$95 Car Rental Madison, SD

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Top Car Deals in Madison

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What you need to know for your Madison car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Madison

Renting a car in Madison, South Dakota, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like Lake Herman State Park, a great spot for outdoor adventures and scenic views, and Prairie Village, a history museum that provides cultural experiences. The Lake County Courthouse also offers a glimpse into local history and architecture.

Traveling with luggage or planning day trips? A rental car makes it convenient to manage your belongings and travel according to your schedule. You can venture to nearby cities like Wentworth, just 7 miles away, where you can enjoy Lake Madison and additional park experiences. Alternatively, head to Ramona or Rutland, both located 9 miles from Madison, to further explore the natural beauty and historical sites, including additional visits to Lake Herman State Park and the Lake County Courthouse. This flexibility is ideal for families, couples seeking a romantic getaway, or anyone wanting to experience the scenic outdoors without relying on public transportation.

Where to stay around Madison

  • Wentworth: Located 7 miles away from Madison, Wentworth offers a romantic getaway with beautiful outdoor scenery. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Lake Madison, ideal for beach activities and scenic views, and Lake Herman State Park, perfect for adventure and exploration. The area also features the Prairie Village history museum for cultural experiences. Nearby food and drink options include local wineries, enhancing the overall experience for travelers seeking relaxation and enjoyment in nature.
  • Brant Lake: Situated 10 miles from Madison, Brant Lake is another charming destination for outdoor enthusiasts and couples looking for a romantic escape. Key highlights include Lake Madison, renowned for its picturesque beach and outdoor activities, and the stunning Lake Herman State Park, which offers a variety of adventure opportunities. The Grand Opera House of Dell Rapids adds a cultural touch, making Brant Lake an appealing stop for those seeking both scenery and entertainment.
  • Ramona: Located 9 miles from Madison, Ramona is a delightful city known for its outdoor attractions and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the natural wonders of Lake Herman State Park, which is perfect for outdoor adventures, or the historical Prairie Village for a taste of local culture. The Lake County Courthouse is an interesting site for history buffs. Ramona also boasts nearby wineries, making it a lovely spot for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover 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 before your trip. Booking ahead often allows you to secure lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable 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 types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle 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 may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payments.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case something goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Madison

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Madison

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Madison. 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 Madison

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $95.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$95
 
Our second best deal of the day
$97
 
Our third best deal of the day
$98
 
From the airport to your hotel
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Madison?
You can find cheap car rentals in Madison from $17 a day with Hertz's midsize suv. Alamo Rent A Car has midsize SUVs starting from $19 a day and compact SUVs also starting from $19 a day. Enterprise offers midsize SUVs starting from $22 a day and standard SUVs starting from $24 a day. Comparing suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental in Madison that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Madison.
What are the best luxury car companies in Madison?
For luxury car rentals in Madison, you can find premium options through providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise. Alamo Rent A Car offers fullsize SUVs starting from $49 a day and premium pickup regular cabs starting from $39 a day. Enterprise also provides fullsize SUVs starting from $50 a day and premium pickup regular cabs starting from $39 a day. These premium vehicles offer enhanced comfort and features for a more elevated travel experience in Madison. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Madison.
Can I rent a car one-way in Madison?
A one-way car rental in Madison is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $43 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car may have flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Madison and drop it off at a different location. This offers convenience for travelers planning to explore beyond Madison without needing to return to their starting point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Madison.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Madison?
Madison is well suited to round-trip rentals, with prices starting from $17 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the areas around Madison and returning to the same spot. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Madison.
What are the best car rentals in Madison?
Car rentals in Madison offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard SUV
  • Special
  • Compact SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs or minivans for their space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose based on your passenger count, luggage needs, and planned activities. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Madison.

What are the best car rentals in Madison for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Madison for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and efficient to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $23 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $22 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. For extra comfort on longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, which starts from $19 a day. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Madison.

What are the best car rentals in Madison for couples?
The best car rentals in Madison for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $24 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $19 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a more spacious option, a fullsize SUV, starting from $49 a day, offers ample room for luggage and a comfortable ride. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Madison.

What are the best car rentals in Madison for families?
The best car rentals in Madison for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $19 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, suitable for families with car seats
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $38 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans provide ample space for the whole family, luggage, and any necessary child equipment, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Madison. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the June-July peak months, and consider adding GPS if you're new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Madison.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Madison?
Madison has excellent hybrid vehicle options: Enterprise offers hybrid vehicles starting from $17 a day, and Alamo Rent A Car also provides hybrid options starting from $17 a day. Multiple rental companies in Madison carry hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia. Hybrid vehicles can offer fuel savings, making them a cost-effective choice for exploring the area. Booking these vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead is advisable as demand can be high.
What is the best time to book a car in Madison?
From January, prices in Madison are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $19 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices, with June also seeing increased demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Madison?
Car rentals in Madison are available from providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, Avis, and Budget, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Enterprise has midsize SUVs starting from $22 a day and standard SUVs starting from $24 a day, which are great for families or those needing extra space. Alamo Rent A Car offers midsize SUVs starting from $19 a day and compact SUVs also starting from $19 a day, providing efficient options for city driving. Avis rounds out the choices with midsize SUVs starting from $29 a day and fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $32 a day. Budget offers economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $23 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $24 a day. For varied terrain or specific conditions, vehicles with automatic 4WD or AWD transmissions are available from some providers, offering enhanced stability. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Madison.
What are good day trip destinations from Madison by rental car?
Exploring the natural beauty surrounding Madison is easy with a rental car, offering options for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can visit several beautiful lakes within a short drive, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Lake Herman State Park is just 4 miles away, offering a quick escape for picnicking or enjoying the scenery.
  • Lake Madison, located 9 miles from the city, is another excellent choice for a short trip, ideal for those looking to spend a few hours by the water.
  • For a slightly longer excursion, Lake Thompson Recreation Area is about 33 miles away, providing more extensive opportunities for recreation.
  • Lake Poinsett, approximately 47 miles from Madison, makes for a pleasant half-day trip, offering scenic views and tranquility.
  • Consider a full-day adventure to Lake Kampeska, which is about 77 miles away, offering a wider range of activities and a scenic drive of about 1 to 2 hours each way.
For these day trips, a midsize SUV starting from $22 a day or a standard SUV starting from $24 a day provides ample space for luggage and passengers, making them comfortable choices for families. Couples or solo travelers might prefer a compact 2 or 4 door car starting from $31 a day for its fuel efficiency and ease of navigation. Always remember to fuel up before heading out and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Madison.

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 Madison?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Madison. 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 Madison?
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 Madison?
Budget car rental in Madison can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $95. 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 Madison?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Madison. 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 Madison car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Madison?
To rent a car in Madison, 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 Madison car rental?
If you need to cancel your Madison 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.
Why should I rent a car in Madison with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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