Jacksonville Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Jacksonville

Renting a car in Jacksonville offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, business travellers, and those seeking a city-themed experience. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as American Beach, known for its beautiful shoreline, and the historic Amelia Island Lighthouse, both located within the vicinity of Jacksonville. Additionally, the Jacksonville Beach Pier provides a scenic spot to enjoy the ocean.

Having a car also allows for convenient day trips to nearby destinations like Jacksonville Beach, which features oceanfront parks and vibrant beach life, as well as Fernandina Beach, where you can experience both American Beach and the Amelia Island Lighthouse. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, a rental car ensures you can make the most of your time in Jacksonville while comfortably transporting your group and belongings. Exploring this metropolis by car makes navigating the area’s attractions simple and enjoyable, allowing you to create your own itinerary without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Jacksonville

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a spacious vehicle that offers both comfort and versatility. The extra room makes it perfect for managing luggage while enjoying the freedom to explore Jacksonville and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV also accommodates 5 travellers, with a capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is well-suited for couples, families, or groups who want a reliable vehicle for their travels. With its balance of space and comfort, a standard SUV allows you to navigate Jacksonville with ease, providing the flexibility needed to adapt your travel plans as you explore.
• Compact: For those travelling solo or as part of a couple or family, the compact car is a great option. It accommodates 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is perfect for those who value efficiency and ease of parking while still having enough room for luggage. A compact car offers a practical solution for exploring Jacksonville and beyond without compromising on comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Jacksonville

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice among travellers in Jacksonville, boasting 5 rental locations throughout the area. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a great selection of vehicles, with the most booked options being Midsize SUVs and Compacts. This flexibility allows you to explore Jacksonville and its surroundings comfortably and at your own pace, making it an excellent option for various travel needs.
• Budget: With over 5 rental locations in Jacksonville, Budget is another top contender for car rentals. This supplier is well-regarded for its competitive pricing and diverse vehicle selection, particularly Midsize and Standard SUVs, which are the most popular choices among customers. Budget's convenient locations make it easy for you to pick up and drop off your rental, enhancing your travel experience around the city.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental offers a solid option for those seeking convenience and affordability in Jacksonville, featuring 3 rental locations in the area. With a focus on Midsize and Compact SUVs, Thrifty provides a practical choice for travellers looking to explore the region comfortably. The streamlined service and well-maintained vehicles contribute to an enjoyable rental experience, ensuring you can make the most of your time in Jacksonville.

Where to stay in Jacksonville

• Jacksonville Beach: Located close to Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor activities and city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore popular venues such as the Jacksonville Beach Pier and Oceanfront Park, perfect for enjoying the local beach environment. Nearby shopping mall centres and various restaurants cater to all tastes, making it an ideal spot for a well-rounded stay.
• Amelia Island: Situated within reach of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a charming destination featuring beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures. With attractions like Fernandina Beach and the historic Amelia Island Lighthouse, it's perfect for families looking to enjoy both culture and nature. The island also offers golf courses and resorts, along with numerous dining options, ensuring a delightful experience for all visitors.
• Ponte Vedra Beach: This city, close to Jacksonville, is renowned for its outdoor sports and stunning beach landscapes. Ponte Vedra Beach is home to Mickler Beach and the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, providing excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also indulge in local restaurants and wineries, making it a great choice for those seeking both relaxation and recreation.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, leverage 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 early, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance among cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the best option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid refueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
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 exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional 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 Jacksonville

The best value time to rent a car in and around Jacksonville is in May, when prices are slightly low and demand is high. June also offers reasonable rates along with slightly low demand. Following this, July sees slightly high prices but still low demand. As the year progresses, October stands out as the most expensive month, with moderately high demand continuing into November.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
March	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	75.7°F (24.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
June	80.8°F (27.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
July	82.4°F (28.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
August	82.4°F (28.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	60.1°F (15.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low