Should I Rent a Car in Las Vegas? | Budget Car Rental

Should I Rent a Car in Las Vegas?

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Vacation Planning: Should I Rent a Car in Las Vegas?

If you’re planning an epic adventure in the Entertainment Capital of the World, one question you’ll need to answer as you plan and budget is whether you should rent a car for a vacation in Las Vegas. 

Making the decision may depend on what you decide to do. Most things along the Vegas Strip are within walking distance, but there is so much more to see and do if you’re up for exploration.

Las Vegas Infrastructure

There’s plenty of attractions to see in the city's central areas, and walking may be an option for a few nearby features. You’ll also have the best luck finding alternative public transportation in these areas. But as you decide if you need a car in Las Vegas, don’t forget there are many hidden and less-hidden gems outside the main tourist areas. 

The summertime heat can also make walking unbearable, especially during the day. Waiting for public transit on triple-digit days could be less appealing than hopping in an air-conditioned rental car.

If you decide to drive, expect congestion from local rush hour traffic and the influx of tourists. The Boulevard is a major throughway, but there may be less busy routes.

Comparing Vacation Transportation Options in Las Vegas

Overall, Las Vegas is a car-dependent city with a walkability score of only 42 out of 100 points. In some concentrated areas, you may be able to walk to where you want to go, but most errands require a car.

Business travelers with only small amounts of downtime may be fine without their own transportation, but renting a car in Las Vegas is a good idea for a true city experience.

Walkscore rates Las Vegas at a 36 for its transportation accessibility. You will find some public transportation options, but they won’t necessarily conveniently cater to your needs. Buses stop along The Strip and take tourists to Fremont Street and the Art District. Anywhere else requires a little more planning.

Public transportation options include:

TomTom.com rates Las Vegas as the 21st worst city to drive in. It can become congested and requires an average of about 13 minutes to travel 6 miles. You will want to pay attention to traffic patterns, use a GPS, and plan ahead when you’re ready to hit the road.

Expected traffic is undoubtedly a factor when considering whether to use a rideshare or rent a vehicle. Depending on when you choose to travel the streets, you could end up stuck in traffic either way. 

Bottom Line: Should You Rent a Car in Las Vegas?

If you have one main destination and don’t plan on exploring much, it may be reasonable to pass on the rental car. Be aware—if you change your mind and hire a rideshare or taxi more than a couple of times, the cost can add up to much more than a rental car.

  • A rental car extends your options to nearby attractions like Red Rock Canyon, the Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead.
  • Having a rental car gives you more control over your time and entertainment destinations from day to day.
  • You’ll also have more flexibility in where to stay and still see the things on your bucket list for your visit.

Take advantage of a great deal on a rental car in Las Vegas and set your course for fun! You’ll find Budget rental car counters in convenient locations around Las Vegas, including car rental services at the Harry Reid International Airport (LAS).