Car Rental Mount Desert Island, ME

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Top Car Deals in Mount Desert Island

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Mount Desert Island, Maine, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Mount Desert Island, Maine, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Mount Desert Island, Maine, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Mount Desert Island, Maine, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Mount Desert Island car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Mount Desert Island

Renting a car in and around Mount Desert Island offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, making it an excellent choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Acadia National Park, located only 4 miles away, where you can enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic views. Cadillac Mountain is just 5 miles from Mount Desert Island, perfect for those seeking breathtaking landscapes and adventure. The Village Green, also 5 miles away, provides a lovely spot for family outings and relaxation. Furthermore, a car allows you to explore nearby destinations like Bar Harbor, which features the West Street Historic District, and Mount Desert, known for Jordan Pond and Echo Lake Beach, both within a short drive. For those staying close to Mount Desert Island, the Stone Haven neighborhood offers access to Cadillac Mountain and Acadia National Park, just 1 mile away. A rental car simplifies luggage management and travel plans, allowing you to enjoy your trip without the constraints of public transportation, making it ideal for families, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Most popular car rentals around Mount Desert Island

  • Midsize: The Midsize car is a great option for those traveling in pairs or with family. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travelers, allowing for flexibility in seating. With space for up to 3 large suitcases, this type is perfect for managing luggage while exploring the scenic routes of Mount Desert Island.
  • Economy: Ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families, the Economy car type can also seat up to 5 travelers. It has the capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it a practical choice for those looking to travel light while still enjoying the freedom of exploring Mount Desert Island at their own pace.
  • Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is perfect for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers. With room for 2 medium suitcases, this vehicle offers a balance of space and comfort, allowing travelers to navigate the beautiful landscapes of Mount Desert Island with ease and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers around Mount Desert Island

  • Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travelers looking to rent a car near Mount Desert Island, with a location situated 5 miles away. Known for its wide selection of vehicles, the most commonly booked options are the Midsize SUV and Economy cars, providing flexibility and comfort for your adventures. Hertz is recognized for its efficient service, ensuring a smooth rental experience that allows you to explore the island and its surroundings at your own pace.
  • Enterprise: With two rental locations, the nearest one also located 5 miles away from Mount Desert Island, Enterprise is another excellent option for car rentals. Customers frequently choose Midsize and Compact vehicles from this supplier, which are ideal for navigating the scenic routes of the area. Enterprise is well-regarded for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental terms, making it a reliable choice for both short trips and extended stays.

Where to stay around Mount Desert Island

  • Bar Harbor: Located 5 miles from Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is a vibrant city known for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore popular attractions like Cadillac Mountain and the Village Green, or engage in various activities such as hiking and water sports. The area provides ample dining options, including restaurants and wine establishments, making it a great base for your exploration.
  • Southwest Harbor: Situated 8 miles from Mount Desert Island, Southwest Harbor offers a scenic and adventurous atmosphere. This city is close to Acadia National Park and Cadillac Mountain, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With access to numerous hiking trails and recreational areas, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility. The local dining scene features restaurants and wineries for those looking to unwind after a day of adventure.
  • Mount Desert: Just 4 miles from Mount Desert Island, Mount Desert is an ideal location for those seeking outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes. Key attractions include Jordan Pond and Echo Lake Beach, which are perfect for relaxation and romance. The area also boasts various recreational opportunities, complemented by nearby dining options such as breweries and sweet treat shops, making it a charming spot for tourists.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Mount Desert Island

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and improved availability, particularly during peak travel 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—might not be available. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most economical option. Other rentals may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. 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 added convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking 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 to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Mount Desert Island

The best value period for renting a car in and around Mount Desert Island is February, when both prices and demand are low. March and April also offer moderate pricing and average demand, making them good alternatives. As summer approaches, prices tend to rise, with July being the most expensive month due to high demand. August follows closely behind, maintaining elevated rates and busy conditions, while September sees a return to average pricing and demand.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January24.4°F (-4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
February25.2°F (-3.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowModerately Low
March31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowModerately Low
April41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately Low
May51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June59.4°F (15.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighModerately High
August66.2°F (19.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighModerately High
September60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighModerately High
November39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December31.3°F (-0.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Mount Desert Island

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Mount Desert Island

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

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.

Car Rental Information

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
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Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Mount Desert Island car reservation?
You should qualify for a complete refund on your prepaid rental if you advise us a minimum of six hours ahead of collecting the car. Scan your rental policy for the specifics. Our Customer Service Portal may have what you need too.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Mount Desert Island with Expedia?
Check out ratings and reviews, choose your preferred car type and compare offers from leading providers. Expedia makes it a cinch to nab the best deal on your rental wheels. Combine your Mount Desert Island car rental with flight or hotel bookings and drive off with extra savings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Mount Desert Island?
Rental car rules in Mount Desert Island require drivers to be at least 21. Are you a younger driver? Surcharges and restrictions could apply. Rental outlets impose what is known as a young driver surcharge, which is an additional fee to the rental car cost. Restrictions usually apply to the categories of cars available to young people too. Age limits may differ between outlets, so check before booking.
What do you need to rent a car in Mount Desert Island?
Renting a car in Mount Desert Island is easy. Usually, all that's required is a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. After choosing your wheels, look up the terms and conditions to ensure there are no additional requirements prior to pickup.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Mount Desert Island?
Visit our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and then secure your ideal ride. Whether you're stopping in Mount Desert Island or exploring beyond, Expedia will help you find a long-term rental at an amazing rate.
Where can I find a Mount Desert Island car rental if I am younger than 25?
Whether or not you can rent a vehicle if you're under 25 years in Mount Desert Island often depends on the rental company you select. Some places apply a surcharge for drivers between 21 and 24 years old, but other companies may not apply any additional costs for this age bracket. It'd be wise to go through the terms and conditions of your prospective rental company to avoid any nasty surprises on pickup.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Mount Desert Island?
Make a safe start to your road trip by selecting Expedia's collision protection. While there are all sorts of insurance, this is one you'll need to have. It provides primary coverage for vandalism, accident damage and theft up to $35,000, as well as 24/7 emergency help. Don't wait until you arrive at the rental desk to insure your car. Opt in to collision protection while booking your Mount Desert Island ride with Expedia and save money and time.
What are the cheapest car rentals in Mount Desert Island?
You can find cheap car rentals in Mount Desert Island from $13 a day with Dollar Rent A Car's special. Car rentals in Mount Desert Island can start from $13 a day in Southwest Harbor, with options also available from $17 a day at Bangor International Airport (BGR), and from $26 a day in Bar Harbor. Suppliers such as Dollar Rent A Car, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
What are the best car rentals in Mount Desert Island?
Car rentals across Mount Desert Island offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Mount Desert. The most common car classes include:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
What are the best car rental companies in Mount Desert Island?
For car rentals across Mount Desert Island, well-rated providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Mount Desert. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Bangor Intl Airport (BGR) for exploring Mount Desert Island?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Bangor International Airport (BGR) for exploring Mount Desert Island. Providers including Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $17 a day. BGR is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Bar Harbor to Southwest Harbor.
Can I rent a car one-way in Mount Desert Island?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Mount Desert Island — pick up in one city, such as Bar Harbor, and drop-off in another, like Southwest Harbor, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $13 a day. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Mount Desert Island?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Mount Desert Island, including in Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor. Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise both offer hybrid options from $13 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Mount Desert Island?
For luxury car rentals across Mount Desert Island, Alamo Rent A Car offers special cars from $27 a day (and fullsize SUV from $45), while Enterprise and Dollar Rent A Car add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
What are the best car rentals in Mount Desert Island for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Mount Desert Island, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Bar Harbor to Southwest Harbor:
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $22 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Budget: mini passenger van from $27 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Avis: fullsize SUV from $44 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
What are the best car rentals in Mount Desert Island for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Mount Desert Island for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor:
  • Economy car, from $17 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $22 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
What are the best car rentals in Mount Desert Island for couples?
The best car rentals in Mount Desert Island for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Bar Harbor and Southwest Harbor:
  • Midsize car, from $23 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $20 a day — fits up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a premium vehicle for scenic drives around Mount Desert Island. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
What are the closest airports to Mount Desert Island for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Mount Desert Island offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Bangor International Airport (BGR)
  • Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.
What are the best road trip destinations from Mount Desert Island by rental car?
From Mount Desert Island, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Bar Harbor hub include:
  • Downeast Scenic Railroad, Ellsworth, approximately 1 mile away
  • Cadillac Mountain, Bar Harbor, approximately 4 miles away
  • Rangeley Lake, Rangeley, approximately 4 miles away
Add activities such as Narrated Bus Tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. With cities like Southwest Harbor also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Mount Desert Island.
Which side of the road do you drive on in Mount Desert Island?
In Mount Desert Island, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
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 Mount Desert Island?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Mount Desert Island. 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 Mount Desert Island?
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 Mount Desert Island?
Budget car rental in Mount Desert Island can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . 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 Mount Desert Island?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Mount Desert Island. 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 Mount Desert Island car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Mount Desert Island?
To rent a car in Mount Desert Island, 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 Mount Desert Island car rental?
If you need to cancel your Mount Desert Island 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.

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