$51 Car Rental Mankato, MN

These Mankato insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 14, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Mankato

Renting a car in Mankato offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like Sibley Park, which is perfect for family and outdoor experiences, or immerse yourself in culture at Twin Rivers Arts and Betsy & Tacy's House Tours & Gift Shop. Families will appreciate the convenience of managing luggage and strollers, allowing for a more enjoyable outing. Furthermore, venturing outside Mankato is simple; you can reach Saint Peter, just 11 miles away, to enjoy The Arboretum at Gustavus Adolphus College or visit Madison Lake, located 10 miles from Mankato, where you can explore local arts and a public beach. North Mankato is also nearby, featuring the same attractions as Mankato, making it easy to expand your itinerary. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience, granting you the ability to explore both the city and its beautiful surroundings without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rental in Mankato

• Midsize: This car option is the most booked in Mankato, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore the area comfortably. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy the freedom to visit local attractions at your own pace while managing your luggage easily.

Top rated car suppliers in Mankato

• Enterprise: With a rental location in Mankato, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility. They offer a diverse range of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans being the most popular options. Renting from Enterprise allows you to explore Mankato and its surroundings at your own pace, making it easy to manage luggage and adjust your itinerary.

Where to stay in and around Mankato

• Saint Peter: Located 11 miles from Mankato, Saint Peter offers a romantic and scenic experience. Visitors can explore attractions such as The Arboretum at Gustavus Adolphus College, perfect for family outings, and the serene Hiniker Pond Public Beach, ideal for beach and outdoor activities. The city also features a shopping mall center and various dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it a great choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and recreation.
• North Mankato: Situated within the Mankato area, North Mankato is ideal for families and sports enthusiasts. Key attractions include Sibley Park, which is perfect for outdoor activities, and the cultural hub of Twin Rivers Arts. The village also hosts an arena entertainment facility and offers diverse dining options, including restaurants and alcohol distilleries. North Mankato is a vibrant spot for those looking to engage in local events and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere.
• Madison Lake: Approximately 10 miles from Mankato, Madison Lake is a charming destination for those seeking outdoor adventure and romantic scenery. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Hiniker Pond Public Beach and partake in activities at local parks. With nearby options for wine tasting and dining, Madison Lake provides a serene escape. The area also features cultural attractions like Twin Rivers Arts, making it a lovely spot for a peaceful getaway.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Tailor your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover 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 reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to secure better rates and have a greater selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options 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 the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are fine as well. Just remember to 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 added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long 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 necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Mankato

The best value period to rent a car in and around Mankato is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January also offers lower demand but slightly higher prices. April is another shoulder month, featuring slightly low prices and average demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. June and August also see slightly high prices, further contributing to the summer peak.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Mankato

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Mankato

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $51.

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