Jackson Car Rental Deals - Drive Through History & Southern Hospitality

Introduction: Welcome to Jackson, Mississippi, “The City With Soul.” From its pivotal role in civil rights history to its vibrant blues music scene, Jackson has a lot for visitors (and locals) to experience. The best way to soak it all in? With a rental car at your command. AirportVanRental makes getting a cheap Jackson car rental a breeze, so you can cruise through historic neighborhoods, hop between museums, and even take spontaneous road trips beyond the city limits. We’re your trusted partner in securing the lowest rates from multiple providers in Jackson, all with free cancellation and no hidden fees. Whether you’re flying into Jackson-Evers International Airport or need a set of wheels to get around town for a few days, we’ve got you covered. Our brand is all about easy booking, transparent pricing, and total freedom, so you can book now, pay later, and explore Jackson on your own terms. Let’s put you in the driver’s seat to discover Mississippi’s capital city and beyond!

Jackson is a city of rich sights spread across distinct districts, and it’s also the gateway to the rest of Mississippi. While Jackson does have a small public bus system (JATRAN), routes are limited for tourists. Here’s why having a rental car in Jackson is a game-changer:

• Freedom to Explore All Sides of the City: Downtown Jackson has icons like the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the State Capitol, which you could taxi to, but what about the Fondren arts district uptown? Or the Farish Street Historic District for some blues heritage? These areas are scattered, and a car lets you seamlessly hop from one to the other. Today you might tour the Medgar Evers Home in West Jackson, then drive to LeFleur’s Bluff Park on the east side for a picnic by the lake. With your own car, you can cover a lot of ground in one day, no waiting on buses or expensive multiple rideshares.
• Convenience for Multiple Stops: Many visitors come to Jackson for a mix of business and leisure. Maybe you have meetings around town (downtown, then Ridgeland in the suburbs, then Clinton on the west). Or you’re a parent visiting Jackson State University, then taking a drive to see the nearby Mississippi College in Clinton. Having a car means you can efficiently string together all your stops. Want to grab lunch in Belhaven, then hit the Mississippi Children’s Museum in Eastover, and cap the day at a Fondren music venue? Easy, it’s a 10-minute drive between each. Without a car, coordinating that itinerary would be a headache.
• Gateway to Mississippi Road Trips: Jackson sits at the crossroads of major highways (I-55 and I-20), making it the perfect launch point for road trips. With a rental, you’re not confined to the city at all. In a couple of hours, you can drive to Natchez for antebellum history, or to Oxford for a taste of college town charm, or head up to the Mississippi Delta to see where the blues was born. Even New Orleans is only about 3 hours away to the south, and Memphis ~3.5 hours north, very doable drives if you’re up for exploring beyond Mississippi. A car in Jackson essentially unlocks the whole region for exploration.
• Jackson’s “Car Culture” & Ease of Driving: Simply put, Jackson is a car-friendly city. Traffic is modest, parking is usually free or cheap, and locals are accustomed to driving everywhere. Attractions often have their own parking lots. Unlike some larger cities, you won’t battle gridlock or struggle to find a spot near your destination (except maybe during a big downtown event or football game at Veterans Memorial Stadium). By renting a car, you fit right in with how Jacksonians get around. Plus, if you’re here in summer, you’ll really appreciate the AC in your car as you travel between sites, trust us, it beats waiting at a hot outdoor bus stop!
• Door-to-Door Comfort & Safety: Especially for families or anyone with mobility considerations, a rental car offers comfort and safety. You control the air conditioning (a must in July), you have a secure place to keep your belongings as you tour around, and you can play your own tunes (maybe some local gospel or blues radio) to set the mood. Post-2020, many travelers also prefer the safety of a personal vehicle over crowded public transportation. In Jackson, public transit is not extensive at night, if you catch a show at Duling Hall or a late dinner in Fondren, having your own car ensures you get back to your hotel safely, at any hour, without surge pricing or wait times.

To sum it up, renting a car in Jackson transforms your visit from limited to limitless. AirportVanRental is here to make sure you get that freedom affordably and reliably. Keep reading for how we make Jackson car rentals easy and the perks you’ll enjoy when booking with us.

Our Jackson Car Rental Benefits

Why choose AirportVanRental for your Jackson adventure? We know this city and region inside-out, and we leverage that knowledge plus our nationwide network to give you the best value and experience. Here are the perks of booking your Jackson rental car with us:

• Lowest Prices in Town: Jackson is relatively affordable for rentals, but we make it even better by partnering with multiple suppliers, national brands like Hertz, Budget, Enterprise, as well as regional companies. This competition means you’ll see the cheapest rates available in one place. Whether it’s a weekend special at the airport or a weekday deal from a downtown branch, we compile it all. Often, we have exclusive discounts thanks to our volume bookings (for example, a free upgrade or a few dollars off per day that you won’t get by walking up to the counter). Our Best Rate Guarantee means if you somehow find a lower rate for the same car and terms, we’ll match it. We’re committed to saving you money so you can spend more on enjoying Jackson, maybe an extra order of fried chicken at the legendary Two Sisters Kitchen!
• Transparent, No-Hassle Booking: With AirportVanRental, what you see is what you pay. The price you select already includes all mandatory taxes and fees for Jackson rentals, state sales tax (~7%), any airport surcharges, etc. We clearly break down these components before you finalize. You won’t get to the rental desk and be surprised by tacked-on charges; we hate that, and we know you do too. We also highlight deposit info and any card holds, so you’re prepared. Our booking confirmation emails provide clear instructions for your Jackson pick-up location, whether it’s on-airport or a short shuttle ride (most Jackson Airport rentals are on-site, conveniently). And if there are any special instructions (like “counter is in the terminal, cars are a shuttle ride away” or “call to arrange after-hours pick-up”), we include those. In short, no unpleasant surprises, just a smooth rental experience.
• Reserve Now, Pay Later + Free Cancellations: We understand that plans change. Most of our Jackson deals let you book with $0 down, you pay when you pick the car up. Need to cancel? No problem, nearly all bookings can be canceled without penalty up to 48 hours before pick-up. Decided to fly into New Orleans instead and drive up? Or your trip dates shifted by a day? Manage your booking online or give us a call, and we’ll adjust or cancel as needed, swiftly and with no fees from us. This flexibility sets us apart from many competitors. We want you to feel secure locking in a great price early, knowing you’re not locked in if your itinerary changes. (Just double-check the specific terms when booking; a few prepaid special rates might differ, but we predominantly offer flexible reservations because life happens!)
• Wide Selection & Guaranteed Vehicle Class: Through AirportVanRental, you get access to every type of vehicle available in Jackson. From compact cars ideal for one or two travelers all the way to 12-passenger vans for big groups. We even list pickup trucks or specialty vehicles when available. And unlike relying on a single rental branch’s limited inventory, our system shows you cars across multiple locations, vastly increasing your choices. When you book a class, it’s guaranteed or we’ll make sure you get an equivalent or better. (No showing up to “sorry, only trucks left”, if you reserve a midsize car, you’ll get a midsize or an upgrade at no extra cost if that model isn’t available.) For families, we also offer options to reserve child safety seats, GPS units, or other add-ons, so you know you’re covered upon arrival. Basically, selection and peace of mind are key: you get the car you need, at the best price, without compromise.

(Oh, and did we mention? We specialize in van rentals, it’s in our name! If you’re in Jackson for a family reunion, church mission, or school trip and need a minivan or passenger van, you’re in the right place. We often have more van options than typical sites, since we focus on them. Ride together and save.)

Top Jackson Car Rental Deals

To give you an idea of what’s on offer, here are some sample Jackson rental deals by category (prices “from” exclude tax/fees). Remember, these are examples, actual rates fluctuate with demand and season, but AirportVanRental will always show you the current best deals when you search.

• Compact Car, from $25/day.Example: Hyundai Accent or similar. Great for solo travelers or couples on a budget. Easy to maneuver around downtown Jackson’s streets and sip gas on highways (around 35+ MPG). If you’re mostly doing city touring and short trips, a compact is wallet-friendly and efficient.
• Standard Sedan, from $30/day.Example: Toyota Camry or similar. A bit more room for luggage and legroom. Ideal if you’re visiting for business or just want a smoother ride on I-55. Plenty of trunk space for a run to the Outlets of Mississippi in Pearl or if you’re picking someone up from the airport with bags.
• Standard SUV, from $50/day.Example: Ford Escape or similar, seats 5. A popular choice in Mississippi, SUVs give you higher clearance (handy for that occasional gravel driveway or just seeing above traffic). Comfortably road-trip ready for a family of 4. Load up the back with a cooler and fishing poles for a day at Barnett Reservoir, or just enjoy the extra space.
• Minivan, from $65/day.Example: Toyota Sienna or Dodge Grand Caravan, 7-passenger. Perfect for families or groups. Two adults and four kids visiting the Jackson Zoo? This is your ride. You’ll appreciate the sliding doors and roomy interior. Also awesome for driving a crew to an Ole Miss vs. MSU game, lots of room for tailgate supplies! (Just remember who you rented from when your group splits the cost, probably the best per-person deal.)
• 12-Passenger Van, from $90/day.Example: Ford Transit or similar. Got a big church group or a school team in town? Keep everyone together. Splitting $90 among 10 or 12 people often beats multiple cars or other transport. Drive the whole choir to that competition in one go, or shuttle wedding guests around Jackson’s hotels and venues. Despite their size, these vans handle well on Mississippi’s interstates, just mind the parking, you’ll need a larger spot.
• Luxury SUV, from $80/day.Example: Chevrolet Tahoe or similar. Treat yourself to a fully-loaded ride. If you’re used to a big vehicle or just want the bells and whistles (leather, advanced safety, premium sound) for your trip, luxury SUVs are often available at JAN airport. They’re great for impressing a business client or simply cruising the Natchez Trace in style.

(Note: Prices vary based on season and availability. Jackson tends to have ample rental supply, but during peak times like college graduation weekends, major conventions, or holidays, booking early is wise. Prices can also spike a bit if there’s a sudden surge in demand, for instance, if a hurricane evacuation from the coast sends people north to Jackson, local rentals might get scooped up. On the flip side, off-peak times like mid-January or early September (after Labor Day) often see lower rates and potential free upgrade offers. Always search with your exact dates on our site to see real-time pricing. And remember, a daily rate doesn’t include Mississippi’s 7% tax and any local fees, but our quote will show the total before you book. No last-minute math needed!)

Driving in Jackson, MS, Tips for the Capital City

Driving in Jackson is generally straightforward, especially if you’re used to mid-sized cities. It’s not a massive metro, so traffic is manageable, but as Mississippi’s capital it does have some urban driving aspects to be aware of. Here’s your guide to confidently navigating Jackson and surrounding areas by car:

City Layout & Traffic: Jackson’s core downtown is compact, with a somewhat grid-like layout intersected by a few diagonal avenues. Major arteries like I-55 and I-20 encircle and cross the city, making it easy to get from one side to another. Rush hour in Jackson is mild compared to big cities, but you’ll see slowdowns on I-55 (especially north of downtown through Madison/Ridgeland) and on I-20 near the stack interchange around 7:00–9:00 AM and 4:00–6:00 PM. If you’re staying in the suburbs and commuting in, give yourself a tad extra time in those windows. Downtown streets can be a bit confusing due to one-ways, for example, President and West streets run one-way as a pair. Keep your GPS on until you get oriented. Also note, Jackson has some potholes on smaller roads, decades of Yazoo clay soil can wreak havoc on pavement. So don’t be alarmed by a few bumps; just avoid swerving, and report any major road issues to the city if you encounter them. Outside of rush hours, traffic flows easily. Even a cross-town drive from, say, Jackson State University on the west to Eastover on the east is typically 15-20 minutes.

Parking in Jackson: The good news, parking is plentiful and cheap. Downtown Jackson has metered street parking ($1/hour as noted) and several public garages. For visiting the popular Museums (Civil Rights Museum & History Museum) on North St., there’s a dedicated free parking lot. Around the Capitol building, you’ll find metered spots (free after 5 PM and on weekends). In neighborhoods like Fondren (the artsy district) and Belhaven, street parking is largely free; just pay attention to any permit-only signs around residential streets (some blocks near hospitals or campuses require resident permits). If you go to Thalia Mara Hall or Mississippi Coliseum for an event, event parking lots will charge a flat rate (usually $5 or so). Shopping centers and restaurants offer free lots, no validation needed. One watch-out: during the Mississippi State Fair in October, the fairgrounds area gets packed and some usual lots are used for the fair (with paid parking). Also, on college game days (Jackson State at Veterans Memorial Stadium), nearby streets might have temporary no-parking zones or enterprising locals charging for lawn parking. If in doubt, use a city garage or a legal street spot a bit further out and walk. Overall, you won’t struggle with parking like in larger cities, a huge perk of driving in Jackson.

Local Driving Etiquette: Jacksonians are generally courteous drivers with a dash of Southern relax. You’ll see that at four-way stops, folks sometimes wave you on even if it was technically their turn, just smile and go if waved. On the interstates, slower traffic tends to keep right, but you might still encounter the occasional left-lane cruiser (a polite flash of headlights is sometimes used to request a pass, but use sparingly). People will often let you merge in congested spots if you signal, as Southern hospitality can extend to the road. One quirk: Jackson has a notable rail line running through downtown, Capitol Street and others cross it. Trains occasionally slow or block traffic for a short time; be patient or find an underpass. Also, you might notice some unique local signage: for instance, “No loud music” signs in some areas, Jackson actually has an ordinance against blaring car music in certain districts, so maybe keep that volume moderate to avoid a ticket for noise (yes, it’s a thing!). Overall, if you drive considerately and stay alert, you’ll find getting around Jackson by car quite comfortable.

Road Conditions & Construction: Mississippi’s summer heat and occasional heavy rains mean there’s usually some road maintenance going on. The state and city often have projects to resurface or widen roads. Use caution in construction zones, speeding fines can double there. A few spots to note: I-20 west of Jackson has had some ongoing construction near Clinton; I-55 north toward Madison has periodic widening projects. In town, Lakeland Drive (heading toward Flowood) is a busy corridor that sometimes has construction for improvements. Always obey reduced speed limits in work zones and watch for workers. If traveling at night, be mindful that some surface streets in Jackson are not super well-lit, and lane markings might be faint, so take it easy until you’re familiar. It rains fairly often in this region, and roads can get slick with the first rain after a dry spell (oil buildup). If a thunderstorm hits, you’ll see locals slow down; you should too, as visibility can drop fast in downpours. Jackson doesn’t get snow, but once every blue moon, an ice storm could glaze bridges, the city will usually caution drivers to stay off roads in that scenario. It’s rare, but if you’re visiting in January and hear about a “winter storm warning,” maybe stay put at the hotel until it passes; the city isn’t equipped for heavy ice, and things tend to shut down for a day.

Jackson Metro Area & Beyond: Many visitors use Jackson as a base to explore nearby areas by car. A quick primer: the metro includes Ridgeland and Madison to the north (suburbs with shopping centers like Renaissance Mall, easily reached via I-55), Clinton to the west (small college town off I-20), Pearl and Brandon to the east (by I-20, where the Outlets of Mississippi and Trustmark Park baseball stadium are), and Byram to the south (off I-55). All these are within 15-30 minutes. Roads connecting these areas are highways or interstates, usually uncongested except maybe at 5 PM rush. If you’re driving from Jackson to the Jackson-Evers Airport (JAN) in Flowood, take MS-475 off I-20 or use Airport Rd from Lakeland Drive, it’s about a 15-20 minute drive from downtown. The airport area is straightforward and well-signed. Also worth noting, if you’re venturing a bit farther: Natchez Trace Parkway intersects the city in the northeast, you can actually get on the scenic Trace in north Jackson (near Ridgeland) and drive traffic-free toward Tupelo or Natchez as discussed in our road trips. It’s a nice alternative if you’re not in a hurry and want scenery over highway. Just remember, no commercial vehicles on the Trace, but your rental car is fine. It’s a leisurely route.

Fuel & Services: Within Jackson, gas stations are everywhere, you’ll find many on High Street, State Street, Woodrow Wilson Ave, and along major roads like Lakeland Dr and County Line Rd. Prices in the city might be a few cents higher than small towns, but still well below national averages. If you have a long day of driving, maybe fuel up early morning or late evening to avoid small waits at pumps during commute times. Convenience stores at these gas stations are handy for grabbing a cold drink or snacks (Mississippi’s sweet tea and boiled peanuts might be something to try!). For any car needs: all major corridors have auto parts or tire shops if, say, you need a quick tire pressure check. And if you’re heading out of town, rest areas on interstates are spaced out every 30-40 miles in Mississippi, offering restrooms and vending machines, perfectly fine for a pit stop.

Safety: Jackson, like many cities, has some neighborhoods that are less affluent, and you might hear about crime rates. As a visitor driving, basic precautions suffice: keep your car doors locked, don’t leave valuables visible (which is general advice anywhere). Carjackings are not common, but being aware of your surroundings is wise, especially at night in deserted areas. Stick to well-lit, populated places if possible when parking at night. Downtown and tourist spots are usually safe due to presence of people and security. If you’re unsure about an area, ask a local or our support team, we can guide you. Also, follow normal traffic laws strictly, JPD (Jackson Police Department) and state troopers do enforce speeding and traffic lights. Red-light cameras aren’t used in Jackson, but police occasionally run radar traps on major roads like Lakeland or I-220. Wear your seatbelt (it’s a primary offense if you don’t). And absolutely no drinking and driving, Mississippi law enforcement is strict on DUIs (don’t test them, the penalties and fines are steep, not to mention the risk). Use a designated driver or a rideshare if you plan to enjoy Jackson’s nightlife with alcohol.

In summary, driving in Jackson is convenient and gives you the freedom to explore not just the city but the whole region. The city’s pace is manageable, and with the tips above, you’ll navigate like a pro. So buckle up, tune in to 94.5 FM for some blues or gospel while you drive, and enjoy the journey through Jackson’s streets!

Popular Road Trips from Jackson, MS

One of the best parts of having a car in Jackson is the ability to embark on fun road trips to see more of Mississippi (and neighboring states). Here are two exciting road trip ideas starting from Jackson:

• Blues & Bayous: Jackson to Vicksburg & Natchez, Route: Jackson ➔ Vicksburg (via I-20W, ~45 miles) ➔ Natchez (via US-61S, ~70 miles), ~115 miles one-way.
  
  

Highlights: Head west from Jackson on I-20 for about 45 minutes and you’ll reach Vicksburg, perched on bluffs above the Mississippi River. History comes alive here: drive through the Vicksburg National Military Park (a 16-mile road loops through Civil War battlefields and monuments, you can even see the USS Cairo ironclad gunboat museum). After paying respects to history, roll into downtown Vicksburg for a stroll along the riverfront murals and perhaps lunch at a Southern cafe. Don’t miss the Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum (where Coke was first bottled) for a quirky stop. Next, take the scenic US Highway 61 South from Vicksburg to Natchez, this hour-and-a-half drive is part of the Great River Road, with fertile delta farmland and small towns along the way. Arrive in Natchez, one of the oldest cities on the Mississippi River, famed for its antebellum mansions. Park your car and tour historic homes like Longwood (the largest octagonal house in the U.S.) or Rosalie Mansion. The views at the Natchez bluff overlooking the river at sunset are breathtaking. In the evening, consider a dinner at a Natchez courtyard restaurant followed by some live music, this town has a rich blues and folk scene.

Pro Tip: The Natchez-Vidalia Bridge (US-84) crossing the river at Natchez has a spectacular view, you can drive over into Louisiana just to say you did and return (no toll). If you can, plan this trip in spring (March-May) when azaleas and magnolias are blooming at the Vicksburg and Natchez homes, truly picturesque. History buff? Consider timing your Natchez visit for the twice-annual Natchez Pilgrimage (spring or fall) when many private historic homes open for tours and residents dress in period costumes. It’s a unique experience. Lastly, be aware that US-61 is mostly two lanes; there are passing lanes but if you get stuck behind a slow truck, just relax and enjoy the scenery (or use that powerful blues playlist to set the mood). There’s also the optional Natchez Trace Parkway as a detour from Jackson to Vicksburg via Clinton and Port Gibson, a slower but serene path. Either way, you’re covering a significant piece of Mississippi’s cultural tapestry on this drive, from Civil War history to antebellum grandeur.

• Capital to Coast: Jackson to Gulf Coast Beaches, Route: Jackson ➔ Biloxi/Gulfport (via I-55S + US-49S, ~170 miles), ~3 hours one-way.
  
  

Highlights: This trip takes you from Mississippi’s capital down to its sunny southern shores. Start by heading south on I-55 from Jackson for about 30 miles, then pick up US-49 South at Hattiesburg towards Gulfport. (Alternatively, you can take I-55 further to I-10, but the US-49 route is more direct). On the way, about 90 minutes in, you’ll pass through Hattiesburg, a good pit stop. Grab some famous Hattie’s fried chicken or visit the African American Military History Museum if time permits. Continue south as pine forests give way to coastal plains. Arrive in Gulfport and hop on US-90 East, which runs right along the coastline. You’ve made it to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, 26 miles of beaches await! Drive along and pick your favorite spot: Gulfport has a lively harbor and the Mississippi Aquarium; Biloxi (just east) offers the Beau Rivage and Hard Rock casinos, plus the Biloxi Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Park anywhere along the beachfront pull-offs (plenty of free parking bays by the sand) and dip your toes in the warm Gulf waters. The sand is sugar-white and the gulf is usually gentle, great for a swim or a picnic. If you have kids, stop at Jones Park in Gulfport for a splash pad and playground. For a more natural beach, drive to Ship Island Excursion ferry in Gulfport or Gulf Islands National Seashore at Ocean Springs to experience pristine barrier island shores. On your return, consider taking I-10 West to I-55 North (the interstate route) if you’re tired, it’s slightly longer in miles but can be faster.

Pro Tip:Summer on the coast is fun but be prepared for heat, humidity, and pop-up thunderstorms. Bring sunscreen, stay hydrated, and time beach visits for morning or late afternoon for less intense sun. If you’re into events, early October’s Cruisin’ The Coast is huge, thousands of classic cars cruise Hwy 90 for a week, a spectacle for car enthusiasts (but it will make traffic slow, so avoid that week if you’re not attending). Seafood lovers: you’re in the right place! Try a poboy sandwich or broiled oysters at a local joint like The Shed BBQ in Ocean Springs or half-shell oyster house in Biloxi. And keep an eye out for dolphins, you might spot them from shore or consider a short charter cruise. This drive showcases Mississippi’s coastal vibe, a completely different flavor from Jackson, you’ll see why having a car is key to sampling the state’s full range, from capitol dome to beach combing in one trip.

Quick Reference Info Box: Jackson Car Rental Essentials

• Car Pick-Up Locations:Jackson-Evers International Airport (JAN), primary pick-up with on-site cars steps from baggage claim; Downtown Jackson, rental offices on W. Capitol St and Highway 80 cater to city pick-ups; Suburban branches, e.g. Ridgeland, Flowood (near Dogwood Mall) if you’re staying outside downtown. Hours: Airport desks typically open early (around 7am) till late (10-11pm) to cover all flights; city branches usually 8am–5pm on weekdays, half-day Saturday, closed Sunday (plan accordingly if dropping off on a weekend).
• Driving Distances: Jackson to Vicksburg, ~45 miles (50 min); Jackson to Natchez, ~100 miles (2 hrs); Jackson to Memphis, TN, ~210 miles (3.5 hrs); Jackson to New Orleans, LA, ~185 miles (3 hrs); Jackson to Gulfport/Biloxi, ~160–170 miles (3 hrs). The Natchez Trace Parkway entrance is 10 miles north of downtown (at I-55 exit 105A in Ridgeland).
• Fuel Prices: Around $2.70–$3.00 per gallon for regular in the Jackson area (fluctuates with market). Generally cheaper than national average. Plenty of gas stations on main drags like High Street, State Street, Lakeland Drive, etc. If heading out of town, fill up before rural stretches (though even then, small towns usually have a gas station or two). Pay at pump is common; some older stations might ask for ZIP code (use your billing ZIP, or for international cards, ask cashier to pre-pay).
• Speed Watch: City streets in Jackson: mostly 30–35 mph, some downtown zones 25 mph. School zones 15–20 mph during posted times (watch for flashing lights). I-220 beltway: 60 mph. Interstates (I-20/I-55 through the city): posted 60–65 mph in urban stretch, then 70 mph beyond. Highways like US-49, 51 have mix of 55 and 65 zones. Enforcement: moderate, you’ll see State Troopers often on interstates outside city and JPD occasionally running radar on major city routes (they often prioritize major violations). Best to stick near the limit, especially in construction zones or school areas.
• Road Safety: Mississippi law requires headlights wipers, meaning if it’s raining enough to use wipers, turn on your headlights (even in daytime). Always stop fully for school buses with flashing red lights (on two-lane roads, traffic both ways must stop; on divided highways, only same direction stops). Watch for potholes on some city roads, if you see a rough patch, slow down a bit to cushion the bump. At night, be cautious on less-lit roads, and be aware that some traffic lights in Jackson blink yellow late at night at low-traffic intersections, treat it as a yield if so. Also, seat belts on, Mississippi can and will ticket unbelted drivers/passengers.
• Weather & Driving: Summers: carry sunshades (your rental might have tinted windows, but a sunshade keeps the car cooler when parked). Thunderstorms can flood certain Jackson streets temporarily, if you see water over the road, don’t chance it. Wait it out or go around (a common spot is underpasses like State St. under the railroad, city usually barricades if impassable). Winters: hardly any snow/ice, but if there is, the city might have icy bridges (use caution on bridges/overpasses below freezing; they freeze first). Tornado season in spring, if a warning hits while driving, best to pull over at a sturdy structure. Keep an eye on weather alerts on your phone.
• Navigation: Very good cell coverage in Jackson and along interstates. Some rural pockets (like deep Delta or in hilly forests) might drop, but around Jackson and highways you’ll be fine. Use Google or Waze for traffic-aware routing, it will usually route you around any accidents or construction delays. For example, if there’s a crash on I-55 through town, your GPS might take you on State Street as a detour. Follow it; locals do the same. Jackson’s street naming can be confusing (several “Martins”, Medgar Evers Blvd was once Hwy 49, etc.), so GPS helps avoid wrong turns.
• Emergency Services: Dial 911 for any accident or serious emergency, responders are nearby. Minor roadside help: for a flat tire or such, call the rental’s roadside number (usually free with the rental, but check if charges apply for things like lockouts or fuel delivery). Jackson Police non-emergency line is 601-960-1234 if needed. On highways, *47 (cell) reaches Highway Patrol. There are numerous hospitals if needed: University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) is central, St. Dominic’s and Baptist Medical Center also centrally located, all easy to drive to.
• Unique Local Rules: Fun fact, in Mississippi, it’s legal to turn left on red only when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street (this situation might occur downtown). It’s not common, but keep it in mind. Another: Mississippi allows riding in the back of a pickup truck (if 18+), so don’t be surprised if you see it, it’s legal here. Just drive carefully if your group does that for a short trip (not recommended on highways!).
• Rental Return: When returning your car, refuel within about 5-10 miles of the drop-off to full (save the receipt, some agencies ask). For the airport, there’s a Shell and a Circle K gas station on Airport Road on the way in from I-20, easy stop. Give yourself a few extra minutes at JAN airport to navigate to the rental car return area (clearly marked near the terminal). For city locations, park in their lot and hand keys to staff or drop in key box after hours. Do a final sweep for your belongings, check that backseat and trunk! With AirportVanRental’s partners, drop-off is quick. They’ll inspect the car (or later if after hours). Once done, you’re free to head out, if going straight to a flight, the terminal is a 2-minute walk at JAN.

Now you’re equipped with the need-to-know info for renting a car in Jackson and hitting the road. AirportVanRental is thrilled to be part of your Jackson journey, we’re confident our service and these tips will have you driving like a local in no time. Enjoy the road, and safe travels!