Yes, many rental car companies in snowy regions can provide vehicles equipped with snow tires, but it is not a standard offering and is highly dependent on the location, time of year, and specific rental provider. You typically need to request them in advance, and they often come with an additional daily fee. The key is to plan ahead, as availability is limited.
The most reliable way to secure a car with snow tires is to book directly through the rental company's website or by calling their local office. At major locations in mountainous or northern states—like Denver, Salt Lake City, or airports in Vermont—you'll have a much higher chance of finding this option. During peak winter months, these vehicles are in high demand, so a last-minute request at the counter is unlikely to be successful.
It's crucial to understand the terminology. Snow tires (or winter tires) are made from a softer rubber compound that stays pliable in freezing temperatures, providing significantly better traction on ice and snow compared to all-season tires. Some companies may offer vehicles with all-weather tires (a step above all-season but not as effective as dedicated snow tires) or all-wheel drive (AWD). While AWD helps with acceleration, it does not improve braking or cornering traction on ice; that's where winter tires make the critical difference.
Always confirm what you're getting. Ask if the tires are M+S (Mud and Snow) rated or, even better, carry the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, which is the industry standard for severe snow service.
| Rental Company | Typical Snow Tire Policy | Average Additional Cost (Per Day) | Best Method to Request |
|---|
| Enterprise | Available at select locations; must be requested in advance. | $10 - $15 | Call the local branch directly. |
| Hertz | Offered as "Winter Equipment" in specific markets. | $12 - $18 | Use the "Special Requests" section online. |
| Avis | Limited availability, primarily in high-demand ski areas. | $10 - $20 | Pre-pay for a "Winter Package" during booking. |
| Budget | Similar to Avis; not guaranteed without prior reservation. | $8 - $15 | Confirm via customer service after booking. |
| Local/Regional Companies | Often more likely to have them standard in winter. | Sometimes included | Specify need when making the reservation. |
If snow tires are unavailable, prioritize renting an AWD or 4WD vehicle. While the tires are the most important factor for safety, AWD provides an extra layer of control when driving in challenging conditions.
