Flying into the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is the gateway to all your adventures in the Twin Cities. If you’re headed for a business meeting, visiting family or friends, or embarking on a road trip around the great state of Minnesota, then car rental at MSP is essential. From the famous Mall of America, just a few miles from the airport, to a breathtaking road trip along the North Shore of Lake Superior, having your own vehicle opens up a whole new world of possibilities.
Below, we have put together the ultimate MSP airport rental car guide, covering everything you’ll need to know from how to locate your ride to money-saving tips, what vehicle to choose, and the airport layout.
Where are the MSP Car Rental Agencies?
MSP airport has its car rental facilities within both terminals. Each of the major on-airport car rental providers operate from the airport’s shared Rental Car Center (RCC) building, to which both MSP Terminals are connected by the airport’s free tram system. When you’ve collected your baggage and are ready to pick up your rental vehicle, head to the Ground Transportation level and follow the signs to the rental car services. The tram system is available on a regular basis, with a short few minutes travel time between the terminals and the RCC.
- If you land at MSP Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) you can take the tram on Level 1.
- If you fly into MSP Terminal 2 (Humphrey) you will be able to take the tram from the Ground Transportation area, just off the lower level.
The modern and brightly-lit MSP Rental Car Center accommodates all of the major on-airport car rental brands under a single roof, streamlining the collection of your rental vehicle, even for first-time visitors.
MSP Airport Car Rentals: What’s Available?
You’ll find most major national car rental companies operating at MSP Airport, so you have a variety of choices to fit any budget. They all operate out of the Rental Car Center building on-site:
Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, Alamo, National, Dollar, Thrifty, and Sixt.
You can pick them up directly at the staffed counters inside the Rental Car Center. Need an affordable option? You’ll find plenty of economy rentals. Want something a little more upscale? Sixt, Hertz, and National offer luxury vehicles and SUVs. An economy car at MSP airport typically starts around $34/day from most providers but costs fluctuate depending on the season, class of vehicle, and when you book. During popular travel seasons (summer and holidays), it’s always best to book in advance for the best rates and guarantee your rental vehicle.
Types of Cars Available to Rent at MSP Airport
Here’s a quick overview of the types of cars available at MSP Airport:
- Economy & Compact Cars: This category is best for solo travelers and couples. Small, fuel-efficient, and perfect for getting around Minneapolis or St. Paul in style and ease (plus finding parking).
- Midsize & Full-Size Sedans: A comfortable middle-ground for small families and business travelers, this option offers more room for luggage and passengers without being as large as an SUV.
- SUVs & Crossovers: Planning a road trip to the many Minnesota lakes and forests or heading to a state park? A family or group in need of more space will appreciate an SUV or crossover. An SUV with all-wheel drive is particularly useful for a winter visit.
- Minivans: If you’re traveling with a group or carrying a lot of gear, a minivan is an excellent solution for ample seating and storage space.
- Luxury & Premium Vehicles: Traveling for business or leisure with a little extra flair? Rent luxury models at MSP from providers like Sixt and Hertz, such as the Dodge Challenger or Chrysler 300, which can start around $38 per day (depending on the booking source).
- Electric & Hybrid Vehicles: The environmentally-friendly traveler can find an array of hybrid models to choose from, including the Toyota Corolla Hybrid available through several of the rental companies.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on a Car Rental at MSP Airport
- Book ahead of time: Rental rates tend to go up substantially closer to your travel date, especially during the summer or during a large event in the Twin Cities.
- Comparison shop: Take advantage of comparison websites to see the various rates offered across the major rental brands before you book your vehicle. Even a few dollar difference per day can add up over a longer rental period.
- Look for membership discounts: Various memberships and associations like AAA, AARP, or certain credit cards can earn you discounts with rental car brands like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Even employer-provided corporate discount programs can offer significant savings.
- Understand what you’re buying: Make sure to understand the full cost of the rental before you agree to it; this means examining insurance coverage, mileage limits and fuel options very carefully. Collision damage waiver (CDW) is not required by law to be offered by rental companies, so verify whether or not your personal auto insurance or credit card already covers rental cars.
- Consider winter travel conditions: Minnesota winters are for real, so if you’re visiting from November to March, be sure to book yourself an SUV with all-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive. You may be able to get a vehicle upgraded at the last minute if conditions are poor, but this will very likely increase the overall price of your rental as well, so book ahead and the appropriate vehicle from the start.
- Return with enough time: You’ll want to build in an extra 30 to 45 minutes to your schedule to account for the trip to the rental car facility and returning the vehicle before proceeding to your terminal. Airport staff suggests adding time to both your arrival and departure to and from the car rental center from both Terminal 1 and 2.
The Final Verdict
Getting a rental car at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is an easy process with numerous brands and a conveniently located, centrally accessible facility. Whether you need a small economy car for a short business trip or a spacious SUV for an outdoor Minnesota adventure, MSP has a rental solution for you. Be smart about booking, compare prices and features, and hit the road with confidence.
FAQs
All of the on-airport car rental agencies are located within the MSP Rental Car Center (RCC), easily accessible from both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 via the free airport tram service operating from the Ground Transportation level. Look for the “Rental Cars” signage after you retrieve your baggage at the claim.
Yes, nearly all major car rental agencies at MSP require a valid credit card in the primary renter’s name for a security deposit. A few companies may accept debit cards with additional conditions and verifications, but it’s best to have a credit card.
Most rental companies at MSP Airport have a minimum age of 25 years old. Renters aged 21 to 24 may still be able to rent a vehicle from select companies, but a “young driver” fee typically applies. Be sure to confirm the specific age policies with your chosen provider when making your reservation.
Booking your rental car online and in advance is almost always significantly cheaper than walking up to the counter. Pre-booking also guarantees you a vehicle, which is crucial during peak travel times, holidays, weekends, or when the Twin Cities host major events like Vikings or Twins games.
The vast majority of rental car companies at MSP offer 24-hour key drop-off for early morning or late-night returns. You can park your car in the designated return area and simply drop your keys in the drop-box without needing to wait for an employee. It’s always a good idea to take a few photos of the vehicle as proof of its condition upon return.