Memphis is a city rich in history and music, with many things to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Memphis, you may 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 Memphis, 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 Memphis?
Yes, you should rent a car in Memphis. Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace and visit all the attractions on your list. Memphis is a spread-out city with many sights outside of the downtown area, and renting a car will make it easier for you to get around. Additionally, if you plan to take day trips to nearby attractions like Graceland, a car rental will give you the flexibility to come and go as you please.
However, if you are planning to stay in the downtown area and only visit the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. Memphis has a good public transportation system, including buses and trolleys, and many of the city’s top attractions are located within walking distance of one another.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Memphis depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Memphis
There are several benefits to renting a car in Memphis. 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 Memphis, such as the nearby city of Tunica, known for its casinos and resorts, or the scenic Great River Road that runs along the Mississippi River.
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. And if you’re planning to visit Memphis during the hot summer months, a car rental will provide you with air conditioning and a comfortable ride.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Memphis 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 Memphis
While there are benefits to renting a car in Memphis, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Memphis is not the cheapest city to rent a car in, and you may also have to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
Another disadvantage is the traffic. Memphis can be a challenging city to drive in, especially during rush hour, and you may find yourself stuck in traffic for long periods of time. Additionally, parking can be difficult in some areas of the city, particularly in the downtown area, where street parking is limited and parking garages can be expensive.
Finally, if you plan to drink alcohol during your trip, you should be aware that Tennessee has strict DUI laws. If you are caught driving under the influence, you could face serious legal and financial consequences.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Memphis can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging. If you plan to drink alcohol during your trip, be aware of the strict DUI laws in Tennessee.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Memphis Airport?
Yes, renting a car at the airport is more convenient, as you can pick up your rental car as soon as you arrive and begin exploring the city immediately.
There are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. However, keep in mind that airport rentals may be more expensive due to additional fees and taxes.
On the other hand, if you’re already in Memphis and don’t need a car right away, you may be able to find cheaper rental options downtown. Additionally, some hotels in downtown Memphis offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, which can save you money on transportation costs.
Bottom line: Renting a car at the Memphis airport is more convenient, but may be more expensive. If you don’t need a car right away, you may be able to find cheaper rental options downtown and take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service from your hotel.
Tips For Renting A Car In Memphis
If you decide to rent a car in Memphis, here are some tips to help make the process smoother:
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can help you save money and ensure that you get the vehicle you want.
- Compare prices: Compare prices from different car rental companies to find the best deal. You can use websites like Expedia, Kayak, or Rentalcars.com to compare prices.
- Check for discounts: Many car rental companies offer discounts to AAA members, military personnel, and other groups. Be sure to check for any discounts that may apply to you.
- Choose the right size car: Consider the size of your group and the amount of luggage you’ll have when choosing a rental car. You don’t want to be cramped or have to leave luggage behind.
- Understand the insurance options: Car rental companies often offer additional insurance options, but these can be expensive. Check with your own car insurance provider or credit card company to see if you’re already covered.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Memphis can be a great way to explore the city and surrounding areas. By booking in advance, comparing prices, choosing the right size car, and following traffic laws and parking regulations, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Memphis
Renting a car in Memphis can be expensive, but there are ways to find cheaper options. Here are some tips for renting a car in Memphis on a budget:
- Compare prices: The first step in finding a cheap car rental in Memphis is to compare prices from different rental companies. Use a search engine or travel website to compare rates and find the best deals. It’s also worth checking directly with the rental company, as they may offer special discounts or promotions.
- Consider renting from off-airport locations: Renting a car from an off-airport location can be cheaper than renting from the airport. Look for rental companies located in the city or near your hotel, and compare prices with airport rentals to see which is the better option.
- Book in advance: Booking your rental car in advance can help you find lower prices. Rental companies often offer discounts for reservations made in advance, so book your car as soon as you know your travel dates.
- Consider a smaller car: Renting a smaller car can be cheaper than renting a larger one, so consider your needs carefully. If you don’t need a lot of space or plan to travel alone, a compact or economy car may be the best choice.
- Avoid additional fees: Rental companies often add fees for things like additional drivers, GPS, or insurance. Avoid these fees if possible by bringing your own GPS or insurance, and limiting the number of drivers to just one.
- Look for coupons or promo codes: Some rental companies offer coupons or promo codes that can be used to save money on car rentals. Look for these online or through travel websites, and be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure that the discount is valid for your rental.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Memphis can be affordable if you book in advance, compare prices across different rental companies, and take advantage of discounts and promotions. Be sure to also consider factors such as location, type of car, and insurance coverage to find the best deal for your needs.
Rent A Car In Memphis
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Memphis:
- Alamo: starts at $52 per day
- Avis: starts at $54 per day
- Budget: starts at $48 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $50 per day
- Hertz: starts at $52 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $49 per day
- Dollar: starts at $50 per day
Gas prices in Memphis 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: Renting a car in Seattle is a convenient option for exploring the city and its surrounding areas, with several major rental car companies offering competitive prices. Gas prices can be high, but planning ahead and choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle can help keep costs down.
Tips For Driving In Memphis
If you plan to rent a car and drive in Memphis, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Memphis has some high crime areas, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. Keep your car doors locked and windows up, and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
- Follow traffic laws: Be sure to obey traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals. Memphis has a reputation for aggressive driving, but it’s important to prioritize safety over speed.
- Avoid rush hour: If possible, try to avoid driving during rush hour, particularly on weekdays. Traffic can be heavy and frustrating, and you may find yourself stuck in traffic for long periods of time.
- Use a GPS or map: If you’re not familiar with the area, use a GPS or map to help navigate the city. Memphis can be confusing to navigate, particularly if you’re not used to the layout of the city.
- Plan your parking: Parking can be a challenge in Memphis, particularly in the downtown area. Plan ahead and research parking options before you arrive to avoid circling the block looking for a spot.
Bottom line: Driving in Memphis can be challenging, but by following traffic laws, being aware of your surroundings, and planning ahead, you can have a safe and enjoyable driving experience in the city.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car in Memphis can be a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace, but it’s not always necessary, especially if you plan to stay in the downtown area and visit the major tourist attractions. Renting a car can provide more flexibility, allow you to explore outside the city, and be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage, but it can also be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging. If you decide to rent a car, it’s best to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
