Tucson is a city in Arizona known for its unique blend of cultures and stunning landscapes. With a wide range of attractions to explore, visitors may be wondering whether they should rent a car during their stay. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits and drawbacks of renting a car in Tucson, as well as provide tips to 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 Tucson?
No, you shouldn’t rent a car in Tucson. if you plan on staying within the downtown area and only visiting major tourist attractions, public transportation can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative. Tucson has a good public transportation system, including buses and streetcars, which can take you to most of the major attractions in the city.
However, While it is possible to get around Tucson using public transportation, having a rental car can make it easier to explore the city and its surrounding areas. If you’re planning on visiting attractions that are located outside of the city center or want to take day trips to nearby destinations, renting a car may be the best option for you.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Tucson depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Tucson
There are several benefits to renting a car in Tucson. First and foremost, it provides more flexibility and freedom to explore the city and its surroundings. With a rental car, you won’t be tied to public transportation schedules and can visit attractions at your own pace.
Renting a car also allows you to explore areas outside of Tucson, such as the beautiful Saguaro National Park or the historic town of Tombstone. 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 Tucson 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 Tucson
While there are benefits to renting a car in Tucson, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Tucson 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.
Tucson 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.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Tucson can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging, especially in the downtown area.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Tucson Airport?
Yes, renting a car at the airport can be more convenient, as you can pick up your rental car as soon as you arrive and start exploring right away.
However, renting a car at the airport can also be more expensive, as rental companies charge an additional fee for airport pickup. If you’re looking to save money, it may be worth considering renting a car in the city instead.
Bottom line: Renting a car at Tucson airport is more convenient but can be more expensive than renting a car in the city.
The Cheapest Way To Rent A Car In Tucson
If you’re looking to rent a car in Tucson and want to save money, there are a few things you can do. First, consider renting a car from a rental company that is not located at the airport. These companies often have lower rates and do not charge airport pickup fees. Additionally, booking your rental car in advance can help you secure a better deal.
Another way to save money is by comparing rates from different rental companies. Use online booking platforms or comparison websites to compare rates and find the best deal for your budget.
Lastly, consider renting a smaller or more fuel-efficient car to save on gas costs during your trip. Remember to factor in additional costs such as insurance and parking fees when comparing rental rates.
Bottom line: Renting a car from a non-airport rental company, booking in advance, comparing rates, and renting a smaller or more fuel-efficient car can help you save money on car rental in Tucson.
Rent A Car In Tucson
Here are rental car companies to rent a car from in Tucson:
- Alamo: starts at $60 per day
- Avis: starts at $60 per day
- Budget: starts at $51 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $58 per day
- Hertz: starts at $61 per day
- National: starts at $60 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $37 per day
- Dollar: starts at $39 per day
Gas prices in Tucson are generally lower than the national average. You can expect to spend around $45 for a full tank based on an average of $3.01 per gallon and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas. However, gas prices may vary depending on where you fill up.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Tucson provides flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings, but can be expensive and challenging due to traffic and parking. Consider your itinerary and budget before deciding whether to rent a car or use public transportation.
Tips For Driving In Tucson
If you decide to rent a car in Tucson, there are a few things to keep in mind when driving in the city.
- First and foremost, be prepared for heavy traffic during rush hour, especially on major highways and intersections.
- It’s also important to pay attention to speed limits and road signs, as they can vary depending on the area.
- In addition, Tucson has a high number of cyclists, so be sure to give them enough space and always check for cyclists before making turns.
- Lastly, be aware of the weather conditions during your trip. Monsoon season can cause flash floods and slippery roads, so drive with caution and check weather reports before heading out.
Bottom line: Be prepared for heavy traffic, pay attention to speed limits and road signs, give space to cyclists, and be aware of weather conditions when driving in Tucson.
Rental Car Tips For Tucson
If you’re planning to rent a car in Tucson, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Check the weather: Tucson is known for its hot and dry weather, so make sure to pack appropriate clothing and stay hydrated.
- Know the speed limits: Tucson has strict speed limits, especially in school zones and residential areas. Make sure to follow the posted speed limits to avoid getting a ticket.
- Consider parking: Parking can be a challenge in the downtown area, so research parking options ahead of time and be prepared to pay for parking.
- Inspect the car: Before driving off the rental lot, inspect the car for any existing damage and make sure to report it to the rental company to avoid being charged for it later.
Bottom line: To have a smooth rental car experience in Tucson, be mindful of the weather, speed limits, parking, and inspect the car before driving off.
Wrapping Up
Whether or not you should rent a car in Tucson depends on your itinerary and preferences. Renting a car provides flexibility and allows you to explore outside of the city, but can be expensive and come with traffic and parking challenges. If you do decide to rent a car, consider renting from a non-airport rental company, booking in advance, and renting a smaller or more fuel-efficient car to save money. Lastly, remember to drive with caution and be aware of traffic, road signs, and weather conditions during your trip.