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| Location | Pros | Cons |
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| El Paso International Airport (ELP) |
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| City Center Locations |
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| Montana Ave Branches |
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On average, car rentals in El Paso cost around $78 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $29 per day.
Compare pickup spots: Airport counters add about 18% in fees. Check nearby Montana Ave or downtown branches on our site, then weigh any taxi/rideshare cost to see if the off-airport option really wins.
Tweak your dates: Rates in El Paso dip in early December and on rentals that span a Saturday night. Shift your pickup/return by a day when you search and watch the total fall.
Book early only for peak weeks: Spring Break and Christmas sell out fast, so lock something 2-3 weeks ahead. Off-peak? Reserve a cancel-free deal and keep re-checking—if the price drops, just rebook.
Stick to smaller classes: An economy or compact handles city streets and I-10 fine and runs $35-55 a day. Upsizing to an SUV can add $30+ daily plus more gas.
Finding a Spot:
Local Driving Rules:
Toll Roads: El Paso previously had toll sections on Border Highway West/Loop 375, but these tolls have been removed. The city currently has no active toll roads.
Book a rental car to get to:
White Sands National Park – gypsum dunes
Carlsbad Caverns National Park – cave system
Las Cruces, NM – Mesilla Plaza
Guadalupe Mountains National Park – Guadalupe Peak trailhead

Can I drive a rental car into Mexico from El Paso?
Most rental agreements don't allow you to drive into Mexico. Some rental companies offer special permission if you get extra Mexican insurance, but you have to arrange this beforehand and it usually costs more.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring El Paso and surrounding areas?
A mid-size sedan is good enough for driving in the city and on most paved highways. If you plan to take desert trips or visit national parks, a small SUV will give you better clearance and a more comfortable ride.
How does crossing the Border Patrol checkpoint on I-10 work with a rental car?
The checkpoint is about 85 miles (137 km) east of El Paso near Sierra Blanca. You should have your ID ready (international visitors need a passport). The stop is usually quick for people in rental cars, but an agent will ask for your citizenship and the reason for your trip.
Is it worth exploring the scenic drives around El Paso?
Absolutely. Transmountain Road (Loop 375) and Scenic Drive give you spectacular views of the city, mountains and desert landscape. You can easily reach these routes in any standard rental car.
When is the best time to rent a car in El Paso for the most favorable rates?
You can usually find lower prices in December (but not during holiday weeks). You often get a better price when your weekday rental includes a Saturday night. You should book at least 2–3 weeks ahead of time to get the best deal.