Car Rental Missoula Intl. Airport (MSO)

Reasons to book a car rental at Missoula International Airport

Renting a car at Missoula Airport (MSO) provides an excellent opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings of Missoula at your own pace. This option offers the convenience of easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it a popular choice for tourists. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Fort Missoula, located just 8 km away, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Caras Park, an urban park ideal for family and outdoor experiences, is only 9 km from the airport, perfect for a relaxing day out. For those interested in eco-friendly activities, the Montana Natural History Center is also situated 8 km away and offers engaging experiences. Additionally, the city of Missoula itself has many attractions, including the Missoula County Fairgrounds and more parks. Nearby, the city of DeSmet is a mere 2 km away, while Grant Creek, a neighbourhood 4 km from the airport, offers further opportunities for exploration. Renting a car ensures that both families and solo travellers can enjoy the freedom and flexibility to create their own itineraries while discovering the beauty and charm of the area surrounding Missoula Airport.

Most popular car rentals near Missoula Airport

• Midsize: The midsize car option is a popular choice among renters at Missoula airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal selection for couples and families looking to explore the area comfortably. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy a spacious ride while managing your luggage efficiently.
• Standard SUV: If you need a bit more room, the standard SUV is a fantastic option. This vehicle also accommodates up to 5 travellers, with space for 2 medium suitcases. It’s perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting to navigate the varied terrain around Missoula with ease and confidence.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is excellent for larger families or groups, with the capacity to hold 5 travellers and either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious vehicle ensures you have ample room for passengers and luggage, making it a practical choice for those planning longer journeys or needing extra storage.

Top rated car suppliers near Missoula International Airport

• Budget: Budget has a rental location situated less than 1 km from Missoula airport, making it an easily accessible option for travellers. Known for its reliable service, Budget offers a selection of vehicles that are perfect for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Missoula. The most booked models include the Standard SUV and Midsize, providing a comfortable and spacious ride for your adventures.
• Avis: Avis also boasts a convenient rental location less than 1 km from Missoula airport. This supplier is well-regarded for its customer service and well-maintained fleet. Popular choices among Avis customers are the Standard SUV and Midsize, which cater to both solo travellers and families alike, ensuring a pleasant journey as you traverse the stunning landscapes of the area.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another excellent option, with its location conveniently located less than 1 km from Missoula airport. This supplier stands out with its popular Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are ideal for those looking for a bit more space while travelling. Thrifty is known for its competitive pricing and efficient service, making it a favourable choice for travellers seeking flexibility on their road trips.

Where to stay near Missoula International Airport

• Grant Creek: Located 4 km from Missoula Airport, Grant Creek offers a blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. With attractions like the Clark Fork River for outdoor activities and the Montana Natural History Center for eco-friendly insights, it is a perfect spot for nature lovers. Visitors can also enjoy local breweries and pubs nearby, making it a vibrant area to relax after a day of exploring.
• DeSmet: Situated 2 km from Missoula Airport, DeSmet is a charming village ideal for those seeking outdoor experiences and culture. Key attractions include Fort Missoula, a historic site, and Caras Park, a lovely urban park perfect for family outings. Dining options abound in the area, ensuring you can indulge in local flavours while enjoying the stunning scenery that surrounds you.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Missoula

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for added luggage, leverage the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to reserve your MSO car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead of your trip is ideal, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require 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 advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Missoula Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Missoula Airport is April, when prices are moderately low and demand is average. March and February can also offer good options, as they feature low demand alongside average pricing. However, July is the peak month for rentals, marked by high demand and moderately high prices. August continues this trend with similarly high demand and prices, making it one of the busiest times for car rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.7°F (-4.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	24.6°F (-4.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	33.1°F (0.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
April	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
May	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
June	59.2°F (15.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	69.3°F (20.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Moderately High
September	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	43.2°F (6.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
November	30.9°F (-0.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	23.2°F (-4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average