USA Auto RentalCompare cars

Compare rental cars across the USA

Search many rental companies at once, skip the fees that inflate the bill, and plan the rest of the trip while you're at it.

Straight road leading toward the buttes of Monument Valley
Photo: Airam Dato-on / Pexels

Seven ways to pay less for a rental car

  1. Book a free-cancellation rate early, then keep checking. If the price drops, rebook and cancel the first one.
  2. Look off-airport. Airport locations often add facility and concession fees that a city location nearby may not.
  3. Know your coverage before the counter. Your own auto policy or credit card may already cover a rental. Insurance guide
  4. Refuel it yourself. Prepaid fuel and refueling charges usually cost more than filling up near the return location.
  5. Check the toll plan. Rental toll programs often add a daily fee on top of the tolls.
  6. Use member discounts. AAA, warehouse clubs and employer codes can lower the rate or waive extra-driver fees.
  7. Photograph the car at pickup and return. Two minutes of video can save a damage dispute.

All money-saving tips →

Rental car guides

Car rental money-saving tipsFees to dodge, when to book and what to check at pickupRental car insurance explainedCDW, liability and what your own policy or card may coverAirport car rentalsRenting at major U.S. airports, with hotels and things to doOne-way and road trip rentalsDrop fees, mileage and classic American drives

Popular places to pick up a car

More ways to book

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Discover Cars

Compares rental prices from many companies, from major brands to local firms, with clear terms and an optional full coverage product.

Compare at Discover Cars →

Carla Car Rental

Rental car app and website with book-now, pay-later options and deals from major and local companies.

Book with Carla →

Travelocity Cars

Search rental cars in top U.S. destinations, alone or bundled with flights and hotels.

Search Travelocity Cars →

Orbitz Car Deals

Weekly rental car deals and savings on select rentals.

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Car booked? Plan the rest of the trip.

USA Auto Rental is part of a family of travel sites. Find a cheap room on Rooms Cheap, flights on Airfares for Less and things to do on 101 Things to Do in the USA. Budget your gas with the calculator on Gas Saving Tips.

Frequently asked questions

When should I book a rental car?

As soon as your dates are firm, using a rate with free cancellation. Then check again closer to the trip and rebook if the price drops. For holidays and peak season, book early, because cars can sell out.

Is it cheaper to rent at the airport?

Not always. Airport locations often add facility charges and concession fees. A nearby city location can be cheaper, but weigh the savings against the cost and time of getting there.

Can I rent a car with a debit card?

Often, but with conditions. Many companies require a credit card, and those that accept debit may run a credit check, ask for proof of a return flight or hold a larger deposit. Check the policy before you book.