Finding affordable car rentals from Spokane to Glacier National Park can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. This guide explores various options, including renting from different airports, comparing rental companies, and leveraging loyalty programs. We’ll cover daily rates, mileage limits, insurance requirements, and specific deals for the Spokane to Glacier National Park route. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly sedan or a more spacious SUV, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best and most economical car rental options for your trip.
What Are the Current Rates for Cheapest Car Rentals from Spokane to Glacier National Park?
When planning your trip from Spokane to Glacier National Park, considering alternative airports and rental locations can significantly impact your costs. Here’s a breakdown of current rates and availability:
- Alternative Airport Options:
- Flying into Bozeman or Helena and renting a car there can be cheaper than renting directly from Spokane.
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Bozeman car rentals average around $100 per day, which is more economical than renting in Kalispell.
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Major Rental Companies:
- Enterprise: Offers competitive rates, with sedans available for about $200 per week with an AAA membership in Whitefish.
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Hertz and Budget: Also provide competitive pricing in the area.
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Average Daily Rates:
- Overall average: $68 per day
- Enterprise: $41/day
- Hertz: $52/day
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Budget: $53/day
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Turo Option:
- Peer-to-peer car sharing platform
- Weekly rentals around $1,000
- Offers more flexibility in vehicle choice
How Do Affordable Car Hire Options in Spokane Compare?
To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare key factors among affordable car rental options in Spokane:
| Rental Company | Daily Rate | Mileage Limit | Insurance | Additional Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | $41 | Unlimited | Required | Age fees apply |
| Hertz | $52 | Unlimited | Required | Age fees apply |
| Budget | $53 | Unlimited | Required | Age fees apply |
| Turo | Varies | Set by owner | Optional | Varies by owner |
Insurance Requirements:
– Use your own car insurance
– Purchase insurance from the rental company
– Utilize credit card benefits if available
Additional Fees to Consider:
– Age fees for drivers under 21 or over 70
– Fees for high-performance vehicles
– Fuel policies (most require returning with a full tank)
What Are the Specific Car Deals for the Spokane to Glacier National Park Route?
When planning your trip from Spokane to Glacier National Park, consider these specific car deals:
- Lowest Price Options:
- Small cars like Mitsubishi Mirage or Nissan Versa
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Rates as low as $30-$32 per day
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Rental Duration Deals:
- Weekly rentals: Average $551 ($79 per day)
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Monthly rentals: Average $2,361 ($79 per day)
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Loyalty Programs and Packages:
- AAA membership can reduce costs (e.g., with Hertz rentals)
- Booking in advance often yields better rates
- Use price comparison tools like Kayak or Momondo for best deals
What Are the Specific Requirements for Renting a Car?
Before renting a car for your Spokane to Glacier National Park trip, be aware of these requirements:
- Age Restrictions:
- Minimum age: 23 years old
- Drivers under 21: May face additional fees
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High-performance vehicles: Often restricted to drivers over 25
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Deposit Requirements:
- Credit card typically required for deposit
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Amount varies by rental company
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Fuel Policies:
- Most companies require returning the car with a full tank
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Alternative: Pay for fuel used during rental
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Cancellation Terms:
- Policies vary by company
- Many offer free cancellation or flexible booking options
- Check terms when booking through platforms like Momondo or Kayak
How Can I Find the Best Deals on Car Rentals from Spokane to Glacier National Park?
To secure the best deals on car rentals for your Spokane to Glacier National Park trip, consider these strategies:
- Compare Multiple Rental Companies:
- Use comparison websites like Kayak, Momondo, or Expedia
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Check rates directly on rental company websites
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Look for Promotional Codes:
- Search for current promotional codes or discounts
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Sign up for rental company newsletters for exclusive offers
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Consider Membership Discounts:
- AAA, AARP, or Costco memberships often provide discounts
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Check if your employer offers corporate rates with rental companies
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Book in Advance:
- Rates often increase closer to the rental date
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Booking early can secure better prices, especially during peak season
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Be Flexible with Pickup and Drop-off Locations:
- Sometimes, picking up at an airport and dropping off at a different location can be cheaper
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Compare rates between airport and off-airport locations
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Check for Package Deals:
- Bundling car rental with flights or hotels can sometimes offer savings
- Look for vacation packages that include car rentals
What Should I Know About Driving from Spokane to Glacier National Park?
Before embarking on your journey from Spokane to Glacier National Park, consider these important factors:
- Distance and Travel Time:
- Approximately 275 miles (443 km)
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Driving time: 4.5 to 5 hours without stops
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Route Options:
- I-90 East to US-93 North is the most direct route
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Consider scenic detours through Flathead National Forest for added beauty
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Road Conditions:
- Check weather forecasts, especially in winter months
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Be prepared for mountain driving and potential wildlife encounters
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Fuel Stops:
- Plan fuel stops in advance, especially in more remote areas
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Consider a fuel-efficient vehicle to minimize costs
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Park Entry Fees:
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Check current Glacier National Park entry fees and consider an annual pass if planning multiple visits
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Vehicle Recommendations:
- SUV or vehicle with higher clearance for park roads
- Consider 4WD if planning to explore more remote areas
By following these tips and thoroughly comparing your options, you can find the cheapest car rentals from Spokane to Glacier National Park while ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
References:
1. https://www.reddit.com/r/GlacierNationalPark/comments/sq80in/best_ways_to_get_around_instead_of_insane_car/
2. https://www.kayak.com/Glacier-National-Park-Car-Rentals.f2004616.crr.html
3. https://www.momondo.com/car-rental/Glacier-National-Park-f2004616-crr.ksp