Lansing Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Lansing

Renting a car in Lansing offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans while visiting key attractions. For those interested in culture, a visit to the Michigan State Capitol provides a glimpse into the city's history. Families can enjoy outdoor experiences at Adado Riverfront Park or engage with interactive exhibits at the Impression 5 Science Center. Beyond Lansing, East Lansing is a short 6 km away, featuring notable sites such as the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum and John M. Patriarche Park. Additionally, you can explore the vibrant Downtown Lansing, which includes the same attractions as well as local dining and shopping options. Waverly, another nearby neighbourhood, offers the Michigan History Museum and Turner-Dodge House. Whether you are travelling for business, leisure, or with family, renting a car makes it convenient to discover all that Lansing and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Lansing

• Midsize: This car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize vehicles are ideal for couples or families, offering a comfortable ride while still being easy to manoeuvre around Lansing. With sufficient space for both passengers and luggage, this option provides a great balance between comfort and practicality.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is a spacious choice that can also accommodate up to 5 travellers. It allows for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it ideal for families or groups who require extra storage. This option ensures that everyone can travel together without feeling cramped, allowing for a more enjoyable road trip experience in and around Lansing.
• Compact: A compact car is a smart choice for those travelling solo or in pairs, as it accommodates up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is especially advantageous for navigating urban areas in Lansing, where parking may be limited. Compact cars offer a practical solution for those looking for efficiency and ease during their travels.

Top rated car suppliers in Lansing

• Avis: Avis is a popular choice among travellers in Lansing, boasting one rental location. Known for its reliable vehicles, Avis primarily offers Fullsize and Compact cars, making it an excellent option for those seeking comfort and efficiency. With the ease of managing your luggage and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, Avis provides a solid rental experience for visitors.
• Hertz: Hertz features one rental location in Lansing and is favoured for its Midsize and Economy vehicles. Travellers appreciate Hertz for its commitment to quality and customer service. The convenience of a well-maintained fleet allows you to navigate Lansing’s attractions smoothly, enhancing your travel experience with the freedom to adjust your plans as needed.
• Enterprise: Offering the most rental locations in Lansing with two options, Enterprise stands out for its diverse selection of vehicles, including Midsize and Fullsize SUVs. This supplier is particularly noted for its customer service, ensuring a pleasant rental process. With the ability to accommodate various travel needs, Enterprise is a fantastic choice for families or groups looking to explore the area comfortably.

Where to stay in and around Lansing

• East Lansing: Located 6 km away from Lansing, East Lansing offers a vibrant city-themed and family experience. It is home to the modern college university, sports facility stadium, and event conference venue. Notable attractions include the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum for culture enthusiasts, the historic Bigelow Thomas Kuhn House, and John M. Patriarche Park, ideal for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy dining options at local wineries and restaurants, making it a great spot for families and culture lovers.
• Waverly: Situated around the area of Lansing, Waverly is perfect for those seeking a city-themed, family, or business experience. This neighborhood features a modern college university and an event conference venue. Key points of interest include the Michigan State Capitol, a historic civic government building, and the Michigan History Museum, which showcases local history. Visitors can also explore the Turner-Dodge House and Heritage Center, with nearby options for sweet treats, breweries, and wineries enhancing your stay.
• Eastwood: Also located around Lansing, Eastwood is ideal for a city-themed, family, or business experience. With access to a modern college university and a sports facility stadium, it offers various attractions. Key highlights are Adado Riverfront Park for outdoor activities, the historic Turner-Dodge House and Heritage Center, and the Rogers-Carrier House. Nearby food and drink options, including wineries and breweries, provide excellent choices for dining and relaxation during your visit.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise 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 obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
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 generally the best option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty 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 make it worthwhile.
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 if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Lansing

The best time to rent a car in and around Lansing is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is also quite manageable. This period is followed by October and November, which also show slightly low prices with low demand, making them decent shoulder months. Conversely, July tends to be the most expensive month, with both high prices and high demand, while June and August also see elevated demand and average pricing.