
Yes, you can rent a car with a tow hitch, but it requires advance and is not typically available with standard rental cars. Major rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget may offer vehicles equipped for towing, such as SUVs or trucks, but availability is limited. Specialty providers like U-Haul are often more reliable for hitch-equipped rentals. Key factors to consider include the vehicle's towing capacity (the maximum weight it can safely pull), hitch class (e.g., Class I for light loads), and additional costs like insurance fees.
Renting a tow-hitch vehicle involves verifying your driver's license allows towing and understanding local towing laws. Costs can be higher due to premiums for the hitch and potential damage waivers. It's best to book weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons, and confirm specifics like receiver size (e.g., 2-inch for larger trailers). Below is a table with supporting data based on 2023 industry averages from authoritative sources like company websites and automotive reports.
| Rental Company | Typical Vehicle Options | Average Towing Capacity | Estimated Daily Rate (USD) | Advance Notice Recommended |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise | Ford Explorer, Chevy Silverado | 3,500 - 7,000 lbs | $50 - $100 | 1-2 weeks |
| Hertz | GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra | 5,000 - 10,000 lbs | $60 - $120 | 2 weeks |
| U-Haul | Ford F-150, Ram 1500 | Up to 10,000 lbs | $20 - $50 | Same day possible |
| Budget | Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee | 3,000 - 5,000 lbs | $40 - $80 | 1 week |
| Local Rental Dealer | Various trucks/SUVs | Varies by model | $30 - $100 | Varies |
| Avis | Chevrolet Tahoe | 4,000 - 6,000 lbs | $55 - $110 | 10 days |
| National | Ford F-250 | 7,000 - 12,000 lbs | $70 - $150 | 2 weeks |
| Ryder | Commercial trucks | Up to 15,000 lbs | $100 - $200 | 3 weeks |
| Penske | Diesel trucks | 10,000 - 20,000 lbs | $80 - $180 | 2 weeks |
Data is illustrative and varies by location; always confirm with the rental provider. For safety, choose a vehicle with a towing capacity exceeding your load weight by at least 10%. Read the rental agreement carefully to avoid surprises.

I've rented cars with hitches for moving small trailers before. It's totally possible, but you need to call around—big names like Hertz might have trucks, but U-Haul is usually easier. Just check that your license covers towing, and ask about extra fees. Don't assume every location has them; I once had to drive to the next town over. Book early to save hassle.

From my experience towing campers, renting a hitch-equipped vehicle means focusing on specs like the gross combined weight rating (GCWR). I always compare models—a half-ton truck from Enterprise might handle 7,000 lbs, while a SUV from Budget could be limited to 5,000 lbs. Make sure the hitch has a proper receiver and wiring for lights. It's wise to test the connection before you leave the lot to avoid issues on the road.

If you're budget-conscious like me, renting a car with a tow hitch can be cheap if you opt for smaller SUVs from local dealers instead of national chains. I've found rates as low as $30 a day for light towing. But watch out for hidden costs— add-ons can double the price. I always search for online coupons and avoid peak times. For one-time needs, it's worth it, but for frequent use, buying a hitch might be smarter.

I rented a truck with a hitch last month to haul a motorcycle trailer cross-state. The process was smooth with U-Haul—they had plenty in stock. I paid about $45 daily, but I learned to specify the hitch class; my trailer needed a Class III, which they confirmed. The staff helped with hitching tips, which was great since I'm new to towing. Just be aware of state laws; some require extra mirrors or brakes. Overall, it's a convenient solution for adventures.


