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Explore the Road From Tampa to Sarasota

Your journey with comfort and convenience starts with us

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(s).

    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.

  • 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. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is 20-99 years. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver surcharge of US$ 27.00 per day may apply.
  • Driving Licence: The main driver and any additional drivers must provide a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements. Accepted documents include: (1) Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP). Note: IDP is only a translation and must be presented with the original driving licence. (2) Original South Korea Driving License (English version) with an English translation provided on the back. (3) Original Driver's License in Roman Alphabet (such as English, French, German, etc.) is acceptable without an IDP. Licenses in non-Roman alphabets (e.g., Arabic, Chinese) 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. Renters indicating a country of residence outside the United States or Canada must also present a return airline ticket.

  • Form of ID: A valid passport.
  • Accepted cards: Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted credit cards include UnionPay, Visa, Master, DinersClub, JCB, Discover, and AMEX.
  • Age requirements: The general driving age requirement is 20-99 years. For drivers aged 21-24, a young driver surcharge of US$ 27.00 per day may apply.
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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$ 46-62US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 134-339Solo travelers, couples
MediumUS$ 48-60US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 140-168Small families, light luggage
LargeUS$ 47-118US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 137-434Families, comfort seeker
SUVUS$ 49-105US$ 0.00-0.00US$ 145-370Large groups, long drivers

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

Key Consideration:
  • One-way Fee: Check if the rental company charges a one-way rental fee, which may vary depending on the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations.
  • Route Restrictions: Ensure you understand any restrictions on routes you may take, including toll roads and permitted states.
  • Vehicle Selection: Choose a car that suits your trip's needs while ensuring it is allowed for a one-way rental.
  • Fuel Policy: Understand the fuel policy – whether you need to return the car with a full tank or can prepay for fuel.
  • Cross-Border Rentals: Be aware of additional restrictions or documentation required for crossing state lines.
Smart Planning Tips:
  • Book Early: Reserve your one-way rental as early as possible to secure the best deals.
  • Travel During Off-Peak Times: Consider traveling during less busy periods to avoid higher costs and peak traffic.
  • Use Membership Discounts: Utilize discounts you may have through memberships or credit card rewards programs.
  • Check Insurance Coverage: Verify if your personal car insurance or credit card provides coverage for one-way rentals.
  • Pack Light: Traveling with only necessary items can make your journey more comfortable in a smaller rental car.
  • Understand Road Conditions: Familiarize yourself with the road conditions and potential weather along your route.
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 - 6000 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States

Shell - 2525 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34234, United States

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car.

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Tampa Parking

Use downtown garages for better security and accessibility.

Parking in Tampa is available at various public lots and garages, with rates ranging from $1 to $3 per hour.

Sarasota Parking

Check for free parking zones near the downtown area.

Sarasota offers street parking and public garages, with some free options in designated areas.

Recommended Parking Apps

Apps like ParkMobile and SpotHero can help locate and reserve parking spots in advance.

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Tolls and FasTrak

Ensure you have cash or a valid electronic toll payment method.

Consider using a SunPass for seamless toll payments.

The route includes tolls on I-275 and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, with costs ranging from $1.50 to $2.50 per toll.

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Popular Self-Drive Routes

Main Routes from Tampa to Sarasota:
Scenic Coastal Route
Leisure drive 1 hour 30 minutes

Experience the beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast, passing through quaint seaside towns and scenic vistas.

St. Petersburg , Bradenton , Anna Maria Island
I-75 Direct Route
Efficient route 1 hour

A fast and straightforward route using I-75, ideal for those in a hurry.

Sunshine Skyway Bridge
Hillsborough to Manatee Adventure
Exploratory drive 1 hour 15 minutes

Enjoy a blend of city and natural settings, a remarkable journey through Hillsborough and Manatee counties.

Downtown Tampa , Manatee Viewing Center
Road Trip Planning Tips:

Plan your route in advance: Determine your route and stops using reliable navigation tools to ensure an efficient drive.

Locate fuel stations: Ensure knowledge of gas station locations along the route, especially before highways.

Book your rental early: Secure your one-way rental well in advance to avoid higher costs and limited options.

Check rental policies: Review rental agreements for one-way travel terms, additional charges, or restrictions.

Consider weather conditions: Stay informed about weather along the route to ensure a smooth journey.

Budget for tolls and fees: Prepare for additional expenses like tolls and parking fees with a sufficient balance.

How to Choose Car Rental Companies

Choosing the right car rental company for a one-way trip between Tampa and Sarasota.

CompanyOne-Way FeeFleet VarietyLocation CoverageKey Advantage
Enterprise Rent-A-Car$$ExtensiveNationwide Wide range of vehicles , Excellent customer service , Frequent discounts for one-way rentals
Hertz$$$WideWide Coverage Wide selection of premium vehicles , Dedicated one-way rental deals , Mobile-friendly booking platform
Avis$$BroadComprehensive Roadside assistance included , Multiple pick-up/drop-off points , Long-term rental options
Budget Car Rental$ModerateNational Affordable rates , Easy process for one-way rentals , Flexible return policies
QEEQ

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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

Information About Rental Centers between Tampa and Sarasota

Operating Hours:

Most rental centers operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Rental Center Locations:

Rental centers are located within airports and around city centers in both Tampa and Sarasota.

Shuttle Service:

Complimentary shuttle services from nearby airports to rental centers are available every 15 minutes.

Return Process:

Returning vehicles is streamlined with clearly marked drop-off zones.

Ensure you confirm the operating hours and exact drop-off requirements of the rental center in Sarasota beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the costs associated with a one-way car rental from Tampa to Sarasota?

The cost typically includes the base rental price, taxes, fees, and possibly a one-way drop-off charge. It's recommended to confirm these specifics with your chosen rental company.

Do I need additional insurance for a one-way car rental?

Insurance requirements vary by rental company. While some might include basic insurance coverage, you should evaluate additional options to ensure you are fully protected.

Are there restrictions on vehicle choices for this route?

Rental companies may have specific vehicle categories available for one-way routes. It's best to verify the options during the booking process.

Can I book a one-way rental online?

Yes, most rental agencies provide the option to book one-way rentals on their websites. Ensure to select Sarasota as the drop-off location when you reserve.

What is the expected travel time between Tampa and Sarasota?

The drive typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ

Other popular one-way rental routes