$37 Car Rental Lakeland, FL

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lakeland

Renting a car in Lakeland offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and those seeking outdoor experiences or entertainment-themed attractions. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, allowing for spontaneous adventures. Visit the Sun N Fun Air Museum for a cultural experience, or spend a day at Lake Mirror, where the scenic beauty is perfect for outdoor and romantic outings. The Circle B Bar Reserve offers a chance to connect with nature, all conveniently located within Lakeland. Additionally, a rental car makes it easy to explore nearby destinations such as Winter Haven, just 13 miles away, where you can enjoy LEGOLAND® Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida. Auburndale, located 10 miles from Lakeland, features attractions like The Circle B Bar Reserve and Lake Mirror, while Fussels Corner is also within reach. With a rental car, you can seamlessly visit these highlights, making your trip to Lakeland enjoyable and hassle-free.

Most popular car rentals in Lakeland

• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is a top choice for travelers in Lakeland, accommodating up to 5 people and their luggage with ease. With space for 2 medium suitcases, it’s perfect for couples, families, or groups looking to explore the area together. This option provides a comfortable ride while allowing you the freedom to manage your luggage effortlessly.
• Midsize SUV: Another popular option is the Midsize SUV, which also accommodates 5 travelers but offers the added benefit of room for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups who need extra space for their belongings. The Midsize SUV combines comfort and versatility, making it ideal for navigating the diverse attractions in and around Lakeland.
• Fullsize: For those who prioritize space, the Fullsize car is an excellent selection. It accommodates 5 travelers with room for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it perfect for families or larger groups. This option ensures you have ample room for all your luggage while providing a comfortable driving experience as you explore Lakeland and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Lakeland

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in the Lakeland area, Budget provides travelers with excellent convenience for car rentals. Known for offering great value, the most booked vehicles with Budget include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it a popular choice for those looking for flexibility and space during their travels.
• Enterprise: Featuring 4 rental locations throughout Lakeland, Enterprise stands out for its extensive selection and customer service. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Premium Pickups from this supplier, ensuring a comfortable and versatile driving experience. The multiple locations make it easy to find a convenient pick-up point for your rental needs.
• Hertz: Hertz offers a single rental location in Lakeland, providing travelers with reliable car rental services. The most popular vehicles available from Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, ideal for those who appreciate comfort and ample space. With its solid reputation, Hertz ensures a smooth rental experience for visitors exploring the area.

Where to stay around Lakeland

• Winter Haven: Located 13 miles away from Lakeland, Winter Haven is a great choice for families seeking outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy attractions like LEGOLAND® Florida and Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida, both ideal for family outings. The area is also known for its shopping areas and nearby beaches, perfect for a day of relaxation. For dining options, Winter Haven boasts an array of restaurants and wineries, enhancing the overall family-friendly experience.
• Auburndale: Situated 10 miles from Lakeland, Auburndale offers a mix of family fun and outdoor activities. Key attractions include LEGOLAND® Florida and The Circle B Bar Reserve, catering to those looking for both entertainment and nature. Lake Mirror is a scenic spot for outdoor lovers, while local wineries and restaurants provide delightful dining options. Auburndale is a suitable destination for family-centric vacations, especially during the pleasant spring and fall seasons.
• Plant City: Just 11 miles from Lakeland, Plant City is known for its family-oriented attractions and outdoor experiences. Notable points of interest include Dinosaur World, a fun theme park, and cultural sites like the Sun N Fun Air Museum and Florida Air Museum. With various shopping malls and dining options, Plant City is perfect for families looking to explore while enjoying good food and local wines. The area's vibrant community makes it a lively option for travelers.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to make your reservation well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often secures better rates and improves availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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 restrictions before you book.
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 is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer 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 convenience can 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 unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when making your reservation with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lakeland

The best time to rent a car in and around Lakeland is September, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This is followed by May, which also offers good value, though demand is slightly higher. April and August are decent shoulder months with average prices and demand. In contrast, March tends to be the most expensive month with slightly high demand. June and July continue this trend with higher prices and demand levels.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Lakeland

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Lakeland into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Lakeland and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Lakeland

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Lakeland. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Lakeland

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $37.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals