EA at TPA

[RobnRud]

GOt a great DING, so switched to TPA for our upcoming trip. Anyone have experience with selection on EA at Tampa??
Thanks

 

[rlduvall]

If you already know this (and this wasn't your question), forgive me, but did you know that National is offsite at Tampa? You will have to take a shuttle to their agency. That is what is holding me back from flying into Tampa. I have flown into there many times, with no problems. BUT, the car rental rates are so much higher than Orlando right now that it really negates alot of my airfare savings. And I hate taking shuttles to get my car.

As for EA - I don't know because I always like to stick with an onsite car rental facility. Hey, at least I bumped you up.

 

[RobnRud]

Thanks for the bump.
I've still got 3 weeks til our trip, and holding on to my Thifty res (because I like you, don't care for the shuttle) but National/Alamo will save us $80... and every bit helps!!

 

[EllenJ]

We've used National EA at TPA many times. Although they are offsite, the shuttle system is the best of any airport that I have been to. I think it is less walking and time than it takes to get to the lot @ MCO. I have found the rates to be the same as MCO. As for the EA, we've always had a good selection. Usually some SUV's and one time we even got a Sebring convertible. I wouldnt hesitate to fly there (assuming the times and fares are right).

 

[gw_lit]

The "offsite" lot for National and Alamo is on your way out of the airport anyway, so you'd drive by it on your way out if you rented from an onsite agency. By using National or Alamo you really have to handle your bags less and carry them a much shorter distance... just to the shuttle instead of all the way across to the garage. I rent from National in Tampa quite often (mostly business, but sometimes for family trips with kids, bags and the kitchen sink) and I think it's easier than using the "on-site" agencies.

As far as the selection, it's pretty much the typical mid-sizes, plus you'll occasionally have your mini-vans and SUVs on the Aisle as well. It's really just hit or miss as to what's there.