$34 Car Rental Southern Minnesota, MN

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Top Car Deals in Southern Minnesota

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What you need to know for your Southern Minnesota car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southern Minnesota

Renting a car in Southern Minnesota offers the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site, located 12 miles away, and the Sod House on the Prairie, just 14 miles from Southern Minnesota. Families can enjoy outdoor experiences at Allison Park, only 11 miles away, making it a great spot for a day out. The convenience of having your own car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, whether you're on a romantic getaway or seeking scenic landscapes. You can also venture to nearby destinations like Sleepy Eye, 10 miles away, which features both Allison Park and Flandrau State Park, or explore Springfield, located 8 miles away, home to the Sod House on the Prairie. By renting a car, you gain access to the beautiful outdoor spaces and cultural experiences Southern Minnesota has to offer, ensuring a memorable trip tailored to your interests.

Where to stay around Southern Minnesota

  • Sleepy Eye: Located 10 miles from Southern Minnesota, Sleepy Eye offers a charming destination for outdoor lovers and those seeking romantic scenery. Explore attractions like Flandrau State Park and Fort Ridgely State Park for outdoor adventures, or visit local landmarks such as the museum and the picturesque lake. For dining, enjoy nearby restaurants and wineries, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.
  • Springfield: Situated 8 miles away from Southern Minnesota, Springfield is ideal for travelers seeking outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Notable points of interest include the Sod House on the Prairie museum and the Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site, which cater to culture enthusiasts. The local recreational areas and campgrounds provide ample opportunities for adventure and exploration amid scenic landscapes.
  • Southwest Minnesota: Less than 1 mile from Southern Minnesota, Southwest Minnesota is a haven for those who appreciate romantic getaways and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the Jeffers Petroglyphs Historic Site and the Sod House on the Prairie, both rich in culture. The area is also home to beautiful parks and lakes, with numerous dining options, including local wineries, ensuring a delightful stay for all travelers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Southern Minnesota

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you 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 wise to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars 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 younger than 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before completing your booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 costs and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Southern Minnesota

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Southern Minnesota

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $34.

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
$34
 
Our second best deal of the day
$42
 
Our third best deal of the day
$46
 
From the airport to your hotel
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From popular domestic and international airports
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Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Southern Minnesota?
You can find cheap car rentals in Southern Minnesota from $11 a day with Budget's standard elite special. Car rentals for exploring Southern Minnesota are picked up at the region's main gateway, Msp Intl Airport T1 And T2 (MSP). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Rochester, where rates start from $21 a day, and Lake City. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car 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 Southern Minnesota.
What are the best car rentals in Southern Minnesota?
Car rentals across Southern Minnesota offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities - Rochester, Lake City, and Wabasha. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard elite SUV
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group. You'll find these vehicle types widely available across the region's cities. 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 Southern Minnesota.

What are the best car rental companies in Southern Minnesota?
For car rentals across Southern Minnesota, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Rochester, Lake City, and Wabasha. 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 Msp Intl Arpt T1 And T2 (MSP) for exploring Southern Minnesota?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Minneapolis Intl Airport T1 and T2 (MSP) for exploring Southern Minnesota. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $12 a day. Minneapolis Intl Airport T1 and T2 (MSP) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Rochester to Lake City.
Can I rent a car one-way in Southern Minnesota?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Southern Minnesota - pick up in one city, such as Rochester, and drop-off in another, like Lake City, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt 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 Southern Minnesota?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Southern Minnesota, including in Rochester and Lake City. Sixt and Avis both offer electric options from $11 a day, while Sixt, Enterprise, and ACE Rent A Car provide hybrid vehicles from $19 a day. EVs and hybrids help keep fuel costs low, and charging is becoming more 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 Southern Minnesota?
For luxury car rentals across Southern Minnesota, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $16 a day (and midsize elite SUV from $24 a day), while Enterprise and ACE Rent A Car also 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 Rochester and Lake City. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Southern Minnesota.
What are the best car rentals in Southern Minnesota for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Southern Minnesota, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Rochester to Lake City:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $15 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $23 a day - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • ACE Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $30 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 Southern Minnesota.

What are the best car rentals in Southern Minnesota for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Southern Minnesota 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 Rochester and Lake City:
  • Economy car, from $12 a day - fits up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $16 a day - fits up to 5 people and 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 Southern Minnesota.

What are the best car rentals in Southern Minnesota for couples?
The best car rentals in Southern Minnesota for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Rochester and Lake City:
  • Midsize car, from $12 a day - fits up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $17 a day - fits up to 5 people and 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 more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Southern Minnesota.

What are the closest airports to Southern Minnesota for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Southern Minnesota offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Msp Intl Airport T1 And T2 (MSP)
  • Rochester International Airport (RST)
These airports provide convenient access to the region. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Southern Minnesota by rental car?
From Southern Minnesota, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Rochester hub include:
  • The Armory, Minneapolis, approximately 1 mile away
  • Rochester Recreation Center, Rochester, approximately 2 miles away
  • Apache Mall, Rochester, approximately 2 miles away
Time your trip around events like the Minnesota State Fair, or add activities such as the Twin Cities Highlights Tour. With cities like Lake City also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Southern Minnesota.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Southern Minnesota?
In Southern Minnesota, 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 Southern Minnesota?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Southern Minnesota. 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 Southern Minnesota?
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 Southern Minnesota?
Budget car rental in Southern Minnesota can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $34. 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 Southern Minnesota?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Southern Minnesota. 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 Southern Minnesota car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Southern Minnesota?
To rent a car in Southern Minnesota, 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 Southern Minnesota car rental?
If you need to cancel your Southern Minnesota 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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