Tampa Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Tampa

Renting a car in Tampa provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create travel plans that suit your schedule. This convenience is especially appealing for families and those seeking outdoor and beach-related experiences. Key attractions, such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the Tampa Riverwalk, and the Florida State Fairgrounds, are easily accessible by car, allowing you to enjoy a full day of entertainment and activities. Additionally, you can venture into nearby areas like Downtown Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and Brandon, all of which feature attractions like golf courses and scenic esplanades. Whether you wish to explore the family-friendly theme parks or enjoy a romantic walk along the river, a rental car ensures you can visit multiple spots without the hassle of public transport. Overall, having a car enhances your trip by providing the ability to discover Tampa and its surroundings comfortably and efficiently.

Most popular car rentals in Tampa

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for those travelling in groups or with family. Accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV offers ample space for luggage and passengers alike. Its versatility makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Tampa and its surroundings comfortably.
• Standard SUV: A fantastic option for couples and families, the standard SUV comfortably seats 5 travellers and provides space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between size and manoeuvrability, making it perfect for navigating the streets of Tampa while offering enough room for your essentials. It's a great choice for those seeking a practical yet spacious vehicle.
• Fullsize: Known for its generous capacity, the fullsize car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can handle 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for larger families or groups who require extra luggage space. Its roomy interior ensures that everyone travels in comfort, making it a solid option for those who want to explore Tampa with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Tampa

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Tampa, offering a seamless rental experience with a focus on customer satisfaction. With one rental location in the area, Alamo provides a selection of well-maintained vehicles, particularly noted for their Midsize SUVs and Standards. Customers appreciate the efficient pickup process and the cleanliness of the cars, making it a reliable option for exploring Tampa at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget stands out with four convenient rental locations throughout Tampa, catering to a wide range of travellers. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget offers an excellent selection of Fullsize and Standard SUVs, making it an ideal choice for families or those needing extra space. Customers frequently highlight the ease of the rental process and the helpful staff, ensuring a pleasant experience as you navigate the attractions in and around Tampa.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another solid option for visitors to Tampa, with one rental location available. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, providing a good balance of comfort and efficiency. Travellers often commend Thrifty for its friendly service and straightforward rental process, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore Tampa and its surroundings without hassle.

Where to stay in Tampa

• Downtown Tampa: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a family-friendly, outdoor, and city-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy the Tampa Riverwalk, an esplanade perfect for relaxation and exploration, and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, a renowned theme park. The Florida State Fairgrounds is also nearby, providing additional entertainment options. With various restaurants, breweries, and wineries, Downtown Tampa is a great spot for food enthusiasts.
• Wesley Chapel: Located in close proximity to Tampa, Wesley Chapel is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The area features attractions like the Saddlebrook Golf Course and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for thrilling amusement. With a shopping mall centre and numerous dining options, including wineries, Wesley Chapel offers a blend of leisure and adventure for visitors.
• Brandon: Another family-friendly city in the Tampa area, Brandon is known for its outdoor activities and city vibe. It is home to various attractions, including the exciting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the scenic Tampa Riverwalk. The Florida State Fairgrounds is also a key highlight. With a selection of restaurants and wineries nearby, Brandon is a delightful place for tourists seeking both relaxation and entertainment.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it is advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this situation.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, although it might be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
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 Tampa

The best value period to rent a car in and around Tampa is June, when prices tend to be slightly low and demand is average. This is followed by July, which also offers reasonable prices and average demand. May is another option, although it experiences moderately high demand and slightly higher prices. In contrast, February is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately low demand. April also sees increased demand and slightly high prices, making it a busier time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	60.8°F (16.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
March	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	73.4°F (23.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
May	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	83.5°F (28.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
September	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average