How to find a cheap car hire deal in Austin
Make your move with a cheap rental car in Austin. With prices averaging RM296 a day, it's travel freedom that doesn't cost a fortune. From zippy compacts to power-packed SUVs, we'll match you with your kind of ride at your kind of price.
Daily rental prices in Austin start from just RM125.
For longer trips, pick up a weekly rental from RM664 and fit more into your itinerary.
We've cracked the code on when to book. Four weeks in advance gives you the best window to grab the best price on a Austin car hire.
Grab your wheels from Hertz, Budget or Easirent. They're some of the most well-known providers in the city.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Austin car hire policy, whether you go with Hertz or a different supplier. Some may leave it out of the standard package and offer it as an extra.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to score a bargain if the provider needs to shift cars between sites. Find the best available rates by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Avoid any unexpected charges by choosing a ride with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, and only pay for what you actually use.
Want to explore more without stressing about how many miles you clock up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like without the extra fees.
Best value car hire options right now
Coming in first for value is this company, with average prices of RM206 a day.
Coming in second is this provider, offering daily rates of around RM329.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly RM337 a day with this supplier.
The Compact rental category is a reliable option if you're not sure what kind of ride you need. It's also the vehicle type that's booked the most in Austin.
Flying to Austin? Think about an airport pick-up
If you're jetting into Austin, get going faster by picking up a car hire at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. The drive from this airport to the city centre is around 16 kilometres and takes about 20 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Austin
Small: Whether you're darting along city streets or taking a quick trip, this car category delivers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to easy handling and excellent mileage.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they strike a balance of fuel efficiency and interior space and are great for small families and couples.
Large: You've got the kids, the toys, the bags, the works. Large vehicles have got the space to pack it all in without breaking a sweat. Perfect for long-distance journeys, this Austin car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a better view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged backcountry or gliding down stretches of highway, many come with all-wheel drive to help you tackle any road.
Van: Usually featuring commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Austin takes heavy loads and larger groups in its stride. They're tough, versatile, and ready to tackle whatever task lies ahead.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your Austin car hire can take the stress out of driving. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of damage or theft. Insurance policies can vary from one provider to another, so take the time to shop around.
Take your ride to the next level with extras like a reverse camera or navigation unit. They can make your trip easier and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Austin.
Good to know
Typically, you have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. Being younger doesn't always disqualify you — just expect some added charges or limits. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before booking.
If you've got the kids in tow, check if you need to add a child car seat to your Austin car hire reservation. Whether a legal requirement or not, they're always the safest way for youngsters to travel.
You'll be asked to provide some documents when you pick up your ride. As a rule, bring your physical driver's licence, a credit card with enough funds for the excess (debit cards usually aren't accepted), and additional photo ID. Your booking will outline the exact requirements.
Spend some time getting acquainted with your rental. Check your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get used to its handling before you set off. And importantly, stick to the right side of the road in the United States.
Local speed limits are usually about 40kph through urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Always check the posted signs, as limits may vary.
In the United States, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you think you'll be drinking, hand the keys to someone else or choose another way to travel.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times for traffic in this destination. Try to avoid peak times generally for a smoother trip.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for general expenses and outings. Pay by card when it's possible, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't possible.
English is the language you'll hear most people speaking in this country.
Best hotels in Austin for drivers
Pull in and enjoy your stay at Aloft Austin Downtown. Offering parking as well as bicycle rentals and air conditioning, this hotel is around 0.16 kilometres from central Austin.
Or take advantage of the parking at Embassy Suites by Hilton Austin Downtown South Congress. The city centre is roughly 2 kilometres from this stay, which also features internet access and a pool.
Browse through the range of hotels in Austin for even more choices. Use the 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' and 'Outdoor parking' filters to tailor your results to your trip. You can even use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to bring up places with on-site charging.
Once you've found a car hire deal in Austin and the right hotel, all that's left to do is decide where to head to first. Get things started with big attractions such as Texas State Capitol, Austin Museum of Art, Downtown and Central Park.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Austin
Shift gears and head toward Killeen. Around 97 kilometres north of central Austin, it's home to must-sees like Stonetree Golf Club and Fort Hood November 5 Memorial.
Popular accommodation options with parking in Killeen include Stratus Suites Boutique Hotel and OYO Hotel Killeen.
Add Round Rock to your trip lineup. Pick up your cheap car hire in Austin and drive around 27 kilometres north to discover hot spots like Kalahari Indoor Water Park and Old Settlers Park.
Round Rock has some good places to stay including TownePlace Suites Austin Round Rock and Hilton Garden Inn Austin/Round Rock. Both are practical choices for guests with cars.
Keep the momentum going and road-trip it to Dallas, around 290 kilometres north of Austin. Make your first stop Meyerson Symphony Centre, then follow it up with Winspear Opera House.
Get some shut-eye in Dallas at either Magnolia Hotel Downtown Dallas or Fairmont Dallas. They have a room waiting for you and a place to park too.
