How to find a cheap car hire deal in Chile
Looking for a cheap rental car in Chile? You're right where you need to be. With prices starting at $32 a day, we compare the best offers so you can search less, save more, and drive away happy.
For travel plans that last more than a few days, $223 is the lowest available rate for a weekly home.
Explore the range of car rentals in Santiago. This is where you'll find the cheapest wheels in Chile.
Overall, the most popular city to rent a car in is Punta Arenas.
When comparing providers, check out what's on offer from united rent a car. It's a well-known name in Chile.
There's no need to go far after landing to pick up your ride. Car rentals are available at major airports including Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez Airport, Antofagasta Airport and Calama Airport.
You can easily rent a set of wheels in top cities including Santiago, Antofagasta, Calama, Concepcion and Puerto Montt.
Book a one-way home and you could pay less. If a city is running low on vehicles, providers often lower the price to encourage returns there. Choose 'Return car to a different location' to find those cheaper routes.
Need wheels for a few weeks? Sometimes you can score a discount when you book a full month, so try tweaking your dates to find the lowest rates.
To avoid extra costs, choose a vehicle that has a 'Fair fuel policy.' You start with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for the fuel you use.
Unlimited mileage lets you focus on the journey instead of the odometer. Find this feature under the 'Policies' filter and rack up the miles, not the fees.
Best time to book a car hire in Chile
Timing makes all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a car hire in Chile. Try booking around four weeks before you go.
March is the most affordable month to rent a car. You can expect average daily rates of $35 then.
If you want to steer clear of peak pricing, avoid booking in June.
Compare car hire types in Chile
Economy: If you want something reliable and affordable, economy is a solid pick. With lower daily rates and engines designed for efficiency, this option helps keep both upfront and ongoing costs down.
Small: Mini and economy cars sit within this category. Their compact dimensions and easy manoeuvrability make getting around busy streets far less stressful. And with engines made to use less fuel, they're a practical choice when you need a cheap rental car in Chile.
Medium: Need more space without going all out? Medium homes (which include compact and intermediate models) are the perfect middle ground. They feel right at home on city streets, on open highways and almost everywhere in between.
Large: No fighting for space. No bags stealing your legroom. Also known as full-size, large cars offer plenty of passenger space and the luggage capacity to match. Choose this category when you're covering serious ground or bringing the entire crew.
SUV: These sport utility vehicles are ready for whatever your plans throw at you. Their ability to handle mixed terrain makes them a great fit for road trip plans that evolve as you go. A higher seating position gives you a clearer view ahead, helping you feel more in control.
Van: When there's more to bring than usual, a van gets the job done. This category of car for rent in Chile handles people and cargo with ease. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a dependable pick for group transport, moving or business use.
Luxury: Set off in total style. Combining striking design, advanced technology, and performance built for precision and power, these vehicles redefine what a home experience can be.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your rental car can take the stress out of driving. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or a collision. Insurance policies can differ between home providers, so check how each one stacks up.
From navigation systems to mobile Wi-Fi hotspots, the right extras can seriously upgrade your ride. Think about which features will make your trip more comfortable when you rent a car in Chile.
Driving in Chile: What you need to know
Check each company's age requirements before booking your car hire in Chile. Rules can vary, and added fees or restrictions may apply if you're a younger driver. At the start of your search, uncheck the 'Driver aged between 25–70' box and enter your age to browse your options.
If the kids are tagging along, check if you need to add a car seat to your car hire reservation in Chile. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to ride.
Bring the right documents and keep pick-up quick and easy. You'll typically need your physical driver's license (no electronic copies) and another form of photo ID. Also bring along a credit card with room for the security hold. If extra requirements apply, your booking will list them.
Spend a moment familiarising yourself with your home. Adjust your seat and mirrors, test the lights and blinkers, and get used to its handling before you set off. And remember to stick to the right side of the road in Chile.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's usually around 45kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always obey the posted signs.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.03% applies in Chile. The only guaranteed way to stay safe to drive is to avoid alcohol completely.
