How to find a cheap car hire deal in Columbia (COU)
Whether you need a compact for zipping around town or a bigger ride for longer drives, we'll help you find a cheap Columbia rental car. Pick from options averaging $231 a day and hit the road for less.
The cheapest daily price for a rental at Columbia is $124.
Staying on a bit longer? Grab a weekly rental from $862 and explore beyond the usual highlights of Columbia.
To land the cheapest price, book your COU car hire around three weeks in advance.
Grab your wheels from Enterprise, National or Hertz, some of the most popular providers at Columbia.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Columbia car hire policy, whether with Enterprise or another supplier. Some companies might not include it in the base price and instead sell it separately.
Booking one-way could save you cash on your car hire. Providers sometimes offer lower prices when vehicles need to be relocated. Just select 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in COU.
Avoid any unexpected charges by booking a car hire in Columbia with a 'Fair fuel policy.' Begin and end your trip with a full tank, paying only for what you use.
Go wherever the road takes you by booking a rental with 'Unlimited mileage.' Located under the 'Policies' filter, these rides let you drive as far as you need without paying more.
Best value car hire options right now
Coming in first for value is this company, with average prices of $183 a day.
Sitting in second place, this provider offers daily rates of around $173.
The third option also helps keep your travel costs low. Expect to pay roughly $226 a day for one of their rentals.
Need a car that covers most travel plans? The Large rental category comes in as the leading choice for travellers at COU.
Compare car hire types from Columbia (COU)
Small: These cheap Columbia rental cars may be small in size, but they're big where it counts. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, fuel efficient, and perfect for city driving or short trips.
Medium: Choose from compact and intermediate cars that combine space, fuel efficiency and comfort. Easy to manoeuvre around cities and roomy enough for longer drives, they're a reliable pick for most journeys.
Large: You've got the kids, the suitcases, the snacks, the everything. Large vehicles have got the capacity to handle it all without breaking a sweat. Ideal for long-distance trips, this COU car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are adventure on four wheels. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and winding backroads alike.
Van: If you need a car for rent in Columbia that fits a small crowd (and their suitcases), a van is the roomy solution. Including commercial vans and trucks, they're just the thing for group outings, business needs or moving.
Insurance and optional extras
Choosing excess insurance for your COU car hire gives you peace of mind. It protects you from paying a hefty excess fee in case of theft or damage. Insurance policies aren't the same across all rental providers, so always compare your options.
Take your ride to the next level with handy extras like a navigation system or mobile Wi-Fi. They can make your trip easier and more enjoyable when you rent a car in Columbia.
Good to know
You generally have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in the United States. Younger drivers aren't always turned away — just be ready for a few added rules or costs. Check the companies' terms and conditions before booking.
Travelling with kids? Car seat rules vary according to the location, and the right setup may depend on their weight, age and height. Make sure you add the right one to your COU car rental booking.
You'll be asked for a few things when collecting your rental car: your physical driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card with enough balance for the deposit. Debit cards usually aren't accepted. Any other requirements will be listed in your booking.
Get acquainted with your rental. Adjust your seat and mirrors, find the lights and wipers, and get used to how it handles before you set off. And don't forget to stick to the right side of the road in the United States.
Local speed limits can vary, but it's normally around 40kph in built-up areas and 110kph or so along highways. Always go by the posted signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Since alcohol's effects vary from person to person, it's best to skip drinks entirely so you remain legal to drive.
The United States dollar (USD) is the currency you'll be using for everyday expenses and excursions. Use cards when it's convenient, and keep some cash handy when electronic payments aren't available.
Drive smarter from the start
Buckle up and go after you've picked up your COU car hire. Central Columbia is about 18 kilometres to the northwest if that's the direction you're heading.
Allow roughly 30 minutes to travel from Columbia to the city centre during peak travel times.
Around 5pm is one of the busiest times to be on the road in this destination. Try to avoid peak travel times generally for a more relaxed drive.
Don't need a set of wheels the moment you land? Consider picking up a car hire in Columbia instead of at the airport. That way, you won't pay for days you don't use.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Columbia (COU)
Before you go anywhere else, do some sightseeing around Columbia first. Well-known attractions like Museum of Art and Archaeology and Mizzou Botanic Garden set the tone for your whole journey.
Jefferson City should be on your to-do list if you want to see Missouri State Penitentiary and Missouri State Penitentiary Museum. This city is around 27 kilometres south of COU.
Alternatively, drive over to Sedalia in your Columbia car hire. It's about 88 kilometres west of the airport and offers attractions like Daum Museum of Contemporary Art.
Extend your journey and road-trip it to Springfield, around 209 kilometres southwest of COU. Make your first stop Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, then follow it up with Original Section of Historic Route 66.
