Mississippi Car Rental Deals - Freedom to Explore the Magnolia State

Introduction: Welcome to Mississippi, land of blues music, southern hospitality, and rich history. Having your own rental car in Mississippi is the key to unlocking all of its hidden gems, from the cotton fields and blues joints of the Delta to the white-sand beaches of the Gulf Coast. AirportVanRental makes it easy to secure a cheap Mississippi car rental so you can drive the state on your schedule. As a trusted online travel agency (OTA) partner, we compare deals from all major suppliers statewide to guarantee you the lowest price and best experience. With transparent pricing, free cancellation, and no prepayment needed, booking with AirportVanRental means more freedom on the road and more money in your pocket for barbeque and souvenirs. Let’s get you behind the wheel in Mississippi with confidence and savings!

Mississippi may not be the first place that comes to mind for public transit, in fact, outside a few city buses in places like Jackson, getting around without a car can be nearly impossible. Here’s why savvy travelers and locals alike choose to rent a car in Mississippi:

• See More Beyond the Cities: Mississippi’s top attractions are spread far and wide. From civil rights landmarks in Jackson to quaint river towns like Natchez or beach towns like Biloxi, many sites aren’t reachable by train or tour bus. With a car, you can visit small towns, delta juke joints, and state parks on your own schedule. No waiting for group tours, drive the backroads to discover hidden blues trail markers and roadside BBQ joints whenever inspiration strikes.
• Freedom & Flexibility: When you have your own car, Mississippi is yours. Want to detour to a famous fried catfish diner off the highway? Or linger longer at Vicksburg’s Civil War battlefield until sunset? With a rental, you’re in charge, no fixed schedules. This flexibility is especially handy if you’re visiting multiple relatives across the state or doing college tours (Ole Miss in Oxford one day, Mississippi State in Starkville the next). A car lets you cover more ground efficiently that would be impossible via limited public transport.
• Scenic Drives & Outdoor Adventures: Mississippi is made for road trips. Cruise the Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile historic scenic highway from Natchez through lush forests (especially beautiful in spring and fall). Drive Highway 61 (Blues Highway) through the Delta to experience the cradle of blues music or take US-90 along the Gulf Coast for ocean views. With a car, you can easily reach natural spots like the Pascagoula River Audubon Center, delta wetlands for bird watching, or beach parks for a Gulf sunset. These memorable drives and outdoor stops are only doable with your own vehicle.
• No Stress Over Transit Gaps: Mississippi’s rural nature means no statewide rail service and infrequent intercity buses. Taxis and rideshares outside major towns are scarce. Renting a car spares you the stress of coordinating limited bus schedules or expensive long Uber rides. Pick up at the airport or city and you’re ready to go anywhere, even crossing into neighboring states (Memphis, New Orleans, Mobile) if the road calls you. It’s door-to-door convenience, whether you’re exploring antebellum mansions in small towns or hopping between Mississippi’s casinos on the weekend.
• Comfort in All Seasons: The Mississippi climate ranges from steamy summers to mild winters. In July, you’ll love having a car’s air conditioning as you travel between sites (versus waiting in 95°F heat for a bus). In winter, a car provides a cozy way to visit family during the holidays without standing in the cold. You can toss your beach gear, hunting equipment, or tailgating supplies in the trunk and go, no lugging stuff around. Especially for families with kids, a rental car offers privacy, comfort, and a “home base” as you tour around.

In short, a rental car in Mississippi isn’t just a convenience, it’s practically a necessity to fully experience the state’s culture and scenery. With your own set of wheels, you can discover why Mississippi is called the Hospitality State, one friendly town and open road at a time.

Our Mississippi Car Rental Benefits (Why Book with AirportVanRental?)

When you book your Mississippi ride with AirportVanRental, you’re not just getting a car, you’re getting unbeatable value and service from start to finish. We’re committed to being your trusted rental partner, with perks you won’t get by walking up to a counter. Here’s what sets AirportVanRental apart in Mississippi:

• Best Rate Guarantee & Transparent Pricing: We scan all the major rental companies across Mississippi to find you the absolute cheapest rates. Whether there’s a special weekend sale at Jackson Airport or a discount at a Gulfport neighborhood branch, we highlight it so you never miss a deal. Found a lower price elsewhere? Let us know, we’ll match or beat it. And rest easy: the price you see on our site already includes all mandatory taxes and fees (airport charges, state rental surcharges, etc.). No hidden fees, ever. For example, Mississippi rentals include the standard state sales tax (~7%) and any local fees, but we itemize everything upfront. The quote you get is the final price you pay, so there are no nasty surprises at pick-up.
• Wide Vehicle Selection: Need a compact car for zipping around Jackson’s downtown? An SUV for a family fishing trip to the Delta? Or a 12-passenger van for a church retreat? We’ve got them all. AirportVanRental’s network gives you access to thousands of vehicles statewide. Choose from fuel-efficient economy cars, comfortable mid-size sedans, roomy minivans, SUVs with cargo space, and even pickup trucks for those country backroads. (Yes, planning a hunting or camping trip? We can hook you up with a pickup or large SUV to haul your gear.) We specialize in van rentals too, perfect if you’re coordinating a group event or college move-in. Whatever your plans, you can select exactly the vehicle type you need. No settling for “close enough” at the counter, with us, you book the right ride beforehand.
• Flexible Booking, No Prepayment & Free Cancellation: Travel plans can change with the weather (and Mississippi weather can be fickle). We get it. That’s why most reservations require no upfront payment, reserve now, pay at pick-up. If your itinerary shifts or you need to cancel, you can do so for free in most cases as long as it’s 48 hours before pickup. This flexibility means you can snag a great early-bird rate without fear of losing money if something comes up. Changed your flight into JAN? Decided to shorten your trip? No worries, modify or cancel easily online. At AirportVanRental, we believe in no-penalty freedom because your peace of mind is a top priority. (Plus, we never charge our own fees for young drivers or extra drivers, any such charges are clearly from the rental provider and we show them upfront so you’re informed.)

Top Mississippi Car Rental Deals

We’ve gathered some sample Mississippi rental deals to give you an idea of the great prices available. (These “from” rates exclude taxes/fees, which we always show you in the final quote). Actual prices vary by location and season, but here’s a snapshot:

• Economy Car, from $25/day.Example: Nissan Versa or similar. Perfect for solo travelers or couples. Easy to park in downtown areas and sips gas on those longer drives (good news: Mississippi has some of the cheapest gas in the USA at around $2.70/gal!). Ideal if you’re city-hopping or taking a quick trip from Jackson to Oxford.
• Mid-Size SUV, from $45/day.Example: Toyota RAV4 or similar. Seats 5 with ample luggage room. Great for family outings, whether you’re driving the Natchez Trace Parkway or heading to a Rebels or Bulldogs football game with tailgate gear in tow. SUVs handle Mississippi’s mix of highways and country roads with ease, plus you get a nice elevated view for sightseeing.
• Minivan, from $55/day.Example: Chrysler Pacifica or similar, 7-passenger. Got a bigger crew? Minivans are road-trip heroes. Load up the kids (and their grandparents!) for a Gulf Coast vacation or a tour of Mississippi’s Civil Rights heritage sites. With sliding doors and huge cargo space, everyone rides comfortably. Pro tip: Split the cost with family or friends, per person, a minivan can be one of the cheapest ways to travel together.
• 12-Passenger Van, from $80/day.Example: Ford Transit 12-Seater or similar. Church group, sports team, or big reunion? Keep everyone together in a single van. These large vans make group logistics a breeze, no convoy of multiple cars needed. Despite their size, they’re easy to drive on Mississippi’s open highways. You can even take the whole group down to New Orleans or up to Graceland in one vehicle, talk about an adventure!
• Luxury Sedan, from $70/day.Example: Chrysler 300 or similar. If you’re looking to ride in style, we have premium options too. Enjoy a smooth, plush ride as you cruise the Mississippi River Scenic Byway or pull up to a business meeting in Jackson. Luxury models come with upgrades like leather seats and advanced safety features, a nice treat for yourself on that weekend getaway or executive trip.

(Note: Rental rates fluctuate with supply and demand. Mississippi sees price spikes during certain peak times, e.g. summer beach season on the Gulf Coast, college football weekends in fall, or big events like the Mississippi State Fair in October which draws huge crowds. To save money, try to book early if traveling during these periods. Off-peak times (like winter after the holidays, or late January) often have the lowest rates. Also, airport rentals may include small facility fees, while off-airport locations can sometimes be a few dollars cheaper, compare options on our site to find the best deal. Either way, we always show you the total price with taxes/fees before you finalize your booking.)

Driving in Mississippi: What to Know

Driving in Mississippi is generally a laid-back, pleasant experience, think open roads, friendly waves from locals, and minimal congestion outside the cities. That said, every region has its quirks. Here are some essential Mississippi driving tips and rules to keep you safe and stress-free:

Traffic & Rush Hours: Mississippi is mostly rural, so heavy traffic isn’t common except in urban centers. Jackson, the capital and largest city, does see typical rush hours: roughly 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:30–6:30 PM on weekdays, especially along I-55 (north-south through the city) and I-20 (east-west). Even then, “traffic” in Jackson just means moderate slowdowns, nothing like Atlanta or Dallas. Plan a little extra time if driving through Jackson at peak times, and watch for congestion near major interchanges (e.g. I-55/I-20 junction). Elsewhere in Mississippi, congestion is rarely an issue. However, college towns like Oxford or Starkville can have busy traffic on football game days (tens of thousands of fans flood in), and coastal areas like Biloxi/Gulfport see heavier traffic on summer weekends. If you’re traveling during those times, be prepared for some slow-going on the main routes (for example, US-90 along the beach can get backed up when a festival or Cruisin’ The Coast event is on).

Roads & Highways: Mississippi’s interstate highways (I-10, I-20, I-55, I-59) are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate. Rural two-lane highways and county roads can be narrower and occasionally bumpy, but they offer scenic views and a peek into small-town life. Speed limits on rural interstates are typically 70 mph (and currently, Mississippi has no toll highways at all, every road is toll-free, so drive on without worrying about fees or passes). State highways usually have a 55–65 mph limit, and city streets range from 25–45 mph. Always keep an eye on posted signs, as limits may drop when passing through towns or school zones. One quirk: you might encounter the occasional gravel road or levee road if you venture off the beaten path (especially near river areas or in the Delta). If so, slow down and drive cautiously on loose surfaces. And watch out for farm vehicles in rural areas, tractors or ATVs may use the road shoulders, particularly during planting or harvest season.

City Driving & Parking: Driving in downtown Jackson or other city centers (Biloxi, Hattiesburg) is straightforward, streets are a mix of grids and diagonals in Jackson, but nothing too confusing. Be mindful of one-way streets in downtown Jackson’s core, and pedestrians near government buildings and hospitals. Parking in Mississippi is generally plentiful and cheap compared to big cities. In downtown Jackson, for example, street parking uses meters at about $1 per hour (enforced weekdays 8am–5pm) and many lots charge modest daily rates. Even at popular tourist sites (museums, casinos, malls), you’ll often find free parking or low-cost garages. Just heed any signage: some downtown areas have reserved spots or time limits. Outside cities, parking is usually free, pull up at the attraction or restaurant and park. At state parks or beaches, there might be a small fee or permit during peak season, but it’s typically a few dollars at most. Bottom line: you won’t spend a fortune on parking here, and parallel parking skills won’t be tested often!

Driving Laws & Safety: In Mississippi, as in all U.S. states, you drive on the right-hand side of the road and overtake on the left. Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants, and child safety seats are required for young children. Right turns on red are allowed (after a complete stop) unless a sign says “No Turn on Red.” Mississippi bans texting while driving statewide, it’s illegal to write, send, or read texts or social media while driving. (Calling on a handheld phone is still legal here, but for safety we recommend using hands-free or pulling over if you must make a call.) Also, DUI laws are strictly enforced, never drink and drive (the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% like most states, and penalties are severe). One unusual rule to note: if you’re on a multi-lane highway, Mississippi law expects you to keep right except to pass, slower traffic should stay in the right lane. It’s polite and avoids “left-lane hogging.” And of course, no littering from vehicles; Mississippi fines for tossing trash on the roadside.

Tolls & Passes: Good news, Mississippi has no toll roads, toll bridges, or toll tunnels whatsoever. You can drive the entire state without ever paying a toll. That means you won’t need an E-ZPass or any electronic transponder while driving here. If your road trip takes you beyond Mississippi, keep in mind neighboring states like Florida or Texas do have tolls, but within Mississippi you’re in the clear. (If you do venture into Louisiana for example, the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway near New Orleans has a toll one-way. But again, nothing in Mississippi itself.) If by chance you encounter a temporary fee (like a $1 ferry or parkway entrance), those will be clearly posted and usually cash or card on the spot. But those are rare. Enjoy the toll-free ride!

Fuel & Gas Stations: You’ll find gas stations readily available in Mississippi, especially along interstates and in towns. In more rural stretches (like deep Delta backroads or the Natchez Trace Parkway), gas stations can be 30-40 miles apart, so it’s wise to fill up when you can if you’re below half a tank. The good news: Mississippi fuel prices are among the lowest in the nation, thanks to low taxes. Regular unleaded gasoline is the norm for all standard rental cars. Expect prices that are often $0.20–$0.40 per gallon cheaper than the U.S. average, a nice bonus for your travel budget. All stations are self-service; simply swipe your credit card at the pump and fill up (a friendly local might even chat you up, Mississippi folks are known for being talkative and polite!). A quick tip: if you’re driving in the rural Delta at night, fill up before it gets late, some small-town gas stations may close by 9 or 10 pm. Near highways, though, 24-hour travel centers are common.

Weather & Seasonal Driving: Mississippi’s climate means you generally won’t deal with snow or ice (except a rare light snow in the far north maybe once a year). Winter (Dec–Feb) driving is typically easy, cool temperatures and rain occasionally. If an ice storm does occur (very uncommon), authorities may briefly advise staying off roads. The biggest weather considerations are summer storms and heat. Summer (June–Aug) brings hot, humid days and often afternoon thunderstorms. Roads can flood briefly during heavy downpours, if rain is intense, slow down to avoid hydroplaning, and never drive into flooded low spots (the water may be deeper than it looks). Hurricane season runs June–November; while direct hits are rare, the Gulf Coast can be affected by tropical storms. If a major storm is forecast, be prepared for evacuation routes or plan to delay travel, safety first. Spring can bring severe storms or the occasional tornado watch, mainly in April. It’s wise to keep an ear on local radio or weather apps if thunderstorms are predicted, especially if driving long stretches (pull over in a safe place if extremely high winds or tornado warnings occur, rest stops or gas stations are good refuges). Fall (Sep–Nov) is generally lovely for driving, mild weather and beautiful foliage in the northern hills and along the Trace. Always ensure your rental’s AC is working (for summer) and heater/defogger (for cooler rainy days), our partners maintain cars well, so you should be comfortable year-round.

Wildlife & Road Hazards: In rural Mississippi, deer and other critters are an important consideration. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk; keep an eye on the roadsides, especially in forested areas or where you see deer warning signs. Hitting a deer can cause significant damage (and scare you), so if one jumps out, try to brake firmly in a straight line, don’t swerve wildly, as that can lead to worse outcomes. Other animals like raccoons, armadillos, or even wild hogs might occasionally cross rural roads. And in the Delta region, watch for slow-moving farm equipment, you might find a tractor or combine using the road to move between fields. They usually pull over to let cars pass when safe, so just be patient if you end up behind one on a country road. Lastly, Mississippi has lots of trees, so after storms there might be fallen branches or debris on less-traveled roads. Drive cautiously if there’s been a storm, especially at night, in case you encounter debris.

Local Driving Etiquette: Mississippi drivers tend to be polite and unhurried on the open road, and a bit more assertive in cities. In small towns, don’t be surprised if oncoming drivers wave at you, it’s a friendly gesture common in the South. Feel free to give a little wave back! At four-way stop intersections, it’s first-come, first-served (and often people will wave you through if you arrive at the same time). One important rule: Mississippi, like many states, has a “move over” law, if you see an emergency vehicle or police stopped on the roadside, move to the next lane or slow down significantly to give them space. Also, if you get pulled over by law enforcement, remain calm and polite (as they will); stay in your car, hands visible, and they’ll appreciate the courtesy. In construction zones, slow down and obey any flaggers directing traffic. And keep in mind, Mississippi rainstorms can be heavy, if locals put on their hazard flashers during extreme rain, it’s a common practice to increase visibility (though not required by law). Overall, if you drive attentively and courteously, you’ll find getting around Mississippi by car to be comfortable and enjoyable.

Popular Road Trips from Mississippi

One of the best things about renting a car here is the ability to embark on amazing road trips. Whether you want music history, coastal scenery, or a journey through time, Mississippi’s roads have something for you. Here are three detailed road trip ideas to spark your wanderlust (feel free to customize these as you like):

• Delta Blues Pilgrimage (Vicksburg to Clarksdale & Memphis), Route: Vicksburg ➔ Greenville ➔ Clarksdale ➔ Memphis (via US-61, “Blues Highway”), ~250 miles total.
  
  

Highlights: Start in Vicksburg, a historic city on the Mississippi River (about 45 miles west of Jackson). Tour the Vicksburg National Military Park to learn about the Civil War siege, then kick off your blues trail by visiting some local juke joints. Head north on Highway 61, the legendary “Blues Highway.” Your next stop could be Greenville (approx. 100 miles from Vicksburg), check out the Mississippi Delta Museum there for cultural context. Continue through the flat farmlands to Clarksdale, known as the cradle of the blues. Park downtown and visit the Delta Blues Museum and the famous Crossroads (Highway 61 & 49) where legend says Robert Johnson sold his soul to play guitar. If you’re there in the evening, catch live blues at Red’s Lounge or Ground Zero Blues Club for an authentic juke joint experience. From Clarksdale, you can either loop back or push on to Memphis, TN (another ~75 miles up US-61). In Memphis, visit Beale Street and Graceland, not in Mississippi, but it’s a classic extension to this trip. Along the way, you’ll pass countless Mississippi Blues Trail markers in small towns, Indianola (home of the B.B. King Museum), Cleveland, Tunica, etc. Each stop is a story in the history of American music. This road trip is like a rolling museum of blues heritage.

Pro Tip: The Delta gets hot in summer, aim to do outdoor exploration (like cemetery or marker hunting) in the morning or late afternoon. Spring and fall are ideal seasons for this drive, with milder weather and occasional live blues festivals. In Clarksdale, consider staying overnight at one of the funky blues-themed accommodations (like the Shack Up Inn, where you sleep in refurbished sharecropper shacks!). And don’t forget to try some local eats, fried catfish, tamales, and sweet tea are Delta staples. With unlimited mileage on your rental, you can take detours to tiny towns off Highway 61, you never know when you’ll stumble on an old church or juke joint with a story to tell.

• Natchez Trace Parkway Adventure, Route: Natchez ➔ Jackson ➔ Tupelo (via Natchez Trace Parkway), ~300 miles one-way.
  
  

Highlights: The Natchez Trace Parkway is a serene, scenic drive through 10,000 years of history, stretching from Natchez, MS to Nashville, TN. Start in Natchez, the southern terminus of the Trace (Natchez is about a 2-hour drive south of Jackson, so you might start by driving from Jackson down US-61 to Natchez). In Natchez, tour antebellum mansions like Longwood or Stanton Hall, and enjoy views of the Mississippi River from the bluffs. Then hop on the Natchez Trace Parkway heading north. This is a leisurely two-lane road (50 mph speed limit) with no commercial traffic, perfect for a relaxing cruise. Along the way to Jackson (the Trace passes just east of Jackson), stop at historical sites like Emerald Mound (an ancient Native American mound site) and Mount Locust Inn (a historic 1780s stand/inn). As you approach the Jackson area, the Ross Barnett Reservoir offers a scenic waterfront picnic spot. Continue north on the Trace toward Tupelo. You’ll drive through quiet forests and rolling hills of north Mississippi, with dozens of pull-offs: Cypress Swamp, Bynum Mounds, and the Pharr Mounds are all worth a quick look to stretch your legs. In Tupelo (around milepost 266 on the Trace), visit the Elvis Presley Birthplace, a humble two-room house where the King of Rock ’n’ Roll was born. Tupelo also has the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center, which is a great stop to learn about the road’s history. This route is all about the journey, windows down, music on, and no rush.

Pro Tip: The Trace has no gas stations or restaurants directly on it, to preserve the experience. Plan your fuel stops in the towns just off the parkway (Natchez, Jackson, and Tupelo are obvious ones). Cell service can be spotty on parts of the Trace, so consider downloading offline maps. The best time for this drive? Autumn, mid-October brings beautiful fall foliage in the northern Mississippi stretch. Spring is also gorgeous with wildflowers and flowering trees. If you’re into cycling or hiking, the Trace has plenty of trails and cycling paths; some travelers bring or rent bikes to enjoy a ride when taking breaks from driving. Lastly, respect the 50 mph speed limit, it’s there to protect wildlife (you might see wild turkeys or deer crossing) and enhance safety on this winding historic route.

• Coastal Cruising & New Orleans Detour, Route: Jackson ➔ Hattiesburg ➔ Gulfport/Biloxi ➔ New Orleans, ~300 miles total (one-way to NOLA).
  
  

Highlights: Experience the drastically different flavor of Mississippi’s Gulf Coast. Start in Jackson and head south on US-49 about 90 miles to Hattiesburg, a charming town home to the University of Southern Mississippi. Stop for a coffee or a stroll through the historic downtown (and if you have kids, the Hattiesburg Zoo is a fun leg-stretch). Continue on US-49 another ~70 miles to hit the Gulf at Gulfport. From here, drive east along U.S. Highway 90, this is a scenic coastal drive that runs right next to the Gulf of Mexico beaches. You’ll pass through Biloxi, known for its casinos, seafood restaurants, and the iconic Biloxi Lighthouse (stop for a photo op!). Further along in Ocean Springs, check out local art galleries or the Gulf Islands National Seashore visitor center. The beach views along this stretch are fantastic, white sand, gentle waves, and pelicans soaring by. If you’re a history buff, consider a short detour to Beauvoir in Biloxi (Jefferson Davis’s post-Civil War home) or the Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport for family fun. After enjoying Mississippi’s coastline (perhaps indulging in some fresh gulf shrimp or oysters), you have the option to continue about 90 more miles to New Orleans, Louisiana via I-10. It’s roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Biloxi to New Orleans. Crossing into Louisiana, you’ll traverse bayou landscapes and likely go over the Pearl River (state line) and the famous swamps leading into NOLA. New Orleans makes a great “bonus” destination, you can drop your rental there if doing a one-way, or circle back to Mississippi.

Pro Tip:Summer is high season on the Gulf Coast, expect more traffic on weekends and book hotels early if staying overnight. For a bit less crowd, try late September or October, when the weather is still warm, but kids are back in school (plus events like Cruisin’ The Coast, a massive classic car show in early October, bring both fun and some traffic, plan accordingly). Keep some small cash for the Bay St. Louis Bridge if you plan to detour that way (no toll, but sometimes they have scenic pull-off donation-based areas). If you plan to return to Jackson from the coast, consider making a loop: go down via Hattiesburg, return via I-55 north through McComb. And if you’re ending in New Orleans, remember you can do a convenient one-way rental, just drop the car at Louis Armstrong Airport (MSY) with prior arrangement. The freedom of a rental car lets you enjoy both Mississippi’s coastal charm and the big easy of New Orleans in one trip!

Quick Reference Info Box: Mississippi Car Rental at a Glance

• Popular Car Types: Economy & Compact (e.g. Nissan Versa), Midsize Sedan (e.g. Toyota Camry), SUVs (e.g. Nissan Rogue), Minivans (e.g. Dodge Grand Caravan), Passenger Vans (8-12 seaters, great for groups), plus Pickups and Luxury models in select locations. Tip: For city driving and easy parking, smaller cars work well; for road trips with family or gear, consider an SUV or van for comfort.
• Typical Rental Rates: Off-peak daily rates from ~$25/day for economy cars. Statewide average around $40–50/day for a mid-size. Cheapest times are usually winter months (Jan–Feb) and late fall, when tourism is low. Prices rise in summer (especially on the Gulf Coast) and during big events. Book 4–6 weeks in advance for peak season to snag the best deals. Airport rentals in Jackson (JAN) may be a few dollars higher due to fees, but often still very affordable.
• Major Rental Hubs:Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers Intl Airport (JAN), largest selection of cars, open long hours; Gulfport-Biloxi Intl Airport (GPT), convenient for coastal travelers; Jackson Downtown, pick up in the city center; Hattiesburg, Meridian, Tupelo, smaller airports or city locations for regional access; Oxford, college town rentals (especially busy during university events). Wherever you are in Mississippi, there’s likely a rental location within reach, use our search to find the closest one.
• Driving Side: Right-hand side of the road (same as the rest of USA). Overtake on the left on multi-lane highways. On two-lane roads, be patient behind slower traffic until you have a clear passing zone (dashed center line). Always yield to emergency vehicles by pulling to the right shoulder.
• Speed Limits:Interstates: 70 mph in rural areas (65 or 60 near cities like Jackson). Four-lane state highways: often 65 mph. Two-lane roads: typically 55 mph unless posted lower. Urban areas: 25–35 mph on city streets, 15–20 mph in school zones when flashing. Mississippi State Troopers and local police do enforce speed limits, especially on stretches known for speeding, so use cruise control and stay safe.
• Fuel Type & Prices: Regular unleaded gasoline for virtually all rentals. Diesel is available but primarily for large trucks, unlikely you’ll need it. Gas is measured in gallons (1 U.S. gallon ≈ 3.8 liters). Gas is cheap here! Mississippi often has the lowest gas prices in the nation, around $2.50–$2.90/gal recently (compare to ~$3.20 U.S. average). Credit/debit cards are accepted at pumps; no full-service attendants, it’s self-serve. Remember to refuel to the same level before returning your car to avoid refueling fees. There are gas stations near all major airports (e.g. a couple on MS-475 on the way to Jackson’s airport).
• Tolls:None in Mississippi. No toll roads, no toll bridges, drive freely. (Neighboring states may have tolls, but if you’re staying in MS, you won’t encounter any.) If heading into a toll state, ask the rental company about a toll transponder or plan to pay online/by mail for those, but within MS you can ignore any toll device.
• Parking:Easy and often free. In downtown Jackson and larger cities, metered street parking ~$1/hour (free on evenings and Sundays typically). Lots and garages in city centers range $5–$15/day, if applicable. Tourist sites, shopping centers, and restaurants usually have their own lots with free parking. On the Gulf Coast, beach parking is generally available along Highway 90 pull-offs (some free, some permit in summer). Handicap parking requires a disabled placard. Be mindful of parking signs in downtown areas (Jackson enforces permit zones in some neighborhoods and does periodic street cleaning, towings can happen if parked illegally). Compared to big metropolitan cities, finding a parking spot in Mississippi is a breeze.
• Rental Requirements: Valid driver’s license (foreign licenses accepted, see IDP info above), and a credit card for the deposit hold. Minimum age 21 (25+ to avoid young driver fees). The renter’s name must match the credit card. If you’re using a debit card, be prepared for additional ID checks and holds. Insurance: either use your own or opt for rental insurance. Pro Tip: Add any extra drivers at pick-up (they’ll need to show their license); most companies allow spouses for free, but charge for other additional drivers unless specified in the booking.
• Best Time to Visit & Drive:Spring (March–May), lovely weather, blooming landscapes, and comfortable temps, plus moderate rental demand. Fall (September–November), warm early fall transitioning to crisp mild weather, great for drives (and college football energy is high). Summer, lots going on (festivals, beach time), but be ready for heat, humidity, and more tourists on the coast; rental rates can be higher in July/August. Winter, generally low tourist traffic, cheapest rates can often be found January–February; weather is cool to chilly but mostly dry, just watch for the rare ice storm. Mississippi doesn’t have heavy snow, so winter road-tripping here is feasible, just pack a jacket. Whenever you go, there’s something happening, from spring crawfish boils to fall state fairs, and with a car you can join the fun.
• Navigation & Tech: We recommend using a GPS or smartphone map app (Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze) for getting around. Mississippi’s coverage is good on interstates and in towns, but cell signal can drop in very remote areas (parts of the Delta or deep pine forests). It’s wise to download offline maps for the state on Google Maps just in case. Many rentals come with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, so you can plug in and get navigation on the car’s screen. Also, consider grabbing an aux cable or Bluetooth connector if you want to play your own music, nothing like some blues tunes while driving Highway 61! For real-time traffic, Waze can help around cities. But given Mississippi’s lighter traffic, you’ll mostly use navigation for directions rather than congestion avoidance.
• Emergency Contacts: In any emergency, dial 911 from your cell phone, that reaches police, fire, or medical help everywhere in the U.S. For non-emergencies or roadside assistance on highways, you can dial *47 (*HP for Highway Patrol) on your mobile to reach the Mississippi Highway Patrol. They can help with reporting accidents, unsafe drivers, or getting help on state highways. It’s a good idea to keep the rental company’s roadside assistance number handy (in your rental agreement or on the key). Hospitals and urgent care centers are available in all regions, if you need one, your map app will show the nearest. Lastly, weather alerts: enable them on your phone, if there’s a tornado warning or flash flood warning, you’ll get an alert sound. If you hear tornado sirens (rare, but possible in spring), seek shelter indoors away from car. In general, drive with common sense and stay alert, and your Mississippi journey will be safe and smooth.