Austin Car & Van Rental | Airport Van Rental

• What: All-in-one car and van rental comparison in Austin, Texas see real-time offers from multiple brands in one search.
• Why: Unlock Austin’s live music, BBQ joints, and Hill Country vistas on your own schedule. Public transit is limited a rental car lets you explore every corner of the city and beyond.
• Price: Economy cars from ~$20/day, with free cancellation deals and pay-at-pickup options to keep your trip flexible and affordable.
• Perks: Compare top suppliers at once. No hidden fees see total prices upfront including Texas taxes. Reserve now without prepayment and enjoy 24/7 customer support on the road.
• Best For: Families visiting UT or SXSW, business travelers on tight schedules, outdoor enthusiasts hitting Lake Travis, and anyone who wants the freedom to explore Austin’s surroundings (think ACL Festival or day trips to Wimberley wine country).

Why rent a car in Austin

Ready to hit the road in Austin? Just enter your Austin pick-up location (AUS Airport or downtown) and travel dates above, then click “Search.” In seconds, you’ll see real-time offers from dozens of rental companies in Austin. Filter by vehicle type or price to find exactly what you need whether it’s a compact car for navigating downtown’s one-way streets, a roomy SUV for a Hill Country outing, or a 12-passenger van for a group attending SXSW. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals let you reserve now and pay later at pick-up, with free cancellation if your plans change. In just a few clicks, you’ll lock in the ideal wheels for your Austin adventure, at a price that leaves plenty of budget for brisket and live music tickets!

Welcome to Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World! From the neon-lit bars of Sixth Street to the tranquil trails of Zilker Park, having a rental car in Austin gives you the freedom to experience it all at your own pace. This page is your complete guide to renting a car in Austin, packed with local tips and money-saving deals so you can cruise the city like a true Austinite. Whether you’re flying into AUS for Formula 1 at Circuit of the Americas, touring the State Capitol and UT campus, or planning day trips to the Texas Hill Country, we’ll help you find the perfect ride quickly, easily, and cheaply. Get ready to explore Austin’s vibrant neighborhoods, barbecue havens, and scenic backroads with confidence and a little extra cash for that Franklin BBQ splurge or a night out on Rainey Street.

Why Rent a Car in Austin?
Austin is a thriving city with attractions spread out over a wide area. While downtown is walkable, many of Austin’s gems from barbecue joints in small towns to sprawling state parks are far easier to reach with your own set of wheels. Here are some top reasons to rent a car when visiting Austin:

• See More, Sooner: Austin covers a lot of ground, and public transit can only take you so far. Capital Metro buses and the lone rail line won’t reach the BBQ temples of Lockhart or the trailheads around Lake Travis. A car turns what could be a 2-hour bus connection into a 30-minute drive. From North Austin’s tech corridor to South Congress boutiques, having your own car means you can experience multiple neighborhoods (and food trucks!) in a single day without waiting around.
• Hill Country Freedom: With a car, you’re free to venture beyond the city limits anytime. Feel like an afternoon winery tour in Driftwood or Fredericksburg? Want to swim in the Hamilton Pool Preserve or see the bluebonnets at Marble Falls? These Hill Country delights (and countless others like Enchanted Rock or historic Gruene Hall) are only doable with a vehicle. No tour schedules or rideshare surge pricing you create your own itinerary, leave early for sunrise at Mount Bonnell or linger late at a Hill Country dance hall.
• Iconic Texas Drives: Austin sits at the gateway to some of Texas’ most scenic drives. Cruise Ranch Road 12 through rolling hills and oak trees, take TX-71 out west for sweeping vistas and wildflower fields in spring, or drive the 85-mph SH 130 toll road if you’re eager to cover ground quickly (it’s the fastest highway in the USA!). From the winding shores of Lake Austin to the open highways toward Big Bend, renting a car lets you enjoy the classic Texas road trip experience windows down, music up, and no set destination.
• Comfort & Convenience: Austin’s weather can swing from sweltering heat to sudden downpours. Having an air-conditioned car beats waiting outside in the summer sun or getting caught in a thunderstorm at a bus stop. You travel on your schedule: leave when you want, go wherever you want, and carry picnic coolers, guitars, or extra luggage with ease. No need to limit your adventures to where the tour bus goes a rental car gives you door-to-door comfort, whether you’re hopping between meetings downtown or chasing the best breakfast tacos around town.
• Efficient Exploring: With a car, you can link activities that would be impractical otherwise. Catch a morning kayak on Lady Bird Lake, then drive to the Desert Door distillery in Driftwood for an afternoon tasting, and head back for an evening show at the Moody Theater all in one day. Try doing that on transit! In a city known for its festivals and sprawling suburbs, renting a car maximizes your time. You’ll spend less time coordinating rides and more time enjoying Austin’s food, music, and outdoor fun.

Our Austin Car Rental Benefits

Why book your Austin ride with Airport Van Rental? We specialize in Texas car rentals and offer some unique perks for Austin travelers:

• Best Rates in Austin & AUS: We leverage our partnerships and booking volume in Austin to snag exclusive discounts you won’t find elsewhere. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is a growing rental car market we continuously scan all the major brands (and local agencies) for deals, from cheap economy cars for weekend getaways to luxury SUVs for business trips. Our system highlights specials (like free upgrade weekends or weekly rate drops), ensuring you get rock-bottom pricing. If you find a better price for the same rental, let us know and we’ll match it that’s our best rate guarantee.
• Wide Vehicle Selection: Austin has a diverse driving scene and we’ve got vehicles for every need. Choose from compact cars (easy to park on downtown streets), pickups to live out your Texas truck dreams, SUVs for family lake trips, minivans for group outings, and even premium or electric vehicles if you want to go green cruising around town. Thanks to our network of 50+ suppliers in the area, you’ll see hundreds of cars available across Austin at any given time. Heading out to Hill Country wineries? Maybe grab a convertible for the drive. Road tripping to Big Bend? We have AWD SUVs ready. The options are plentiful.
• No Pre-Payment & Free Cancellation: Travel plans can change, especially around big events like SXSW or a last-minute Longhorns game. That’s why most of our Austin rentals don’t require any upfront payment reserve now, pay at pickup. You’re not locked in if your itinerary shifts. Plus, enjoy free cancellation on most bookings as long as you cancel at least 48 hours before pick-up. Changed your mind last-minute about needing a car? No problem you won’t be stuck with a charge as long as you cancel in time. We believe in flexibility and customer-friendly policies.
• Transparent Pricing (No “Texas-Size” Hidden Fees): We believe in honest, all-in pricing. Austin rentals will include some mandatory fees and taxes (Texas rental tax ~10%, and if renting at AUS Airport, an additional airport facility fee and concession recovery fee). We display all of these in your quote upfront. The rate you see includes standard taxes and fees no surprises waiting at the counter. Planning a one-way rental from Austin to Dallas or Houston? Any drop-off fee is shown immediately so you can decide cost-effectively. With us, what you see is what you pay.
• Local Expertise & 24/7 Support: This isn’t just a booking site it’s a travel resource. Our team knows Austin, and we make sure you hit the road prepared. On our site (and in your confirmation details) you’ll find insider driving tips for Austin (we’ve included many below!), from navigating AUS Airport’s rental car center to finding cheap parking near downtown venues. We often partner with local events too renters during ACL Festival or F1 weekend might score info on road closures or even discount parking codes. And if you have questions or hit a snag on the road (locked your keys at Barton Springs, or need to extend your rental), our 24/7 support line is here to help. We’re just a call away, any time of day or night.

(Austin visitors consistently give Airport Van Rental high ratings we’re proud to be a trusted choice for Texas travelers, with many returning to book with us again for the next festival or football season!)

Today’s Top Austin Car Rental Deals

(Here are a few sample deals available in Austin right now. These change frequently, but they showcase the kind of cheap rates you can snag. Run a search above for the latest Austin rental offers!)

• Economy Car, from $19/day Example: Nissan Versa or similar. A fuel-efficient, easy-to-park car perfect for solo travelers or couples zipping around downtown Austin and squeezing into tight spots on South Congress. Great on gas for those side trips to Driftwood or Round Rock.
• Midsize SUV, from $35/day Example: Toyota RAV4 or similar (5-passenger). Comfortable seating with extra cargo space. A popular choice for families visiting Zilker Park or small groups driving out to Lake Travis. Also handy if you plan any Hill Country drives (higher clearance for rural roads).
• Minivan, from $49/day Example: Chrysler Pacifica or similar (7-passenger). Ideal for family reunions or groups heading to events like UT games or a day at Schlitterbahn. A minivan offers ample seating and luggage room perfect for an Austin brewery crawl with friends or carpooling to SXSW venues together. Split the cost with your crew and it becomes one of the cheapest ways to get around per person.
• Pickup Truck, from $45/day Example: Ford F-150 or similar. When in Texas, why not drive a truck? Useful if you plan to haul camping gear to Pedernales Falls, move dorm furniture, or just want that Texas driving experience. Modern crew-cab pickups carry 5 people comfortably and have room in the bed for bikes, coolers, or whatever adventure gear you’ve got.
• 15-Passenger Van, from $89/day Example: Ford Transit Passenger or similar. Got a big group? These vans are clutch for band tours, church retreats, or bachelor/ette parties around Austin. Seats 12–15 (depending on configuration) and still has space for luggage. Surprisingly easy to drive and a cost-effective option versus renting multiple cars for a large group.

Note: “From” rates are base daily prices recently seen in Austin, excluding taxes and fees. Actual prices will depend on your dates and availability. Texas rentals typically add ~10% in taxes and (for airport pick-ups) a few airport-specific surcharges at checkout we show you the full total upfront. Prices can fluctuate with demand; expect higher rates during major events like SXSW in March or ACL Festival in October, and lower rates in quieter months. Booking early for festival seasons is smart, as the cheapest vehicles sell out fast. All deals above include unlimited mileage, so you can drive as much as you want around Texas without extra charges.

Driving in Austin: Tips and Local Insights

Driving in Austin offers a mix of laid-back cruising and occasional challenges. One moment you’re coasting along a scenic lakeside road, the next you might be inching through downtown traffic during festival season. Here are essential tips to navigate Austin like a local and stay safe on the road:

Traffic & Rush Hours: Austin’s traffic has grown along with its population. Weekday rush hour typically peaks from 7–9 AM and 4–7 PM, especially along I-35 (which cuts through the city north-south) and MoPac Expressway (Loop 1) on the west side. I-35 through downtown is notoriously congested at almost all hours if you’re traveling between North and South Austin, consider alternate routes like Loop 1 (MoPac) or SH 130 toll (east of the city) to bypass downtown entirely. A navigation app (Google Maps, Waze) is your best friend; it may route you along lesser-known roads or frontage roads to save time. Also be mindful of events: during SXSW in March, downtown streets can close or jam up with pedestrians and rideshares. The fall Formula 1 Grand Prix and UT home football games also spike traffic near the COTA circuit and around campus. Plan for delays or choose lodging near event venues if you’re visiting during major events. In general, give yourself extra time when driving to the airport or across town during peak periods.

Tolls & Express Lanes: Austin has a few toll roads that can make driving easier, especially for bypassing traffic. SH 130, for example, loops around the east side of Austin and lets you legally drive up to 85 mph a quick way to skirt downtown gridlock if you’re heading toward Dallas or San Antonio. Other toll roads include sections of Loop 1 (MoPac has an express toll lane through downtown), SH 45, and the 183A toll up north. There are no cash toll booths; tolls are collected via TxTag (Texas’s electronic tag) or by license plate. Many rental cars are equipped with toll transponders ask at pickup about their toll policy. If you use a toll road, the rental company will charge the toll plus a small admin fee (unless you opt into an unlimited toll plan). To avoid fees, you can often set your GPS to “avoid tolls,” but keep in mind avoiding tolls might mean longer travel times. If you’re sticking mostly to central Austin, you might not encounter tolls at all, but they’re handy for certain trips (for instance, driving out to the outlet malls in Round Rock via 130/45).

Parking in Austin: Compared to larger metros, Austin is fairly reasonable for parking, but it varies by area. Downtown Austin has plenty of parking garages and surface lots. Expect to pay around $10–$20 for a full day in central garages (evenings and weekends sometimes cheaper, and many meters are free on Sundays). Street parking downtown uses metered spots (pay via credit card or phone app), usually enforced 8 AM–6 PM Mon–Sat. Always read signs some downtown streets convert to no-parking or valet zones at night to accommodate the nightlife crowd. Around Sixth Street and Rainey Street (entertainment districts), parking can be tight on weekends; consider using a public garage (like at the Austin Convention Center) and walking or ridesharing to avoid circling for a spot. Near UT Austin campus, parking is heavily permitted or metered on game days or graduation, it’s best to park slightly farther and walk/shuttle in. For popular outdoor spots like Zilker Park (Barton Springs Pool, Trail of Lights in winter), arrive early on weekends as lots fill up by midday. One bonus: many hotels in Austin offer guest parking, but some charge a fee, so check if you plan to keep your rental overnight. And as always, don’t leave valuables visible in your car Austin is safe overall, but an empty-looking car is the best way to prevent break-ins.

Driving Culture & Safety: Austin’s vibe extends to the road drivers are generally courteous, but like any growing city, patience can wear thin in traffic. Use your turn signal (locals do appreciate it) and don’t be surprised if someone gives a friendly “Texas wave” letting you merge in. If you venture onto two-lane country roads outside the city, it’s common courtesy to briefly move to the shoulder to let faster cars pass, if it’s safe you might see this on routes like RM 620 or 2222 outside town. Watch for cyclists and scooters, especially downtown and in East Austin; the city is bike-friendly and you’ll share the road with many two-wheel travelers. Austin police enforce DWI laws strictly if you’re enjoying Sixth Street’s nightlife, designate a driver or use a rideshare rather than risk it. One more thing: when it rains, it pours Austin’s limestone terrain means water can pool quickly. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” is a real mantra here. Avoid low-water crossings during flash floods (areas like Lake Travis watershed or Barton Creek can flood after heavy rain). If you see water over the road, find another way around; floods can occur suddenly in thunderstorms. Overall, drive friendly and stay alert, and you’ll find getting around Austin by car to be convenient and enjoyable.

Fuel & Gas Prices: Texas gas prices are typically lower than the national average (and much lower than in California or Northeast states). Around Austin, you’ll often find regular unleaded in the range of $3–$4 per gallon (fluctuating with oil prices). Stations in downtown or near the airport might charge a bit more, while those on the outskirts (or warehouse clubs like Costco) usually offer cheaper fuel. If you need to fill up before returning your car at AUS Airport, there’s a convenient gas station on Airport Blvd just a couple miles from the rental car return but prices there can be a tad higher for the convenience. Driving a bit further out to a station along Highway 71 or US-183 might save you a few cents per gallon. Keep an eye on your fuel gauge during long drives in Hill Country gas stations can be far apart in rural areas. And remember, in Texas it’s all self-service: pay at the pump (you may need to enter your ZIP code for credit cards; international visitors can usually pay inside if that doesn’t work).

Road Trip Ideas from Austin

Austin is a perfect hub for road trips, with everything from small-town charm to big city sights just a drive away. Whether you want coastal beauty, desert adventure, or rolling hills and rivers, there’s a route for you. Here are three Texas road trip ideas to spark your wanderlust:

• Hill Country Wine & Wildflowers Loop (Austin to Fredericksburg Round-Trip)Distance: ~200 miles round-trip (320 km). Suggested Duration: 2–3 days to fully enjoy the towns and scenery.
  Route: Head west from Austin on US-290 toward Johnson City and Fredericksburg. This drive will lead you through the heart of Texas Hill Country. Along the way, you’ll pass dozens of wineries on Highway 290 (nicknamed “Wine Road 290”). Fredericksburg, a historic German-settled town about 80 miles west of Austin, makes a great overnight base. From Fredericksburg, consider a side trip north to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (RR 965) to hike the giant pink granite dome. Loop back to Austin via a southern route: take US-87 south to Kerrville, then TX-16 through Medina, and TX-46 over to New Braunfels before heading north on I-35 back to Austin. This loop gives you a full circle of Hill Country beauty.
  
  

Highlights: Sip local wines in Fredericksburg’s vineyards (many offer tastings and tours). In spring (March–April), the wildflowers are breathtaking bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and more carpet the roadsides (the Willow City Loop near Fredericksburg is a famed scenic drive for blooms). Stroll Fredericksburg’s charming Main Street for biergartens and peach cobbler. If you love history, visit the LBJ Ranch (President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “Texas White House”) in Stonewall on your way west it’s a national historic park where you can tour his home and see the ranch. Enchanted Rock is a must-do for hikers: a relatively short but steep hike rewards you with panoramic views of the Hill Country from atop a massive rock. On the return leg, New Braunfels offers a taste of old-world German-Texan heritage (and famous summer river tubing in the Guadalupe River if time allows).

Practical Tips: Drive carefully on winding ranch roads speed limits can be 70 mph on open stretches, but watch for sudden dips, deer (especially around dusk), and slow-moving tractors. Many Hill Country wineries are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. Fredericksburg gets busy on weekends, so book lodging in advance if staying overnight. If visiting in summer, start hikes like Enchanted Rock early in the morning to beat the heat (and carry water). Lastly, this is a fantastic trip for convertibles or any car with a sunroof enjoy the fresh Hill Country air!

• Historic San Antonio & Hill Country DetourDistance: ~80 miles to San Antonio (130 km) one-way via I-35, plus ~100 extra miles (160 km) if adding Hill Country back roads. Suggested Duration: 1–2 days (a day trip or overnight).
  Route: Drive south from Austin on I-35 for about 1.5 hours to reach San Antonio. It’s a straight shot (though often traffic-laden) route through San Marcos and New Braunfels. If you want a more scenic detour, you can exit I-35 at New Braunfels and take TX-46 west toward Boerne, then I-10 east into San Antonio this loops you through a bit of Hill Country on the way. Once in San Antonio, downtown is compact and walkable, especially around the River Walk. For the return trip to Austin, you could simply head back up I-35 North, or if time permits, detour from San Antonio east to Luling or Lockhart via US-90 or TX-130 to embark on a BBQ tasting journey before rejoining I-35.
  
  

Highlights: In San Antonio, explore the famous Alamo in the heart of downtown the historic mission where Texas defenders made their last stand in 1836. Then take a leisurely boat ride or stroll along the River Walk, lined with restaurants, shops, and vibrant greenery. History buffs will enjoy the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) which includes four other Spanish colonial missions reachable by a short drive or bike ride from downtown. Families might add a stop at Six Flags Fiesta Texas or SeaWorld San Antonio on the outskirts if time allows. On your way back, New Braunfels offers the vintage Gruene Hall, Texas’s oldest dance hall (check if there’s live music!). If you detour through Lockhart (the “Barbecue Capital of Texas”), you can feast on legendary smoked brisket at spots like Kreuz Market or Black’s BBQ a delicious finale before returning to Austin.

Practical Tips: I-35 between Austin and San Antonio is one of Texas’s busiest corridors. Avoid traveling it in rush hour (and expect heavy traffic on Friday afternoons or Sunday evenings). The stretch through Round Rock to San Marcos often slows down due to ongoing construction stay alert for sudden brake lights. Parking in downtown San Antonio is available in public garages and lots; look for deals online or use city-operated garages for reasonable rates (street parking is limited near the tourist areas). If doing a quick day trip, consider parking near the Pearl District north of downtown and riding the river barge or a scooter into the center. Summer in San Antonio is hot wear a hat, sunscreen, and stay hydrated, especially if you’re walking between missions or waiting in line for rides. And if you plan to enjoy margaritas or beer on the River Walk, remember to have a designated driver for the trip home (or stay overnight).

• Austin to Houston & Galveston (Space City to Surf)Distance: ~165 miles to Houston (265 km), then another ~50 miles (80 km) to Galveston. Suggested Duration: 2–3 days (weekend trip).
  Route: Head east from Austin to Houston. The fastest route is along US-290 East (about 2 hours 40 minutes drive non-stop). You’ll pass through Brenham a perfect pit stop to visit the Blue Bell Creameries if you scream for ice cream. Continue into the urban sprawl of Houston. After enjoying Houston, drive south on I-45 for roughly 1 hour to reach Galveston on the Gulf Coast. You’ll cross the bay on a causeway onto Galveston Island. For the return to Austin, either backtrack via Houston or, for a change of scenery, go north from Galveston to pick up I-10 West in Houston, then TX-71 from Columbus back into Austin (a slightly longer loop).
  
  

Highlights: In Houston, Space Center Houston (NASA’s visitor center) is a must-see you can tour Mission Control and even see real rockets and a space shuttle. The Houston Museum District offers world-class venues like the Museum of Natural Science and the Houston Zoo, all nestled in Hermann Park. Foodies will love Houston’s diverse culinary scene (from Tex-Mex to Vietnamese to Cajun seafood boils). After the city sights, Galveston provides a breezy contrast: relax on Galveston Beach, walk the historic Pleasure Pier amusement park over the Gulf waters, or explore the charming Strand Historic District with its Victorian architecture and shops. Don’t miss fresh Gulf seafood shrimp and oysters are local specialties. Galveston also has unique attractions like Moody Gardens (aquarium, rainforest pyramid) and, for history enthusiasts, the tall ship Elissa and Seawolf Park’s naval vessels. If time permits, consider taking the free ferry from Galveston to Bolivar Peninsula for dolphins and great views of the bay (you can even drive your car onto the ferry).

Practical Tips: Houston is known for heavy traffic try to time your Austin departure to arrive in Houston during midday or late evening, avoiding the morning (7–9 AM) or evening (4–7 PM) rush hours on weekdays. The same goes for leaving Houston for Galveston; I-45 can back up on Friday afternoons toward the coast. Parking in Houston varies downtown garages can be $10–$20, but many museums have free lots or cheap parking. In Galveston, street parking near the beach is often metered (and strictly patrolled) you can pay via app or kiosk, or use paid lots by the seawall. Summer is hurricane season on the Gulf Coast (June–Nov) always check weather forecasts if traveling then. A sunny day in Galveston is fantastic, but be prepared with sunscreen and stay hydrated; the coastal sun is strong. Also note: before driving back to Austin, you might want to rinse your car if you parked by the seawall the salt spray can leave a crust on your windshield and paint. This road trip gives you a taste of Texas’s big-city excitement and laid-back island life all in one go!

Each of these trips showcases a different side of Texas, all starting from Austin. Whether you’re jamming out to live music on a road to a dance hall, stepping back in time at the Alamo, or watching a rocket launch video at NASA then hitting the beach, a rental car makes it possible.

Pro Tip: We provide free maps and travel guides for many popular routes just ask our team or check out our Events and Travel Tips pages for more ideas. Now fuel up, cue your favorite Texas playlist (Willie Nelson, anyone?), and hit the open road!

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