Car Rental at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX)

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Renting a car at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is one of the most popular and convenient ways to explore Phoenix and the surrounding areas. Thanks to its modern infrastructure and centralized Rental Car Center, the process is generally smooth and efficient. A car is especially recommended if you plan to visit places beyond downtown, as public transport coverage is limited in many parts of Arizona.

Booking your car at least 1–2 weeks in advance usually results in better prices and availability, especially during peak seasons.

Prices & Car Types

Rental prices vary depending on demand, season, and vehicle type. On average:

Economy cars: $30–$50/day
Mid-size cars: $35–$60/day
SUVs: $50–$80/day
Minivans: $60–$90/day

Economy and mid-size cars are the most commonly rented, while SUVs are popular for families and road trips.

Choose a car with air conditioning and consider covered parking—Phoenix temperatures can be extremely high in summer.

Insurance Options Explained

Car rental companies typically offer several types of insurance:

CDW/LDW (Collision/Loss Damage Waiver): Covers damage to the rental vehicle
Liability Insurance: Covers damage to third parties
Personal Accident Insurance: Covers medical expenses
Theft Protection: Covers theft of the vehicle

Check if your credit card or travel insurance already includes coverage, you may not need to purchase all options.

Popular Destinations by Car

Renting a car opens access to some of Arizona’s top destinations:

Scottsdale – 20 minutes
Sedona – 2 hours
Grand Canyon – 3.5 hours
Tempe – 15 minutes

Traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM), especially on highways like I-10.

Rental Companies Comparison

Company	Avg. Price/day	Customer Rating	Best For
Hertz	$40–$70	★★★★☆	Premium service
Enterprise	$45–$75	★★★★☆	Customer service
Budget	$30–$60	★★★☆☆	Low cost
Sixt	$45–$70	★★★★☆	Modern fleet

Estimated Waiting Times

Company	Avg. Wait Time	Notes
Hertz	10–30 min	Faster with membership
Budget	30–90 min	Busy periods may increase wait
Enterprise	10–25 min	Efficient service
Alamo	15–30 min	Self-service options available

Wait times can vary significantly depending on demand, with some travelers reporting delays of up to 1–2 hours during peak periods.

Process & Tips

Step	Details	Tip
1. Arrival	Take PHX Sky Train to Rental Center	Follow clear airport signage
2. Check-in	At counter or kiosk	Use online check-in to skip lines
3. Pickup	Go to assigned parking area	Inspect car before leaving
4. Return	Return at Rental Center	Allow 20–30 min before flight

Overall, renting a car at PHX is one of the best ways to explore Arizona with flexibility and comfort, especially if you plan to visit destinations beyond the city.