Houston Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Houston

Renting a car in and around Houston offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, or those looking to immerse themselves in the city's attractions. You can visit the NASA Johnson Space Center, a fantastic spot for entertainment and family experiences, or enjoy outdoor adventures at the Kemah Boardwalk. Sports enthusiasts may also appreciate a visit to NRG Park, a historic sports stadium that showcases Houston's cultural scene.

Additionally, having a car allows you to effortlessly explore nearby destinations such as Cypress, with its lovely parks like Dyess Park and Little Cypress Creek Preserve, or the bustling Downtown Houston, home to attractions like Discovery Green and Houston City Hall. The scenic Woodlands is also within reach, where you can enjoy attractions such as Hughes Landing and Lake Conroe. Overall, renting a car provides the convenience needed to make the most of your Houston adventure, tailored to your interests and schedule.

Most popular car rentals in Houston

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle comfortably accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV offers ample space for both passengers and luggage, allowing for a relaxed journey while exploring Houston and its surroundings.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the Standard SUV seats 5 travellers and holds up to 2 medium suitcases. With a balance of space and manoeuvrability, this SUV type is well-suited for those looking to navigate Houston's urban landscape while enjoying the flexibility of a larger vehicle.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or groups, the Fullsize car option accommodates 5 travellers and can fit up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle provides a comfortable ride and ample storage, making it an excellent choice for longer trips around Houston, where luggage management is key.

Top rated car suppliers in Houston

• Sixt: Sixt operates 4 rental locations throughout Houston and is renowned for its friendly service. Travellers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff. The most booked vehicles with Sixt are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and space while exploring the city and its surroundings.
• Budget: With over 25 rental locations in the Houston area, Budget provides a wide range of options for travellers. Known for competitive pricing, Budget is a popular choice for many, especially for those looking to rent a Midsize SUV or Standard SUV. Customers often highlight the convenience of multiple locations and the ease of managing their rental needs.
• Hertz: Hertz boasts more than 20 rental locations in Houston, making it easily accessible for tourists. This supplier is well-regarded for its variety of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Fullsize options. Hertz is a trusted name in car rentals, ensuring that customers find a suitable vehicle to enhance their travel experience in and around Houston.

Where to stay in Houston

• Cypress: Cypress is a vibrant city ideal for families and business travellers. With nearby attractions like Dyess Park and Telge Park, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities suitable for all ages. The area features a shopping mall centre and educational facilities, making it a convenient stay for those looking to combine leisure and work. Food and drink options abound, including pubs and wineries, adding to the local charm.
• Downtown Houston: The bustling Downtown Houston is perfect for families and business-themed experiences. The area is rich in entertainment, with venues for music concerts and a variety of shopping centres. Key landmarks include Discovery Green and Houston City Hall, where cultural exploration is at your fingertips. With numerous breweries and pubs nearby, Downtown Houston offers a lively atmosphere for dining and socializing.
• The Woodlands: The Woodlands is an attractive city that appeals to families and business travellers alike. With access to shopping mall centres and arena entertainment facilities, there’s plenty to see and do. Highlights include Hughes Landing and Lake Conroe, which offer scenic views and outdoor fun. The area is also known for its diverse restaurants and wineries, creating a vibrant dining scene that enhances any visit.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal 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 ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to find lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals 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 luxury models, might be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Other policies might include full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which can be fine as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, though the convenience might make it worthwhile.
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 in case of unexpected events during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Houston

The best time to rent a car in and around Houston is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers good value, though demand tends to rise. The following months, from March to April, see increased prices and high demand, making it a busier period for rentals. After that, prices and demand usually stabilise in May, before summer months like June through August bring moderate pricing and slightly lower demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	54.1°F (12.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
March	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	82.8°F (28.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	84.2°F (29.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
August	84.9°F (29.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average