Arizona Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Arizona

Renting a car in Arizona provides the freedom to explore the state's stunning landscapes and attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage easily and create a flexible travel itinerary. This option appeals particularly to those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. Key destinations such as the Grand Canyon National Park, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon Skywalk are all within reach, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.

Moreover, a rental car makes it convenient to discover popular cities like Phoenix, with its Camelback Mountain and Tempe Town Lake, or Sedona, known for Oak Creek Canyon and Red Rock State Park. Mesa also offers attractions like the Mesa Arts Center and Desert Botanical Garden. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a family looking for convenience, or a couple seeking romantic viewpoints, having a car enhances your ability to enjoy all that Arizona has to offer. With well-maintained roads and breathtaking scenery, renting a car is a practical choice for your Arizona trip.

Most popular car rentals in Arizona

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. It's an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Arizona while enjoying the freedom of having adequate luggage capacity. With a midsize SUV, you can effortlessly navigate both urban areas and the stunning landscapes Arizona has to offer.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is perfect for 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or up to 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families or larger groups needing extra space for their belongings. Renting a fullsize vehicle allows you to travel comfortably and conveniently while taking in all that Arizona has to offer.
• Standard SUV: Suitable for up to 5 travellers, the standard SUV can accommodate 2 medium suitcases. This option is great for couples, families, or groups who require a balance of space and manoeuvrability. With a standard SUV, you can enjoy Arizona's diverse attractions without compromising on comfort or luggage space.

Where to stay in Arizona

• Phoenix: As a bustling metropolis, Phoenix offers a vibrant mix of family, city-themed, and business experiences. It's home to key attractions such as Camelback Mountain, perfect for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Tempe Town Lake provides a romantic setting, while the Phoenix Raceway caters to motorsport enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local malls and explore a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby. With its warm climate, the best time to visit Phoenix is during the cooler months from October to April.
• Sedona: Known for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, ideal for adventure and scenic experiences. Highlights include Oak Creek Canyon, which offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities, and Red Rock State Park, perfect for hiking and exploration. For a unique experience, Slide Rock State Park features natural water slides amidst beautiful surroundings. Sedona's wineries and restaurants provide excellent dining options, especially appealing during the spring and fall when the weather is most pleasant.
• Tucson: Tucson combines a vibrant city atmosphere with outdoor activities, making it suitable for family and city-themed trips. Attractions like Saguaro National Park allow visitors to immerse themselves in stunning desert scenery, while the Pima Air and Space Museum offers cultural insights. Sabino Canyon is another outdoor gem, ideal for those seeking adventure. Tucson's shopping centres and variety of restaurants and wineries enhance the experience, particularly in the mild months of October to April when the weather is optimal for exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Arizona

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 drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, filters on Expedia can help you pinpoint the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often means lower prices and improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park 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 fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Similar restrictions may apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. 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 justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Arizona

The best value period to rent a car in Arizona is July, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low as well. June also offers good value, with low prices and demand. For those considering shoulder months, May and August present average prices and demand, making them decent options. However, October tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and steady demand, while November follows closely with similar characteristics.