Holiday Inn Express Tampa N I-75 - University Area, an IHG Hotel By IHG
Tampa, 13294 Telecom Drive
7.8341 Reviews2.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
25% Package Savings
$366/person
$969 $731 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Tampa Car Rentals from $11/day
Find a rental car
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Find a rental car
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Incredible Deals
Save up to 40% off rental cars with Priceline
Best Price Guarantee
If a VIP member finds a better price elsewhere, we’ll refund up to 200% of the difference
Flexible Bookings
Plans change. That’s why we offer free cancellation on most rental cars
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Good to Know
Essential information to help you plan your car rental in Tampa.
Cheapest Car
$11/day
Lowest daily rate found on Priceline in Tampa for Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 days. Picked up at the airport, $11/day less than in town.
$22/day below the typical $33/day for these dates.
Standard-Size Car · 5 seats · AutomaticCheapest Free Cancellation
$11/day
Lowest rate you can cancel for free in Tampa, for the same dates.
Costs no more than the cheapest car.
Standard-Size Car · 5 seats · AutomaticGood Deal Price
$30/day
A rental at or under $30/day is a good deal in Tampa for these dates.
75% of the rates we found cost more; only a quarter cost less.
Best Time to Book
When to book, the cheapest season, pick-up day and car type, and how rental length changes the rate in Tampa.
Low Season
September
Rentals average $27/day in September, the cheapest month to rent in Tampa.
$4/day below the yearly average of $31/day.
When to Book
1–2 weeks ahead
Renters who booked 1 to 2 weeks ahead paid the least in Tampa, about $29/day. Reserve a free-cancellation rate now and check again closer to pick-up.
$3/day less than booking 2 to 3 months ahead ($32/day).
Rental Length
Rent for a week
7-day rentals average $30/day in Tampa, as weekly rates kick in.
$6/day less than a 1–3 day rental ($36/day).
Cheapest Car Type
Compact Car
A Compact Car averages $26/day in Tampa, the cheapest type of car booked here.
$4/day less than the average rental ($30/day).
Our Best Tampa Car Rental Deals
Peruse the best Tampa car rental deals we’ve found. Make sure to check back soon if you’re not finding what you’re looking for, as deals are updated frequently.
Compact Car
Hyundai Accent or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$14/day
$100 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Hyundai Accent or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$14/day
$100 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Kia Soul or similar
4 people2
Unlimited mileage
Rental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$77/day
$540 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Mitsubishi Mirage or similar
4 people2
Unlimited mileage
Rental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$76/day
$535 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Kia Rio or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
MexRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$17/day
$118 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Nissan Versa or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
MexRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$17/day
$118 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Chevy Spark or similar
4 people2
Unlimited mileage
NÜRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$18/day
$128 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Toyota Yaris or similar
4 people3
Unlimited mileage
NÜRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$18/day
$128 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Honda Civic Automatic or similar
4 people3
SurPriceRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$17/day
$120 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Toyota Yaris Automatic or similar
4 people2
SurPriceRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$17/day
$120 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact SUV
Nissan Kicks or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
Rental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$39/day
$275 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Chevy Spark or similar
4 people2
Unlimited mileage
NÜRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$18/day
$128 total, incl. taxes and fees
Standard-Size Car
Volkswagen Jetta or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$11/day
$73 total, incl. taxes and fees
Standard-Size Car
Volkswagen Jetta or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$11/day
$73 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$16/day
$111 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size SUV
Toyota Rav4 or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$16/day
$111 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$16/day
$111 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size SUV
Toyota Rav4 or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
PricelessRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$16/day
$111 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Nissan Sentra or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
MexRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$17/day
$118 total, incl. taxes and fees
Standard-Size Car
Volkswagen Jetta or similar
4 people2
Unlimited mileage
Rental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$80/day
$557 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
Rental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$76/day
$535 total, incl. taxes and fees
Supplier's Choice
Vehicle determined at pick-up or similar
4 people2
Unlimited mileage
Rental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$50/day
$349 total, incl. taxes and fees
Standard-Size Car
Nissan Sentra or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
NÜRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$19/day
$136 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Kia Forte or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
NÜRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$19/day
$136 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$342 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$45/day
$318 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$45/day
$318 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$45/day
$318 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$342 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$343 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$343 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$343 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Crossover
Dodge Durango or similar
7 people3
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$343 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Pickup Truck
Ford F150 or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$344 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Pickup Truck
Ford F150 or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$344 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Pickup Truck
Ford F150 or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Dec 12 – Dec 19 · 7 daysPrices checked Nov 12
$49/day
$344 total, incl. taxes and fees
Available Tampa rental cars
Standard-Size CarVolkswagen Jetta or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $6 on total price
$11/day
$11/day
$73 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarKia Rio or similar
54Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
5124w Cyprees St, Tampa, US$17/day
$118 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarHonda Civic Automatic or similar
43Automatic
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4502 W Dr Mlk Jr Blvd, Tampa, US$17/day
$120 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarChevy Spark or similar
42Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4102 W Crest Ave, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $9 on total price
$20/day
$18/day
$128 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Specialty SUVJeep Wrangler or similar
53Automatic
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4509 George Rd, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $13 on total price
$24/day
$22/day
$156 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Mini CarFiat 500 or similar
42Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
5002 West Cypress Street, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $10 on total price
$25/day
$23/day
$163 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Supplier's ChoiceVehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
1102 A East Fowler Ave, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $13 on total price
$29/day
$27/day
$190 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Supplier's Choice - ElectricManager Special Ev or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
6037 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, US$28/day
$196 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Supplier's ChoiceVehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
5405 Airport Service Road, Tampa, US$28/day
$198 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Supplier's ChoiceCompact Hot Deal. Our Choice Compact Or or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
5405 Airport Service Road, Tampa, US$29/day
$204 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Standard-Size CarVolkswagen Jetta or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, US$11/day
$73 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarHyundai Accent or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $9 on total price
$16/day
$14/day
$100 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarHyundai Accent or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, US$14/day
$100 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Mid-Size CarToyota Corolla or similar
54Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $10 on total price
$17/day
$16/day
$111 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Mid-Size SUVToyota Rav4 or similar
54Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, USPay Now & Save $10 on total price
$17/day
$16/day
$111 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Mid-Size CarToyota Corolla or similar
54Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
4220 West Cayuga Street, Tampa, US$16/day
$111 Total
Includes taxes and fees
No cars match these filters.
Best Tampa Hotel + Car Packages
Tampa packages
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tampa/Brandon West
Tampa, 602 South Falkenburg Road
6.5850 Reviews2.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
9% Package Savings
$343/person
$756 $686 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Red Roof Inn Tampa - Brandon
Tampa, 10121 Horace Avenue
4.7593 Reviews2-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
9% Package Savings
$272/person
$599 $543 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Rodeway Inn Fairgrounds-Casino
Tampa, 6510 N Us-301
3.1816 Reviews2-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
4% Package Savings
$251/person
$523 $501 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Red Roof PLUS+ & Suites Tampa - Busch Gardens
Tampa, 11310 North 30th Street
5.8903 Reviews2.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
10% Package Savings
$282/person
$623 $563 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
HomeTowne Studios Tampa - Airport
Tampa, 6121 W Sitka St, Tampa, Fl, 33634
8.2482 Reviews2-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
7% Package Savings
$256/person
$548 $512 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Econo Lodge Airport @ RJ Stadium
Tampa, 4732 North Dale Mabry
4.8681 Reviews2-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
14% Package Savings
$318/person
$738 $636 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Extended Stay America Suites - Tampa - Airport - N. Westshore Blvd.
Tampa, 1805 N. Westshore Blvd
5.9980 Reviews2.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: Tampa (TPA)
$314/person
$628 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Which days have the lowest car rental rates?
Cheapest on Tuesdays at about $29/day
Tuesday pick-ups average $29/day in Tampa, the lowest of any day of the week.
Show the data
| Day | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| Mon | $30 |
| Tue | $29 |
| Wed | $29 |
| Thu | $30 |
| Fri | $30 |
| Sat | $30 |
| Sun | $30 |
Which month has the best car rental rates?
Cheapest in September at about $27/day
Rentals average $27/day in September, the cheapest month to rent in Tampa. March is the priciest at about $38/day.
Show the data
| Month | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| Jan | $28 |
| Feb | $35 |
| Mar | $38 |
| Apr | $33 |
| May | $29 |
| Jun | $28 |
| Jul | $30 |
| Aug | $28 |
| Sep | $27 |
| Oct | $34 |
| Nov | $33 |
| Dec | $30 |
How far in advance should I book?
Cheapest booked 1 to 2 weeks ahead at about $29/day
Renters who booked 1 to 2 weeks ahead paid the least in Tampa, about $29/day. Reserve a free-cancellation rate now and check again closer to pick-up.
Show the data
| Days before pick-up | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| 90 days | $32 |
| 86 days | $33 |
| 82 days | $32 |
| 79 days | $34 |
| 78 days | $32 |
| 74 days | $33 |
| 70 days | $32 |
| 66 days | $32 |
| 62 days | $32 |
| 58 days | $32 |
| 54 days | $31 |
| 50 days | $31 |
| 46 days | $31 |
| 42 days | $30 |
| 38 days | $30 |
| 34 days | $30 |
| 30 days | $30 |
| 26 days | $30 |
| 22 days | $30 |
| 18 days | $30 |
| 14 days | $29 |
| 10 days | $30 |
| 7 days | $29 |
| 6 days | $29 |
| 2 days | $30 |
| 0 days | $30 |
How does the daily rate change with rental length?
A week averages about $30/day
7-day rentals average $30/day in Tampa, against $36/day for 1 to 3 days.
Show the data
| Rental length | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| 1 day | $41 |
| 5 days | $34 |
| 9 days | $32 |
| 13 days | $28 |
| 17 days | $29 |
| 21 days | $26 |
| 25 days | $26 |
| 29 days | $27 |
| 33 days | $30 |
| 37 days | $29 |
| 41 days | $27 |
| 45 days | $31 |
| 49 days | $27 |
| 53 days | $27 |
| 57 days | $27 |
| 61 days | $26 |
| 65 days | $26 |
| 69 days | $29 |
| 73 days | $27 |
| 77 days | $27 |
| 81 days | $27 |
| 85 days | $26 |
| 89 days | $23 |
| 90 days | $24 |
How much do rentals cost by car type?
Compact Car is cheapest at about $26/day
A Compact Car averages $26/day in Tampa, the cheapest type of car booked here.
Show the data
| Car type | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| Compact Car | $26 |
| Standard Car | $26 |
| Economy Car | $26 |
| Mid Size Car | $27 |
| Supplier Choice Car | $27 |
| Full Size Car | $29 |
| Compact SUV | $31 |
| Mid Size SUV | $32 |
| Standard SUV | $37 |
| Mini Van | $48 |
Methodology: learn how we calculate these charts
The charts “Which days have the lowest car rental rates?”, “Which month has the best car rental rates?”, “How far in advance should I book?”, “How does the daily rate change with rental length?” and “How much do rentals cost by car type?” are built from the daily rates Priceline customers actually paid for rental cars in Tampa, grouped by pick-up month, day of the week, how far ahead they booked (up to 90 days), how many days they rented and the type of car. A city’s charts include rentals picked up at its airports.
Where a location has too few rentals to fill every point in a chart, we borrow the shape of the curve from nearby locations with similar prices and fit it to the rates booked here.
Because past rates don’t reflect today’s market, each chart is then fitted to the rates found in this page’s current search: its value at the search’s own pick-up month, day, booking lead time and rental length is set to the current good-deal rate.
The Good to Know deal cards and the cars listed on this page come directly from that recent search, not from historical bookings.
Tampa Car Rental Agency Directory
Addresses, phone numbers, reviews and ratings for all the rental agencies in Tampa.
National Car Rental9.5
135 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Rd
$76/day
Find similarAlamo Rent a Car9.4
395 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Rd
$88/day
Find similarEnterprise Rent-A-Car9.2
256 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Rd
$37/day
Find similarSixt Rent a Car9.1
325 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Road
$41/day
Find similarHertz Corporation8.7
529 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Rd
$48/day
Find similarDollar Rent A Car8.6
412 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Road
$78/day
Find similarFox Rent-A-Car8.6
246 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Road
$28/day
Find similarThrifty Car Rental8.5
341 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Road
$31/day
Find similarBudget Rent a Car8.2
635 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5409 Airport Service Rd
$31/day
Find similarEuropcar8.2
38 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Road
$29/day
Find similarAvis Rent a Car8.1
192 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5409 Airport Service Rd
$105/day
Find similar
Payless Car Rental8.1
32 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5409 Airport Service Road
$58/day
Find similarSurPrice Car Rentals7.8
61 reviews
Typical Wait Time15-30 Minutes
Tampa, 4502 W Dr Mlk Jr Blvd
$17/day
Find similar
York Car Rental7.7
50 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 4220 West Cayuga Street
$49/day
Find similarPriceless Car Rental7.6
487 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 4220 West Cayuga Street
$11/day
Find similar
Right Cars Global Rentals7.6
75 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 4502 West Doctor Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
$216/day
Find similar
American Rent-A-Car1
1 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
Tampa, 5405 Airport Service Road
Car Rental Locations in Tampa
Go to map viewCar Rental Legend
Enterprise
11 locations
Budget
7 locations
Avis
7 locations
Dollar
5 locations
Thrifty
5 locations
Hertz
5 locations
Sixt
3 locations
Priceless
2 locations
National
2 locations
Alamo
2 locations
Routes
1 location
Payless
1 location
NÜ
1 location
Easirent
1 location
Right Cars
1 location
York
1 location
SurPrice
1 location
Fox
1 location
Mex
1 location
Europcar
1 location
ACE
1 location
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I rent a car for my Tampa trip?
Renting a car in Tampa gives you the freedom to explore all that Florida has to offer at your own pace. You'll easily get to top attractions, hidden gems, and even extend your adventures beyond the city, making your trip truly unforgettable.
What's the typical cost for car rental in Tampa?
A rental car in Tampa typically costs $49 per day. September is the cheapest month at $42 per day, while March is the priciest at $60 per day. Compact cars are the cheapest type at $38 per day, and mid size cars are the most popular choice.
What kind of car is best for driving in Tampa?
Tampa's diverse attractions, from cityscapes to coastal drives, make various car types suitable. A compact car is great for city driving and parking, while an SUV might offer more comfort for longer trips or if you're traveling with family and luggage. Think about your itinerary and group size to pick the perfect ride.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in Tampa?
Most car rental companies in Tampa require renters to be at least 21 years old. If you're under 25, you might incur a 'young renter' surcharge, so it's always a good idea to check specific rental policies when you book.
Do I need special insurance for my rental car in Tampa?
When renting a car in Tampa, you'll want to consider your insurance options. Your personal car insurance policy might extend to rentals, or your credit card could offer some coverage. Rental companies also provide various protection plans like a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP) for added peace of mind. It's smart to review what you already have and what additional coverage makes you feel most confident on the road.
What's the best way to get from Tampa International Airport (TPA) to my rental car?
Tampa International Airport (TPA) makes car rental pickup easy. Most major rental agencies are located within the Rental Car Center, which is accessible via the SkyConnect Automated People Mover from the Main Terminal. Simply follow the signs to SkyConnect and you'll be there in minutes, ready to pick up your wheels.
Are there toll roads in Tampa, and how do they work with rental cars?
Yes, Tampa and the surrounding Florida area have several toll roads. Many rental cars come with an electronic toll pass system, which allows you to drive through tolls without stopping, and the charges are then billed to you by the rental company. Alternatively, you can pay with cash at manned booths on some roads, or use mobile apps if available. It's smart to discuss toll payment options with your rental provider at pickup to avoid any surprises.
What essential documents do I need to rent a car in Tampa?
To pick up your rental car in Tampa, you'll need a valid driver's license, a major credit card in the renter's name, and your rental confirmation. For international travelers, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended or required in addition to your home country's license.
Can I add an additional driver to my rental car in Tampa?
Absolutely! You can typically add an additional driver to your rental agreement in Tampa. Most companies require the additional driver to be present at the time of pick-up, meet the same age requirements as the primary renter, and show a valid driver's license. There might be a daily fee for each additional driver, so it's good to confirm this with your chosen rental agency.
Is it easy to find parking in Tampa?
Parking in Tampa, especially in popular downtown or beach areas, can vary. You'll find a mix of street parking (metered), public garages, and private lots. Planning ahead, especially during peak times, can make parking a breeze. Many hotels also offer parking options for their guests.
What are some popular day trips from Tampa by car?
With your rental car, you're set for exciting day trips! Consider a short drive to the stunning beaches of Clearwater or St. Pete Beach, explore the charming city of Sarasota, or venture further to Orlando for its famous theme parks. Your car unlocks endless possibilities for exploring Florida's Gulf Coast and beyond.
What if I need to modify or cancel my Tampa car rental reservation?
Life happens, and plans can change. If you need to modify or cancel your Tampa car rental reservation, simply log into your Priceline account or use the link provided in your confirmation email. Review your booking's specific terms and conditions regarding changes and cancellations, as policies can vary by rental company and booking type.
Are there unlimited mileage options for rental cars in Tampa?
Many car rental agreements in Tampa, especially for standard vehicle classes, come with unlimited mileage. This is fantastic news if you plan on doing a lot of exploring around Florida! However, it's always wise to confirm this detail in your specific rental agreement before you hit the road, as some specialty vehicles or promotions might have mileage limits.
What should I do if my rental car breaks down in Tampa?
While it's rare, if your rental car breaks down in Tampa, the first thing to do is ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers. Then, contact the rental company's roadside assistance number, which you'll typically find on your rental agreement or key fob. They'll guide you through the next steps, whether it's arranging for a tow or providing a replacement vehicle, so you can get back to your adventure.
How do I ensure I get the best deal on a car rental in Tampa?
To lock in the best deal on your Tampa car rental, we recommend booking in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Compare prices across various car types and rental agencies on Priceline, and consider picking up and dropping off at the same location if your itinerary allows. Being flexible with your dates can also help you uncover even better savings.
Top Tips
- Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring break or winter holidays, to secure the best rates and your preferred vehicle. Many rental companies offer better deals for early bookings.
- Upon arrival at Tampa International Airport (TPA), head to the SkyConnect train system, which swiftly takes you to the Rental Car Center. This streamlined process ensures a quick and easy pick-up of your vehicle.
- Carefully review your rental agreement and understand the insurance options offered. While Florida law requires minimum liability coverage, consider additional coverage like Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) for peace of mind against collision or theft.
- Utilize GPS or a reliable navigation app to navigate Tampa's road network, especially around major highways like I-275 and I-4. Real-time traffic updates can help you avoid congestion and find the quickest routes.
- Familiarize yourself with Florida's move-over law: drivers must move over a lane or slow down to 20 MPH below the posted speed limit when approaching stopped emergency or service vehicles. This ensures safety for everyone on the road.
- Be prepared for tolls, particularly on major expressways and bridges like the Selmon Expressway and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Many rental cars offer toll transponders, or you can use apps that facilitate cashless toll payments.
- Parking in downtown Tampa and popular areas like Ybor City often involves metered street parking or garages. Always check parking signs carefully for restrictions, hours, and payment methods to avoid unexpected fines.
- When returning your car, ensure it meets the fuel policy (e.g., full tank) to avoid additional charges. Locate the nearest gas station well before arriving at the Rental Car Center at TPA for a smooth return.
- Driving around Tampa offers incredible access to stunning beaches like Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach. Plan your excursions to these beautiful coastal destinations, which are just a short and enjoyable drive away.
- Before driving off, do a quick visual inspection of your rental car and document any existing damage with photos or videos. This simple step protects you from being charged for pre-existing issues upon return.