How to find a cheap car rental deal in Waterloo
Start your adventure off right with a cheap rental car in Waterloo. With prices averaging $75 a day, you're on the road to better value. From city cars to family movers, we'll help you find the right wheels at a price that works.
$48 is the cheapest daily price for a rental in Waterloo.
Staying on a bit longer? Pick up a weekly rental from $265 and squeeze in a few road trips.
Book early to lock in the best price for a Waterloo car hire. On top of better deals, you'll have a wider range of options to pick from.
Browse the offers available from top providers like Enterprise.
The coverage Enterprise or another supplier offers for your Waterloo car rental can vary, so always check the small print. While some include a collision damage waiver (CDW), others will provide it for an extra fee.
Consider booking a one-way rental. You might be able to land a bargain if the provider needs to move cars between branches. Discover the best available rates by selecting 'Return car to a different location.'
Cut down on fuel costs by picking a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You pick up the car with a full tank and bring it back full, so you're only paying for what you use.
Pack more into your journey by searching for rentals with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, it means you can drive as far as you need without paying more.
Best value car rental options right now
You'll get the best value with this company. Prices average $82 a day.
Offering daily rates of around $67, this provider is next in line.
The third option won't stretch your budget either. You'll pay roughly $69 a day with this supplier.
The Premium rental category is a reliable option if you're unsure which ride is right for you. It's also the vehicle type that's booked more than any other in Waterloo.
Flying to Waterloo? Think about an airport pick-up
Keep arrival day hassle-free by picking up a car rental at Waterloo Airport. If you're flying to Waterloo through this hub, simply pick up your ride after landing and roll out. The drive to the city center is about 8 kilometers and takes around 10 minutes.
Compare car rental types in Waterloo
Small: Including classes like mini and economy, this cheap rental car in Waterloo gives you the freedom to explore for less. These agile, fuel-efficient rides are perfect for short trips and city driving.
Medium: Not too big, not too small, this just-right ride is calling your name. Typically including compact and intermediate cars, they offer a mix of interior space and fuel efficiency and are good for small families and couples.
Large: Offering a more comfortable ride and improved tech features, this Waterloo car hire category includes full-size cars. With larger back seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are made for plans that change mid-journey. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and rugged backroads alike.
Van: Choose this category of vehicle when you need a car for rent in Waterloo that can handle the heavy stuff. Typically featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're designed to carry more, whether that's equipment, baggage or a bunch of your favorite people.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers your out-of-pocket costs if your Waterloo car rental is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, you'll be glad to have it if something goes wrong. Keep in mind that insurance policies vary between providers, so make sure you understand exactly what's offered.
Travel smarter when you rent a car in Waterloo by adding a few nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to be your trusty co-pilot, or reverse cameras that give you confidence when parking.
Good to know
To rent a car in the United States, you typically have to be at least 21 years old. Some providers may offer rentals to younger drivers for a higher fee, so always check the policies before locking in your ride.
Planning a trip with the kids? Car seat requirements vary from one place to another, and the correct setup may depend on their age, height and weight. Find out if you need to add one to your Waterloo car rental reservation.
You'll likely be asked for these three things when collecting your rental car: a valid driver's license, extra photo ID, and a credit card with room to cover the excess. Debit cards are generally not accepted. Any extra must-haves will be shown in your booking.
If you're unfamiliar with driving in the United States, be aware that traffic here sticks to the right side of the road.
Keep within local speed limits of about 40kph in built-up areas and around 110kph on highways. Always check the posted signs, as limits may vary.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink at all.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination. Try to avoid rush hours if you want a smoother run.
You'll be using the United States dollar (USD) here. As well as your debit and credit cards, have some cash on hand for minor purchases.
English is the language spoken by most people in this country.
Best hotels in Waterloo for drivers
Spend less time looking for a parking spot and more time making the most of Suburban Studios Waterloo. Around 3 kilometers from central Waterloo, it comes with parking, internet access and a 24-hour front desk.
Or take advantage of the parking at Days Inn by Wyndham Evansdale Waterloo. The city center is roughly 8 kilometers from this stay, which also features a laundry and a pool.
Need more places to choose from? Browse the selection of hotels in Waterloo. You can narrow things down using the filters — try 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' or 'Outdoor parking.' If you're driving electric, you can use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter.
Once you've found a car rental deal in Waterloo and the right hotel, the only thing left to decide is where to explore first. Get things started with leading attractions like Lost Island Themepark, George Wyth State Park and George Wyth Lake.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Waterloo
Cedar Rapids should be on your to-do list if you'd like to visit African American Museum of Iowa and Indian Creek Nature Center. This city is around 80 kilometers southeast of central Waterloo.
You'll be well taken care of at Comfort Inn & Suites Cedar Rapids Cid Eastern Iowa Airport and Tru by Hilton Cedar Rapids Westdale, two reliable accommodation options with parking in Cedar Rapids.
Alternatively, collect your cheap car rental in Waterloo and head roughly 80 kilometers southeast to Marion. Featuring Hanna Park and Prairie Hill Pavilion, its highlights live up to the hype.
Best Western Plus Longbranch Hotel Convention Center and AmericInn by Wyndham Cedar Rapids North are comfy places to stay in Marion if you're sticking around for a bit. Choose one of these and take the hassle out of finding a spot for your ride.
Not ready to hit the brakes just yet? Take off to Madison, about 241 kilometers east of Waterloo. From Camp Randall Stadium to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, it's the perfect finale to your trip.
Book a room at Hilton Madison Monona Terrace or Super 8 by Wyndham Madison South. Use one of them as your base and enjoy everything Madison has to offer. They come with room for your wheels too.
