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What you need to know for your Texas car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Texas

Renting a car in Texas is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the vast attractions the state has to offer. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, a rental car allows you to easily manage your luggage and adjust your plans as you go. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor experiences or romantic getaways. You can visit notable attractions like the River Walk in San Antonio, which offers a charming atmosphere for families and couples, or head to Six Flags Fiesta Texas for a fun day of entertainment. Additionally, the historic Galveston Seawall provides cultural experiences along the coast.

Having a rental car makes it convenient to explore major cities such as Houston, where you can visit the NASA Johnson Space Center, or Austin, known for its vibrant Sixth Street and scenic Lake Austin. The ease of driving allows you to discover the unique characteristics of each city while enjoying the beautiful Texas scenery. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, renting a car enhances your experience in Texas by giving you the freedom to explore diverse attractions and landscapes without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Texas

  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travelers in Texas, accommodating up to 5 passengers along with space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the vast attractions of Texas at their own pace while ensuring ample room for luggage.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize vehicle is another top option for those traveling in Texas, also accommodating 5 travelers with capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it perfect for families or larger groups, providing flexibility and comfort for your journey through the Lone Star State.
  • Standard SUV: The Standard SUV offers a suitable choice for couples, families, or groups, accommodating 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option balances space and maneuverability, allowing you to navigate Texas with ease while still having enough room for your belongings.

Where to stay in Texas

  • San Antonio: Explore the vibrant culture of San Antonio, a metropolis that offers an array of experiences for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions include the scenic River Walk, perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the thrilling Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park, ideal for family fun. Enjoy the local dining scene with various restaurants and wineries nearby. San Antonio is an excellent choice year-round, but visiting in spring or fall offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
  • Austin: Known for its lively atmosphere, Austin is a great destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Highlighted by Sixth Street, famous for its nightlife, and the picturesque Lake Austin, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and scenic views. The Texas State Capitol adds a touch of history to your stay. With a diverse culinary scene featuring restaurants and wineries, Austin is best enjoyed in the spring and fall when the weather is most inviting.
  • Dallas: Dallas offers a dynamic urban experience for families and business travelers alike. With attractions like Six Flags Over Texas for adventure seekers and the iconic Reunion Tower for breathtaking city views, there's something for everyone. Fair Park provides a green space for relaxation amid the urban landscape, and numerous restaurants and pubs cater to your dining needs. Dallas shines in spring and fall when the climate is mild and enjoyable for outdoor exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Texas

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your trip.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak 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 cars 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  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 cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance while booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking 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.

Best time to rent a car in Texas

The best time to rent a car in Texas is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is lower than usual. This period offers great value for travelers. March and April see a rise in prices and demand, making them the most expensive months. As spring approaches, the rental market gets busier, especially in April, which tends to be pricier. Following this peak, demand begins to moderate in May and June, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Find Texas Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Texas car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Texas, 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 Texas offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Texas?
You can find cheap car rentals in Texas from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Texas are picked up at the region's main gateway, Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Houston and Austin. 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 Texas.
What are the best car rentals in Texas?
Car rentals across Texas 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 - Houston, Austin, and Port Aransas. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Premium SUV
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo explorer, a couple, or a family on a road trip. The same classes are generally 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 Texas.

What are the best car rental companies in Texas?
For car rentals across Texas, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Dollar Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Houston, Austin, and Port Aransas. 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 Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) for exploring Texas?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) for exploring Texas. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $15 a day. DFW is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Houston to Austin.
Can I rent a car one-way in Texas?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Texas - pick up in one city, such as Houston, and drop-off in another, like Austin, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $11 a day. Providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Dollar 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 Texas?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Texas, including in Houston and Austin. Sixt and Enterprise both offer hybrid options from $10 a day, and electric options from $10 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 Texas?
For luxury car rentals across Texas, Sixt offers premium SUV cars from $16 a day (and fullsize elite SUV from $34), 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 Houston and Austin. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Texas.
What are the best car rentals in Texas for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Texas, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Houston to Austin:
  • Thrifty Car Rental: midsize SUV from $11 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 4 large suitcases
  • Dollar Rent A Car: mini passenger van from $23 a day - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: fullsize passenger van from $50 a day - seats up to 10 with room for 6 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 Texas.

What are the best car rentals in Texas for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Texas 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 Houston and Austin:
  • Economy car, from $20 a day (Alamo Rent A Car) - fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, from $16 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 Texas.

What are the best car rentals in Texas for couples?
The best car rentals in Texas for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Houston and Austin:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, from $15 a day (Sixt) - fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Midsize SUV, from $16 a day (Sixt) - fits up to 5 people and up to 4 large 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 Texas. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Texas.

What are the closest airports to Texas for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Texas offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW)
  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston
  • Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) in Austin
These airports provide convenient access to various parts of 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 Texas by rental car?
From Texas, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips. Easy drives from the Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) hub include:
  • University of Texas at Arlington, approximately 1 mile away
  • College Park Center, approximately 1 mile away
  • American Airlines Center, approximately 2 miles away
You can time your trip around events like the State Fair of Texas, or add activities such as the John F. Kennedy Trolley Tour in Dallas. With cities like Houston and Austin also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider region simple and flexible. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Texas.

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