury 2 or 4 door cars from $36 a day (and premium crossover from $36 a day), while Alamo Rent A Car and Avis 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 Hot Springs and Eureka Springs. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Arkansas.
What are the best car rentals in Arkansas for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Arkansas, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Hot Springs to Eureka Springs:
  • Dollar Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $18 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Dollar Rent A Car: mini passenger van from $22 a day - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: 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 Arkansas.

What are the best car rentals in Arkansas for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Arkansas 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 Hot Springs and Eureka Springs:
  • Compact SUV, from $19 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 3 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, from $20 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 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 Arkansas.

What are the best car rentals in Arkansas for couples?
The best car rentals in Arkansas for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Hot Springs and Eureka Springs:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, from $13 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $19 a day - fits up to 5 people with room for 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. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for your trip. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Arkansas.

What are the closest airports to Arkansas for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Arkansas offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Memphis Tn Airport (MEM)
  • Hot Springs Memorial Field Airport (HOT)
  • Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA)
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 Arkansas?
In Arkansas, 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.
What are the best road trip destinations from Arkansas by rental car?
A rental car in Arkansas makes it easy to explore nearby attractions and cities in neighboring states, offering flexibility for your road trip. From the Arkansas region, you can easily drive to destinations such as:
  • The Square in Oxford, Mississippi, approximately 1 mile away, known for its vibrant atmosphere and local shops.
  • The University of Mississippi in University, Mississippi, about 2 miles away, perfect for those interested in collegiate history and beautiful campuses.
  • Casey Jones Village in Jackson, Tennessee, approximately 5 miles away, offering a glimpse into railroad history and local culture.
  • West Tennessee Healthcare Sportsplex in Jackson, Tennessee, about 6 miles away, ideal for sports enthusiasts.
Having your own car also allows you to easily visit other cities within Arkansas, such as Hot Springs, Eureka Springs, and Bentonville, each offering unique experiences. You could also consider adding an activity like the Memphis City Tour with Optional Riverboat Cruise & Sun Studio Add-On Options to your itinerary, making the most of your car rental in Arkansas. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Arkansas.

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 Arkansas?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Arkansas. 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 Arkansas?
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 Arkansas?
Budget car rental in Arkansas 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 Arkansas?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Arkansas. 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 Arkansas car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Arkansas?
To rent a car in Arkansas, 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 Arkansas car rental?
If you need to cancel your Arkansas 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.

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