Car Rental Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ)

Reasons to book a car rental at Dubuque Airport

Renting a car at Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the surrounding areas with ease. This option provides the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace, whether you're travelling with family or managing luggage. With a rental car, you can conveniently reach popular sites such as Crystal Lake Cave, located just 8 km away, or the Port of Dubuque Marina, which is 11 km from the airport. The Fourth Street Elevator, also 11 km away, offers a cultural experience worth visiting.

Additionally, you can easily access nearby cities such as Key West, only 4 km away, and Peosta, which is 10 km away, both featuring their own unique attractions like Eagle Point Park and Northeast Iowa Community College. A rental car allows for flexible travel plans, making it easier to enjoy recreational activities and family-friendly experiences around Dubuque. Overall, having your own vehicle enhances your ability to explore the diverse offerings of the region comfortably and conveniently.

Most popular car rentals near Dubuque Airport

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is a popular choice for travellers at Dubuque airport, accommodating up to 5 individuals and allowing for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for families or groups who need ample space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable travel experience as you explore the area.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is another highly booked option, perfect for families, couples, or small groups. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle provides a great balance of space and versatility, making it easier to navigate both urban environments and more rugged terrains around Dubuque.
• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 passengers with the capacity for 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easier to maneuver and park, particularly in busy areas, while still providing enough room for luggage. This option is ideal for those looking for an economical and convenient way to explore the sights around Dubuque.

Top rated car suppliers near Dubuque Airport

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers, located 11 km away from Dubuque airport. This supplier is well-known for its excellent customer service and a diverse selection of vehicles. The most booked cars with Enterprise are Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it a great option for those looking for comfort and versatility during their travels.
• Budget: Budget stands out for its proximity, with a rental location less than 1 km from Dubuque airport. This supplier offers a range of vehicles, primarily Fullsize and Economy cars, which are ideal for budget-conscious travellers. With its convenient location, Budget ensures a smooth and quick pickup process, allowing you to start your adventure in Dubuque without delay.
• Avis: Avis is another top choice for car rentals, also located less than 1 km from Dubuque airport. Known for its reliable service, Avis primarily features Midsize SUVs in its fleet, catering to those who appreciate space and comfort on the road. The close proximity to the airport makes it easy for travellers to pick up their vehicles and begin exploring the scenic attractions around Dubuque.

Where to stay near Dubuque Airport

• Dubuque: Stay in the heart of Dubuque, where family adventures await. Explore local attractions such as the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, which offers beautiful outdoor scenery. The city is also home to the Crystal Lake Cave, perfect for those seeking an adventurous experience. With a range of dining options nearby, including alcohol wineries and distilleries, Dubuque is an excellent base for discovering outdoor and family-friendly activities.
• East Dubuque: Located 11 km from the airport, East Dubuque features stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Visit the Port of Dubuque Marina for fun water activities or explore the Crystal Lake Cave for a unique experience. This neighbourhood is also known for its wineries and breweries, providing ample opportunities to enjoy local beverages. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, East Dubuque provides a picturesque setting.
• Peosta: Situated 10 km away, Peosta offers a cultural and family-oriented experience. With attractions like the Northeast Iowa Community College - Peosta Campus and A.J. Spiegel Park, visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy family-friendly outdoor spaces. The area also features nearby wineries and restaurants for delightful dining options, making Peosta a lovely choice for those wanting to explore cultural themes while staying close to Dubuque.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Dubuque

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car with ample luggage capacity, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the best options for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it’s generally advisable to book your DBQ car rental as early as possible. Aiming to finalize your booking 1 to 3 months ahead of your trip is ideal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may incur higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Be sure to verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits, as debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers added peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on extended journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car from Dubuque Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Dubuque Airport is March, when both prices and demand are low. Following March, April and May also offer average prices but with higher demand. In contrast, February tends to be the most expensive month for rentals, with prices remaining high despite average demand. Additionally, July and August continue this trend, presenting similar challenges with elevated costs and moderate demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	19.2°F (-7.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	21.7°F (-5.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	High
March	36.1°F (2.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	68.9°F (20.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
July	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
August	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
November	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	27.3°F (-2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average