South Tampa Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around South Tampa

Renting a car in South Tampa provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit attractions like the Tampa Riverwalk and Tampa Bay, both located 11 km away. Whether you're seeking outdoor experiences, family activities, or beach outings, having your own vehicle allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. You can also venture a bit further to Vinoy Park, which is 15 km away, perfect for family and outdoor experiences.

A car rental is particularly beneficial for families, providing ample space for strollers and luggage while keeping everyone together. If you want to explore nearby cities, you can drive to St. Petersburg, located 17 km away, which features the Salvador Dali Museum and more. Additionally, the bustling metropolis of Tampa, where South Tampa is situated, offers attractions such as Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and the Florida State Fairgrounds. With convenient access to these destinations, renting a car ensures that you maximize your time and enjoyment while visiting South Tampa and its surroundings.

Most popular car rentals around South Tampa

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With its spacious interior, a midsize SUV provides the comfort and versatility needed for exploring South Tampa and its surroundings. Whether you’re heading to the beach or a local attraction, this vehicle offers ample room for passengers and luggage alike, ensuring a pleasant journey.
• Fullsize: Designed to accommodate 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize option is perfect for families and groups. This vehicle type offers generous space and comfort, allowing you to travel without feeling cramped. Renting a fullsize car is a reliable choice for those who want a roomy vehicle to carry their belongings while enjoying the freedom to explore South Tampa at leisure.
• Standard SUV: Accommodating 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is an excellent choice for couples, families, and groups. This car type strikes a balance between comfort and manageability. With its moderate size, the standard SUV is easy to navigate through South Tampa while still providing ample space for passengers and their gear. It’s a practical solution for those looking to enjoy their trip with flexibility and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers around South Tampa

• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts two rental locations, with the nearest one located 4 km away from South Tampa. This supplier is highly regarded for its excellent customer service and a diverse fleet of vehicles. The most booked options are Fullsize and Midsize cars, which cater well to various travel needs. Travellers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and the flexibility to explore the region at their own pace, making Enterprise a popular choice for those visiting South Tampa.
• Easirent: With a rental location situated 10 km away from South Tampa, Easirent is another top option for car rentals. This supplier is particularly noted for its offerings of Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, which are ideal for families or those needing extra space. Customers value the convenience of Easirent's services, allowing them to navigate the beautiful attractions around South Tampa with ease and comfort.
• Routes: Routes also has one rental location 10 km from South Tampa and is known for its competitive selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars. This supplier is favoured by travellers who appreciate the flexibility to adapt their itineraries while exploring the area. With a focus on customer satisfaction and convenience, Routes provides a reliable option for those looking to make the most of their trip in South Tampa.

Where to stay around South Tampa

• South Tampa: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a great base for families seeking outdoor and beach experiences. Located within Tampa, South Tampa is close to attractions like Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, perfect for a family holiday. The nearby Tampa Riverwalk provides a scenic esplanade for leisurely strolls and family outings. Enjoy the local dining scene with a variety of restaurants and wineries to explore.
• St. Petersburg: Situated 17 km away from South Tampa, St. Petersburg is an ideal spot for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts stunning beaches, and family-friendly attractions like Vinoy Park and the Salvador Dali Museum. With a lively shopping area and excellent dining options, St. Petersburg is perfect for those looking to experience a mix of culture and relaxation.
• Pinellas Park: Located 19 km from South Tampa, Pinellas Park is a great destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. The area is known for its shopping mall centres and access to beautiful beaches. Key attractions include Upham Beach and Vinoy Park, both offering opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Along with local restaurants and distilleries, you'll find plenty of options for food and drinks.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around South Tampa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option 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 premium models—might be unavailable. Renters over the age of 70 may also be affected. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
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 charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only 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 something unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 South Tampa

The best value period to rent a car in and around South Tampa is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is quiet. June through August can also offer reasonable rates with average demand. May serves as a shoulder month, with slightly low prices and moderate demand. In contrast, December is the most expensive month, with higher prices and increased demand, while February and March are also busy months with elevated rental rates.