Wondering if renting a car in the U.S. Virgin Islands is worth it? For many travelers, yes — especially if you want the freedom to explore more than just the area around your hotel and see beaches, towns, and scenic spots at your own pace. It is one of the easiest ways to make your trip more flexible and less dependent on taxis or limited transport options.
A rental car can make it much easier to get from busier areas to quieter stretches of coast, and many hotels and resorts offer parking, so that is usually not a major concern. It can be an especially good option if you want to discover less crowded beaches or reach places that feel a little more off the beaten path.
Below, you’ll find the best affordable, reliable, and convenient car rental companies in the U.S. Virgin Islands so you can choose the option that fits your trip and budget.
6 Best Car Rental Companies in the U.S. Virgin Islands:
6. Budget Car Rental
A top contender in the car rental race is Budget Car Rental which assures you some of the most competitive prices on the islands!
Choose from a variety of vehicle types such as sedans, minivans, and even convertibles.
Budget has six car rental locations in St. Thomas, and three in St. Croix.
Although the company does not have a presence in St. John, it is possible to transport your rental car with the barge ferry from St. Thomas!
Why Choose Budget
- Free pick-up and drop is included anywhere on the island.
- Budget’s Fastbreak program helps you skip lengthy lines and get personalized service.
- Vehicles can be rented on a daily, weekly, or long-term basis.
- Budget Rental offers additional insurance coverage, car seats for kids, and GPS.
5. Hertz Car Rental
This popular international chain proposes hatchbacks, luxury cars, and SUVs that can tackle mountainous roads with ease.
Hertz St. Thomas is a locally owned, independent franchisee with two locations in St. Thomas, one at the airport and the other in Lindberg.
They also have a location in Frederiksted in St. Croix.
Why Choose Hertz
- Their fees are transparent and upfront.
- The cars can be transported with ease onto the ferry to St. John.
- Hertz provides renters with the latest models, and those under 25 are also eligible to rent a car.
- Visitors intending to stay on the U.S. Virgin Islands for extended periods take note – Hertz has close relations with car dealers should you intend to purchase a new or used vehicle.
- Gold Plus Rewards lets frequent renters enjoy discounts and promotions
4. Dollar Thrifty Rent-a-Car
Independently owned and operated, the company offers a robust selection of vehicles to choose from.
Expect to enjoy some of the lowest rates offered on St. Thomas and St. John.
Why Choose Dollar Thrifty Rent-a-Car
- Free shuttle service to and from the Cyril E. King Airport is provided in an eco-friendly, air-conditioned vehicle.
- Options are available for corporate accounts and long-term rentals.
- You can request child seats, GPS units, and other accessories.
- Should you wish to hire a boat, Dollar Thrifty Rent-a-Car will connect you with the Blue Bay Charter Company.
- Choose from cars like Toyota Yaris, Nissan Kicks SUV, Jeep Wrangler, or even a mini passenger van.
3. Avis Car Rental
The company has its location in Road Town and the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas, and three spots in St. Croix, namely Christiansted, Frederiksted, and Kingshill.
Why Choose Avis
- They have a diverse fleet of vehicles from economy cars to luxury ones.
- Choose from the Nissan Rogue SUV, the Kia Sedona Minivan, the Jeep Wrangler SUV, and more.
- Expect round-the-clock customer support 24/7.
- Avis Preferred Loyalty Program brings you heaps of benefits. You can redeem rewards and skip the line!
2. Ace Rent-a-Car
This car rental company has a presence at the St. Croix International Airport in Christiansted. Check out the city guide here – it is full of tips and attractions.
Renters will need to be 25 years or older with a valid driver’s license and major credit card.
Why Choose Ace Rent-a-Car
- Their agents will call you 24 hours before your pick-up to confirm.
- Once the trip has been completed, it is possible to drop off the car at the airport, just make sure to keep the keys in the glove box and lock the car doors!
- Families with kids can rent an infant, toddler, or child seat for a small additional fee.
- Choose from sedans (Economy, Compact & Standard), SUVs, mini-vans, and even pick-up trucks.
1. Go Car Rental
This local car rental agency in St. Thomas focuses primarily on customer satisfaction.
Every vehicle in their fleet boasts 5-star maintenance.
There is no cap on the miles so you can drive for an unlimited distance.
Unlike other car rental agencies which might require the renter to be 25 years of age, Go Car rental requires a minimum age of just 21.
Why Choose Go Car
- They’re a local business with positive reviews.
- Go Car lets you enjoy special discounts on weekly and monthly rentals.
- You will have access to 24/7 customer care and roadside maintenance.
- The vehicles can be dropped off or picked up at convenient spots all over the island free of charge.
How to Choose the Best Car Rental While in the U.S Virgin Islands:
Take note of the fleet they offer and your specific requirements.
For example, families with kids will require more spacious vehicles, as well as access to child seats at reasonable prices.
Check whether it is possible to pick up and drop off the cars at several spots across the islands – this will help you save time and energy!
Inquire whether the agency offers Road Maintenance and 24/7 customer support – after all, you are in a new place and do not want to be caught off guard!
If you are not sure of your itinerary and plan to drive long distances, choose a car rental agency that does not put a cap on mileage; this will help avoid later surprises.