Ready to hit the road in Louisiana? Use the search form above, just enter your Louisiana pick-up location (New Orleans Airport, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, etc.), your travel dates, and click “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see real-time offers from dozens of rental companies across Louisiana. You can easily filter by car type to find exactly what you need, whether it’s a compact car for city streets, a sturdy SUV for rural bayou backroads, or a comfy minivan for a family trip. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals let you reserve now and pay at pickup, plus offer free cancellation if your plans change. In just a few clicks, you’ll lock in the ideal ride for your Louisiana adventure, at a price that leaves room in your budget for beignets in New Orleans or a Cajun crawfish boil along the way!
Welcome to Louisiana, where jazz-filled cities, Cajun villages, and bayou landscapes await. Having a rental car in Louisiana gives you the freedom to discover every corner of the Pelican State at your own pace. This page is your complete guide to renting a car in Louisiana, packed with money-saving deals and local tips to help you drive like a Louisiana native. Whether you’re flying into MSY (New Orleans Airport) for Mardi Gras, road-tripping to Baton Rouge for an LSU game, or exploring small towns and swamps off the beaten path, we’ll help you find the perfect car quickly, easily, and affordably. Get ready to cruise Louisiana’s highways and backroads with confidence, and a little extra lagniappe (that’s “something extra,” Cajun-style) in your pocket.
Louisiana may not be the largest state, but its attractions are widely scattered, and public transportation is limited outside the major cities. Renting a car lets you:
Our Louisiana Car Rental Advantages
Why book your Louisiana ride with AirportVanRental? We specialize in affordable car rentals across the South and offer some unique perks for Louisiana travelers:
Top Louisiana Car Rental Deals
(“From” rates are base prices recently seen, actual prices depend on your dates and vehicle availability. Taxes and fees are not included in the above rates but will be shown in your total quote. In Louisiana, expect roughly 10%–15% in combined taxes/fees on top of the base rate. Pro tip: book early for peak seasons like Mardi Gras (Feb/Mar), Jazz Fest (spring), or LSU game weekends in the fall, demand is high and cars can sell out fast during major events.)
Driving in Louisiana: Tips and Local Insights
Driving in Louisiana can go from a relaxed cruise along a cypress-lined bayou to navigating busy city streets during festival season. Here are essential tips to drive like a local and stay safe on Louisiana roads:
Traffic & Rush Hours: Compared to mega-cities, Louisiana’s traffic is moderate, but rush hour in urban areas can still slow you down. In New Orleans, weekday traffic peaks 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM, especially on I-10 through downtown and the Causeway bridge (for commuters coming from the Northshore). Baton Rouge is notorious for bottlenecks on I-10 and I-110, particularly at the Mississippi River Bridge, expect slowdowns weekday afternoons as locals head home across the river. If there’s an LSU football game or a festival, traffic in those areas will spike before and after the event. Plan drives during off-peak times when you can. A navigation app (Waze, Google Maps) is your friend; it might route you on alternate backroads to dodge interstate jams. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself on scenic back streets, Louisiana drivers know all the “shortcut” routes through neighborhoods when the interstate looks like a parking lot.
Road Conditions & Weather: Louisiana’s climate can be tough on roads, you may encounter potholes or uneven pavement, especially in older parts of cities and rural backroads. Keep an eye out and drive cautiously if a road looks rough. Rain is a fact of life here, and heavy downpours can cause street flooding in low-lying areas. If you see water on the road, don’t risk it, even a few inches can stall a car. (As locals say, “Turn around, don’t drown.”) During summer thunderstorms, visibility can drop; slow down and use headlights. Also note: hurricane season runs June through November. Always check the forecast if traveling during this period. In the rare event of an incoming storm, follow official evacuation orders, having a car makes it easier to get out of harm’s way if needed. In winter, snow is extremely rare in Louisiana, but occasionally northern parts of the state see ice, bridges can freeze if there’s a cold snap. If by a slim chance you encounter ice warnings (usually in January), drive slowly and carefully or wait until it melts (it usually won’t last long).
Bridges & Toll Roads: Louisiana is crisscrossed by bayous and rivers, so bridges are common. Most are free, but a couple of notable exceptions: the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, a 24-mile bridge connecting the New Orleans area to the Northshore, has a toll (about $6 cash southbound). Tolls are collected on the north end, only when driving toward New Orleans. Another is the LA-1 bridge to Grand Isle (gateway to the Gulf) which has a small toll (around $2.75). There’s also a $1 toll on the bridge to Avery Island (where the Tabasco factory is) if you venture there. All Louisiana tolls can be paid in cash or with the local Geaux Pass tag, rental companies might offer a toll tag option, or you can pay online after if you accidentally use the tag lane. Aside from those, you won’t encounter many toll roads. Enjoy the open road, and if you’re not sure about a route, ask us or your rental agency about avoiding tolls. (Note: No E-ZPass here; our system is different.)
Parking in Cities: Generally, parking in Louisiana is easier than in many big cities, but it varies by location. In New Orleans, the French Quarter and Downtown have limited parking and many one-way narrow streets. Street parking in the Quarter is mostly reserved for residents or has strict time limits, and during big events like Mardi Gras, certain streets close entirely to cars. The good news: there are numerous public parking lots and garages around the French Quarter, Warehouse District, and near attractions like the Superdome. Expect to pay around $10–$20 for all-day parking in downtown New Orleans (and more during special events). Always read street signs carefully, the city loves to ticket or tow cars parked illegally, especially on parade routes or for street cleaning. In Baton Rouge, parking is relatively easy. Downtown has garages and meters (often free on evenings/weekends), and outside of downtown, most places (malls, restaurants, LSU campus) have dedicated parking lots. Just be mindful on LSU game days, campus lots require permits or game-day fees, and traffic police will direct you. If you’re visiting tourist sites like plantations or state parks, nearly all have free on-site parking. One more tip: never leave visible valuables in your car, no matter where you are. Louisiana is generally safe, but it’s wise to keep GPS units, bags, or any tempting items out of sight (or take them with you) to prevent break-ins.
Fuel & Gas Prices: Good news for your budget, gasoline in Louisiana is typically cheaper than the national average (often among the lowest in the U.S., around $2.70–$3.00 per gallon for regular as of mid-2025). You’ll find gas stations plentiful in cities and along interstates. In rural areas, they can be farther apart, so if you’re driving into remote bayou country or across the Atchafalaya Basin, fill up before you go off the beaten path. Gas stations here are usually self-service; pay-at-pump is standard (you might need to enter your ZIP code for credit cards, international visitors can often just enter “00000” or pay inside if the pump doesn’t accept your foreign card). Keep your fuel receipts if your rental terms recommend it. Also, be sure to refuel before returning your rental car. Rental companies charge much higher rates per gallon if you return the car with less gas than you started. With our lower Louisiana gas prices, it’s worth taking five minutes to top off the tank near the drop-off location. One more note: if you’re taking long drives, most rental cars come with unlimited mileage (and we’ll clearly note if any vehicle doesn’t), so you can explore freely without worrying about per-mile fees.
Overall, driving in Louisiana is the key to unlocking its rich culture and scenery. With a little common sense and these tips, you’ll navigate the interstates, country roads, and city streets like a pro. So roll down the windows (or crank up the A/C in summer), turn on some jazz or Cajun music, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination!
Road Trip Ideas from Louisiana
Louisiana is an ideal launching point for some memorable road trips. Whether you crave historical sites, musical pilgrimages, or natural beauty, there’s a route for you. Here are three detailed itineraries to spark your wanderlust:
Great River Road, Plantations & History (New Orleans to Natchez):Distance: ~200 miles one-way (New Orleans to Natchez via Baton Rouge); best done in 2–3 days to soak in the history.
Cajun Country Circuit (New Orleans to Lafayette & Bayou Lands):Distance: ~300 miles round-trip (loop from New Orleans through Lafayette and back); best as a 2–3 day trip for full flavor.
Bayou & Gulf Road Trip (Baton Rouge to Grand Isle via New Orleans):Distance: ~250 miles one-way (if starting in Baton Rouge down to Grand Isle); can be adjusted as a loop; allow 2–3 days with stops.
Each of these road trips showcases a different side of Louisiana, from its complex history and cultural heritage to its wild natural beauty and coastal charm. With a rental car, you have the keys to all of it. We’re here to help make it happen, with great deals and advice. Pro tip: Need more ideas or customized suggestions? Just ask our team or check out our online guides. We love helping travelers discover the real Louisiana beyond the guidebook. Now, fill up the tank (it’s cheap here!), cue up a playlist (maybe some jazz, zydeco, or blues for the ride), and laissez les bons temps rouler, let the good times roll on your Louisiana road adventure!
Now that you’re equipped with Louisiana-specific rental tips and deals, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Bayou State. If you have any more questions, check out our other guides or reach out to our 24/7 support. We’re here to help make your Louisiana car rental easy, affordable, and fun. Laissez les bons temps rouler, let the good times roll!
Frequently Asked Questions
Many car rental locations in Louisiana do allow debit cards, but be prepared for a few extra steps and conditions. Policies vary by company, but here’s what to expect: If you use a debit card (Visa or Mastercard logo, tied to your bank account) at the counter, rental agents often require a security deposit hold on your account, this could be $200 or more above the rental cost. That hold will tie up those funds until after you return the car (it can take a week or longer to be released, depending on your bank). You’ll also likely need to show additional ID, often two forms of identification (like a passport or utility bill) or proof of travel (like a return flight ticket) to assure them you’re not ditching the car. Some companies do credit checks when renting with debit to make sure you meet their criteria. Importantly, most rentals with debit cards require the renter to be 25 or older. Under age 25, many locations will insist on a credit card; those that allow debit for 21-24 may have additional hurdles. Also, note that if you’re renting a luxury or premium vehicle, or a specialty van, debit cards might not be accepted at all for those high-value cars. Our advice: Check the payment policy in the rental details when you book with us (we often note if a credit card is required). If debit is your only option, be sure the name on the card matches your driver’s license and have funds available for the deposit. When you arrive, politely confirm the amount they will hold on your card so you’re not caught off guard. Using a credit card is smoother (since it just places an authorization, not an actual charge, and usually no credit check), but plenty of our customers rent with debit successfully, just come prepared. And when you drop off the car, remember it might take a bit for that deposit to go back to your account, so don’t depend on those funds immediately for the next leg of your trip. Safe travels, and rest assured, debit or credit, we’ll get you on the road!
Yes, virtually all standard rentals in Louisiana include unlimited mileage. This means you can drive all you want (whether it’s 50 miles or 500 miles during your trip) without paying extra per mile. This is great if you’re doing a lot of exploring. For instance, you can pick up in New Orleans, drive up to Natchez, over to Lafayette, down to Grand Isle, back to New Orleans, all unlimited. The only exceptions might be some specialty vehicles (exotic cars, specialty classic cars, or a unique one-off local rental company) which might cap miles, but those are very rare in Louisiana. When you book with us, we clearly note if any mileage limit applies, but 99% of the time it’s unlimited. So feel free to plan that big itinerary across Louisiana and neighboring states, the mileage is typically included. One thing to remember: unlimited miles usually apply for rentals kept within the U.S. (driving into Canada is okay with most companies, but driving into Mexico is generally not allowed without special permission and insurance). But within the States, you’re free to roam. So go ahead, take that detour to that out-of-the-way BBQ joint or make an extra loop to see the Gulf Coast, you won’t get charged extra for racking up the odometer. Just bring the car back by the agreed return time with a full tank, and you’re all set!
Most attractions in Louisiana offer parking, often free or reasonably priced, which is a relief for travelers. Here are a few quick notes: New Orleans French Quarter: There’s no official “attraction lot” since it’s a whole neighborhood, but plenty of private parking lots and garages around the perimeter (expect ~$20 for 8–10 hours, more during events). If you’re heading to Jackson Square, the French Market, or Harrah’s Casino, look for garages like the Riverside Hilton, Jax Lot, or Canal Place. Superdome (Caesars Superdome) and Smoothie King Center: ample parking lots around, typically $20–$30 on game or concert days. Baton Rouge’s Capitol Park: has visitor parking areas, usually free for short visits to the State Capitol or museums. LSU Tiger Stadium: on game days, lots near the stadium are permit-only or paid, and they fill fast, many fans park farther and walk or use shuttles. On non-game days, you can drive around campus and park in visitor spots to see Mike the Tiger’s habitat or the campus museums. Plantation homes (like Oak Alley, etc.): all have their own parking lots, generally free for visitors. State Parks and Nature Reserves: almost always have free parking with your entry fee (which is usually only a few dollars per person). Beaches like Grand Isle: plenty of space to park near public beach access points or the state park. Festivals: if you’re in town for a big festival (Jazz Fest in NOLA, Festivals Acadiens in Lafayette, etc.), organizers usually provide info on parking, sometimes free shuttles from remote lots. As a rule of thumb, arrive early for popular attractions if you want the easiest parking (especially true in New Orleans). And always double-check if a spot is legal, New Orleans has some quirky street parking rules (watch for those resident permit signs and hydrants). Overall, though, Louisiana is a driver-friendly place when it comes to parking, no need to stress like you might in NYC or SF. Just drive, park, and go enjoy the sights!
Louisiana has very few toll roads, especially compared to some other states. You can drive most highways toll-free. The main tolls you might encounter: the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, which we discussed in the driving tips (connecting the Northshore and New Orleans area), it only charges southbound, about $6 for cars (or slightly less if you had a local toll tag). Another is the LA-1 bridge to Grand Isle, which is roughly $2.75 each way. There’s also a tiny $1 toll on the bridge to Avery Island (where Tabasco is made). Beyond those, there aren’t traditional toll highways in Louisiana. Notably, no tolls on interstates like I-10, I-20, I-49, etc. If you drive east into Mississippi, the I-10 and I-12 remain toll-free. If you go west into Texas on I-10, no tolls on that route either (tolls in Texas start around Houston on some loops, but that’s another story). If you head to Florida, you’ll hit some tolls in the panhandle and beyond. As for New Orleans, the city itself has no toll roads (even the big Mississippi River bridge in town is free nowadays; it used to have a toll, but not anymore). So tolls aren’t a big worry here, just carry a little cash for the rare ones or ask the rental company about a toll pass if you plan to use the Causeway frequently. Worst case, if you do accidentally go through a tag-only lane, the rental company will bill you later with a small fee, or you can often pay online the same day to avoid that. In summary: Louisiana driving is generally toll-free, letting you enjoy the ride without extra costs.
Absolutely, MSY is the major airport for Louisiana and offers all the big rental brands (and some local ones too). The airport has a Consolidated Rental Car Facility just outside the main terminal. After you land and grab your luggage, follow the signs to the rental car shuttle pick-up area (look for signs that say “Rental Car Shuttle”). A free shuttle bus will take you to the rental center in about 5–10 minutes. There, you’ll find counters for Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Alamo, and more, plus the garage to pick up your car. The process is straightforward: have your reservation info, driver’s license, and credit card ready. Tip: Many companies at MSY allow online check-in or have loyalty programs that let you skip the counter for faster service, if you’ve signed up, you can go straight to the car lot and hit the road. When returning the car, follow signs for “Rental Car Return” as you approach the airport (it’s typically at the same consolidated facility; you’ll take a shuttle back to the terminal). And remember, if you prefer to avoid the airport rush, we also list downtown New Orleans rental locations, sometimes picking up in the city can avoid airport fees, but the airport is generally very convenient for travelers.