$39 Car Rental Lafayette, LA

This content is based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to highlight insights that help you plan your trip. Updated: August 13, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lafayette

Renting a car in Lafayette offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions such as Acadian Village and the Cathedral of St John, both ideal for cultural experiences. Sports enthusiasts can head to Cajun Field for a taste of local football. The ease of managing luggage and flexible travel plans makes it an appealing choice, especially for families or those seeking entertainment-themed experiences.

Additionally, having a car allows you to explore nearby cities like Broussard, just 6 miles away, where you can enjoy the Broussard Sports Complex. Breaux Bridge, located 8 miles from Lafayette, features the Vermilionville Historic Village, while Scott, only 5 miles away, offers more options for cultural exploration. With a rental car, you can seamlessly navigate these destinations, making your trip to Lafayette more enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Lafayette

• Luxury SUV: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 4 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. Renting a Luxury SUV in Lafayette allows you to travel in style and comfort while having ample space for luggage and passengers, which is particularly beneficial if you plan to explore the area with multiple bags.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, the Economy car option accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This choice is perfect for those looking to navigate Lafayette efficiently while keeping rental costs lower. The Economy car offers a balance of affordability and functionality, making it a popular choice among tourists.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a good mix of space and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your travels around Lafayette without feeling cramped. With enough room for your belongings, a Midsize SUV is a versatile choice for various travel needs.

Top rated car suppliers in Lafayette

• Budget: Budget provides a reliable car rental option in Lafayette with one rental location. Known for offering great value, the most booked vehicles with Budget are Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs. This supplier is a popular choice for travelers looking for flexibility and ease while exploring the area.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out with three rental locations in Lafayette, making it highly accessible for visitors. With a solid reputation, Hertz offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most popular options among travelers. This supplier is ideal for those who appreciate a diverse selection and convenience during their trip.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car features two rental locations in Lafayette, providing tourists with convenient access to their vehicles. Popular choices include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, catering to the needs of various travelers. Dollar is an excellent option for those seeking a comfortable ride while exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of Lafayette.

Where to stay around Lafayette

• Breaux Bridge: Located 8 miles away from Lafayette, Breaux Bridge is perfect for travelers seeking outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. Enjoy family-friendly experiences at local attractions like the Vermilionville Historic Village and Cathedral of St John. The area boasts nearby parks and a national state park for those who love nature. Dining options include various restaurants and local wineries, making it an ideal spot for both culture and culinary enthusiasts.
• Broussard: Situated 6 miles from Lafayette, Broussard is great for sports lovers and families. Popular venues like the Broussard Sports Complex at Saint Julien Park and Cajun Field provide exciting sports experiences. The area features parks and an array of dining choices, including breweries and restaurants, ensuring a blend of outdoor adventure and local flavors.
• Scott: Only 5 miles away from Lafayette, Scott offers a mix of family fun and sports entertainment. Key highlights include the Acadian Village, a historic site, and Cajun Field, a popular football stadium. With recreational areas and local eateries serving sweet treats and hearty meals, Scott provides a charming experience for visitors looking to enjoy both culture and family activities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Lafayette

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on 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, using filters on Expedia can help you discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a nice balance of cost, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. It’s important to verify age requirements before making your reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most cost-effective option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable—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 a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lafayette

The best value period to rent a car in and around Lafayette is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. March and April can also be good options, offering average prices and demand. However, June through August see a spike in both demand and prices, making it the most expensive time for rentals. During these summer months, securing a rental may require a bit more budget compared to earlier in the year.

Car rental prices in Lafayette

Lafayette, LA is a surprisingly affordable city – and the same goes for its car rental prices: the rates for car rentals in Lafayette start from just $39* so you can save more of your hard-earned cash for the city's delicious Cajun soul food. Lafayette car rental deals can be found in the winter when there are fewer tourists and lower prices – and you won't miss out on anything thanks to Louisiana's mild winters.

Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Lafayette

To find the best car rental deals in Lafayette, think about the type of vehicle you're going for. Smaller vehicles, like a mini, will tend to give you some of the best Expedia car rental deals, as opposed to larger or luxury vehicle classes, for instance. And whether you're based in Lafayette itself for your whole stay or planning on visiting nearby Baton Rouge, Lafayette is primarily a place for city driving. So, by opting for a smaller, compact car you'll make street parking a breeze and help you maximize that all-important fuel efficiency.

Best car rental companies in Lafayette

You've got so many choices when it comes to finding some of the best car rental companies in Lafayette. International company Avis comes highly recommended by travelers – and with a counter right at Lafayette Regional Airport, you can hop into your car as soon as you get off the plane. If you're heading downtown, Enterprise car rentals have no fewer than three branches across the city to give you maximum flexibility. These are just two of Expedia's partners: the best car rental company in Lafayette for you depends on your specific needs. And don't forget to search using your specific dates to see other rental car companies in Lafayette.

Best places to rent a car in Lafayette

If you're flying into Lafayette Regional Airport, your best bet is to hire a car directly at the airport itself and make the most of the airport car rental deals. Public transportation from the airport to downtown is somewhat patchy, so you might find a car handy for getting to your accommodation. If you're coming into the city by Amtrak train, you might prefer to have your car hire in Lafayette's downtown or near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette so it's ready and waiting when you step onto the platform.

Types of Lafayette car rentals

While most travelers will opt for a standard compact or economy car rental in Lafayette, many other options are available. If you want to stand out, a sports car rental in Lafayette will take you to the bayou and back in style. An SUV rental is great for those who need more space – families and over-packers will appreciate it. And for those down south who want to celebrate a special day, a luxury car would be a great option for your Lafayette wedding car rental.

Advice on car rental in Lafayette as an American

To rent a car in Lafayette, you'll need a valid US driver's license – your rental car company will help you with an international permit if you need one. Besides this, many rental car companies have age thresholds for car rental and charge an extra fee for drivers under the age of 25. Finally, you'll often need a credit card to cover your deposit: make sure to check the specific T&Cs of your chosen provider, as some companies let you rent a car with a debit card, too.

Benefits of booking a car rental in Lafayette with Expedia

With Expedia, finding a cheap rental car in Lafayette is a breeze – just enter your dates and pick-up time to see all the options available to you – and voilà, cheap rental cars in Lafayette. Once you've got your list of available cars, use the "Total Price" option to make sure your discount car rental in Lafayette isn't going to break the bank. Pssst: use the "Great deals" checkbox at the top to see some of the very best Expedia car rental deals for the day. Sometimes things crop up last-minute and your plans go awry – we get it. That's why the bulk of Lafayette car rental deals on Expedia comes with free cancelation. Make sure to carefully check the terms and conditions before booking.