This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in Traverse City with a pick-up date of 9/30 and drop-off date of 10/6. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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KAYAK’s insights & trends for Traverse City car rentals
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in Traverse City with confidence.
How far in advance should you book a rental car in Traverse City?
You should book your rental car in Traverse City around 87 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Traverse City?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Budget ($38/day), Hertz ($39/day) and National ($43/day). The cheapest rental car price was found at Budget, 727 Fly Don't Drive (2.7 mi from city center).
What is the most popular rental car in Traverse City?
Rentals in the SUV category (Chevrolet Blazer or similar) are the most popular option in Traverse City, costing $80/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $35/day.
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Traverse City?
The cheapest month to rent a car in Traverse City is February at an average cost of $49/day. July is the most expensive month to rent a car in Traverse City when prices are $104/day on average, which tends to be 57% above the yearly average rental price for Traverse City.
What rental car company in Traverse City has the most locations?
Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 3 locations in Traverse City, more than any other rental company.
Traverse City car rental price comparison by vehicle type
Find the right rental car in Traverse City by comparing prices across vehicle types.
Small
Medium
Large
SUV
Van
Pickup truck
Luxury
Convertible
Small cars
$34 - $84
All Car Types
$61 - $120
How much does it cost to rent a small car in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a medium car in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a large car in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent an SUV in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a van in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a pickup truck in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a luxury car in Traverse City?
How much does it cost to rent a convertible in Traverse City?
Small car rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $55 per day. The best time to book is January, when prices average $34 per day which is about 39% less than the yearly average. Small cars are usually 33% cheaper than the average rental in Traverse City, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Medium car rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $75 per day. The best time to book is November, when prices average $59 per day which is about 22% less than the yearly average. Medium cars are usually 8% cheaper than the average rental in Traverse City, offering a good balance of space and value.
Large car rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $78 per day. The best time to book is December, when prices average $45 per day which is about 43% less than the yearly average. Large cars can be 4% cheaper than the average rental in Traverse City, offering more comfort for longer trips at a valuable price.
SUV rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $81 per day. The best time to book is April, when prices average $58 per day which is about 29% less than the yearly average. SUVs are usually the same price as an average rental in Traverse City.
Van rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $134 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $97 per day which is about 28% less than the yearly average. Vans are typically 40% more expensive than the average rental in Traverse City, but are the best choice for families or groups needing maximum passenger capacity.
Pickup truck rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $80 per day. The best time to book is October, when prices average $51 per day which is about 37% less than the yearly average. Pickup trucks are 2% cheaper than the average rental in Traverse City, a practical choice for hauling gear or outdoor adventures.
Luxury car rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $96 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $74 per day which is about 23% less than the yearly average. Luxury cars are typically 16% more expensive than the average rental in Traverse City, but deliver premium comfort and style for special occasions.
Convertible rentals in Traverse City typically cost around $90 per day. The best time to book is February, when prices average $35 per day which is about 62% less than the yearly average. Convertibles are typically 10% more expensive than the average rental in Traverse City, perfect for scenic drives and warm-weather destinations.
Good to know
Most popular agency
Most popular car type
Average price
Good deal
Turo
Medium
$79/day
$65/day
Traverse City car rental experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users
Insights shared by verified travelers who rented a car in Traverse City
It was great to have the agency in the terminal. Very easy and convenient. There is a Costco that is in the parking lot right before the terminal. Very easy if you are a member.
Verified travelerJul 2024
Ensure the cars are available before booking
Verified travelerAug 2023
Recommended finding a rental with more payment options.
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Traverse City
People travel to Traverse City to explore the architectural treasure at the Grand Traverse Commons and to check out the annual Cherry Festival in the spring. This former medical institution has impressive castle-like buildings, which have been converted into restaurants, galleries, and boutiques as well as office spaces, and has easy access to parking. Traverse City car rentals will allow you to take a scenic drive along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and take in the Traverse City Beaches located on West Grand Traverse Bay. Although there is a bus system in Traverse City called Bay Area Transportation Authority, it is limited to five city loops within miles of the downtown area. If you have your sights set on exploring more of the city and the surrounding area, a car rental in Traverse City will come in handy.
Traverse City is served by the Cherry Capital Airport located a few miles east of the city center of Traverse City. The car rental offices of companies like Hertz, Alamo, and Budget and their rental car parking lot can be found just off the exit from the baggage claim at the Cherry Capital Airport terminal.
Driving in Traverse City is pleasant with plenty of scenic options. The main highways serving Traverse City include the US 31, which takes you to Mackinaw City, the M-22, which is a scenic route around Lake Michigan, the M-37 that heads south to the Manistee National Forest or north to the Grand Traverse Bay, and the M-72, which connects the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with Lake Huron.
South Airport Road and 14th Street, particularly in the summer, are the most likely to get congested, particularly during peak hours in the morning, 7am to 9am when commuters head downtown for work. Traverse City averages about 80 inches of snowfall a year. If you’re here during the winter months, practice safe snow driving techniques by driving slowly, alertly, and defensively. Allow for extra time on your trips and turn your low-beam headlights on.
You may use the car rental services after getting to Traverse city station, the most popular train station in Traverse. However, you must arrange the drop-off location with your car rental company as there are no rental offices at the train station. Most cheap car rentals in Traverse, like Budget, will have the car waiting for you as soon as you arrive at the custom location per the client's request.
Choose a car at Traverse City car rentals and explore what the city and the surroundings have to offer. Enjoy dinner, wine tours, and wine tasting in the beautiful room on Old Mission Peninsula at the Bowers Harbor Vineyards. The vineyard is 20min away from the city, an 11.8 miles drive. Go sightseeing in Leelanau State Park and climb the Grand Traverse Light House to see experience the view of Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. The lighthouse is 53min away from Traverse, 37.1 miles. If you are a long-distance driving fan, catch the sunset as you enjoy the scenery at Frankfort Beach. It will take about 1h to cover the 42 miles distance.
Even with the recommendable infrastructure, you may experience traffic hiccups during the annual festivities held in Traverse. In July, the National Cherry Festival is held for eight days. Due to the vast number of people attending the festivals, some roads may be closed. The road closure leads to traffic building up in the city. The Vasa Festival of Races, held in February, has many ski athletes visiting Traverse. Apart from the weather, the number of attendees leads to some road closures, causing traffic on the open roads. Downtown Traverse usually bursts with partygoers on New Year's Eve as they attend the Cherry T Ball Drop festival. Getting to the venue is challenging due to traffic, but you could use the back roads and be careful of the jaywalkers.
25% of our users found rental cars in Traverse City for $65 or less
Medium rental cars in Traverse City are around 40% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Traverse City
What type of car is recommended for driving in Traverse City?
We recommend an economy or compact car for city driving so that you can find parking easily wherever you want to go. Alternatively, if you know you will be spending a lot of time on Traverse City’s scenic routes, you could opt for a car rental in Traverse City that is a standard or intermediate SUV for more legroom, more amenities, and more space for your luggage.
What’s the speed limit in Traverse City?
In Traverse City, expect 55mph speed limits on most state and county highways, and then reduce your speed to the 25mph speed limits when driving in business and residential areas. Speed cameras are not allowed in Michigan and speeding is controlled by the local Traverse City police officers on duty.
Where are the best places to park in Traverse City?
Wherever your destination in Traverse City, parking is plentiful. You’ll find meters for up to 2h and up to 10h parking throughout both the downtown and lakeside area. Parking meters accept coin payment, however, the easiest is to download ParkMobile on your smartphone for easy payment. Most meters offer the first 30min for free to make your quick errands even easier. If you need to make a stay even longer, simply head to the parking lots on Larry C. Hardy or in Old Town. Parking is free in Traverse City on the weekends and weeknights after 6pm. Check around Old Deck for free parking options.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Traverse City?
On average a rental car in Traverse City costs $79 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Traverse City found in the last 2 weeks is $53.
Which car rental companies are at Cherry Capital airport (TVC)?
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Cherry Capital airport (TVC)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Cherry Capital airport to off-airport locations include Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Hertz.
How can I find car rentals near me in Traverse City?
How much does a Medium car rental cost in Traverse City?
A Medium car rental in Traverse City costs $79 per day, on average.
How much does a Small car rental cost in Traverse City?
A Small car rental in Traverse City costs $84 per day, on average.
How much does a Luxury car rental cost in Traverse City?
A Luxury car rental in Traverse City costs $101 per day, on average.
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Traverse City?
Most car rental providers in Traverse City offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Traverse City, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Traverse City?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 12 car rental agencies in Traverse City.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Traverse City?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Traverse City?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Traverse City so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
Is carpooling allowed in Traverse?
You can share a ride in your vehicle from cheap car rentals in Traverse with your friends. Carpooling is encouraged in Traverse as it is cost-effective, mitigates congestion, and is convenient for the environment due to lowered gas emissions. High Occupancy lanes for carpooling are available in Traverse.
Does Traverse have toll roads?
Enjoy driving toll-free while in Traverse. You can be sure that even the busy M-113 highway has no toll stations available. Always be updated about the road conditions due to weather changes and the traffic flow.
Conveince, while your waiting on your bags, the Avus counter is right there. Great service. Excelent car selection.
1 out of 4
Budget
8.0
Very good
Cleanliness
7.8
Comfort
8.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.3
Value for money
7.9
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Don't Drive
+1 231 947 3883
Monday
08:30 - 23:59
Tuesday
08:30 - 23:59
Wednesday
08:30 - 23:59
Thursday
08:30 - 23:59
Friday
08:30 - 23:59
Saturday
09:00 - 23:59
Sunday
10:00 - 23:59
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Mar 2026
Intermediate SUV
They never let me pick up a car, they said they don’t do same day rentals
8.0 Very good
Anonymous, Sep 2025
Intermediate SUV
The experience was great. I'm just not such a fan of the Volvo XC 60 we had to drive.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Sep 2025
Intermediate
The pick up agent was extremely rude. The vehicle had the engine light and maintenance required message was on dash. They would NOT give me a different vehicle. They have me a rental with warning lights on and expected me to drive it and told me if anything happens, just call roadside services. Cool!! Just what someone wants, to break down and be stranded on the side of the road!
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Aug 2025
Minivan
Rude employees. Waited in hour in line. Was told they don’t have my rental van and tried to give me a small suv that had 5 seats when I needed 7. Had to wait another hour and a half for a van.
10.0 Wonderful
Joseph, May 2025
Standard SUV
Excellent car, price, and service.
2.0 Poor
Danny, Jun 2024
Intermediate SUV
The final cost was nearly $200 more than when I booked online and the car reaked of cigarette smoke.
1 out of 5
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
7.7
Good
Cleanliness
7.6
Comfort
7.7
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.2
Value for money
6.9
3 locations in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
1789 Garfield Avenue South
+1 231 933 7000
Monday
08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 17:00
Thursday
08:00 - 17:00
Friday
08:00 - 17:00
Saturday
Sunday
3464 N Us Highway 31 S
+1 231 941 6657
Opening times not available
727 Fly Dont Dr
+1 844 996 0645
Monday
09:30 - 18:00
Tuesday
09:30 - 18:00
Wednesday
09:30 - 18:00
Thursday
09:30 - 18:00
Friday
09:30 - 18:00
Saturday
09:30 - 18:00
Sunday
09:30 - 18:00
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2026
Standard SUV
People were nice and friendly.
10.0 Wonderful
David, Nov 2024
Minivan
Excellent
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2024
Compact
Very friendly and very easy!
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jul 2024
Luxury
I rented a car online and did not get a car. Before I picked it up, I received a call that Enterprise didn’t have any cars despite the website still showing they have cars. I was inconvenienced and did not receive anything from Enterprise other than a robotic “sorry”. They didn’t even have the decency for customer service to call me back
4.0 Mediocre
Katie, Jul 2024
Minivan
It took 1 1/2 hours from when I got in line to when I got in the car during pickup. Drop off was very easy and fast.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Mar 2024
Standard
They told me they did not have a car for me when I arrived at the airport even though I had a reservation. What is the point of a reservation?
1 out of 2
Alamo
7.7
Good
Cleanliness
8.0
Comfort
7.7
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.7
Value for money
7.7
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Dont Dr
+1 844 370 9797
Monday
09:30 - 18:00
Tuesday
09:30 - 18:00
Wednesday
09:30 - 18:00
Thursday
09:30 - 18:00
Friday
09:30 - 18:00
Saturday
09:30 - 18:00
Sunday
09:30 - 18:00
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jul 2025
Standard
there were no cars available
8.0 Very good
Kim, Sep 2024
Supplier choice
I requested a receipt be sent by email, they did not and there is no way to call them.
8.0 Very good
Anonymous, Jul 2024
Intermediate SUV
new car. long line.
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Feb 2024
Standard SUV
The State of Michigan does not issue a picture with their temporary Id's and I had other Id's but not one with a picture so they wouldn't rent me a car. Last time I checked the License was a legal government document. Apparently it's a worthless government document.
1 out of 2
National
4.6
Mediocre
Cleanliness
8.6
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.6
Value for money
6.0
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Dont Dr
+1 844 370 9796
Monday
09:30 - 18:00
Tuesday
09:30 - 18:00
Wednesday
09:30 - 18:00
Thursday
09:30 - 18:00
Friday
09:30 - 18:00
Saturday
09:30 - 18:00
Sunday
09:30 - 18:00
Filters
No reviews available
Dollar
7.2
Good
One location in Traverse City
from$44/day
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Don't Drive
+1 231 946 7051
Monday
08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 18:00
Thursday
08:00 - 18:00
Friday
08:00 - 18:00
Saturday
10:00 - 18:00
Sunday
10:00 - 18:00
Filters
No reviews available
Thrifty
6.1
Okay
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Don't Drive
+1 231 946 7051
Monday
08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday
08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday
08:00 - 18:00
Thursday
08:00 - 18:00
Friday
08:00 - 18:00
Saturday
10:00 - 18:00
Sunday
10:00 - 18:00
Filters
No reviews available
Easirent
4.5
Mediocre
Cleanliness
5.2
Comfort
5.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.5
Value for money
5.1
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
Cherry Capital Airport
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
AutoEurope
No score available yet
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
Traverse City Airport
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Don`t Drive
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
VIPCars Recommendation
No score available yet
One location in Traverse City
Locations in Traverse City
727 Fly Don't Drive, Traverse City, , USA Michigan
+1 914 368 0091
Monday
10:30 - 20:00
Tuesday
10:30 - 20:00
Wednesday
10:00 - 20:00
Thursday
10:00 - 20:00
Friday
10:00 - 20:00
Saturday
10:00 - 20:00
Sunday
10:00 - 20:00
Filters
No reviews available
77 travelers who rented a car in Traverse City gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.8
Medium, SUV, Small, Large, Luxury, Pickup truck, Van
Rental locations
14
Airport locations
12
Popular agencies
Hertz, Budget, Alamo, Avis, Dollar
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