Your quick travel guide to Tucson

Car rental in Tucson: an excellent base from which to rent a top car and explore the Sonoran Desert

Tucson is located at a crossroads of cultures that have been travelling through the region before and after Christopher Columbus sailed to America. As a historically good source of water despite its location in the Sonoran Desert, many cultures have left their imprints in the Tucson area, particularly the Hohokam, the Spanish, and since the 1850s, Americans. The most independent and comfortable way to explore this incredible region to its fullest is via car hire. Here is a brief guide to finding the cheapest rental cars in Tucson, AZ.

Important facts about Tucson

  • Pronunciation of Tucson: “Too-sahn”
  • Language: While most residents of Tucson speak English as their native language, many are also fluent in Spanish.

Get the top rental car deals in Tucson at EconomyBookings.com

Tucson rental cars are available in over 15 locations throughout the city, including the Tucson Airport (TUS), downtown, and in Tucson East and Northeast. Tucson car hire typically starts at $40, though will find that prices rise in the popular tourist seasons, such as Christmas and during the month of August.

Tips for finding cheap car rental deals in Tucson

The best way to save money on rental cars in Tucson is by extending your rental period to over a week. Daily rates drop for longer-term car rentals in Tucson to below $35 a day!

Regardless of how long you need a rental car, the best location to find great deals on economy rental cars in Tucson, Arizona is at the Tucson International Airport, located about 9 miles south of downtown Tucson. See more information on picking up your rental car at the Tucson Airport below.

Even if you are not arriving to Tucson via the Tucson Airport, it may be worth your time to travel to the airport to pick up your rental car, as the numerous rental car companies located at the airport compete to offer customers the best prices on rental cars in the area.

The second cheapest rental car location in Tucson is typically downtown, where Avis offers short-term economy rental cars for around $60 a day.

Especially if you’re travelling to Tucson during popular tourist seasons, it is worth your time to check the prices of rental cars in other locations around the city, as availability may be low at the airport, resulting in higher prices.

Car rental at the Tucson Airport in Arizona

More than seven companies offer car rental at the Tucson International Airport, which is why daily rates for rental cars at the airport are typically the cheapest in the city!

Dollar, Alamo, and Hertz are just three of the rental car companies located in the Tucson Airport Rental Car Center, which is located within walking distance, just east of the main terminal. In order to get to the Rental Car Center after arriving, proceed to Baggage Claim 7 and then take the moving sidewalk. If you need to access a rental car from Departures, head to the ramp just east of the security entrance.

When you return your rental car to the Tucson Airport, simply follow the signs to “Rental Cars.” Be sure not to follow signs to the parking garage unless specifically instructed to do so by your rental car company. In most cases, you will return your car to the separate parking garage located behind the Rental Car Center itself.

If you have rented a car from Thrifty, you will need to arrange for pickup to be transported from the Tucson Airport Rental Car Center to Thrifty’s off-site location. You can wait for the Thrifty shuttle outside the Rental Car Center.

Key things to remember: Tucson car rental information

Parking in Tucson, Arizona

  • Driving in Tucson is fairly easy, particularly because there are plenty of parking spaces available.
  • While street parking can be difficult to find during events or the busiest hours of the workday, it is a very convenient way to explore downtown Tucson. On-street parking spots cost $1 an hour in downtown Tucson and are free after 5 pm and all day on the weekends.
  • If you are having trouble finding an on-street parking spot, take advantage of the almost 4000 spaces located in parking garages and lots throughout the city, where you can often find daily rates of $3 to $5!

Crossing borders:

  • Tucson is located just one hour from the Mexican border at Nogales. If you are interested in driving into Mexico with your Tucson rental car, be sure to discuss your plans first with your rental car company. Some surcharges may apply for international travel with your rental car, and you will need proper documentation—typically including extra insurance—in order to be permitted to drive in Mexico.

Explore Tucson with SUV rentals and convenient Pick-Up

Exploring Tucson and its picturesque surroundings is a breeze with the convenience of SUV rentals. Whether you're planning a road trip to nearby destinations like Casa Grande or intending to traverse the scenic Catalina Highway up to Mount Lemmon, an SUV provides both comfort and utility.

For added convenience, Tucson offers numerous rental locations and pick-up options, making it easy for travelers to access their chosen vehicles and hit the road promptly. Whether you're interested in a last-minute booking or arranging your rental well in advance, Tucson's car rental options cater to a range of preferences and schedules.

Plan your Tucson trip with top car companies and rental deals

Planning your trip to Tucson, Arizona, can be a delightful experience with the help of top car rental companies and enticing rental deals. Whether you're looking for a practical compact car or a touch of luxury with a full-size vehicle, you'll find plenty of options to suit your preferences and budget.

Maximizing your Tucson adventure

To make the most of your Tucson adventure, here are some tips:

  • Book your rental car in advance to secure the best deal and ensure you have the right vehicle for your trip.
  • Look for rental deals with free cancellation to maintain flexibility in your travel plans.
  • Be sure to check the minimum age and driver's license requirements for renting a car, as rules may differ depending on the rental company.
  • Take advantage of the scenic byways and natural attractions within driving distance of Tucson to explore the surrounding areas.

Whether you're interested in a short drive to Casa Grande, a visit to the University of Arizona, or exploring Tucson's vibrant culture in Old Pueblo, having a rental car provides the freedom to discover the city and its many treasures at your own pace.

Discover the best attractions and hotels in Tucson

Tucson, Arizona, is a city brimming with captivating attractions and a diverse array of hotels to suit every traveler's needs. To embark on a memorable journey, consider exploring the splendid Old Tucson Studios, the scenic beauty of Catalina State Park, and the educational Pima Air and Space Museum. Tucson also boasts the University of Arizona and the natural wonders of Saguaro National Park, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a mix of culture and outdoor adventure.

While planning your visit, you'll have a variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious accommodations. Tucson's hotels provide an excellent base for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Experience the top locations with car rental in Tucson

Tucson Airport
Dollar
8.6

All car rental in Tucson

Discover the cheapest car rental in Tucson

Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Nissan Sentra
Nissan Sentra
5
2
4
A
From US$ 21.94 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Nissan Altima
Nissan Altima
5
1
4
A
From US$ 23.73 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Toyota Rav4
Toyota Rav4
5
2
A
From US$ 22.37 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Hyundai Accent
Hyundai Accent
5
2
4
A
From US$ 22.02 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Chevrolet Spark
Chevrolet Spark
5
1
4
A
From US$ 20.34 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Buick Regal
Buick Regal
5
1
4
A
From US$ 34.55 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Chrysler 300
Chrysler 300
5
2
4
A
From US$ 37.32 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Nissan Quest
Nissan Quest
7
1
A
From US$ 55.49 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ Nissan Quest
Nissan Quest
7
2
A
From US$ 58.50 per day
*
Cheap Car Rental in Tucson, AZ FORD F150
FORD F150
4
1
A
From US$ 73.04 per day
*

* Disclaimer: Prices displayed may not reflect today's rates.

What our customers say

Car rental companies in Tucson

We have prepared a shortlist of top rental companies in Tucson. To save both time and money compare offers on EconomyBookings.com to find the best deal.

Dollar
star
8.6 /70 reviews
Available in 1 location
Time it took to drop your car off9.7
Cleanliness of the car8.6
Overall condition of the car8.7
Time it took to pick your car up7.6
Alamo
star
8.9 /4 reviews
Available in 1 location
Time it took to drop your car off10.0
Cleanliness of the car8.8
Overall condition of the car9.0
Time it took to pick your car up9.5
Budget
star
8.0 /1 review
Available in 1 location
Time it took to drop your car off10.0
Cleanliness of the car8.0
Overall condition of the car9.0
Time it took to pick your car up6.0

Frequently asked questions

What should be included in my itinerary for a road trip to Tucson?
While planning a road trip around Tucson, make sure to look into features a large variety of attractions and scenic routes. Consider adding destinations such as Mission San Xavier del Bac, Picacho Peak State Park, the Tohono Scenic Byway, and the surrounding areas in Tucson to your itinerary to make the most of your set of wheels.
What are the options for luxury car rentals in Tucson?
When looking to rent a car in Tucson, you'll find a variety of luxury car options available. Many car rental companies offer premium vehicles such as luxury sedans, SUVs, and sports cars in Tucson.
Where can I find the best deals on rental cars in Tucson?
If you're searching for cheap rental options, you can explore various car companies in Tucson that offer affordable rates for vehicle in Tucson. It's also worth considering off-airport locations for potentially lower prices.
What car class options are available for rent in Tucson?
When renting a car in Tucson, you'll come across a range of car options to suit different preferences, including economy, compact, mid-size, full-size, SUVs, and more.
Are there any free cancellation options for car rentals in Tucson?
Depending on the car rental company you choose, some may offer get free cancellation policy for reservations. Before booking, make sure to inquire about the cancellation terms and whether you’ll be able to make changes to your reservation without you’ll love incurring fees.