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Explore Houston with Easy One-Way Car Rentals

Seamless travel from San Antonio to Houston with top rental options.

Document required for international visitors
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year.

    Notes: North Korean driving licenses were not accepted for insurance purposes.

  • Form of ID: A valid physical United States national photo ID.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. XpCard and DcCard are also supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers aged 21-80 are generally allowed. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. The licence should be held for at least 1 year. Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) is required. An English translation must be provided for South Korean licenses. Driver's licenses printed in Roman alphabet (e.g., English, French, German) are acceptable without IDP. Non-Roman alphabet licenses must be accompanied by an IDP.

    Notes: Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification. North Korean driving licenses were not accepted for insurance purposes.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Supported cards include Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, AMEX, and UnionPay. XpCard, DcCard, and UnCard are also supported.
  • Age requirements: Drivers aged 21-80 are generally allowed. Young drivers aged 21-24 may incur a fee of US$ 27.00 per day.
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One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:

Cheapest Economy Rate

Starting from

Cheapest SUV Rate

Starting from

Vehicle Types
Vehicle TypesDaily Rate(One-way Fee Included)One-way FeeTotal(3-day Trip)Best For
SmallUS$ 60-68US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 201-273Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 68-68US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 232-242Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 60-65US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 205-476Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 63-81US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 203-436Large groups, long drivers
Pickup TruckUS$ 66-66US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 213-349Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage

What should I pay attention to for a one-way rental?

Key Consideration:
  • Understand one-way fees: Most rental companies charge a fee for one-way rentals. Confirm the amount at booking.
  • Verify route restrictions: Some rental agreements may come with restrictions on mileage or specific routes.
  • Be aware of cross-border policies: If your route crosses state or national borders, confirm any additional requirements.
  • Review vehicle selection options: The type of vehicle may vary per location; reserve early for specific preferences.
  • Check drop-off timings: Verify the operating hours of your drop-off location to avoid unexpected delays.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Plan your route in advance: Outlining your travel path helps in estimating fuel needs and travel time accurately.
  • Refuel before dropping off: Many rental services require a full tank; check beforehand to avoid surcharges.
  • Search for rental discounts: Special rates or promotions may be available for one-way trips; research online or inquire directly.
  • Leverage concierge assistance: Rental companies often offer trip planning support; use these to customize your journey.
  • Understand insurance policies: Familiarize yourself with the insurance coverage included in your rental agreement.
Insurance: A Critical Consideration

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.

QEEQ Online Car Rental Insurance
  • Comprehensive coverage for your rental vehicle
  • Approximately 50% cheaper than counter rates
  • Easy online purchase before your trip
Learn More About QEEQ Insurance
Book Earlier for Better Rates

Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.

QEEQ One-Dollar Freeze
  • Reserve your vehicle with just $1 upfront
  • Price Drop Protector automatically tracks price changes
  • Automatic rebooking when prices drop
Learn More About One-Dollar Freeze

Refueling, Parking and Tolls

Refueling
Parking
Tolls
Gas Stations near Drop-off Locations

Shell - 15930 John F Kennedy Blvd, Houston, TX 77032, United States

Shell - 15811 John F Kennedy Blvd, Houston, TX 77032, United States

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain steady speeds to improve fuel efficiency.

Reduce air conditioning use to save fuel.

Ensure tires are properly inflated for optimal performance.

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San Antonio Parking

Consider using parking garages for extended stays as they often offer flat daily rates.

San Antonio offers various parking options including metered street parking and parking garages. Rates typically range from $2-5 per hour.

Houston Parking

Use parking apps to find the best rates and availability in downtown areas.

Houston provides ample parking options, including street parking and private lots. Rates may vary based on location and duration.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps such as SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help users find and reserve parking in advance.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure your rental vehicle is equipped with a toll tag or arrange for toll payment with the rental company.

Plan your route to minimize toll road usage if looking to save costs.

The route includes toll roads such as the Sam Houston Tollway. Toll charges depend on the vehicle type and distance traveled.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Scenic and Convenient Routes Between San Antonio and Houston:
Interstate 10 Direct Route
Highway Route 3 hours, 15 minutes

The most efficient and direct route that takes drivers along Interstate 10, offering quick access between San Antonio and Houston.

San Antonio , Luling , Katy , Houston
Texas Hill Country Route
Scenic Route 5 hours

This route winds through the picturesque Texas Hill Country, ideal for nature and history enthusiasts.

San Antonio , Fredericksburg , Brenham , Houston
Southern Coastal Bend Route
Long Scenic Route 6 hours

A lenient drive through the southeastern regions, offering coastal views and unique landmarks.

San Antonio , Victoria , Bay City , Houston
Road Trip Planning Tips

Choose the Best Route: Consider time of day, traffic patterns, and desired sights to determine the most suitable route.

Book Rentals Early: Reserve your one-way car rental well in advance to secure availability and lower rates.

Plan Fuel Stops: Identify major stops along your route for refueling to ensure a smoother travel experience.

Add Scenic Detours: Plan short side trips to explore interesting locales for enrichment and relaxation.

Review Insurance Coverage: Understand rental insurance policies to avoid surprises on the road.

Budget Accordingly: Account for tolls, fuel costs, and rental fees while ensuring extra money for emergencies.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

When selecting a car rental company for a one-way trip from San Antonio to Houston, consider factors like fees, vehicle variety, location coverage, and unique benefits. Be sure to choose companies that offer one-way rentals.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$$ExcellentExtensive Wide selection of vehicles , Nationwide locations , High customer satisfaction ratings
Hertz$$Very GoodBroad Frequent traveler rewards , Well-maintained fleet , Quick pickup and drop-off options
Avis$$Very GoodExtensive User-friendly online booking , Wide range of add-ons , Established reputation
Budget Car Rental$GoodModerate Affordable rates , Family-friendly vehicle options , Special deals and promotions
QEEQ

Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates

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Global Coverage

200+ countries and regions

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Best Rates

Compare across providers

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24/7 Customer Services

Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp

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Exclusive Features

One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector

Explore QEEQ Car Rentals
Selection Criteria for One-Way Rentals:
Pricing Considerations
  • Base rental rate per day
  • One-way drop-off fees
  • Additional driver charges
  • Insurance costs
  • Fuel policy and potential charges
Vehicle Selection
  • Vehicle size for passengers and luggage
  • Fuel efficiency for long drives
  • Comfort features for highway driving
  • Navigation and entertainment systems
  • Vehicle condition and mileage
Company Reliability
  • Customer service reputation
  • Transparency in fees and policies
  • Roadside assistance coverage
  • Cancellation and modification policies
  • Reviews from other one-way renters

Rental Car Centers in San Antonio and Houston

Operating Hours:

Rental centers typically operate from 6 AM to midnight, but availability may vary by location. Check with the specific branch for details.

Location Details:

At San Antonio International Airport, rental car centers are located at the Consolidated Rental Car Facility (CONRAC), connected to the terminals. In Houston, vehicles can be returned at corresponding airport or city locations.

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttles run frequently between terminals and the rental centers, ensuring convenience for travelers.

Book your rental car in advance to secure lower rates and better vehicle choices for your one-way trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a one-way car rental?

A one-way car rental allows you to pick up a rental vehicle at one location, such as San Antonio, and return it to another location, like Houston. This option is often used for travel where returning to the initial location is inconvenient.

Is there an additional fee for a one-way rental between San Antonio and Houston?

Most rental companies charge a drop-off fee for one-way rentals. This fee covers the cost of returning the vehicle to its original location or redistribution logistics. The amount varies between providers. It's best to check with the rental company for specific details.

How long does it take to drive from San Antonio to Houston?

The drive from San Antonio to Houston typically takes around 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and the route taken. The distance is approximately 197 miles via I-10 East.

What documents are needed to rent a car for this route?

To rent a car, you generally need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name for the deposit, and in some cases, proof of insurance. International renters may also need a passport and an International Driving Permit.

Are there gas stations near Houston airports for refueling rental cars?

Yes, there are several gas stations near George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). For example, near IAH, options include Shell and Chevron, located within a few miles of the airport. Make sure to refuel the car before returning it to avoid additional charges.

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes