Why rent a car in Nevada
Most of Nevada is open desert, and public transport between cities and natural sights is very limited. Getting around the Las Vegas Strip is possible on foot and by monorail, but a car is the easiest way to reach Hoover Dam, Valley of Fire, and Red Rock Canyon. A rental car also lets you continue to national parks in neighbouring states without relying on tours.
Tips for finding a cheap car rental in Nevada
Looking for a cheap car rental in Nevada? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal in Nevada, whether you pick up in Las Vegas or Reno. If you want to enjoy desert views with the top down, compare convertibles in Las Vegas alongside economy cars.
- 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 Nevada
Requirements can vary by rental supplier, but you'll generally need the following when picking up a rental car in Nevada:
- 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 Nevada
Parking
Most resorts on the Las Vegas Strip charge for self-parking, often around $20-25 per day for non-guests, though a few, such as Circus Circus, Sahara, and Treasure Island, have offered free parking. Fees and policies can change, so check with your hotel. Downtown Las Vegas and Reno have metered street parking and public garages, and many hotels outside the city centres may offer free parking.
Tolls
Nevada has no toll roads, so you can drive across the state without paying tolls. If your trip continues into California or Utah, ask your rental supplier at pickup how any tolls or express lane charges are billed.
Road conditions & driving culture
Highways are in good condition, but distances are long and services can be far apart, so fill up before heading into the desert and carry water. Summer heat often passes 40°C (104°F), while mountain roads near Lake Tahoe can be snowy in winter. Traffic on the Strip and the I-15 can be heavy, especially on weekends, and some scenic routes include dirt roads, so check your rental terms before leaving paved roads.
Popular road trips from Nevada
Nevada is a great base for desert road trips. Popular drives from Las Vegas and Reno include:
- Hoover Dam - approx. 45 minutes from Las Vegas, the famous dam on the Colorado River with views over Lake Mead.
- Valley of Fire State Park - approx. 1 hour from Las Vegas, red sandstone formations and ancient rock art.
- Death Valley National Park - approx. 2 hours from Las Vegas, extreme desert landscapes in California, best visited outside summer.
- Zion National Park - approx. 2.5-3 hours from Las Vegas, via St. George in Utah, famous for canyon hikes.
- Lake Tahoe - approx. 1 hour from Reno, an alpine lake with beaches, ski resorts, and scenic drives.
Final checklist before you pick up your rental car in Nevada
- 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 such as California, Arizona, and Utah, but confirm any restrictions and one-way fees in advance.
- 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.