How to find a cheap car hire deal in St. Petersburg
Take control of your trip with a cheap rental car in St. Petersburg. With prices averaging R 1,008 a day, it's an easy win for your budget and your plans. From zippy compacts to power-packed SUVs, we'll help you find the right rental for less.
May is the cheapest month to rent a car in St. Petersburg. With average daily rates of R 659, you've got the green light to save.
Book early to snap up a cheap rental car in St. Petersburg. Besides saving money, you're more likely to find a car that fits your style or needs.
Line up your ride with Budget, National or Hertz. These are some of the most popular providers offering car hire deals in St. Petersburg.
Check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your St. Petersburg car hire policy, whether with Budget or a different supplier. Some companies might not include it in the base price and instead sell it separately.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be the key to finding a deal. Simply check 'Return car to a different location' when browsing for a car for rent in St. Petersburg. Providers often have to move vehicles from one site to another, which means you can lock in some fantastic one-way prices.
Spend less on fuel by picking a car hire in St. Petersburg with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You collect your ride with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Want to explore without stressing about the number of miles you clock up? Search for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and go as far as you like without the extra fees.
Compare car hire types in St. Petersburg
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in St. Petersburg gets you moving without breaking the bank. These nimble, fuel-efficient cars are excellent for short trips and city driving.
Medium: A reliable pick when you need something that's easy to drive but with some added perks. This category includes compact and intermediate models that offer a little extra leg space compared to smaller options.
Large: Offering greater driving comfort and extra tech features, this St. Petersburg car hire option includes full-size cars. With bigger back seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: Enjoy a higher driving position and a better view of what's ahead in an SUV. Whether you're navigating rugged backcountry or gliding down stretches of highway, many come with all-wheel drive to keep you steady on any road.
Van: If you're looking for a car for rent in St. Petersburg that can handle a small crowd (and their luggage), a van has space to spare. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're best suited for group outings, business needs or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Adding excess insurance to your St. Petersburg car hire lets you drive with confidence. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of a collision or theft. Insurance policies aren't the same across all rental providers, so give them a quick comparison.
Take your ride to the next level with handy extras like a navigation system or mobile Wi-Fi. They can make your trip more comfortable and stress-free when you rent a car in St. Petersburg.
Good to know
You typically have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. Younger drivers aren't always turned away — just be ready for a few added rules or costs. Check the companies' terms and conditions before booking.
Add a car seat to your St. Petersburg car hire booking if you're bringing the kids. Regulations change from one place to another, but using a child seat suited to their age and size is always the safest way to travel.
Hit the road: Where to drive from St. Petersburg
You'll want to explore the biggest attractions in the city once you've lined up a car hire deal in St. Petersburg. Chihuly Collection and St. Petersburg Pier are highlights you'll want to catch before heading off.
If you need a place to stay in St. Petersburg while you sightsee, consider Tropical Palms Hotel or Bayview Plaza Waterfront Resort.
Tampa should be on your itinerary if you want to see Super Bowl and Busch Gardens Tampa. This city is around 29 kilometres north-east of central St. Petersburg.
Hotel Tampa Riverwalk and Hotel Haya are favourite accommodation options in Tampa.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car hire in St. Petersburg and drive about 24 kilometres north-west to Clearwater. Featuring Encounters With Dolphins and Sand Key Beach, it's every bit as good as advertised.
Clearwater has some comfy stays where you can drop your bags, including Holiday Inn & Suites Clearwater Beach and Edge Hotel Clearwater Beach.
Want to head even further out? Port Saint Lucie is a popular road trip destination that's around 241 kilometres east of St. Petersburg. Consider making a few pit stops at Wilderness Park and Club Med Sandpiper Bay.
Find a room at Best Western Port St. Lucie or The Perfect Escape From the Big City. They're a convenient base for exploring everything Port Saint Lucie has to offer.
