Ready to hit the road in Phoenix? Use the search form above to find your ideal car in just a few clicks. Enter Phoenix or PHX (Sky Harbor Airport) as your pick-up location, choose your travel dates, and start the search. We instantly compare real-time rates from rental companies in Phoenix, from big names to local agencies, to bring you the best deals. You can narrow results by car type: maybe a convertible to soak up the sun on a drive to Sedona, an SUV for a family outing to the Grand Canyon, or an economy car for zipping around the city on a budget. Booking is a breeze and designed for flexibility: reserve now without prepayment (most rentals), and enjoy free cancellation on nearly all cars if your plans change (just cancel a bit in advance). With our user-friendly system, you’ll see transparent pricing (we show total cost with taxes/fees upfront) and can secure your Phoenix rental car in under 2 minutes. Get ready, your Arizona adventure on wheels is about to begin!
Welcome to Phoenix, Arizona, the vibrant heart of the American Southwest known as the “Valley of the Sun.” Sprawling across a desert basin and surrounded by stunning mountain parks, Phoenix is a city where having a rental car truly unlocks the best experiences. With your own wheels, you can seamlessly hop between downtown’s cultural hotspots, Scottsdale’s nightlife, Tempe’s college town charm, and the breathtaking natural wonders just outside the city. This page is your all-in-one guide to renting a car in Phoenix. We’ve combined unbeatable rental deals with local expertise to ensure you get the most value and insight. Whether you’re flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, road-tripping from elsewhere, or need a set of wheels to explore the Grand Canyon, we’re here to help you find the perfect car quickly, easily, and affordably. Let’s get you on the road to discovering Phoenix’s sunny skies, desert landscapes, and vibrant neighborhoods at your own pace.
Best Rate Guarantee in Phoenix: We negotiate deeply with over two dozen rental suppliers to ensure you get the lowest prices. From Sky Harbor’s competitive rental marketplace to neighborhood outlets in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Mesa, we bring all the deals together for you. Our platform highlights special offers (like free upgrade weekends or weekly rate discounts) so you won’t miss a bargain. If there’s a promo or sale on Phoenix car rentals, you can bet we have it listed. It’s our mission to save you money so you can spend more on enjoying your trip (maybe a few extra rounds of golf or a spa day in Scottsdale!).
Car Rental Deals in Phoenix
Note: These rates are recent examples and can change based on season (Phoenix’s high season is winter and spring when weather is mild, so prices can be a bit higher then; summer tends to have lower rates due to the heat). Taxes (~10–15% in Arizona) and any applicable airport fees are not included in the above daily prices but will be shown in your total when booking. Sky Harbor Airport rentals include a mandatory airport surcharge and facility fee (approximately $6 per day plus 10% concession fee), we include these in your quote so you can compare fairly with off-airport options. Always search for your exact dates to get the most accurate price. And consider booking early for peak times (e.g., spring training in March or holidays), demand is high, and cars can sell out or get pricier last-minute.
Driving in Phoenix, Local Tips and Info
Phoenix offers a driver-friendly blend of wide roads, a straightforward grid layout, and (mostly) sunny weather year-round. But driving in the desert comes with its own set of considerations. Here are key Phoenix driving tips to keep you safe and stress-free on the road:
City Layout & Traffic: The Phoenix metropolitan area is expansive and organized largely in a grid system. Major roads run north-south or east-west and are often spaced a mile apart, which makes navigation easier (and many are numerically ordered avenues/streets). For example, Central Avenue splits the city east-west (addresses increase as you go outward), and streets on the east side are numbered (1st St, 2nd St…) while avenues on the west side are numbered (1st Ave, 7th Ave, etc.). Once you understand the grid, getting around is a breeze. Rush hour traffic in Phoenix is moderate compared to cities like LA or Chicago, but it does exist. Peak times are 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM on weekdays. The busiest freeways are I-10 (Papago Freeway) especially through downtown and the “Deck Park Tunnel,” I-17 (Black Canyon Fwy) heading north out of downtown, US-60 (Superstition Fwy) in the East Valley, and the Loop 101 around Scottsdale and north Phoenix. During these times, freeways can slow down significantly, and accidents or construction can cause delays (tune into AM 92.3 or AM 550 for traffic updates, or use Google Maps/Waze which are popular here). If you’re staying in Scottsdale and driving to central Phoenix during rush hour, for example, give yourself extra time or consider using surface streets as alternates. One nice thing: Phoenix roads are generally wide and well-marked, and except for downtown or Old Town Scottsdale on weekends, traffic flows smoothly most of the day. Also note: Phoenix drivers are fairly used to newcomers and snowbirds, so don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar, just drive attentively and you’ll be fine.
High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes: Phoenix freeways have designated carpool lanes (HOV lanes) on many stretches, indicated by a diamond symbol on the pavement and signs. These lanes are generally on the far left side and are restricted to vehicles with 2 or more occupants (including the driver) during weekday rush hours (typically Monday-Friday 6–9 AM and 3–7 PM, though exact times are posted on signs). Outside of those hours (middays, nights, weekends), anyone can use the HOV lane. If you qualify (for instance, you have a passenger), using the carpool lane can significantly shorten your commute time on highways like I-10, I-17, or Loop 202 during heavy traffic. Important: Do not enter or exit the HOV lane over solid lines; wait for the dashed line sections to merge in or out, as police do ticket for improper lane changes. Also, be aware that Arizona DPS (Highway Patrol) does enforce HOV violations, fines start around $400 if you’re caught driving solo in those lanes during restricted times. If you’re renting an eco-friendly vehicle: note that as of late 2025, Arizona has phased out the program that allowed certain hybrid/EV vehicles to use HOV lanes solo, so assume you need a passenger regardless of vehicle type (unless you see official signage otherwise). When in doubt, stick to the regular lanes if you’re alone.
Heat & Vehicle Care: Phoenix is famous for its extreme heat in summer. Daytime highs from June through September regularly soar above 100°F (38°C), and often into 110-115°F (43-46°C). This has a few implications for drivers. First, always carry water in your car, both for yourself and in case of a breakdown. If your car were to have an issue, having water while waiting for help is crucial in the desert heat. Second, car AC is your best friend. All rental cars in Phoenix come with air conditioning (it’d be unthinkable not to!). It can take a few minutes for a parked car to cool down, you might want to open windows initially to flush out the searing heat before the AC takes over. Many locals use sunshades in the windshield when parked to keep the car interior from overheating; you might consider picking one up for a few dollars if you’ll be here a while (or ask if your rental car agency provides them). Also, be cautious of what you leave in the car, electronics, liquids, aerosol cans, the interior can reach 140°F+ (60°C+) in minutes when parked in the sun, which can damage items. Try to park in the shade or covered parking especially in summer. Some parking lots have shade canopies or trees, they fill first for a reason! Lastly, never leave children or pets in the car, even for a short time, the heat can become deadly quickly (this might seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing in Arizona).
Monsoon Storms: From roughly July through September, Phoenix experiences a “monsoon” season. This means occasional intense thunderstorms, often in the late afternoon or evening. These storms can cause heavy downpours, lightning, high winds, and dust storms. If you’re driving and see a huge wall of dust approaching (locals call it a “haboob”), it’s critical to be cautious. Dust storms can suddenly drop visibility to near zero. The rule here is: “Pull aside, stay alive.” If you encounter a dust storm, do not try to drive through it. Pull off the roadway as far to the right as possible, turn off your headlights and hazard lights (yes, off, you don’t want other drivers mistakenly following your lights and rear-ending you), set the parking brake, and wait it out. They usually pass in a few minutes. If it’s raining torrentially, you might also pull aside if you can’t see; flash flooding can occur on some roads. Never drive into a flooded intersection or wash, that saying “turn around, don’t drown” applies. Arizona even has a “Stupid Motorist Law” where drivers who bypass flood barricades and get stuck may be fined. On the plus side, after a monsoon storm, the desert air cools down and the smell of creosote bush is wonderful, a true desert rain experience. Just be patient and safe during the storm itself.
Road Conditions & Driving Habits: Phoenix roads are generally in good condition (the dry climate means less pavement damage compared to snowy regions). You’ll find wide lanes and plenty of signage. Freeway speed limits are usually 65–75 mph around the city, and it’s not unusual for traffic to flow ~5 mph above the limit. Surface streets are often 35–45 mph in the city, higher (50 mph) on major arterial roads between city sections. Be mindful of school zones in neighborhoods, they have 15 mph strict limits when lights flash during school times, and penalties for speeding there are hefty. Drivers in Phoenix tend to be reasonably polite, though like any big city, you have a mix. You won’t encounter the aggressive honking you might see in NYC, but do watch for rapid lane-changers on freeways. One quirk: because the metro area is so spread out, freeway driving is common for even short trips, so on-ramps can sometimes be busy with cars jostling to merge. Use the long entrance ramps to get up to speed; Phoenix freeways also have “ramp meter” stoplights during rush hour, one car per green, to space out vehicles merging. Also, Arizona permits “right turn on red” after a full stop (unless signed otherwise), so don’t be surprised if the car in front of you turns right at a red light once clear, you can too, just ensure it’s safe and there’s no “No Turn on Red” sign.
Parking in Phoenix: Compared to older big cities, parking in Phoenix is relatively easy. Downtown Phoenix has plenty of surface lots and garages, and rates are quite reasonable (often $5–$15 for a full day, cheaper evenings and weekends). Meters downtown use a pay kiosk system (or an app) and typically charge around $1.50 per hour, with free parking on nights and Sundays in many areas. In busy areas like
Fuel & Gas Stations: Gas stations are abundant in Phoenix, including big names like Circle K, QT (QuikTrip), Shell, Chevron, etc. Many are 24 hours. As of mid-2025, the average price for regular unleaded in Phoenix is around $4.00/gallon (it can be a bit less in spring, more in summer depending on oil markets). Prices can vary by area, generally, stations in central or upscale neighborhoods (Scottsdale, etc.) might charge a bit more than those in the outskirts. If you’re driving out of town, note that in more remote parts of Arizona (e.g., on the way to Grand Canyon or crossing reservation lands), gas stations can be 30-50 miles apart, so don’t let your tank get too low. A good rule: if you’re below half and heading into a sparsely populated area, top up when you can. Payment is usually pay-at-pump; you’ll insert your credit card, and often it asks for your ZIP code as a security measure (for international visitors without a US ZIP, try using “00000” or you may need to go inside to pre-pay). Many stations in Phoenix have convenience stores with cold drinks, grabbing a cold water or Gatorade when you fuel up is not a bad idea in summer.
Exploring Beyond Phoenix: One of the joys of renting a car in Phoenix is how many great destinations are a drive away. A few popular ones with driving considerations:
Driving in and around Phoenix is generally a pleasure, wide open skies, beautiful mountain backdrops, and well-maintained roads. With these tips in mind, you’ll be prepared like a local. Buckle up, keep cool (literally and figuratively), and enjoy the journey through Arizona’s incredible landscapes!
Road Trip Ideas from Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix is a fantastic launch point for road trips, offering everything from red-rock canyons to beach escapes. Here are three epic road trip itineraries from Phoenix to consider, each showcasing a different side of the Southwest:
1. Red Rocks to Grand Canyon, Northern Arizona Adventure
Distance: ~230 miles to Grand Canyon Village (South Rim) via Sedona and Flagstaff (one-way). Best done over 2–3 days to fully enjoy.
Route: Head north from Phoenix on I-17. After about 115 miles (2 hours), take the exit for Sedona (Route 179), this is the Red Rock Scenic Byway, a beautiful introduction to Sedona’s stunning landscape. Continue through Sedona (Route 89A) up Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff. From Flagstaff, take US-180/64 north to Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim).
Highlights:Sedona: As you drive into Sedona, you’ll be surrounded by towering red sandstone formations. Must-stops include the Chapel of the Holy Cross (built right into the rocks) and Red Rock State Park for short hikes or photo ops. The town of Sedona has charming galleries, cafes, and spiritual new-age shops if you’re into crystal healing or just want a great cup of coffee with a view. Driving up Oak Creek Canyon toward Flagstaff is a treat, switchbacks take you from Sedona’s desert floor up through pine forests; there are scenic overlooks (like Oak Creek Vista) where you can see the canyon you just ascended. Flagstaff: a cool mountain town at 7,000 ft elevation, a stark contrast to Phoenix’s desert. Flagstaff offers Route 66 nostalgia, the historic downtown, and perhaps a visit to Lowell Observatory (where Pluto was discovered) if you’re staying overnight, stargazing is phenomenal thanks to dark skies. Finally, the Grand Canyon (South Rim): Few things compare to your first glimpse of this natural wonder. Park at the Visitor Center or Grand Canyon Village and walk to Mather Point, the vista will take your breath away. Stroll along the Rim Trail for multiple viewpoints (each offers a different angle of the canyon’s immense beauty), or drive out to Desert View for a panoramic outlook and a historic watchtower. If you have time (or plan ahead), consider catching either a sunrise or sunset over the canyon, the colors on the canyon walls are magical.
Tips: This route packs in elevation changes, Phoenix is 1,100 ft, Sedona ~4,300 ft, Flagstaff 7,000 ft, Grand Canyon ~7,000 ft, so temperatures will drop as you go north (often 20-30°F cooler at the rim than in Phoenix). Dress in layers, especially outside of summer. In winter, Flagstaff and Grand Canyon get snow, bring warm clothes and check road conditions (I-17 and the roads to the canyon are well-plowed, but you may need to slow down in inclement weather). In peak season (spring, summer), Grand Canyon parking lots fill by mid-morning; an early start from Flagstaff or Sedona is wise. Alternatively, you can park in Tusayan just outside the park and take a shuttle in (May–Sept). Keep in mind, this trip is about the journey as much as the destination, Sedona itself could be a whole vacation. If time allows, spend a night in Sedona or Flagstaff to break up the trip. Lastly, don’t forget to buy a National Park pass at the Grand Canyon entrance (currently $35 per vehicle for a week, or use your America the Beautiful annual pass if you have one). It will be valid if you decide to loop back via other parks. And absolutely keep your camera or phone charged, from Sedona’s Cathedral Rock to the Grand Canyon vistas, you’ll be snapping photos constantly.
2. Desert to Coast, Phoenix to San Diego (Beach Escape)
Distance: ~355 miles one-way (approximately 5.5–6.5 hours drive time). Can be done in a long day’s drive but consider 2+ days with stops.
Route: Take I-10 West out of Phoenix for about 170 miles. Near Buckeye, transition to I-8 West which will carry you across the Arizona-California border and all the way to San Diego. On approaching San Diego, I-8 ends and you can navigate to your specific destination (downtown, beaches, etc.).
Highlights: This drive is unique as you watch the Sonoran Desert transition to California’s coastal landscape. On I-8, you’ll pass Dateland, AZ, a quirky pit stop known for date shakes (yes, the edible kind of dates!). It’s worth a quick break to stretch and treat yourself to a cold, sweet date milkshake, a classic road trip snack out here. Continuing, you’ll cross the Colorado River at Yuma (the Arizona-California line), Yuma has a historic territorial prison museum if Wild West history interests you, or you can press on. In California, I-8 traverses the Imperial Sand Dunes (also called Algodones Dunes), suddenly you’ll see vast sand hills that look like a mini-Sahara. There’s a viewing area (around Osborne Overlook) where you can stop to take in the dune panorama; on weekends you’ll see off-road enthusiasts riding ATVs on the dunes. As you continue west, the road climbs into the Peninsular Ranges, a dramatic ascent where you’ll go from sea level desert to over 4,000 feet. At Laguna Summit and then descending through Devil’s Canyon, you’ll encounter winding grades and spectacular rocky scenery. It’s often 30°F cooler up here than in the desert below; you might even feel chilly if you stop at a viewpoint! Finally, you’ll drop down into the coastal plains. San Diego greets you with palm trees and the smell of the ocean. In San Diego, enjoy the payoff of your drive: beautiful beaches and cool Pacific breezes. Stroll through La Jolla Cove to see sea lions, hit Mission Beach or Coronado Beach for sun and sand, or explore Balboa Park and the famous San Diego Zoo if you’re staying a while. The food scene is great too, treat yourself to Mexican cuisine (fish tacos are a San Diego specialty) after the long drive.
Tips: This route is straightforward, but note that services (gas, food) are somewhat spaced out once you’re past Yuma. Make sure you fuel up before the long stretch through eastern California, there are a couple of rest stops and small towns, but better to have plenty of gas leaving Yuma (next major gas is about 90 miles at El Centro). In summer, the desert portion is extremely hot; ensure your vehicle’s coolant is good, rental cars are maintained, so you should be fine. Take advantage of the car’s AC and consider driving very early to beat peak heat, or later in the afternoon when sun is lower. If you’re up for a slight detour/adventure, about 45 minutes north of I-8 in Arizona (at Gila Bend on I-8, go north on AZ-85) is Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument on the Mexican border, incredible desert cactus landscapes rarely seen elsewhere. It would add hours though, so perhaps another time. When you reach San Diego, note that Pacific Time is an hour behind Arizona time in summer (Arizona doesn’t do daylight savings), so if you left Phoenix at 8 AM, it’s only 2 PM in California after 6 hours (a nice little time bonus). Enjoy San Diego and the novelty of being able to go from cacti to coastline in half a day. For the return trip, some like to loop up through Los Angeles and back via I-10 (seeing a bit of the Mojave Desert and Joshua Tree NP), that’s an option if you have more time. Otherwise, retracing I-8 is simple and usually less traffic than the LA route.
3. Wild West Loop, Phoenix to Tucson & Tombstone
Distance: ~185 miles from Phoenix to Tombstone via Tucson (one-way). Roughly 3.5 hours driving without stops (Phoenix to Tucson ~2 hours, Tucson to Tombstone ~1.5 hours). Recommend 2 days or a long full-day round trip.
Route: Head south from Phoenix on I-10 East. After about 120 miles, you’ll arrive in Tucson. Continue on I-10 East for another 70 miles to Benson, then take AZ-80 south to Tombstone. Optionally, you can loop back via AZ-90 through Sierra Vista and reconnect to I-10, or simply return the way you came.
Highlights:Tucson: Arizona’s second-largest city has a rich blend of cultures (Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and frontier American). In Tucson, consider stopping at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (just west of town in the Tucson Mountains), it’s a fantastic zoo/botanical garden showcasing desert wildlife (yes, you can safely see javelinas, coyotes, and maybe a Gila monster). If you’re into space and science, Pima Air & Space Museum near I-10 is one of the world’s largest aircraft collections, and adjacent to the “Boneyard” (hundreds of military planes stored in the desert). For history buffs, Mission San Xavier del Bac (just south of downtown Tucson) is an exquisite 18th-century Spanish mission church, called the “White Dove of the Desert.” Grab some authentic Sonoran tacos or the famous local dish “Sonoran hot dog” in Tucson for lunch. Continuing on, the drive to Tombstone takes you through classic high desert grasslands. Tombstone: Stepping into Tombstone is like stepping back to the 1880s Wild West. This historic town is home to the legendary OK Corral, where Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday had their famous shootout with the Clantons. You can watch a reenactment of the gunfight (yes, actors with pistols on Allen Street) and tour the actual OK Corral site. Walk along Allen Street, which is preserved with wooden boardwalks, you’ll see people in period costume, old saloons like Big Nose Kate’s, the Bird Cage Theatre (once a rowdy entertainment hall, now a museum), and shops selling cowboy gear and old-timey souvenirs. Don’t miss the Boothill Graveyard just outside town, where some of Tombstone’s notorious characters are buried (look for tombstones with darkly humorous epitaphs). Despite being a bit touristy, Tombstone retains an authentic feel of a town “too tough to die.” Nearby, if time permits, drive 25 minutes further south to Bisbee, a quirky former copper mining town now an artsy community nestled in the mountains. Bisbee’s historic downtown and mine tours are fascinating, a totally different vibe from Tombstone’s rough-and-tumble, more of a Old West meets counterculture feel.
Tips: The drive from Phoenix to Tucson is all interstate and passes through Pinal County, which has notorious speed enforcement, stick to the limit (they use both highway patrol and sometimes aerial enforcement). Between Phoenix and Tucson, you’ll see Picacho Peak, a distinctive pointy mountain that was the site of the westernmost Civil War battle; there’s a state park there if you fancy a quick hike (springtime brings beautiful wildflowers). Weather-wise, Tombstone and Bisbee are higher elevation (~4,500 ft), so they’re a bit cooler than Phoenix, which can be a nice break in summer (still warm, but not Phoenix hot). Summers also bring monsoon storms here, watch the skies, especially when driving on rural highways; a quick downpour can flood washes temporarily. It’s wise to fill up on gas in Tucson or Benson; Tombstone has limited gas options. Also note that cell service can be spotty in stretches between Benson and Tombstone/Bisbee. The loop back: you can return to Phoenix by going back up I-10 from Benson (probably fastest), or for a more scenic route, consider from Tombstone going west through Sonoita (a small Arizona wine country region!) and then north on AZ-83 to I-10, this takes you through rolling grasslands and past Las Cienegas National Conservation Area, eventually rejoining I-10 near Vail. It adds a little time but it’s pretty and you might even spot pronghorn (American antelope) on the prairies. Either way, you’ll return with a deeper appreciation of Arizona’s Wild West heritage, having seen both a modern city (Tucson) and a time-capsule town (Tombstone) in one trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parking in Phoenix and its suburbs is generally easy and often free. Outside of downtown Phoenix and downtown Tempe, most places have ample parking lots (shopping centers, attractions, restaurants, etc.). In downtown Phoenix, you’ll find metered street parking and many public or private garages and surface lots. Metered street parking usually costs about $1-2 per hour and is typically enforced 8am-10pm Mon-Sat (Sundays and major holidays often free). The meters are modern (pay by app or card at a kiosk). If you’re going to a Phoenix Suns or D-Backs game (Footprint Center or Chase Field downtown), the arenas have adjacent parking structures and lots, expect event rates like $10-$20. Arrive early for best spots. In Scottsdale’s Old Town, there are numerous free public parking garages, Scottsdale is great about free parking for visitors, though finding a space on weekend evenings can be competitive (but still, you’ll find one, just might be a block or two walk). Tempe near ASU campus and Mill Avenue has metered street parking and some pay lots, but also some free neighborhood parking (with time limits). If visiting ASU, consider one of the public parking structures on campus (they charge hourly, a few bucks). At popular hiking trailheads around the Phoenix area (like Camelback, Piestewa Peak, etc.), parking is free but limited. Go early in the morning for those to guarantee a spot, especially in nice weather months. If full, you may have to wait or come back later, since street parking in those neighborhoods is often restricted. For airport parking at PHX (if you’re doing a short rental and leaving your own car or something), Sky Harbor has abundant parking but costs ~$7-12/day in economy lots or $14-30/day in garages. But as a renter, you’ll mostly be focusing on destination parking. One watch-out: heat, not a parking availability issue, but note that in summer, you might prefer covered parking. Some malls and tourist spots have shaded lots or garages; use them when you can. Also, don’t leave anything melting (chocolate, candles) or electronic sitting in the car. Phoenix is unlike big cities where you worry about theft if something is visible (though one should always be cautious and not leave valuables out), it’s more about things melting or exploding (yes, aerosols or pressurized cans can pop in extreme heat). Overall, Phoenix’s wide-open design for cars means parking is one of the lesser worries for travelers here
Good news, Arizona has no toll roads for standard passenger cars. Driving around Phoenix and throughout the state, you won’t encounter any toll booths or required toll payments. The highways and freeways are funded by gas tax and other means, not tolls. Even the newer express lanes in the Phoenix area (like the Loop 202 South Mountain extension) are free HOV lanes, not tolled express lanes. The only thing remotely similar to a toll might be if you take certain bridges or use special express/HOV privileges illegally (which is a fine, not a toll). So you won’t need to worry about carrying change or getting a toll transponder for Arizona driving. Exception for out-of-state trips: If you drive into other states like California, they do have some toll roads/bridges (e.g., some bridges in the Bay Area, or express lanes in SoCal), and Texas, Colorado etc have toll systems too. But in Arizona itself, none. One area of confusion: sometimes mapping apps might show a route as having a toll if it cuts briefly through another state or country, for example, going from Phoenix to certain spots might theoretically route through Mexico or something weird (though unlikely). But rest assured, main routes like I-10, I-17, I-8, US-93, etc. are toll-free. Even the Hoover Dam bridge (to Nevada) is free. So drive happily without toll stress within AZ. Just watch for speeding tickets or HOV lane violations, as those would be the more common fees drivers encounter here, not tolls.
That depends on your personal needs and itinerary. For city-focused travel or traveling solo/couple: a compact or midsize sedan will do the job and be budget-friendly, plus easier to park. Think Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, etc. If you have a family or more people and luggage, a full-size car or a small SUV (like a RAV4 or Jeep Compass) might be more comfortable. An SUV is also a good choice if you plan day trips to the mountains or just prefer a higher driving position. If you’re visiting in summer, virtually all cars here have strong AC, it’s a must, so no worries there. For outdoor enthusiasts: if you’re going to do some mild off-roading or backcountry trails (maybe to trailheads for hikes), a SUV with all-wheel-drive could be useful. Popular spots like Sedona have some rougher dirt roads (to reach trailheads like Devil’s Bridge, for example). Keep in mind rental contracts usually prohibit truly off-road use (like rock crawling or un-maintained trails), but a graded dirt road is fine. If you’re sticking to highways and paved roads, any car class is fine. Many visitors enjoy renting a convertible in Phoenix, especially in winter or spring, a Ford Mustang or similar, great for the scenic drives when the weather is perfect (and it often is in those seasons). Just note in peak summer, convertibles under the midday sun can be brutal (but you can always use the AC and top up then drop it in the evening). For longer road trips (Grand Canyon, across to California, etc.), consider size and comfort, a intermediate or standard SUV, or a full-size sedan might make those hours more pleasant. One last thought: gas prices in AZ are moderate, and most modern cars have decent fuel economy, but if you’re doing a LOT of driving miles, maybe lean toward an efficient model (intermediate sedan or compact SUV vs a huge V8 SUV) to save at the pump. All our listings will note if a car is particularly good on MPG (some fleets even offer hybrids). Overall, Phoenix’s roads are in great shape and the infrastructure is built for cars, so there’s no one “must-have”, pick what suits your crew and your plans, and you’ll be set.
: Yes, definitely. Sky Harbor is the main airport serving Phoenix and has a dedicated Rental Car Center that’s easily accessible from all terminals. After you land and grab your luggage, follow the signs for “Rental Cars.” You’ll take the PHX Sky Train or a shuttle bus from the terminals to the Rental Car Center (the Sky Train now goes directly there from terminals 3 and 4; from terminal 4 it’s super convenient). The ride is only a few minutes. At the Rental Car Center, you’ll find about 14 rental companies under one roof, all the big brands (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, Dollar, etc.) plus some smaller ones. If you have a reservation, head to your company’s counter (or skip the counter if you’ve enrolled in their fast programs like Hertz Gold or Emerald Club, then you can go straight to the lot to pick a car). The facility is modern and large, so everything is pretty efficient. Renting at PHX is a great option if you’re flying in, because you can get on the road almost immediately. Just be aware that airport rentals include an airport surcharge in the rate (Sky Harbor charges rental companies, who pass it on to renters, it’s about 10% of the rental cost plus a flat $6/day facility fee). It’s standard for airports. For many, the convenience is worth it. If you wanted to avoid the airport fee, you’d have to take a taxi/shuttle to an off-airport rental location, which only really makes sense for long rentals where the savings outweigh the hassle. Most travelers just rent at PHX for the ease. The Rental Car Center is open 24/7 for returns, and counters hours vary by company but many have extended hours to accommodate late flights. Pro tip: include your flight number in the reservation; if your flight is delayed, rental staff can see that and usually hold the car for your adjusted arrival.
Prices fluctuate based on season, demand, and car type, but generally you might find economy car rentals in Phoenix starting around $25–$30 per day in off-peak times. During popular travel periods (for instance, winter high season, spring training baseball in March, big events), that same economy car might be $40+/day. Mid-size and standard cars often average $40–$60/day, and SUVs or minivans can be in the $60–$80/day range or more, depending on model. Luxury cars, convertibles, and large SUVs will be higher. One-way rentals (picking up in Phoenix, dropping elsewhere) sometimes carry an extra fee, which affects total cost. To save money, try these tips: book as early as possible (rates often rise as inventory tightens close to the date), compare locations (renting at Sky Harbor Airport includes airport fees, while renting at an off-airport Phoenix location might be a bit cheaper), and consider length, weekly rentals often have a lower per-day rate than single-day rentals. Also keep an eye out for our special deals or promo codes on this site. Remember, the rate you see online usually doesn’t include taxes and fees, in Phoenix, figure roughly an additional 10-18% on top of the base rate (higher percentage at the airport due to surcharges). We always show you the full estimated total before you finalize the booking so you’re not caught off guard.