Ann Arbor Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ann Arbor

Renting a car in Ann Arbor offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the University of Michigan Museum of Art, the Gerald R. Ford Library, and the Exhibit Museum of Natural History, all conveniently located in the area. This is particularly beneficial for families and culture enthusiasts who wish to manage their time and luggage without restrictions. You can seamlessly navigate through popular neighborhoods like South Central, where you can find all three of these attractions, or head to Downtown for the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. The Bryant Pattengill East area also offers charming sites like Cobblestone Farm along with the cultural hotspots. Having a car allows for hassle-free travel between these destinations, making it easier to enjoy your adventures, especially when travelling with kids. Instead of worrying about public transport schedules, you can create a flexible itinerary and explore everything Ann Arbor has to offer comfortably.

Most popular car rentals in Ann Arbor

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior and flexible storage options allow you to travel comfortably while exploring the attractions in and around Ann Arbor at your own pace.
• Fullsize Van: This option accommodates 10 travellers with up to 6 large suitcases, making it perfect for large families or groups. The fullsize van offers ample space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey while you enjoy the sights of Ann Arbor together.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, making it a great choice for couples, families, or groups. With enough room for passengers and essentials, the standard SUV provides a balanced combination of comfort and practicality for your travels around Ann Arbor.

Top rated car suppliers in Ann Arbor

• National Car Rental: With a rental location in the area of Ann Arbor, National Car Rental is a popular choice for many travellers. They offer Midsize and Premium Pickup vehicles, allowing for comfortable travel with ample space for luggage. National Car Rental is known for its efficient service, making it a convenient option for those looking to explore Ann Arbor and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Enterprise: Also featuring a rental location in Ann Arbor, Enterprise is highly regarded for its customer service and vehicle selection. Midsize cars and Midsize SUVs are the most booked options, providing a great combination of space and manoeuvrability. With Enterprise, you can expect an easy booking process and flexible rental terms, ensuring a smooth experience as you navigate the area.
• Hertz: With three rental locations all within the Ann Arbor area, Hertz offers a variety of options to suit your travel needs. Their most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, perfect for families or groups needing extra room. Hertz is known for its reliable service and diverse fleet, making it a strong contender for those looking to explore the attractions around Ann Arbor comfortably.

Where to stay in Ann Arbor

• Bryant Pattengill East: This vibrant neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking a city themed , culture themed , or sports experience. With attractions like the University of Michigan Museum of Art and the Exhibit Museum of Natural History at the University of Michigan nearby, cultural exploration is at your fingertips. Bryant Pattengill East also boasts modern amenities, including shopping centres and a historic site like Cobblestone Farm, making it an excellent choice for travellers interested in education and leisure activities.
• Pittsfield: A quaint village offering a blend of city themed , family , and outdoor experiences, Pittsfield is home to attractions such as the Gerald R. Ford Library and the University of Michigan Museum of Art. This area is ideal for families looking to enjoy educational excursions, as well as outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the nearby golf courses and lakes. The village's welcoming atmosphere makes it a delightful base for exploring the broader Ann Arbor area.
• Thurston: Renowned for its city themed , culture themed , and business themed experiences, Thurston features a range of educational and cultural activities. The nearby Gerald R. Ford Library and the University of Michigan Museum of Art provide enriching experiences for visitors. With a variety of restaurants and shopping centres, this neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking convenience and cultural immersion during their stay in Ann Arbor.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Ann Arbor

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for enjoyable summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option 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 vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a greater selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling; 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 an extra fee, but the convenience it offers may justify the 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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional 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 Ann Arbor

The best value period to rent a car in and around Ann Arbor is January, when prices are moderately low despite high demand. February and March also offer average prices with steady demand, making them good shoulder months. June through July, however, see higher prices and average demand, with July being the most expensive month. August is another busy period with prices returning to average levels, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	24.4°F (-4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately Low
February	25.5°F (-3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
April	46.4°F (8.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	67.8°F (19.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
August	70.7°F (21.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	64.2°F (17.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
November	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately Low