Cheap car rentals in Missoula
| Mini |
| Economy |
| Compact |
| Intermediate |
| Standard |
| Full-size |
| Luxury |
| Minivan |
| Passenger Van |
| SUV |
| Commercial |
| Pick-up truck |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Missoula
- With cheap car rentals in Missoula, it’s easy for you to travel all over the city, as well as explore some of the towns that are in the greater Missoula region. For example, you may want to spend some time in Butte, which is around a 1h 45min drive from Missoula. You can also go to Helena, which is also a 1h 45min drive from Missoula, or Kalispell, which can be reached by car in around 2h 15min in total.
- As Missoula is a large city, there are certain times of the day that are typically more congested than others. To avoid getting caught in any unwanted traffic while driving cheap car rentals in Missoula, try to keep off the road during rush hour. In general, rush hour is considered to be between 7:30 and 9:00 am, as well as between 5:00 and 6:00 pm Some streets that are known for being particularly busy include Interstates 90 and 200.
- There are a number of annual events that take place in the city, making it difficult to drive Missoula car rentals during certain periods because many of the roads downtown may be closed off. There is the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival that takes place each February, as well as the Garden City BrewFest in May. There is also the Western Montana Fair in August, which is particularly popular amongst both locals and visitors.
- Nestled amidst the mountains lies Missoula, Montana, and for exploring the scenic surroundings and everything the city has to offer, a car is the best choice. Rent a vehicle when visiting the city with its many surrounding scenic routes, and do not worry about public transport, expensive cab rides, or time and geographical restrictions.
- When flying into Missoula International Airport, head to the car rental center to pick up a vehicle right there. The airport is located outside the city, about 6 miles away, and while public transport will take up to an hour to get you to the city center, a car will be there in about 10 minutes. The agencies’ desks are located opposite the Baggage Claim area and include major brands like Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise.
- Winter in Montana can bring lots of snow and ice onto the streets, but it is not the only hazard to look out for when driving through Missoula. Dirt tracks are commonly used by adventurous drivers to explore hidden nooks and crannies of the mountains, but remember to keep in mind the ambulance can take some time to reach remote mountainous areas, so don’t do anything unnecessarily risky. When driving in snow, adjust your speed and refrain from braking suddenly or accelerating abruptly.
- Rush hour in Missoula is definitely not as much a hassle compared to many bigger US cities, but it still does occur. Between 7-9am and 5-7pm, the streets can be congested, and, especially when going to the airport, it is advised to plan well enough in advance (at least two hours), as the I-90 can get especially congested during peak times.
- Book your rental car in Missoula at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Intermediate rental cars in Missoula are around -3% cheaper than other car types, on average
Missoula car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
FAQs about renting a car in Missoula
What type of car is recommended for driving in Missoula?
As the roads can be rough and winding in the mountainous areas, it is recommended to opt for a 4-wheel-drive car when venturing out of the city. An SUV will provide the necessary traction to face winter and dirt conditions, while still being a convenient car to drive within the city.
What’s the speed limit in Missoula?
Adjusting your speed and slowing down when the weather conditions require it is essential in Missoula. 25 mph is generally permitted inside the city and among residential areas, with just 5 mph in alleys. Up to 80 mph is allowed on freeways but always check the posted signs, as some only allow 70-75 mph.
Where are the best places to park in Missoula?
There are various options for parking in Missoula, from metered on-street parking to parking garages and lots. On Bank Street, parking is possible for 2 hours and costs around $1 per hour from Monday to Friday. Park Place on Front Street has the first hour free and costs around $1 per hour afterwards.
How much is gas price in Missoula?
The average gas price in Missoula is C$ 4.78 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between C$ 57 and C$ 76, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Missoula?
Intermediate (Toyota RAV4 or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Missoula.
How can I find car rentals near me in Missoula?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does an Intermediate car rental cost in Missoula?
An Intermediate car rental in Missoula costs C$ 106 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Missoula?
A Compact car rental in Missoula costs C$ 51 per day, on average.
How much does a Mini car rental cost in Missoula?
A Mini car rental in Missoula costs C$ 163 per day, on average.
What is the easiest way to drive from Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) to the city center?
When you drive from Missoula Montana Airport to the city center, you can plan on the trip taking approximately 10 to 15min under normal traffic and weather conditions. The easiest way to make this trip is to hop on the I-90 E from W Broadway Street, towards the U.S. Highway 10 W and Airway Blvd. After this, you can head southwest on Johnson Bell Dr going in the direction of Aviation Way, and eventually, make a right on W Broadway St towards U.S. Highway 10 W. You will then go onto the I-90 E toward Missoula, which will bring you downtown.
Is it possible for me to rent a car directly from Missoula Montana Airport after my flight has landed?
Near baggage claim at Missoula Montana Airport, you will find desks for several major rental car companies, including Alamo, Avis, and Budget. Each of these companies stores its fleet directly on airport property, so you’ll be within walking distance of your rental vehicle.
Missoula car rental reviews and directory
Dollar
8.7
Very good
39 reviewsCleanliness
9.0
Comfort
8.9
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.8
Value for money
8.4
One location in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Oct. 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Dec. 2021
Cons:
When I initially called it sounded like they weren't going to be able to provide a large 4 WD vehicle. They said to call 72 hours out, and when I did, the second person said no problem! And got us one! Thanks....10.0 Wonderful
Oct. 2020
Pros:
So fast and easy for pick up and drop off! The vehicle, Mazda cx-9 was great!!Cons:
Things were terrific!!9.2 Wonderful
Jul. 2020
Pros:
Great peopleCons:
Prices are high for the vehicle10.0 Wonderful
Oct. 2019
Pros:
This was the easiest rental car experience of my life. Great service from "Jason". I phoned from the airport and he picked me up in a snowstorm. Had the car running to keep it warm for me. The entire process was seamless; drop off was excellent as well. Thank you!Cons:
The location of the rental place was about 8 minutes from the airport. In a perfect world, it would be AT the airport, but given how small Missoula is, and how quickly the shuttle process worked, it was a pretty minimal issue.10.0 Wonderful
Sep. 2019
Pros:
Staff was friendly, helpful, and fast with service.Cons:
Nothing, really. Short of being located at the airport, I can't think of a thing to improve.Alamo
8.4
Very good
52 reviewsCleanliness
8.7
Comfort
8.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.3
Value for money
8.1
One location in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
May 2020
Pros:
Drop off was easy and staff was helpful.10.0 Wonderful
Oct. 2019
Pros:
Car was ready and both agents for pick up and drop off were very helpful.10.0 Wonderful
Oct. 2019
Cons:
Truthfully, nothing.2.0 Poor
Sep. 2019
Pros:
Friendly staff but no car availableCons:
Having a car available would have been nice. I ended up renting from Hertz4.8 Mediocre
Aug. 2019
Pros:
Car was fineCons:
Extremely expensive. One person working the counter is unacceptable. Waited 30 min or more. That is way to long. The rate was 3x any other Alamo. Will use another agency next time.2.0 Poor
Aug. 2019
Pros:
Nothing, I had a confirmation for pick up and then I get there and they did not have any cars available and would not have for days.Cons:
Alamo did nothing to help I just got stuck at the airport at 10PM with not rideEnterprise Rent-A-Car
8.2
Very good
53 reviewsCleanliness
8.6
Comfort
8.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.2
Value for money
8.0
2 locations in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
6.0 Okay
Oct. 2023
10.0 Wonderful
May 2021
Pros:
Great staff...friendly...informative...helpful... AAA+++10.0 Wonderful
Mar. 2021
Pros:
Friendly staff and very quick rental experienceCons:
Had a tiny bit of difficulty comparing the trunk size between a mid and full size. It worked out in the end, but it was a master Tetris experience!4.0 Mediocre
Feb. 2021
Cons:
No one told us the location wasn’t at the airport and there was no shuttle.8.0 Very good
Feb. 2021
Pros:
Overall, one of the better car rental experiences. Missoula Mt and Everett Wa did us right.Cons:
The car was a little smaller than anticipated, but worked out okay!7.2 Good
Oct. 2020
Pros:
nice vehicle good priceCons:
They gave my car to someone else who arrived earlly, then I had to wait 2 hours for the next vehicle to be made ready.Thrifty
9.5
Wonderful
15 reviewsCleanliness
9.7
Comfort
9.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.7
Value for money
8.5
One location in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
May 2021
Pros:
Staff was friendly, vehicle was modern and well maintained.10.0 Wonderful
Apr. 2019
Pros:
VERY HELPFUL STAFF WHEN PICKING UP AND DROPPING OFFCons:
NOTHING10.0 Wonderful
Feb. 2018
Pros:
Counter service was quick and efficient, car was clean and low-mileage, drop-off was a snap.Cons:
Price for a one day rental was higher than larger markets, but Missoula is a small town with less competitive market, so not unexpected.8.0 Very good
Oct. 2022
8.0 Very good
Jan. 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Sep. 2021
National
9.3
Wonderful
1 reviewCleanliness
9.5
Comfort
9.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.5
Value for money
9.0
One location in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
7.2 Good
Aug. 2020
Pros:
Pick up and drop off were smooth. The car was nice and comfortable on the inside.Cons:
The car they gave me had a leaky front driver's side tire that I had to stop and fill up 4 or 5 times during my trip. That was an annoyance.Hertz
8.7
Very good
4 reviewsCleanliness
8.6
Comfort
8.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.1
Value for money
8.1
One location in Missoula
Budget
8.1
Very good
21 reviewsCleanliness
8.2
Comfort
8.1
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.1
Value for money
7.7
One location in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
6.0 Okay
Oct. 2022
8.0 Very good
Sep. 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Aug. 2020
Pros:
Fast, friendly service.Cons:
Nothing!10.0 Wonderful
Jun. 2020
Pros:
the price was greatCons:
staff at Billings airport2.0 Poor
Sep. 2018
Cons:
The car wasn't ready. I waited over 90 mins and the lady at the counter was rude and wouldn't give me an estimated time, so I left. My brother picked up a car later that night at 2am and they said that my car still wasn't available.2.0 Poor
Dec. 2017
Cons:
They dont accept debit cards on or off the airport in Portland Oregon.Avis
7.5
Good
29 reviewsCleanliness
8.1
Comfort
8.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.0
Value for money
7.1
One location in Missoula
Filters
Reviews
8.8 Very good
May 2020
Pros:
The staff was very pleasant and helpful. Everything was in order when I arrived to pick up the vehicle.Cons:
Really, it was one of the easiest transactions with renting a vehicle.10.0 Wonderful
Aug. 2018
Pros:
More that low price compared to everything available with all other rental companies. Easy to pick up and easier to self drop off.Cons:
Nothing.10.0 Wonderful
Dec. 2017
Cons:
Nothing8.0 Very good
Aug. 2017
Pros:
ease of drop off9.6 Wonderful
Jul. 2017
Pros:
Size of car fit our needs perfectly. Sara was very nice and efficient when we picked up the car.Cons:
We expected a Subaru four wheel drive due to roads we knew we would be on during our trip but overall the car worked well for our needs.10.0 Wonderful
May 2023
Easirent
4.7
Mediocre
No reviews available
One location in Missoula
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Missoula
Car rental locations in or near Missoula
Good to know
Most popular car type | Intermediate |
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