How to find a cheap car hire deal in Tampa International (TPA)
Just stepped off your flight? Grab a cheap Tampa International rental car and hit the road for around $222 a day. From city stays to far-flung escapes, we'll help you find the right rental for your plans.
The cheapest daily price for a rental at Tampa International is $12.
Making it more than a quick visit? Pick up a weekly rental from $57 and explore beyond the usual highlights of Tampa.
Here's the secret to booking at the right time. One week in advance is when you're most likely to find the best price on a TPA car hire.
Rent your wheels from Dollar, Budget or Thrifty, some of the most reliable providers at Tampa International.
Whether you go with Dollar or another supplier, make sure you understand the coverage on your Tampa International car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as a paid add-on.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to land a bargain if the provider needs to shift vehicles between branches. Find the best available rates for a car for hire in TPA by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Tampa International with a full tank, so you pay only for what you use. No surprise fuel add-ons when you hand back the keys either.
Hit the road without tracking every mile and racking up additional fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and click 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you drive as far as you want.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best deal with this company. Prices average $91 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $76, this provider follows close behind.
The third option also stays competitive on price. Drive off in one of their rentals for roughly $95 a day.
If you're unsure which ride is right for you, consider something from the Intermediate rental category. It's the most frequently booked vehicle type at TPA.
Compare car hire types from Tampa International (TPA)
Small: Whether you're cruising narrow city streets or simply planning a quick trip, this cheap Tampa International rental car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can expect easy handling and great mileage.
Medium: A smart pick when you need something that's easy to drive but with some added perks. This category includes compact and intermediate models that offer a little extra leg room compared to smaller cars.
Large: Long drives are effortless in this TPA car hire category. Also known as full-size, they've got the engine power for lengthy trips. The extra legroom and comfort make them an excellent option for groups of friends and families.
SUV: When the urge to explore hits, an SUV's all in. It's your ultimate road trip companion, ready for backroads, highways, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also offer extra space and advanced safety features.
Van: If you need a car for rent in Tampa International that fits a small crowd (and all their gear), a van will do the job. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're a great choice for group travel, business needs or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but it's worth considering. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a big excess fee. Different TPA car hire providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can seriously upgrade your ride. Consider which features will help you make the most of your trip when you rent a car in Tampa International.
Good to know
The minimum age to rent a vehicle in the United States is typically 21 years old. However providers may have their own rules, so always double-check your rental company's terms to find out where you stand.
Kids coming with you? Car seat regulations vary depending on where you are, and the right setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Check if you need to add one to your TPA car hire booking.
Come prepared to make pick-up quick and easy. You'll generally need your physical driver's licence (no digital copies) and another form of photo ID. Bring a credit card with enough balance for the deposit too. If anything extra is required, you'll find it in your booking.
Driving in the United States can seem unfamiliar if it's your first time. Don't forget all vehicles travel on the right side of the road.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's normally around 40kph in built-up areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always go with what's posted on the road signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol affects everyone differently, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink at all.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for day-to-day purchases and activities. Pay with a debit or credit card when it's possible, but carry a little cash when electronic payments aren't accepted.
Drive smarter from the start
With a TPA car hire, you're the boss when it comes to where you go. If central Tampa is the first place you're exploring, it's around 11 kilometres east of the airport and a journey of about 20 minutes.
Allow roughly 40 minutes to get from Tampa International to the city centre during rush hours.
Try to travel outside high-traffic periods for a smoother run in general. 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination.
You can also book a car hire in Tampa. If you don't need a vehicle as soon as you land, hold off until you're in the city and avoid paying for unused rental days.
For an even bigger selection, compare the car hire options at St. Pete–Clearwater International. This airport also operates flights into Tampa.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Tampa International (TPA)
Before leaving town, sightsee around Tampa first. Highlights such as Busch Gardens Tampa and The Florida Aquarium make an excellent first impression.
Shift gears and make tracks to St. Petersburg. Around 27 kilometres southwest of TPA, it's home to favourite sights like Chihuly Collection and St. Petersburg Pier.
Or collect your Tampa International car hire and head out to Clearwater. Around 27 kilometres west of the airport, Sand Key Beach and Pier 60 Clearwater are popular attractions that make the extra drive worth it.
Want to stretch this drive a little longer? Cape Coral is a popular road trip destination that's about 161 kilometres south of TPA. Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve and Fourmile Cove are ideal pit stops.
