Cheap Car Rentals at Minneapolis Airport

Why rent a car at Minneapolis Airport (MSP)

Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is about 10 miles (16 km) from downtown Minneapolis and close to Saint Paul. Light rail connects the airport with both cities, but a car is much more practical for reaching lakes, state parks, and Lake Superior's North Shore. Rental cars are usually collected from a dedicated rental car area at or near the terminal, reached on foot or by a free shuttle, depending on the supplier, so follow the signs for Rental Cars after baggage claim.

Tips for finding a cheap car rental at Minneapolis Airport (MSP)

Looking for a cheap car rental at Minneapolis Airport (MSP)? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal at Minneapolis Airport (MSP) and across Minnesota. If you plan a winter trip, an SUV may be worth comparing alongside budget options for extra confidence on snowy roads.

• Compare pickup locations - Select the broader city instead of the airport only 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, especially if your flight times are flexible.
• 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 at Minneapolis Airport (MSP)

Requirements can vary by rental supplier, but you'll generally need the following when picking up a rental car at Minneapolis Airport (MSP):

• 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 from Minneapolis Airport (MSP)

Parking

Downtown Minneapolis street parking is paid at meters, pay stations, or with a pay-by-phone app, and there are many public ramps. In winter, the city declares snow emergencies with special parking rules, and cars parked in the wrong place may be towed, so check local alerts. The Mall of America and most suburban attractions offer free parking.

Tolls

Minnesota has no traditional toll roads. Some Twin Cities highways have E-ZPass express lanes, which solo drivers can only use with a Minnesota-compatible E-ZPass, while the regular lanes are free. Ask your rental supplier at pickup how express lane charges are handled, or stay in the free lanes.

Road conditions & driving culture

Roads are generally well maintained, but winters can be long and harsh, with snow, ice, and very low temperatures, so drive carefully. Traffic can be heavy on I-494, I-94, and I-35W at rush hour, and road construction is common in summer.

Popular road trips from Minneapolis Airport (MSP)

From the airport, you can reach river towns, lakes, and Lake Superior by car. Popular drives include:

• Bloomington - approx. 10 minutes, home of the Mall of America.
• Stillwater - approx. 40 minutes, a historic river town on the St. Croix River.
• Red Wing - approx. 1 hour, river bluffs and pottery on the Mississippi.
• Duluth - approx. 2.5 hours, a port city on Lake Superior.
• Madison - approx. 4 hours, Wisconsin's capital between two lakes. Check your supplier's policy on travel to other states.

Final checklist before you pick up your rental car at Minneapolis Airport (MSP)

• 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.
• Plan your return - Allow extra time to refuel and return the car before your flight, as rental return areas and shuttles can be busy at peak times.
• Confirm cross-border travel - Most suppliers allow travel to neighbouring states. If you plan to drive into Canada (Ontario or Manitoba), confirm permission and any extra fees in advance and bring a valid passport.
• 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.