Lake Tahoe car rentals may be the most convenient way to get around the Tahoe area, particularly if you want to be in charge of your own vacation itinerary. Although there is a bus system in South Lake Tahoe, many of the other towns and attractions are only accessible by car. In addition, the scenic drive around the circumference of Lake Tahoe is spectacular in its beauty, making a car rental a huge advantage for enjoying the area. If you'd like to experience Lake Tahoe on a motorbike, there are also Lake Tahoe Harley rentals.

If you are flying to Lake Tahoe, the most convenient place to rent a car is probably at one of the Reno Airport car rental options. In addition to its offering some of the best cheap flights to Tahoe, there are eight different rental companies at this airport, including Alamo, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, Thrifty, National, Budget, and Dollar Rent-A-Car, so you can easily find a reasonable deal for a cheap Tahoe rental car. The car rental counters are located by the baggage claim. The cars themselves are located outside the airport grounds, but a convenient free shuttle service can take you to the rental parking lot. If you get a Reno Airport car rental it is just a one-hour drive to the lake.

If you prefer not to get a Reno Airport car rental, there are other possibilities for Lake Tahoe car rentals in the area. Rental car companies operate at South Lake Tahoe, Truckee, and Incline Village, just over the state border in Nevada. There are, of course, plenty of car rental companies in the San Francisco Bay Area, which is about four hours’ drive away, and in Sacramento (two hours away) if you want to combine your trip to Tahoe with visits to nearby cities.

Lake Tahoe Map

If you want a more exciting mode of transportation around Lake Tahoe, you can't go wrong with Lake Tahoe Harley rentals. There are several rental shops in South Lake Tahoe, and driving a motorcycle around the lake is a great way to experience the natural beauty as well as visit smaller towns such as Truckee or Gardnerville. There are many options for Lake Tahoe Harley rentals, including guided tours and one-day rentals, and accessories and driving gear are also available in case you don’t have your own.

When driving around the Lake Tahoe area, be aware that heavy snowfall in winter can make the roads dangerous. If driving in Lake Tahoe during the winter, make sure you either have snow chains in your car, or 4-wheel drive and snow tires. Traffic patrols may stop you during snowy days to ensure that you have the appropriate gear. Of course, if you don't have snow chains with you, the patrols can help you to have an expert install chains for you, for a fee. Be cautious when driving in winter, even if you have experience driving in the snow, as other drivers may not be prepared for slippery roads.

Taking advantage of Lake Tahoe car rentals can make your trip much more convenient and enjoyable, giving you access to more secluded trails, beaches, and picnic spots. Although there is a lot to do right around the lakeshore towns, there are plenty of area attractions, such as Eldorado National Forest or Vikingsholm that are well worth visiting but are best reached by car.