Car Rental Wichita, KS

Yes, most visitors will need one. You can find rideshare services, but Wichita's attractions are spread out and public transportation is limited. A rental car gives you the most freedom and is the best value for exploring the city and the area.

You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name as well as proof of insurance if you don't want to buy the rental company's coverage. If you're visiting from another country, you should bring your passport. An International Driving Permit is also a good idea if your license isn't in English.

To get the best selection and price, you should book your car 1-3 weeks ahead of your trip. If you're traveling during busy times like summer or holidays, or if you need a certain kind of car like a minivan or SUV, we suggest booking 3-4 weeks in advance.

Most visitors find that a compact or mid-size car works well for driving in the city and taking short highway trips. If you're traveling with family, you might want an SUV or minivan for more room. During the winter (December to February), you should think about getting a car that has good all-season tires or all-wheel drive.

The Kansas Turnpike is changing to a cashless toll system. Many plazas still have booths where you can pay using cash or a card, but some newer parts of the road scan your license plate instead. If you drive through a part that scans plates, the rental company gets the bill and will charge it to your credit card. Most rental companies also add a service fee. This fee is usually about $3-6 for each day you use a toll road, but it's capped for the week. Companies might also offer a daily toll pass you can buy. You should always ask the person at the rental counter about their rules for tolls.

If you hear warnings for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes, listen to a local radio station for updates. If it gets hard to see, pull your car all the way off the road in a safe spot. Do not stop under an overpass. If there is a tornado warning, get to a strong building for shelter. You should never stay in your car during a tornado warning.

Yes. You can take the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway (K-177), which is about an hour northeast of Wichita. There you'll see beautiful prairie views. Another choice is the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway (US-160). It's about 90 minutes southwest of the city and has sights of red-rock mesas and buttes.