Yes, you can absolutely rent a car from a Tuesday to a Sunday. This five-night, six-day rental is a very common and often cost-effective duration. Many rental companies have a minimum rental period (often 24 hours) but no strict maximum for standard rentals, making a Tuesday-to-Sunday trip perfectly feasible. The key factors affecting your rental will be the company's specific weekend policies and how you can structure the pickup and drop-off times to avoid extra fees.
The primary consideration is the weekend surcharge. Rental locations, especially those in airports or busy city centers, often charge higher daily rates for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Since your rental includes Thursday night through Sunday, you'll likely be paying weekend rates for at least a couple of days. To get the best deal, compare prices across different companies and consider picking up from a non-airport location, which might have lower weekend fees.
Always be precise with your pickup and drop-off times. If you pick up on Tuesday at 10:00 AM, you should aim to return the car by 10:00 AM on Sunday to avoid being charged for an extra full day. Even an hour late can result in a significant penalty. When booking, you'll specify these times, and the total cost will be calculated based on the time, not just the date.
Here is a comparison of estimated base rates from major companies for a standard economy car rental (Tuesday 10 AM to Sunday 10 AM):
| Rental Company | Estimated Total Cost (Excluding Taxes/Fees) | Key Policy Note |
|---|
| Enterprise | $285 - $380 | Often offers monthly rates that can be cheaper for longer rentals. |
| Hertz | $295 - $400 | AAA or other membership discounts can significantly lower the cost. |
| Avis | $300 - $390 | Weekend specials are sometimes available if booked in advance. |
| Budget | $275 - $365 | Prepaying online can lock in a lower rate. |
| National | $310 - $420 | Emerald Club membership can streamline the pickup process. |
Before you book, check if your personal auto insurance or credit card provides rental coverage. This can save you money by allowing you to decline the rental company's often expensive Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). Also, inspect the car thoroughly for any existing damage before you drive off the lot and report it to the agent to avoid being held responsible later.
