Car Rental Melrose, MN

These Melrose insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 29, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Melrose

Renting a car in Melrose offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This is especially beneficial for families or groups seeking outdoor adventures and romantic experiences. You can visit nearby attractions like Birch Lakes State Forest for eco-friendly outdoor activities, or enjoy the scenic views at Big Birch Lake, which is located just 7 miles away. Additionally, the Melrose Area Museum provides a glimpse into the local culture, right within the city. A rental car also allows you to venture to nearby cities such as Sauk Centre, 8 miles from Melrose, where you can explore Sinclair Lewis Park, or North Shore, 9 miles away, home to more lakes and natural beauty. Exploring New Munich, only 4 miles away, offers additional outdoor opportunities at Little Birch Lake. With a rental car, you can make the most of your trip by visiting these diverse attractions without the constraints of public transportation.

Where to stay around Melrose

• North Shore: Located 9 miles from Melrose, North Shore is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and romantic scenery. The area offers access to recreational activities such as skiing and features stunning natural landmarks like Big Birch Lake and Sauk Lake, both perfect for a beach or scenic outdoor vacation. Lake Sylvia Wayside provides an eco-friendly park experience, making North Shore a great choice for family outings. Enjoy local food and drinks options, including wineries and distilleries, enhancing your stay with delightful tastes.
• Sauk Centre: Situated 8 miles from Melrose, Sauk Centre is known for its outdoor and scenic experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like Sauk Lake, perfect for a romantic beach getaway, and Sinclair Lewis Park, which offers a lovely urban park atmosphere for families. Lake Sylvia Wayside is also nearby, providing an eco-friendly outdoor setting. With various restaurants and wineries in the area, you can indulge in local flavors while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
• Freeport: Freeport is located 6 miles from Melrose and is celebrated for its outdoor and scenic offerings. Key attractions include the beautiful Big Birch Lake, ideal for beach and romantic outings, and the Freeport Lions Community Park, which serves as an eco-friendly space for family activities. Lake Sylvia Wayside is also accessible for those seeking a green retreat. With recreational areas and local stores nearby, Freeport is a charming option for travelers looking to enjoy nature and community vibes.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the optimal choice for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower prices and ensures better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most favorable option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this scenario.
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 expense.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards as a payment method.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unforeseen costs and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent any additional 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 Melrose

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Melrose

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

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

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