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Top destinations to rent a car in Michigan

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Detroit

Detroit

What you need to know for your Michigan car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Michigan

Renting a car in Michigan is a popular choice for travelers looking to explore the state's diverse attractions at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans, making it convenient for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you seek scenic views, romantic getaways, or adventurous activities, Michigan has something for everyone.

Key destinations such as Torch Lake, known for its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a haven for outdoor adventure, are easily accessible by car. Additionally, you can visit cultural sites like the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit, which offers a glimpse into the region's rich history. Cities like Traverse City, with its charming Front Street and Mission Point Lighthouse, and South Haven, featuring the Michigan Maritime Museum, are perfect stops along your journey. With the freedom of a rental car, you can enjoy Michigan's natural beauty and cultural landmarks without the constraints of public transportation, allowing for a truly personalized travel experience.

Most popular car rentals in Michigan

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travelers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a great balance of comfort and space, allowing you to enjoy your travels in Michigan with ease, whether you're heading to a scenic spot or visiting local attractions.
  • Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can comfortably fit 5 travelers along with up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a bit more space than a compact vehicle while still being versatile enough for various road trips around Michigan, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
  • Fullsize: The fullsize car accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a fantastic choice for families or groups needing extra room for luggage. With its spacious interior, the fullsize vehicle allows you to travel comfortably throughout Michigan, providing ample space for both passengers and their belongings.

Where to stay in Michigan

  • Detroit: Known as a vibrant metropolis, Detroit offers a rich blend of family-friendly and romantic experiences. Located near popular attractions such as the Henry Ford Museum and GM Renaissance Center, travelers can enjoy a variety of activities including theater and shopping. With numerous restaurants and wineries in the area, visitors can savor local culinary delights while exploring the city's cultural landmarks.
  • Traverse City: Embrace the stunning outdoor scenery in Traverse City, ideal for romantic getaways and nature enthusiasts. This city boasts access to beautiful lakes and the scenic national state park, perfect for recreational activities. Key highlights include Front Street and Traverse City Beach, both great spots to soak in the local charm while enjoying the area's abundant wineries.
  • South Haven: South Haven is a picturesque destination for outdoor lovers and those seeking a romantic escape. With its proximity to stunning beaches and the Michigan Maritime Museum, this city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The Pilgrim Haven Natural Area provides a scenic backdrop, making it an excellent choice for leisurely exploration and relaxation.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Michigan

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the ideal match 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’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is typically the most advantageous. 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: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payments.
  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 easy to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
  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 Michigan

The best time to rent a car in Michigan is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February follows closely, also offering lower prices and low demand. March through May sees average pricing and demand, making it another reasonable option. However, July marks the peak season, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand, leading to a busier rental experience. June through August generally remains on the pricier side, reflecting the summer travel rush.

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 are the cheapest car rentals in Michigan?
You can find cheap car rentals in Michigan from $10 a day with Routes's midsize 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Michigan are picked up at the region's main gateway, Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Traverse City and South Haven, where you might find rates from $10 a day if you pick up in South Haven. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo 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 Michigan.
What are the best car rentals in Michigan?
Car rentals across Michigan offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities - Traverse City, South Haven, and Detroit. The most common car classes include:
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact SUV
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For solo travelers or couples, a compact car is often ideal, while families or groups might prefer an SUV or minivan for more space. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Michigan.

What are the best car rental companies in Michigan?
For car rentals across Michigan, 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 - Traverse City, South Haven, and Detroit. 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 Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD) for exploring Michigan?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD) for exploring Michigan. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $14 a day. ORD is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Traverse City to South Haven.
Can I rent a car one-way in Michigan?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Michigan - pick up in one city, such as Traverse City, and drop-off in another, like South Haven, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 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 Michigan?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Michigan, including in Traverse City and South Haven. Sixt offers hybrid options from $10 a day and electric options from $17 a day. Enterprise, Avis, and Budget also provide hybrid vehicles from $10 a day. EVs 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 Michigan?
For luxury car rentals across Michigan, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $22 a day (and midsize elite SUV from $23), while Enterprise and Alamo 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 Traverse City and South Haven. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Michigan.
What are the best car rentals in Michigan for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Michigan, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Traverse City to South Haven:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $15 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $29 a day - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $32 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 Michigan.

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

What are the best car rentals in Michigan for couples?
The best car rentals in Michigan for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Traverse City and South Haven:
  • Midsize car, from $15 a day - fits up to 5 people, up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $16 a day - fits up to 5 people, 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 Michigan. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Michigan.

What are the closest airports to Michigan for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Michigan offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Chicago - O Hare Internat (ORD)
  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) for Traverse City
  • Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) for Detroit
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

What are the best road trip destinations from Michigan by rental car?
From Michigan, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Traverse City hub include:
  • Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
  • Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
  • Millennium Park, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
These destinations offer a mix of urban exploration and scenic views, great for solo travelers, couples, or families. Time your trip around events like the Chicago Marathon, or add activities such as the Chicago Architecture River Cruise. With cities like South Haven also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Michigan.

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