Where Can I Rent a Car on Sunday

Renting a car on Sunday is easier than you think—many major rental agencies operate on weekends, especially near airports and tourist areas. With a little planning and insider knowledge, you can secure a reliable ride without the weekday rush or closed counters.

Key Takeaways

• Airport locations are your best bet: Most airport-based car rental agencies are open seven days a week, including Sundays, with extended hours.
• Major brands offer Sunday service: Companies like Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget typically have Sunday hours, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Book in advance to guarantee availability: Weekend demand can spike, so reserving your car ahead of time ensures you get the vehicle you need.
• Check local branch hours online: Not all locations follow the same schedule—always verify opening times before heading out.
• Consider off-airport locations for savings: Some suburban or city-center branches may be open on Sundays and offer lower rates than airport counters.
• Use rental comparison tools: Websites like Kayak, Rentalcars.com, and Expedia let you filter by Sunday availability and compare prices instantly.
• Be aware of return policies: Some agencies charge extra for after-hours returns or have limited Sunday drop-off options—plan accordingly.

Why Renting a Car on Sunday Is More Accessible Than You Think

You’ve got plans for Sunday—maybe a weekend getaway, a family visit, or just running errands without relying on public transit. But here’s the thing: you need a car, and you’re not sure if rental agencies are even open. The good news? You’re not out of luck. In fact, renting a car on Sunday is more doable today than ever before.

Gone are the days when car rental counters shut down after Friday. With the rise of 24/7 travel, tourism, and flexible work schedules, many major rental companies have adapted to serve customers seven days a week. Whether you’re picking up at an airport, a downtown office, or even a hotel kiosk, there are plenty of options—if you know where to look.

But it’s not just about availability. It’s about smart planning. Knowing which locations are open, how to book efficiently, and what to watch out for can save you time, money, and stress. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to rent a car on Sunday with confidence.

Where to Find Car Rentals Open on Sunday

If you’re wondering where you can rent a car on Sunday, the answer often starts at the airport. That’s because airport rental locations are among the most consistently open on weekends, including Sundays. These hubs serve travelers arriving and departing every day of the week, so they’re built for constant operation.

Major rental brands like Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, National, and Alamo all maintain strong Sunday presences at airports across the U.S. and internationally. For example, if you’re flying into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Chicago O’Hare, you’ll find multiple counters open from early morning until late at night. Even smaller regional airports often have at least one or two agencies operating on Sundays.

But airports aren’t your only option. Many city-based branches—especially in tourist-heavy areas like Orlando, Las Vegas, or New York City—are open on Sundays to accommodate weekend visitors. Enterprise, for instance, has numerous neighborhood locations that operate seven days a week, often with more flexible hours than their airport counterparts.

Airport vs. Off-Airport Rentals: What’s the Difference?

When deciding where to rent, you’ll likely face a choice: airport or off-airport. Each has its pros and cons.

Airport rentals are convenient. You land, walk a short distance, and pick up your keys. They’re also more likely to be open on Sundays and offer a wider selection of vehicles. However, they come with added fees—airport concession fees, vehicle licensing fees, and sometimes higher base rates. These can add $10–$20 per day to your total cost.

Off-airport locations, on the other hand, are often cheaper. Without the airport surcharges, you could save a meaningful amount, especially on longer rentals. Many are open on Sundays, particularly in busy cities or near hotels and shopping centers. The trade-off? You may need to take a shuttle, rideshare, or public transit to reach them, which adds time and complexity.

For example, if you’re in Miami, you might find an Enterprise branch in downtown open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, with compact cars starting at $35/day—compared to $55/day at the airport. That’s a $20 daily saving, which adds up fast.

How to Verify Sunday Hours Before You Go

Here’s a pro tip: never assume a location is open just because it’s a big brand. Always double-check the hours. The easiest way is to visit the rental company’s official website and use their “Find a Location” tool. Most sites let you filter by day of the week and show real-time operating hours.

For example, Hertz’s website allows you to search by city and then view each branch’s schedule, including Sunday hours. You can even call the specific location directly—most have local phone numbers listed. A quick call can confirm not just hours, but also vehicle availability and any special Sunday policies.

Another smart move? Use third-party booking platforms like Kayak or Rentalcars.com. These sites often display operating hours and let you filter results to show only locations open on Sundays. That way, you can compare prices and availability in one place.

Top Car Rental Companies That Operate on Sundays

Not all rental companies are created equal when it comes to Sunday service. Some are more reliable than others. Here’s a breakdown of the top brands and what you can expect on a Sunday.

Enterprise: Neighborhood Access and Sunday Hours

Enterprise is one of the most accessible options for Sunday rentals. With over 7,000 locations in the U.S. alone, many of their neighborhood branches are open seven days a week. They’re especially strong in suburban and urban areas, making them ideal if you’re not near an airport.

For instance, an Enterprise location in Austin, Texas, might be open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday, offering everything from economy cars to SUVs and trucks. Plus, Enterprise often provides free pickup and drop-off services—great if you don’t have a ride to the rental office.

One thing to note: while Enterprise is generally reliable, not every branch follows the same schedule. Always confirm hours online or by phone.

Hertz: Airport Dominance and 24/7 Options

Hertz is a go-to for many travelers, especially at major airports. Many Hertz counters operate 24/7, meaning you can pick up or return a car at any time—even at 2 a.m. on a Sunday. This is a huge advantage if you’re on an early flight or arriving late.

Hertz also offers a “Gold Plus Rewards” program that lets you skip the counter and go straight to your car if you’re a member. On a busy Sunday, that can save you 15–20 minutes of waiting in line.

However, Hertz airport locations can get crowded on weekends. If you’re not a rewards member, expect a bit of a wait during peak times—like Sunday mornings when people are returning from weekend trips.

Avis and Budget: Weekend Warriors

Avis and Budget (both owned by the same parent company) are strong contenders for Sunday rentals. They operate extensively at airports and in cities, with many locations open on Sundays.

Avis, in particular, is known for its customer service and frequent promotions. They often run weekend deals, like “Sunday Specials” with discounted rates or free upgrades. Budget, on the other hand, focuses on affordability—perfect if you’re looking to save.

One tip: Avis and Budget sometimes share counters at smaller airports. If one is closed, the other might still be open—so it pays to check both.

National Car Rental: The Elite Option

National is a favorite among business travelers and frequent renters. Their “Emerald Club” loyalty program allows members to choose their car from the lot and go—no counter visit needed. This is a game-changer on a Sunday when lines can be long.

National locations are typically open on Sundays, especially at airports. They also offer a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to luxury SUVs. If you’re planning a special Sunday trip—like a wine tour in Napa or a beach day in San Diego—National might be worth the extra cost.

How to Book a Sunday Car Rental Like a Pro

Booking a car for Sunday isn’t just about finding an open location—it’s about doing it smart. A little strategy can save you money, time, and hassle.

Book Early—Especially on Weekends

Weekend demand for rental cars can be surprisingly high. Think about it: people are traveling for leisure, visiting family, or taking short trips. That means vehicles—especially popular models like SUVs or minivans—can sell out fast.

Booking at least 7–14 days in advance gives you the best selection and rates. If you wait until Saturday night to book for Sunday, you might be stuck with limited options or higher prices.

For example, a quick search on a Friday might show 15 SUVs available at LAX for Sunday pickup. By Saturday afternoon, that number could drop to three—and the remaining ones could be $20/day more expensive.

Use Comparison Sites to Find the Best Deals

Don’t rely on just one website. Use comparison tools like Kayak, Priceline, or Rentalcars.com to scan multiple agencies at once. These platforms let you filter by Sunday availability, price, vehicle type, and pickup location.

You might discover that a smaller agency—like Thrifty or Dollar—offers a better rate than Hertz or Avis, even if it’s less well-known. Just be sure to read the fine print on insurance, fuel policies, and cancellation terms.

Pro tip: Set up price alerts. Some sites let you monitor a specific route and date, so you’ll get an email if prices drop.

Consider One-Way Rentals and Return Policies

Planning a Sunday road trip? You might need a one-way rental—picking up in one city and dropping off in another. Many agencies allow this, but it often comes with a “drop fee.”

For example, renting from Enterprise in Denver and dropping off in Colorado Springs might cost an extra $50–$100. But if you’re only going one way, it could still be cheaper than a round-trip fare.

Also, pay attention to return policies. Some agencies charge extra for after-hours returns or require you to return during business hours. If you’re dropping off on Sunday evening, make sure the location is open—or that they have a secure drop box.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best planning, things can go wrong. Here are some common Sunday rental mistakes—and how to dodge them.

Assuming All Locations Are Open

This is the #1 mistake people make. Just because a company has Sunday hours at the airport doesn’t mean the downtown branch is open. Always verify.

For example, an Avis location in downtown Phoenix might be closed on Sundays, while the one at Sky Harbor Airport is open. Don’t show up expecting service—check first.

Overlooking Hidden Fees

Airport rentals come with extra charges. These can include:
– Airport concession fee (5–10% of rental cost)
– Vehicle licensing fee ($1–$3/day)
– Tourism tax (varies by city)

These can add $15–$30 per day to your bill. To avoid surprises, ask for a full breakdown when booking—or use a comparison site that shows all-in pricing.

Skipping the Pre-Rental Inspection

Always inspect the car before driving off—even on a busy Sunday. Check for dents, scratches, tire condition, and interior cleanliness. Take photos or videos as proof.

If you skip this step, the agency might charge you for damage that wasn’t your fault. It only takes five minutes, but it could save you hundreds.

Forgetting to Refuel Properly

Most rentals come with a full tank and require you to return it full. If you don’t, they’ll charge you for refueling—often at $8–$10 per gallon.

To avoid this, fill up at a gas station near the return location. Some apps like GasBuddy can help you find the cheapest fuel nearby.

Alternative Options When Traditional Rentals Are Closed

What if you can’t find a standard rental open on Sunday? Don’t panic—there are alternatives.

Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing

Platforms like Turo and Getaround let you rent cars directly from local owners. Many of these vehicles are available 24/7, with keyless entry via smartphone apps.

For example, you might find a clean Honda Civic in Seattle available for $30/day on Turo—no counter visit needed. Just unlock it with your phone and go.

These services are especially useful in cities where traditional rentals are limited on Sundays.

Hotel and Resort Partnerships

Some hotels partner with rental agencies to offer on-site car rentals. For instance, a resort in Orlando might have an Enterprise kiosk in the lobby, open on Sundays for guests.

Check with your hotel before booking—they might have a deal or shuttle service to a nearby rental location.

Public Transit and Rideshares—When All Else Fails

If you can’t get a rental, consider alternatives. In cities like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco, public transit is robust and often runs on Sundays.

Or use rideshares like Uber or Lyft for short trips. While not ideal for full-day use, they can cover you in a pinch.

Final Tips for a Smooth Sunday Rental Experience

Renting a car on Sunday doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, it can be just as easy—and often cheaper—than a weekday rental.

Start by planning ahead. Book early, compare prices, and confirm hours. Choose the right location—airport for convenience, off-airport for savings. And always read the fine print.

Remember: the key to a great rental experience is preparation. Know what you need, where to look, and what to avoid. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, the beach, or just across town, you’ve got this.

And the next time someone asks, “Where can I rent a car on Sunday?”—you’ll have all the answers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are car rental agencies open on Sundays?

Yes, many major car rental agencies are open on Sundays, especially at airports and in busy cities. Brands like Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis often have Sunday hours, but it’s best to check specific locations online or by phone.

Can I rent a car on Sunday without a reservation?

It’s possible, but not recommended. Weekend demand can be high, and walk-in availability is limited. Booking in advance ensures you get the vehicle you want at the best price.

Do airport rental counters charge extra on Sundays?

Airport locations charge the same base rates every day, but they do include additional fees like airport concessions and licensing. These fees apply regardless of the day, so Sunday rentals aren’t more expensive—just potentially busier.

What if I need to return my rental on Sunday?

Most airport locations accept returns on Sundays, even after hours. Some have drop boxes or 24/7 service. Off-airport locations may have limited hours, so confirm return policies when booking.

Are there discounts for Sunday rentals?

Some companies offer weekend promotions or loyalty member discounts. Check the rental agency’s website or sign up for their rewards program to access special Sunday deals.

Can I rent a car on Sunday if I’m under 25?

Yes, but drivers under 25 may face a young renter fee and have limited vehicle options. Requirements vary by company, so check age policies before booking.