Cheap Car Rentals at Reno Airport

Why rent a car at Reno Airport (RNO)

Reno-Tahoe International Airport is only about 4 miles (6 km) from downtown Reno. Public transport to Lake Tahoe and the mountains is limited, so a car is the most practical way to reach beaches, ski resorts, and historic towns. At RNO, rental cars are usually collected from the parking garage across from the terminal, so follow the signs for Rental Cars.

Tips for finding a cheap car rental at Reno Airport (RNO)

Looking for a cheap car rental at Reno Airport (RNO)? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal at Reno Airport (RNO) and across Nevada. Winter ski season and summer are busy times around Lake Tahoe, so booking early may help you find better prices.

• 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 Reno Airport (RNO)

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

• 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 Reno Airport (RNO)

Parking

Many casino resorts in Reno offer free or low-cost parking garages, though policies can change. Downtown street parking is usually paid at meters or pay stations. Parking at Lake Tahoe beaches and state parks often costs extra and can fill up early in summer.

Tolls

Nevada has no toll roads, so you can drive from the airport to Lake Tahoe without paying tolls. If your trip continues into California, ask your rental supplier at pickup how any tolls there are billed.

Road conditions & driving culture

Roads are generally in good condition, but mountain routes such as the Mount Rose Highway and I-80 over Donner Pass can be snowy in winter, and chains or snow tyres may be required, so check road conditions and your rental terms. Summers are hot and dry, and distances in the desert can be long.

Popular road trips from Reno Airport (RNO)

From the airport, you can reach Lake Tahoe and northern Nevada by car. Popular drives include:

• Carson City - approx. 30 minutes, the state capital, with museums and historic buildings.
• Virginia City - approx. 40 minutes, a historic mining town with old saloons.
• Lake Tahoe - approx. 45 minutes to the north shore, beaches, hiking, and ski resorts.
• South Lake Tahoe - approx. 1-1.5 hours, beaches and a scenic gondola. Check your supplier's policy on travel to other states.
• Sacramento - approx. 2 hours, California's capital, with Old Sacramento.

Final checklist before you pick up your rental car at Reno Airport (RNO)

• 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 such as California, 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.