Michigan Car Rentals

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What you need to know for your Michigan car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Michigan

Renting a car in Michigan is an excellent choice for road trippers, nature lovers, and families, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans. Michigan boasts stunning attractions like the University of Michigan, where you can experience vibrant city life, and Torch Lake, ideal for romantic beach outings and scenic views. Adventure seekers can visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is perfect for outdoor exploration.

A rental car also allows you to easily reach popular destinations such as Downtown Detroit, home to iconic sites like Huntington Place and the GM Renaissance Center, or Traverse City, known for its charming Front Street and beautiful beach. For a unique experience, a trip to Mackinac Island offers historical sites like Fort Mackinac and the picturesque Arch Rock. With well-connected roads and beautiful scenery throughout the state, renting a car in Michigan enhances your travel experience, making it convenient and enjoyable for any type of traveler seeking adventure, romance, or family fun.

Most popular car rentals in Michigan

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle comfortably fits 5 travelers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for families, couples, or small groups planning to explore the scenic attractions of Michigan. The midsize SUV offers a perfect blend of space and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for road trippers and nature lovers seeking both comfort and flexibility on their journey.
  • Fullsize: The fullsize car option is suitable for 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, which makes it ideal for families or groups traveling together. With ample space for both passengers and luggage, this car type is perfect for those looking for a roomy ride that doesn’t compromise on comfort, allowing for an enjoyable travel experience throughout Michigan.
  • Standard SUV: A standard SUV accommodates 5 travelers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is great for couples, families, or groups who appreciate a higher driving position and extra cargo room. With its combination of comfort and functionality, the standard SUV is a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle to navigate Michigan's diverse landscapes and attractions.

10 tips to save on your Michigan car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match 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 reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel 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 under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. 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 charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the extra 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 provides peace of mind in case 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, seek out 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.

Tips for car rentals in Michigan in 2026

Car rental prices in Michigan

You can rent a car in Michigan in 2026 for as little as *, but how much you spend depends on where you rent, the time of year, how long you're renting for, and what kind of vehicle you choose. One of the cheapest ways to rent a car in Michigan is by avoiding renting directly at the airport, taking the car for a longer period of time, and by choosing a smaller or older vehicle model. Optional insurance can also inflate the cost, so check your own coverage and carefully consider if you want to pay the extra fees.


Finding some of the best deals for cheap car rentals in Michigan

Being able to compare different car rental companies in one place on a site like Expedia can help you find some of the best deals on car rentals in Michigan. It's also a way to see which car rental companies are offering special offers or discounts as incentives.


Some of the best car rentals in Michigan

If you're looking for some of the best car rental companies in Michigan, several national providers operate in the state, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. They have counters at major airports and in several cities and towns, including car rentals in Detroit, Lansing, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and others. Which one you choose will often come down to price, convenience, and the availability of the type of vehicle you want to rent.


Some of the best places to rent a car in Michigan

If you're flying into Michigan via plane, it's easy to pick up a car rental at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, or Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, but you might pay extra for that convenience. For some of the best prices on car rental in Michigan, take a taxi into town from the airport and rent your car from a location closer to where you're staying. Downtown or suburban locations in places like Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Ann Arbor, and Kalamazoo also tend to have a wider selection of cars available than at the airport.


Michigan car rental types

Some common Michigan car rental types include economy cars, which are great for zipping around Detroit or other cities on a budget. SUVs, with their four-wheel drive and ample storage, are a great choice for the snowy winter driving conditions in Michigan. A luxury car rental in Michigan is another great choice for those who want high-end amenities.


Advice on renting a car in Michigan as an American

Renting a car in Michigan as an American is no different from any other state. You will need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a credit card or debit card in your name to rent a car in Michigan. You can also purchase additional insurance from the car rental company, including things like collision damage waiver, liability insurance supplement, personal accident insurance, and personal effects coverage. You may already have some of this coverage through your own car insurance company, so double-check so you don't pay for something you don't need.


One-way and long-term car rental in Michigan

One-way car rental in Michigan allows you to rent a car from one place then drop it off at a different location from where you picked it up. For example, you can rent a car in Detroit and drop off your car rental in Grand Rapids or Traverse City, making it the perfect way to see large parts of Michigan in an affordable way. Long-term car rental in Michigan is great for longer stays. For example, you can rent a car for a month or longer if you are visiting relatives or friends, working on a project, or exploring all that the state has to offer at your own pace. Long-term rentals generally offer lower daily rates, unlimited mileage, and a larger selection of cars to choose from.


Benefits of booking a Michigan car rental with Expedia

The convenience of shopping for Michigan car rentals on Expedia in 2026 is that by doing it all in one place, it makes it easy to find some of the best car rental deals in Michigan and car for your trip. You can pair your Michigan car rental on Expedia with any flights, hotels, or vacation packages that you need for your visit.


*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Michigan car reservation?
Don't stress! If you're able to cancel your booking at least six hours prior to picking up the car, you may be eligible for a complete refund. Be sure to scan your car's cancellation policy as there are some exceptions. Hop on our Customer Service Portal if you still have queries.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Michigan with Expedia?
Whatever class of ride you're after, Expedia will help you nab the best deal. Just compare the offers from top rental providers and book the option that's right for you. Like to drive away with even more in your wallet? Combine your Michigan car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Michigan?
Rental car rules in Michigan require drivers to be 18 and above. Are you a younger driver? Some surcharges and restrictions could apply. Rental outlets impose what's known as a young driver surcharge, which is an additional fee to the car rental cost. Restrictions generally apply to the categories of cars young motorists can rent as well. Age limits may vary between providers, so check before booking.
What do you need to rent a car in Michigan?
Be prepared to present your driver's license and a credit card at the rental counter. Prior to pickup, check with your selected company whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to show proof of insurance.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Michigan?
Yes, and you'll find your perfect set of wheels on our long-term car rental deals page. Simply enter your trip information and we'll list incredible offers from a range of trustworthy providers.
Where can I find a Michigan car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Michigan companies will rent to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Policies differ between suppliers, so you should do your homework. Also, find out if there are any extra costs. Some businesses will have a surcharge for young drivers between the ages of 21 and 24. Be sure to read through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Michigan?
After meticulously planning your getaway, don't skimp on your insurance — choose collision protection while booking your Michigan rental vehicle with Expedia. There are numerous advantages to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for theft, vandalism and collision damage. Plus, with a zero-dollar deductible and 24-hour emergency support, you'll be able to breathe a little easier should a mishap occur.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation