Car Rental Lambert-St. Louis Intl. Airport (STL)

Reasons to book a car rental at St. Louis International Airport

Renting a car at St. Louis airport offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the surrounding area. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you can easily visit key attractions such as Forest Park, located 14 km away, or Westport Plaza, just 8 km from the airport. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families, allowing for easy luggage management and the ability to accommodate strollers or gear for outdoor experiences.

Additionally, a rental car makes it simple to discover popular destinations nearby, including the vibrant city of St. Louis, which hosts the iconic Gateway Arch and City Museum. Maryland Heights, only 6 km away, also features attractions like Historic Main Street, providing further options for sightseeing. With convenient access to these locations, a rental car enhances your travel experience, ensuring you can explore the rich culture and history of the St. Louis area without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Most popular car rentals near St. Louis Airport

• Midsize SUV: This car option is a top choice for travellers, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who need versatility and comfort while exploring the area around St. Louis airport. With its spacious interior, it provides both convenience and flexibility for your travel plans.
• Fullsize: Perfect for larger groups or families, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travellers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option provides ample space for luggage, making it a great choice for those planning longer trips or needing extra room for gear. Renting a fullsize car ensures that everyone can travel together comfortably.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is another great option for those travelling in groups or with family. It accommodates 5 passengers and up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for smaller families or couples. This vehicle offers a balance of space and comfort, allowing you to navigate the surroundings of St. Louis airport with ease while ensuring that your luggage needs are met.

Where to stay near St. Louis International Airport

• Maryland Heights: Located 6 km from St. Louis airport, Maryland Heights offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of entertainment options. Key attractions include Westport Plaza, a charming neighbourhood perfect for city exploration, and Forest Park, an urban park ideal for family outings and outdoor activities. With numerous restaurants and wineries nearby, this area is well-suited for tourists seeking a mix of leisure and local culture.
• Hazelwood: Situated 5 km from St. Louis airport, Hazelwood provides a family-friendly environment with an array of entertainment venues. Explore the scenic Forest Park, great for outdoor adventures, or visit Westport Plaza for a taste of local charm. The area features several breweries and wineries, making it an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in local flavours while enjoying a vibrant city atmosphere.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near St. Louis

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to secure your STL car rental as early as possible to access lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead of time is ideal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park 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 car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan on spending considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from St. Louis Airport

The best time to rent a car from St. Louis Airport is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers great value for travellers. March and April see average prices but high demand, making them less ideal. The summer months, particularly July, tend to be the most expensive with slightly high prices and average demand. June through August can also be busy, impacting both availability and cost for rentals.