Houston is a sprawling metropolis known for its space center, museums, and diverse food scene. If you’re planning a trip to Houston, you might be wondering if you should rent a car. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of renting a car in Houston, 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 Houston?
Yes, you should rent a car in Houston. If you plan on exploring areas outside of downtown or want more flexibility in your schedule, renting a car can be a great option. This is especially true if you want to visit some of the more remote areas of Houston or take day trips to nearby attractions like Galveston or San Antonio. Houston is a large city and having a car will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
However, if you’re planning on staying in the downtown area and only visiting the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. Houston has a decent public transportation system, including buses and light rail. Uber and Lyft are also widely available in Houston, and they can be a more cost-effective option than renting a car if you’re only traveling short distances.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Houston depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Houston
There are several benefits to renting a car in Houston. 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 Houston, such as the Gulf Coast beaches or the charming town of Brenham. 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.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Houston 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 Houston
While there are benefits to renting a car in Houston, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Houston 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.
Houston 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 thing to consider is the weather. Houston is known for its hot and humid summers, and it can be uncomfortable to walk around outside. If you have a car, you can easily go from one air-conditioned location to another without having to worry about the heat.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Houston can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be a challenge. The weather is also something to consider, especially during the summer months.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Houston Airport?
If you’re flying into Houston, you might be wondering if it’s better to rent a car at the airport or wait until you get to your hotel. In most cases, it’s better to rent a car at the airport.
Renting a car at the airport is more convenient and can save you time. You won’t have to worry about finding transportation to your hotel, and you can start exploring the city right away. Plus, you’ll have access to a wider selection of rental cars, and you may be able to find better deals at the airport rental companies.
However, keep in mind that renting a car at the airport can also be more expensive than renting at a non-airport location. You may also have to pay extra fees and taxes associated with renting at the airport. To save money, consider comparing prices between airport and non-airport rental locations before making your decision.
Bottom line: Renting a car at Houston airport is more convenient and allows for immediate exploration, but it can also be more expensive. Compare prices before making a decision.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Houston
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to rent a car in Houston, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can save you money, as rates tend to increase as the rental date gets closer.
- Compare prices: Use comparison websites to compare prices from multiple car rental companies. This can help you find the best deal for your needs.
- Consider off-airport locations: Renting a car from an off-airport location can often be cheaper than renting from the airport. Just be aware that you may need to take a shuttle or taxi to get to the rental car location.
- Check for discounts: Many car rental companies offer discounts for members of organizations like AAA, AARP, or military personnel. Check to see if you qualify for any discounts before booking.
- Avoid unnecessary add-ons: Car rental companies often offer additional services like insurance or GPS navigation. Consider whether you really need these extras before adding them to your rental.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Houston can be affordable if you book in advance, compare prices, and take advantage of discounts and promotions. However, you should also consider the additional costs of parking, tolls, and gas, as well as the potential for traffic and parking challenges in the city. Ultimately, whether or not renting a car is the cheapest option for you will depend on your specific itinerary and budget.
Rent A Car In Houston
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Houston:
- Alamo: starts at $51 per day
- Avis: starts at $46 per day
- Budget: starts at $42 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $49 per day
- Hertz: starts at $50 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $39 per day
- Dollar: starts at $43 per day
Gas prices will also vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $45 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.02 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Bottom line: When renting a car in Houston, there are several options available from major rental car companies, with prices starting at around $35 per day. Gas prices vary depending on where you fill up, but expect to spend around $45-$60 for a full tank based on current prices. Be sure to compare prices and options from different rental car companies to find the best deal for your needs.
Wrapping Up
Whether or not you should rent a car in Seattle or Houston depends on your itinerary and personal preferences. Renting a car provides flexibility, convenience, and the ability to explore outside of the city. However, it can also be expensive and comes with the added cost of gas and parking fees. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider alternative transportation options like public transit or rideshare services. With some research and planning, you can choose the best option that suits your needs and make the most of your trip to these vibrant cities.
