Rental Cars for Your Trip
Sometimes essential, sometimes a waste of money. Here's how to tell — and how to get a good rate when you do need one.
The major rental companies compared
Most U.S. rentals come from just three corporate groups. Knowing who's who — and who's best at what — helps you pick before you even check prices.
| Company | Group | Best for | Known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| National | Enterprise Mobility | Frequent & business travelers | Skip-the-counter "Emerald Aisle"; top-rated for service |
| Enterprise | Enterprise Mobility | Families, groups, city rentals | Best service & vehicle selection; dense neighborhood branches |
| Alamo | Enterprise Mobility | Leisure travelers & value | Good value at airports for vacationers |
| Hertz | Hertz | EV rentals, airport pickups | Biggest EV fleet (Tesla, Polestar) |
| Dollar / Thrifty | Hertz | Budget airport rentals | Lower rates; fewer frills |
| Avis | Avis Budget Group | Business & airport convenience | Wide airport network; loyalty perks |
| Budget | Avis Budget Group | Lowest base price | Consistently cheaper base rates for comparable cars |
| Turo | Peer-to-peer | Unique cars, longer rentals | Rent from private owners; variable pickup logistics |
Enterprise Mobility (Enterprise, Alamo, National) makes up about 55% of the U.S. market; Avis Budget Group and Hertz together about 39%. In 2026 satisfaction rankings, National and Enterprise placed first and second, with Hertz third and Avis fourth.
So which should you pick?
- Cheapest base rate: Budget, then Dollar/Thrifty — but always compare, since airport fees vary.
- Best service & selection: Enterprise or National, especially for families or business trips.
- Renting in a city (not the airport): Enterprise's neighborhood branches usually win on price and convenience.
- Want an EV: Hertz has the largest electric fleet.
- Want something unusual or a multi-week rental: Turo's peer-to-peer model.
Check live prices
Know the type of company you want? Enter your pickup location and dates to compare real, current rates across companies on Kayak.
Do you need a car? Quick guide
| Trip type | Rent a car? |
|---|---|
| Walkable city stay (New Orleans, NYC) | No — use transit + rideshare |
| City stay + a day trip or two | Rent for the day-trip days only |
| Road trip / multi-city drive | Yes |
| National parks & rural areas | Yes |
How to save on a rental
- Book early — rates rise as availability drops, especially in summer.
- Compare pickup locations — airport counters add fees; a nearby city branch can be cheaper.
- Decline duplicate coverage — your own car insurance or credit card may already cover rentals.
- Refuel yourself — prepaid fuel options usually cost more.
→ Estimate fuel for your drive
Frequently asked questions
Which rental car company is best?
For service and selection, National and Enterprise lead (they topped 2026 satisfaction rankings). For the lowest base price, Budget and Dollar/Thrifty tend to be cheapest. For EVs, Hertz has the biggest electric fleet. The "best" one depends on your priority — compare a couple before booking.
Is it cheaper to rent at the airport or in town?
Often in town — airport locations add concession fees. Weigh the savings against the hassle of getting to an off-airport branch.
Do I need the rental company's insurance?
Check what your personal auto policy and credit card already cover before paying for it again. Many travelers are already covered.