Minneapolis Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Minneapolis

Renting a car in Minneapolis offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or business travellers who may have luggage and equipment to manage. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit key attractions like the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Basilica of Saint Mary, both located within the city. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Harriet provides stunning scenery and a romantic atmosphere.

A car also enables easy access to popular destinations in the Minneapolis area, including the vibrant metropolis of Minneapolis - St. Paul, which features attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe and Lake Minnetonka. Additionally, you can explore Downtown Minneapolis with its cultural sites, including the Mill City Museum and the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. With a rental car, there are no constraints on schedules, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and experiences of Minneapolis and beyond. Navigating the city’s roads is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for any traveller looking to enjoy their trip with convenience and comfort.

Most popular car rentals in Minneapolis

• Fullsize: This car type is a popular choice for those travelling in groups or families, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travellers. With ample space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize car offers the perfect balance of comfort and practicality. It's ideal for visitors who appreciate the flexibility of a larger vehicle while exploring Minneapolis and its surrounding areas.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides a higher driving position and additional luggage capacity, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle for their Minneapolis adventure. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a midsize SUV as you navigate the city and beyond.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is an excellent option for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases. It combines spaciousness with ease of handling, making it ideal for both city driving and exploring the surrounding areas of Minneapolis. With this vehicle, you can travel comfortably while having enough room for your belongings, ensuring a pleasant journey.

Top rated car suppliers in Minneapolis

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a streamlined car rental experience in Minneapolis. With one convenient location in the area, it provides efficient service for those looking to explore the city. The most booked vehicles with Thrifty are Midsize and Compact cars, making them ideal for individuals and small groups. Travellers appreciate the simplicity of the rental process, which allows for easy management of luggage and flexible itineraries.
• Budget: Budget stands out with three rental locations throughout Minneapolis, offering travellers greater convenience and accessibility. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, catering to those who prefer a bit more space and comfort during their travels. Customers often highlight the competitive pricing and efficient service, making Budget a reliable choice for both short trips and extended adventures around the city.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car offers a solid rental option for those looking to explore Minneapolis with ease. With one rental location in the area, Dollar is known for its Midsize SUV and Compact SUV offerings, which are favourites among customers seeking versatility and performance. Travellers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the well-maintained vehicles, facilitating a hassle-free experience while discovering all that Minneapolis and its surroundings have to offer.

Where to stay in Minneapolis

• Minneapolis - St. Paul: Experience the vibrant metropolis of Minneapolis - St. Paul, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business-themed experiences. This area is home to attractions such as Nickelodeon Universe, perfect for outdoor family adventures, and Lake Minnetonka, ideal for romantic getaways and scenic views. With numerous shopping centres and restaurants nearby, this location offers a comfortable base for exploration.
• Downtown Minneapolis: Located in the heart of the city, Downtown Minneapolis is a bustling neighbourhood that caters to families and business travellers alike. Visitors can explore cultural sites like the Basilica of Saint Mary and the Mill City Museum, both rich in history. The area boasts a range of shopping options and is close to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, making it a great spot for those seeking a lively urban experience.
• Downtown West: Downtown West is an entertainment hub, featuring venues for music concerts and theatre performances. Families can enjoy attractions such as Minnehaha Park, an urban park perfect for outdoor activities. The neighbourhood is also in proximity to landmarks like the Basilica of Saint Mary, making it an excellent choice for those interested in culture and family-friendly outings. Various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, are available to satisfy diverse palates.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Minneapolis

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilise filters on Expedia to assist you in finding 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. You are likely to obtain lower rates by booking early and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller vehicles are more economical to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It's straightforward to include car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning 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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Minneapolis

The best value period to rent a car in and around Minneapolis is December, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. November and January also offer reasonable rates and steady demand, making them good options for rentals. In contrast, February tends to be the most expensive month, with higher prices and lower demand, while July sees peak demand and slightly elevated prices, making it a busier time for car rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	14.9°F (-9.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	16.9°F (-8.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High
March	32.5°F (0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
April	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	49.3°F (9.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	35.4°F (1.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	21.9°F (-5.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low