Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from San Antonio to Austin. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will be also required to present a return airline ticket.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 44/dayStarting from
US$ 46/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 44-US$ 173 | US$ 0-US$ 50 | US$ 131-US$ 350 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 60 | US$ 0-US$ 50 | US$ 358 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 45-US$ 127 | US$ 0-US$ 100 | US$ 135-US$ 547 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 46-US$ 517 | US$ 0-US$ 100 | US$ 138-US$ 1,138 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Van | US$ 161 | US$ 25-US$ 100 | US$ 649 | Large families, groups |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 105-US$ 517 | US$ 25-US$ 100 | US$ 1,318 | Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage |
Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning to avoid additional charges.
Save the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
Use nearby gas stations with competitive prices to save costs.
Estimated average fuel cost along the route is approximately $3.50 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel usage.
Ensure tires are properly inflated for better mileage.
Minimize the use of air conditioning to conserve fuel.
Hourly parking is available near the rental location starting at $2/hour.
Use multi-level garages for secure parking options.
Street parking is limited; check signage to avoid fines.
Downtown Austin offers several parking garages with rates starting at $5/hour.
Consider using park-and-ride facilities for long-term parking.
Street parking is available but may require a permit in certain areas.
ParkMobile for finding and reserving spots.
SpotHero for discounted parking rates.
Passport Parking for managing street parking payments.
Drive through towns famous for their legendary barbecue joints.
Explore local breweries and vineyards dotting the countryside.
Visit historical landmarks and museums along the way.
Experience the seasonal beauty of Texas wildflowers in bloom.
Fuel Availability: Ensure your vehicle has a full tank before starting the journey, especially if taking scenic routes with fewer service stations.
Choose the Right Rental Vehicle: Select a vehicle suitable for your needs, such as a compact car for downtown areas or an SUV for scenic terrains.
Check for Road Conditions: Verify road conditions and closures, particularly during bad weather or construction seasons.
Manage Rental Costs: Book rentals early to avoid price surges and check for discounts or membership savings.
Plan Routes Ahead: Map out your route beforehand to optimize travel time and highlight areas of interest.
Safety Preparedness: Carry a first aid kit, water, and emergency supplies during your road trip to handle unexpected situations.
Introduction to company selection, only include companies that offer one-way rental service.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avis Car Rental | $$ | Wide variety including economy, SUVs, and luxury vehicles | Excellent with numerous locations across major cities | Membership discounts , Flexible cancellation policies , Fast-track services |
| Hertz | $$ | Extensive fleet including electric and hybrid options | Comprehensive with coverage in most urban areas | Roadside assistance , Loyalty offers , Affordable additional driver fee |
| Enterprise | $$ | Reliable and varied selection catering to different travel needs | Excellent presence in both urban and rural areas | Award-winning customer support , Convenient pickup services , Green vehicle availability |
| Budget Car Rental | $ | Good selection suitable for budget-conscious travelers | Decent with availability in many major locations | Affordable rates , Seasonal offers , Online booking discounts |
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The rental car center is open 24/7 ensuring convenience for all travelers.
Located adjacent to the airport terminal accessible via a short walk or the complimentary shuttle service.
Shuttle buses operate every 10 minutes connecting terminals to the rental car center.
Free Wi-Fi, waiting areas, and customer service desks are available at the rental center.
Make sure to check the fuel policy of the rental company and fill up near your drop-off location to avoid additional fees.
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