Louisiana Car Rentals

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What you need to know for your Louisiana car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Louisiana

Renting a car in Louisiana offers the freedom to explore this vibrant state at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, making it a popular choice for sightseeing and adventure. Whether you're interested in the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street in New Orleans or the historical significance of the National World War II Museum, having a car allows you to visit these key attractions conveniently. You can also take the time to enjoy Jackson Square, an urban park perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences.

Moreover, a rental car provides access to various destinations across Louisiana. From the bustling streets of New Orleans and the charming French Quarter, which features both Bourbon Street and Jackson Square, to the scenic beauty of Lake Charles, including North Beach and Prien Lake Park, your options are plentiful. Exploring Louisiana's outdoor scenery and cultural landmarks becomes much easier with a vehicle, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both adventure and meaningful experiences.

Most popular car rentals in Louisiana

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle type accommodates 5 travelers comfortably, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. With the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases, a Midsize SUV allows for easy luggage management, ensuring you can pack everything needed for your adventure in Louisiana. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace while having ample space for passengers and gear.
  • Standard SUV: A Standard SUV is also designed for 5 travelers and offers room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for couples, families, or groups seeking flexibility in their travel plans. With a Standard SUV, you'll find a balance of space and comfort, enabling you to navigate Louisiana's attractions with ease while enjoying the convenience of additional room for your belongings.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize category accommodates 5 travelers and has the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a perfect choice for families or larger groups who require extra space for luggage. Opting for a Fullsize vehicle not only provides comfort during your travels but also ensures that everyone can travel together without sacrificing convenience or space.

Where to stay in Louisiana

  • New Orleans: Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans, a bustling metropolis known for its family-friendly, outdoor, and city-themed activities. Located centrally, enjoy attractions like Bourbon Street and Canal Street, both offering a lively atmosphere perfect for city vacations. The National World War II Museum, a short distance away, provides a rich history experience. With numerous nearby dining options, including restaurants and breweries, your stay will be filled with delightful culinary adventures.
  • Orleans Parish: Orleans Parish complements your New Orleans experience with its family-oriented, outdoor, and city-themed attractions. Explore the charming public market and shopping areas while visiting iconic spots like Bourbon Street and Canal Street. The National World War II Museum is also conveniently nearby for a cultural experience. Enjoy the local food scene with various restaurants and wineries, making your stay both enjoyable and flavorful.
  • Baton Rouge: In the heart of Louisiana, Baton Rouge offers a blend of family, culture, and romantic experiences. Discover the historic Louisiana State Capitol and the vibrant Perkins Rowe, both excellent for family outings and outdoor fun. The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center invites eco-friendly exploration. With diverse dining options, including local restaurants and wineries, Baton Rouge is an enriching destination for travelers seeking a blend of history and modern attractions.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Louisiana

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your vehicle well before your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure better rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, 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 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 prevent unexpected expenses and provide you with peace of mind if unforeseen events occur 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, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in Louisiana

The best time to rent a car in Louisiana is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is also slightly low. February follows closely, maintaining average prices with lower demand. As spring approaches, March through May sees slightly higher prices and increased demand, especially in April and May. The summer months, particularly July, become busier with average pricing. Meanwhile, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Find Louisiana Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Louisiana car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Louisiana, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Louisiana offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Louisiana car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Louisiana to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Louisiana airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Louisiana rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Louisiana airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Louisiana?
You can find cheap car rentals in Louisiana from $11 a day with Hertz's fullsize 2/4 door cars. The region's main gateway, New Orleans Airport (MSY), also offers competitive rates from $12 a day for a midsize SUV from Thrifty Car Rental. Suppliers such as Thrifty Car Rental, Sixt, Enterprise, and Avis 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 Louisiana.
What are the best car rentals in Louisiana?
Car rentals across Louisiana offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise, broadly available in the region's main cities — New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette. The most common car classes include:
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 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 Louisiana.

What are the best car rental companies in Louisiana?
For car rentals across Louisiana, well-rated providers like Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette. 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 New Orleans Airport (MSY) for exploring Louisiana?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at New Orleans Airport (MSY) for exploring Louisiana. Providers including Sixt, Alamo Rent A Car, and Enterprise operate at the airport, with rates from around $15 a day for a fullsize car from Sixt. New Orleans Airport (MSY) is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from New Orleans to Baton Rouge.
Can I rent a car one-way in Louisiana?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Louisiana — pick up in one city, such as New Orleans, and drop-off in another, like Baton Rouge, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $15 a day. Providers like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car 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 Louisiana?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Louisiana, including in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise both offer hybrid from $11 a day, while Avis and Thrifty Car Rental offer electric options from $11 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 Louisiana?
For luxury car rentals across Louisiana, Sixt offers fullsize 2 or 4 door cars from $15 a day (and midsize SUV from $16 a day), while Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise 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 New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Louisiana.
What are the best car rentals in Louisiana for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Louisiana, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from New Orleans to Baton Rouge:
  • Thrifty Car Rental: midsize SUV from $12 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: midsize SUV from $23 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: midsize SUV from $22 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large 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 Louisiana.

What are the best car rentals in Louisiana for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Louisiana 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 New Orleans and Baton Rouge:
  • Economy car, from $13 a day (Thrifty Car Rental) — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $17 a day (Sixt) — 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 Louisiana.

What are the best car rentals in Louisiana for couples?
The best car rentals in Louisiana for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge:
  • Midsize car, from $14 a day (Thrifty Car Rental) — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $17 a day (Sixt) — 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 convertible for scenic drives around Louisiana. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Louisiana.

What are the closest airports to Louisiana for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Louisiana offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • New Orleans Airport (MSY)
  • Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR)
  • Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Louisiana by rental car?
From Louisiana, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the New Orleans hub include:
  • Bourbon Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
  • Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
  • Gulfport Beach, Gulfport, Mississippi, United States of America
Time your trip around events like New Orleans Mardi Gras, or add activities such as New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option. With cities like Baton Rouge also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Louisiana.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, 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 Louisiana?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Budget car rental in Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Louisiana?
To rent a car in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana car rental?
If you need to cancel your Louisiana 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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