Car rental in USA Idaho

Why rent a car in Idaho

Idaho is a big, wild state where public transport between cities and nature areas is very limited. Downtown Boise is easy to walk, but a car is by far the easiest way to reach places like Shoshone Falls, the Sawtooth Mountains, and Craters of the Moon. With a rental car, you can link mountain towns, hot springs, and river canyons at your own pace.

Tips for finding a cheap car rental in Idaho

Looking for a cheap car rental in Idaho? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal in Idaho, whether you pick up in Boise or Idaho Falls. For mountain roads and trailheads, an SUV can be worth comparing alongside budget options.

• Compare pickup locations - Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including potential off-airport savings.
• Slightly adjust pickup times and dates - Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
• Choose economy or compact cars - These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
• Consider both price and availability - Rental prices are often lowest 2-31 days before pickup, but booking earlier may give you a better choice of cars, especially during busy periods.
• Use free cancellation to look for a better deal - If your booking includes free cancellation, you can keep checking prices and rebook if you find a better deal.

Car rental requirements in Idaho

Requirements can vary by rental supplier, but you'll generally need the following when picking up a rental car in Idaho:

• Driving licence - A valid licence from your home country is generally accepted for visitors. If your licence is not in English, bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) or official translation, as some suppliers may ask for one. US drivers only need their valid state license.
• Passport or ID - International visitors should bring a valid passport. US residents can use a valid driver's license as photo ID.
• Payment card - A credit card in the main driver's name is usually required for the deposit. Accepted card types and deposit amounts vary by supplier.
• Booking voucher - Have your EconomyBookings voucher ready, either digital or printed if the supplier requires it.
• Insurance - Basic liability cover is required by state law, but what is included in the rental price varies by supplier. Check whether your booking includes liability and damage cover, and consider supplemental liability protection, especially if you don't have US car insurance.

Always check your rental terms before pickup, as licence, age, deposit, payment, and insurance requirements can vary by supplier.

Driving in Idaho

Parking

In downtown Boise, the ParkBOI system runs six public parking garages, and the city operates around 3,000 on-street meters. Hotels outside the city centre often offer free parking, and parking at trailheads and small towns is usually free, though some recreation sites charge a day-use fee.

Tolls

Idaho has no toll roads, so you can drive the whole state without paying highway tolls. If you plan to continue into a neighbouring state, ask your rental supplier at pickup how any tolls there are billed.

Road conditions & driving culture

Interstates and main highways are generally in good condition and traffic is light outside Boise. Mountain routes are often two-lane roads with sharp curves, and winter brings snow and ice on passes, so check road conditions before you set off. Watch for deer and elk at dawn and dusk, and check your rental terms before driving on gravel forest roads.

Popular road trips from Idaho

Idaho's best sights are spread out, so a rental car makes road trips easy. Popular drives from Boise include:

• Shoshone Falls - approx. 2 hours, a waterfall taller than Niagara near Twin Falls, best in spring.
• Sun Valley and Ketchum - approx. 2.5-3 hours, a classic ski resort town with hiking and biking in summer.
• Stanley and the Sawtooth Mountains - approx. 2.5-3 hours, jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and hot springs along the Salmon River.
• Craters of the Moon National Monument - approx. 3 hours, lava fields, cinder cones, and caves to explore.
• Salt Lake City - approx. 5 hours, Utah's capital, with flights and car rental at Salt Lake City Airport. Check your supplier's policy on travel to other states.

Final checklist before you pick up your rental car in Idaho

• Bring your documents - Driving licence (plus IDP if applicable), passport or ID, booking voucher, and the payment card required by your rental supplier.
• Check your rental terms - Review the deposit, fuel policy, mileage, insurance coverage, and any additional fees before signing.
• Confirm cross-border travel - Most suppliers allow travel to neighbouring states, but confirm any one-way fees in advance. If you plan to drive into Canada (British Columbia) from northern Idaho, confirm permission and any extra fees before booking.
• Inspect the car - Take clear photos and videos of the vehicle before leaving and make sure any existing damage is recorded on the rental agreement.