Detroit is a city that has a lot to offer, from its rich history to its vibrant music scene. If you’re planning a trip to Detroit, you might be wondering whether or not you should rent a car. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of renting a car in Detroit, as well as some tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent A Car In Detroit?
Yes, you should rent a car in Detroit. Renting a car provides more flexibility in your schedule and allows you to explore areas outside of downtown Detroit. With a car, you can visit places like the Henry Ford Museum or the Detroit Zoo, which are not accessible by public transportation. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a rental car can be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation.
However, if you’re planning on staying in the downtown area and only visiting the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. Detroit has a public transportation system, including buses and a light rail, that can get you around the city.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Detroit depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Detroit
There are several benefits to renting a car in Detroit. First and foremost, it provides more flexibility in your schedule. You won’t be tied to public transportation schedules or have to worry about finding a ride to more remote areas of the city.
Renting a car also allows you to explore areas outside of Detroit, such as the charming town of Ann Arbor or the scenic Upper Peninsula. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a rental car can be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation.
Another benefit of renting a car in Detroit is the opportunity to take a self-guided tour of the city’s famous murals. Detroit is known for its vibrant street art scene, and a rental car allows you to see these murals at your own pace.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Detroit provides flexibility, allows you to explore outside the city, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In Detroit
While there are benefits to renting a car in Detroit, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Detroit has some of the highest car rental rates in the country, and you may also have to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
Detroit is also known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic, it can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the city, especially in the downtown area.
Another potential downside of renting a car in Detroit is the risk of car theft. Detroit has a high rate of car theft, and visitors should take precautions to protect their rental car.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Detroit can be expensive, stressful, and may increase the risk of car theft.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Detroit Airport?
No, renting a car at the airport can be more expensive than renting in the city. You may also have to pay for parking at the airport, which can add to the cost. Additionally, if you’re not familiar with driving in Detroit, navigating the airport area can be challenging and stressful.
However, renting a car at the airport can be convenient, as you can pick up your car as soon as you land and start your journey right away.
If you’re willing to take a shuttle or public transportation to the rental car location, you may be able to save money by renting in the city. However, this will require some extra planning and may not be as convenient as renting at the airport.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to rent a car at the airport or in the city depends on your priorities and budget. If convenience and time are more important, renting at the airport may be the better option. If cost is a bigger concern, you may want to consider renting in the city and taking public transportation or a shuttle to the rental car location.
Bottom line: Renting a car at the airport can be convenient but more expensive, while renting in the city can be cheaper but require extra planning and effort.
Tips For Renting A Car In Detroit
If you decide to rent a car in Detroit, here are some tips to help make the process smoother:
- Compare prices from different rental car companies to find the best deal.
- Consider renting a smaller car to save money on gas and parking.
- Make sure to check the rental car agreement for any hidden fees or restrictions.
- Use a GPS or map to navigate around the city and avoid getting lost.
- Take precautions to protect your rental car from theft, such as parking in well-lit areas and not leaving valuables inside.
- Plan ahead for parking and be prepared to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
- Follow traffic laws and be cautious when driving in the city, especially during rush hour.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Detroit requires some extra planning and caution, but can provide flexibility and the opportunity to explore outside the city. By following these tips, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable rental car experience.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Detroit
If you’re planning to rent a car in Detroit and looking for the best deal, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Compare prices: Do some research and compare prices from different rental companies. Websites like Kayak, Expedia, and Rentalcars.com allow you to compare rates from multiple companies at once.
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can often save you money. Rates can be higher if you wait until the last minute to book.
- Consider off-airport rental locations: Renting a car at the airport can be more expensive due to additional fees. Consider renting from a location outside of the airport if possible.
- Look for discount codes: Look for discount codes online, which can save you a percentage off the rental price. Rental companies may also offer discounts for AAA members or other memberships you might have.
- Avoid add-ons: Rental companies may try to upsell you on additional features like GPS or insurance. Consider whether you really need these extras before agreeing to them.
Bottom line: To find the cheapest way to rent a car in Detroit, compare prices, book in advance, consider off-airport rental locations, look for discount codes, and avoid add-ons that you don’t really need.
Rent A Car In Detroit
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Detroit:
- Alamo: starts at $56 per day
- Avis: starts at $56 per day
- Budget: starts at $44 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $59 per day
- Hertz: starts at $56 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $46 per day
- Dollar: starts at $49 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $50 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.36 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Bottom line: renting a car in Detroit can provide flexibility, allowing you to explore areas outside of downtown and providing more comfort for groups or those with a lot of luggage. However, it can also be expensive, stressful in traffic, and increase the risk of car theft. Ultimately, whether or not to rent a car in Detroit depends on your itinerary and personal preferences.
Tips For Driving In Detroit
If you decide to rent a car in Detroit, here are some tips for driving in the city:
- Watch for construction: Detroit is known for its ongoing road construction, so be aware of detours and lane closures.
- Avoid potholes: Detroit’s roads can be rough, with potholes that can damage your rental car. Keep an eye out for potholes and try to avoid them if possible.
- Use your GPS: Detroit can be a large and confusing city to navigate, so use your GPS or map app to help you get around. Plan for traffic: Detroit can have heavy traffic during rush hour, so plan your route and schedule accordingly.
- Be cautious at night: Some parts of Detroit can be less safe at night, so be cautious and avoid driving in unfamiliar areas alone.
Bottom line: If you’re driving in Detroit, be aware of road construction, avoid potholes, use your GPS, plan for traffic, and exercise caution at night to ensure a safe and smooth driving experience.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, renting a car in a new city like Seattle or Detroit can be a convenient way to explore the area at your own pace. However, it’s important to do your research and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and affordable rental experience. Comparing prices, booking in advance, avoiding airport rentals, using discount codes, and avoiding unnecessary add-ons can all help you find the best deal for your rental car. Additionally, taking the time to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and regulations can help make your driving experience smoother and more enjoyable. By following these tips and being a responsible driver, you can make the most of your rental car experience in any city.