Car Rental in Aruba
Aruba has over 20 local car rental agencies competing for your business—and that competition means better prices. Unlike destinations dominated by Hertz and Avis, Aruba's rental market is filled with family-owned agencies where the owner often answers the phone.
Local agencies typically run $10-20/day cheaper than terminal counters. The trade-off? A 2-5 minute shuttle ride from the airport. For most travelers, it's worth it.
The Short Version
- 1.Economy car ($30-45/day) handles 90% of Aruba. Only get a Jeep if you're visiting the Natural Pool.
- 2.Off-airport agencies save $10-20/day vs terminal counters. The 3-minute shuttle is worth it.
- 3.Book 2-4 weeks ahead for best selection. Peak season (Dec-Apr) fills up faster.
What Type of Car?
Economy cars (Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent) cost $30-45/day and handle Aruba's paved roads perfectly. That includes Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Oranjestad, San Nicolas, and most restaurants and attractions.
SUVs and Jeeps ($60-90/day) are only necessary if you're visiting the Natural Pool or exploring Arikok National Park's dirt roads. Most visitors don't need one.
Smart move: Rent an economy car for most of your trip, then swap to a Jeep for one day. Saves $100+ compared to a full-week Jeep rental.
Terminal vs. Off-Site Pickup
| Terminal | Off-Site | |
|---|---|---|
| Daily rate | $50-80 | $30-60 |
| Wait time | Walk out | 3-5 min shuttle |
| Best for | Late arrivals | Everyone else |
Most travelers find the shuttle worth it. You save $70-140 on a week-long rental.
Insurance: What You Actually Need
All rentals include basic liability. The decision is whether to add Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)—which covers damage to the car.
- •Check your credit card first. Many cards cover rental car damage if you decline the agency's CDW.
- •Consider zero-deductible CDW ($5-10/day extra) for peace of mind—no out-of-pocket if something happens.
- •Skip the personal accident insurance if your travel insurance already covers medical expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to rent a car in Aruba?
You'll need a valid driver's license from your home country and a credit card in the driver's name. International licenses are accepted but not required for US, Canadian, and European visitors. Some agencies accept debit cards with a higher deposit.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Aruba?
Most agencies require drivers to be at least 23-25 years old. However, Mitoo Car Rental accepts drivers as young as 21. Young driver fees may apply for renters under 25.
Can I rent a car with a debit card in Aruba?
Some local agencies accept debit cards, but expect a larger security deposit (often $500-1000). Credit cards are preferred and may be required for certain vehicle types like Jeeps.
How far in advance should I book my rental car?
Booking 2-4 weeks ahead typically gets the best rates and selection. During peak season (December-April), book earlier. Last-minute bookings are possible but may have limited options.
Are there hidden fees I should watch for?
Watch for airport surcharges, young driver fees (under 25), additional driver fees, late return fees, and fuel policies. Local agencies are generally more transparent than international brands. Always confirm the total price before booking.