How far is Lafayette Airport from downtown?
Roughly 3 miles (5 km) — a 10-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Embrace the essence of Lafayette with U-Save Car Rental! As you delve into the heart of this vibrant Louisiana city, let our reliable and comfortable vehicles be your perfect travel companion. Uncover the rich Cajun culture, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse yourself in the lively local music scene, all while enjoying the convenience of U-Save's exceptional service. With our strategically located rental office and a diverse fleet of well-maintained cars, your Lafayette exploration will be seamless and unforgettable. Take the wheel and create unforgettable memories as you explore Lafayette with U-Save Car Rental at your side!
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Before you rent:
Make an informed choice. We believe in providing you with options to choose the right car for your needs with complete price transparency. At U-Save, we prioritize your peace of mind, which means rental insurance with us is not overly complicated and you are assured you are properly insured.
When you collect your Vehicle:
Think ahead. It's a good idea to map out your trip in advance, especially if you're returning the rental car to an unfamiliar location or airport. Check your confirmation email to make sure you know where to meet your agent or where the rental desk, and save the contact details to your phone for quick access.
Bring the necessary documents. While we strive to make the check-in process as simple as possible, some information is required by law. Having your reservation information, driver's license, passport and credit card ready in advance can speed up your reservation process. If you choose to self-insure, make sure that you have verifiable proof of full coverage insurance at the time of rental pickup. If you are a local renter, make sure that you have all the information required by the location to confirm your ID and address.
Conduct a car inspection. Perform a detailed walk around inspection as soon as the vehicle is received to note any existing damage on the rental agreement. The five damage hotspots that we've discovered deserve special attention. You are shielded from responsibility when you return the vehicle by disclosing any existing damage prior to leaving the location.
While you rent:
Take care. Please be advised that depending on the rental coverage you chose, you could be responsible for any damage that occurs during the rental period. Take measures to reduce the possibility of collisions leading to dings and scratches, especially in congested parking areas.
When you return your vehicle:
Complete one more vehicle inspection. Conduct a second inspection during the return procedure, and no matter how little it may look, carefully record any damage. This approach enables us to handle your refund quickly while making sure you are completely insured. The five damage hotspots should receive special attention, just as they did during the initial assessment.
Drive on the right side of the road
USD is the local currency
Average temperatures are 44°F (7°C) - 92°F (33°C)
Driving in Lafayette is relaxed and intuitive. Roads are well paved, signage is clear, and traffic is manageable, especially compared to larger southern cities like New Orleans or Houston. However, roadways outside the city often pass through wetlands or farmland, so expect occasional narrow bridges, wildlife crossings, and low shoulders.
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side, and seat belts are required for all passengers. The general speed limits are:
25–35 mph (40–56 km/h) in residential areas
45–55 mph (72–88 km/h) on state highways and rural roads
65–75 mph (105–120 km/h) on interstate highways like I-10 and I-49
Drivers in Louisiana tend to be polite but may drive slowly in rural areas, particularly when passing farm equipment or wildlife. Be aware of occasional flash flooding, especially during heavy rainstorms — avoid driving through standing water.
Right turns on red are allowed unless posted otherwise. Always yield to pedestrians and use caution at uncontrolled intersections in rural towns.
Parking in Lafayette is generally easy. Most lots and street parking are free or metered, especially near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and downtown. There are no major toll roads in Louisiana, so you won’t need to worry about passes or additional charges.
Fuel stations are common throughout the city and along all highways, and they accept both cash and credit cards. Gas prices in Louisiana tend to be lower than the U.S. average.
We have a great collections of high-quality cars and vans. Whether you're looking for mini van, a large sprinter, pickup truck, SUV or even e luxury car – we got you!
Choosing the right rental vehicle depends on your travel needs, whether it’s comfort, space, or terrain capability. SUVs are great for long road trips, offering a mix of comfort and versatility, especially if you're traveling through mixed terrains or unpredictable weather.
Vans are ideal for larger groups or cargo transport, perfect for family trips or business needs. MPVs (Multi-Purpose Vehicles) are a practical choice for urban driving with extra passenger space, making them a great middle ground between sedans and vans.
Pickup trucks excel in handling heavy loads and rugged environments, ideal for work or outdoor adventures. If you're tackling off-road trails or harsh conditions, a 4x4 provides the traction and durability needed for a safe and reliable drive. Choosing wisely ensures a smoother and more comfortable journey.
Check our booking system to see which car types are currently available!
How far is Lafayette Airport from downtown?
Roughly 3 miles (5 km) — a 10-minute drive, depending on traffic.
Is it safe to drive around Lafayette and nearby areas?
Yes. Roads are safe and well-maintained. Be cautious in rural or swampy areas, especially at night or in bad weather.
Are there any toll roads near Lafayette?
No. Louisiana does not have any toll roads in the immediate area. Most major routes are free to drive.
Do I need a special license to drive in Louisiana as a foreign visitor?
If you hold a valid international driver’s license or an English-language license, you can legally drive in Louisiana. Check with your rental agency regarding any IDP (International Driving Permit) requirements.
Can I drive to New Orleans or Houston from Lafayette?
Absolutely. New Orleans is about 2.5 hours east, and Houston is roughly 3.5 hours west, making both cities convenient for road trips.
Is a GPS or navigation system needed?
Highly recommended, especially if exploring smaller towns, bayous, or plantation backroads, where signage may be limited or unclear.