Which Car Hire to Choose in Pago Pago and American Samoa?

American Samoa's main island, Tutuila LINK#D006, often referred to as Pago, is not just an island to sit in your hotel all day. It’s an island to get out and explore with amazing beaches, wonderful waterfalls, fascinating historical sites and more along the road. Make sure you get to all the hotspots, as well as find the hidden gems, by hiring a car in American Samoa LINK#TT038.

Don’t know which car hire to choose? Luckily, we’ve made a complete comparison of our recommended car rental companies in American Samoa, which also offer delivery across Tutuila, including Pago Pago Airport, so you know all your best options! First, get a few tips for comparing Pago Pago car rentals…

5 Things to Look For When Comparing Car Rentals in Pago Pago and American Samoa

Before we dive into our comparison of the car hires in American Samoa, know what to look for with these car rental comparison tips.

1. Prices and Inclusions

Car rental companies in Pago Pago have various inclusions, as well as different daily rates; for example, insurance is not always included in the rate, and American Samoa's remote location means mainland credit card coverage might be complicated or unavailable. We make sure to list inclusions in the comparison below, where available.

For costs to consider when making a budget for your car rental, check out The Cost of Renting a Car in American Samoa: Full Car Rental Cost Breakdown.

2. Vehicles Offered

Pago Pago’s car rental companies have very varied fleets, especially when it comes to age, so ask for the newest vehicles for the most reliable options, or the oldest vehicles if you're on a budget. What's more, the size of your vehicle will matter depending on how many people you are travelling with. You might want to get a high-clearance vehicle to access attractions like Fagatele Bay, which has a poor access road. Otherwise, most roads are high-quality main roads, so a compact vehicle will suit just fine.

Learn more about what it is like to drive on American Samoa’s roads in our guide, How to Drive in American Samoa + 15 Road Rules You Need to Know.

3. Booking & Delivery

The good news is that most car rental companies will deliver your vehicle straight to the airport or your hotel at no extra charge. While many companies are still catching up with online booking systems, you'll find that a quick phone call usually does the trick.

We'd recommend booking ahead, especially if you're visiting on a cruise ship or peak holiday periods when demand can get quite busy.

4. Payment Options

Although credit cards are accepted by most car rental companies, there is usually an extra charge to use one, so you may want to pay cash if that's an option – see where the closest ATMs are located in Information, Shops & Services in Pago Pago & Tutuila LINK#D007.

Plus, learn more about paying for things in What is the Best Way to Pay in American Samoa? LINK#TT007

5. Service

Once you have picked one or two car rental companies to compare, give them an email or a phone call and ask them a few questions. See how helpful they are in their answers. This little test will give you an idea of how helpful the company will be should anything go wrong during your trip.

Worldwide Car Rental Drive CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
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Worldwide Tours & Travel

Worldwide Tours & Travel is a family-owned business that has been serving American Samoa across two generations. Originally starting as a tour company, they've evolved to focus on what visitors need most: quality car rentals and travel services. You'll appreciate their commitment to providing premium vehicles that stand out from the competition.

What sets Worldwide apart is its dedication to vehicle quality. They're the only rental company on the island providing Toyota XLE and premium model cars. They import all their vehicles directly from Oregon, and even choose to pay more tax on these imports, just to ensure tourists get access to higher-end vehicles rather than basic models.

We love their practical approach to customer service, understanding that American Samoa's unique conditions require reliable, high-clearance vehicles and responsive support.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

Worldwide Tours & Travel is based at the Tradewinds Hotel (Tafuna). They offer maximum convenience with complimentary delivery and pick-up service to all hotels and Pago Pago International Airport. They maintain a booth at the airport specifically for Hawaiian Airlines flights and reservations, making the rental process seamless for arriving passengers.

You can also drop off vehicles at hotel front desks or directly at the airport for your departure convenience.

Vehicles Available

Worldwide specialises in SUVs and trucks designed for American Samoa's rainy climate and frequent flooding. Their fleet of 40 vehicles focuses on:

  • Toyota RAV4
  • Pickup trucks
  • Minivan (limited availability)

All tourist vehicles are newer models (no more than six years old) equipped with modern features, including CarPlay for smartphone integration and GPS navigation.

Further Services and Inclusions

  • Flight bookings to Samoa (Apia)
  • Travel agency services
  • Complimentary airport and hotel delivery/pick-up
  • Modern vehicles with CarPlay technology
  • Informal roadside assistance ("if you call us, we'll be there")
  • No cleaning fees (eliminated for customer convenience)
  • Website booking system (launching soon)

Approximate Price

Daily rental rates are US$100 plus a 3% administration fee. Worldwide keeps pricing consistent for both daily and weekly rentals, though extended rentals (longer than a week) may receive additional discounts.

Prices reflect the premium nature of their vehicle fleet and the additional costs of importing quality vehicles to the territory.

Insurance

An optional collision damage waiver is available for US$10 per day with a US$500 excess. This covers all accident-related costs above the excess amount, regardless of damage severity.

Tuanaitau's Car Rental (2) CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
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Tuanaitau Car Rentals

Tuanaitau Car Rentals might not be the biggest name in American Samoa's car rental scene, but don't let that fool you. This local gem has quietly built quite the following through word-of-mouth recommendations and savvy online presence, drawing travellers from as far as Australia and Germany.

What we love about Tuanaitau is their refreshingly flexible approach to customer service. They genuinely get that every traveller has different needs and budgets, which is why you'll find everything from wallet-friendly runabouts to premium SUVs in their fleet.

From what we've experienced, their hands-on service really sets them apart. Every vehicle gets a thorough inspection before it reaches you, and here's something you don't see every day – if you're not happy with the colour of your rental, they'll actually swap it out for you.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

Located in a large blue building along the main road with lettering that makes it impossible to miss, it's not hard to find Tuanaitau Car Rentals at their base in Nu'uuli. They operate with a personalised delivery system, delivering to customers at Pago Pago International Airport at no additional charge.

For drop-offs, they collect both the vehicle and passengers, taking customers to the airport after a final vehicle inspection.

Vehicles Available

Tuanaitau offers a diverse fleet spanning different price points and vehicle types:

  • Compact SUVs (Toyota RAV4, Nissan (various models), Kia (various models)
  • Large SUVs (Hyundai Palisade)

All vehicles are shipped from off-island and, while some date back to around 2014, are maintained in excellent running condition.

Further Services and Inclusions

  • Free airport delivery and pick-up
  • Flexible vehicle selection (can view alternatives at workshop)
  • Colour preferences are accommodated when possible
  • No cleaning fees

Approximate Price

Tuanaitau offers some of the most competitive pricing in American Samoa:

  • Budget vehicles (older models): US$60 per day
  • Mid-range vehicles: US$70-90 per day
  • Premium SUVs (Palisade): US$100 per day

Weekly rentals receive a 5% discount, making longer stays more affordable.

Insurance

Tuanaitau does not offer any insurance options. Renters assume complete responsibility for the vehicle during the rental period.

In case of damage, scratches, or accidents, renters must pay all repair costs as estimated by local repair shops. The company facilitates the repair process but does not provide any coverage or damage waivers.

This differs significantly from many other countries and rental companies. Consider your own travel insurance or credit card coverage carefully (if it applies) before renting.

Avis Car Rental CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
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Avis

An established player in American Samoa's rental market, Avis Car Rental operates a well-maintained fleet of 25 vehicles focused primarily on serving international visitors. With their commitment to vehicle safety and standardisation, Avis has built a reputation for reliability and quality service.

What sets Avis apart is their strict vehicle age policy – they only operate vehicles that are three years old or younger, ensuring customers always get modern, safe and comfortable transportation. This dedication to fleet quality means you can trust that your rental will be reliable and well-maintained.

Most travellers appreciate their comprehensive approach to customer service, offering flexible booking through their website and providing free transportation services to help visitors save money and enjoy a hassle-free experience.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

Avis operates from their main office in Tafuna (next to Tropical Pizza), having relocated from the airport due to renovation works. However, they still provide complimentary pick-up and drop-off services at Pago Pago International Airport.

Their team is particularly attentive to night flights, with staff waiting at the airport to collect arriving passengers. They also provide free transportation services for cruise ship passengers.

Vehicles Available

Avis focuses on practical, reliable vehicles suitable for American Samoa's terrain:

  • Toyota RAV4 (Mid-range SUV)
  • Datsun Go Cross (Budget-friendly SUV)
  • Toyota Tacoma 2WD (Two-wheel drive pickup truck)
  • Toyota Tacoma 4WD LTD (Four-wheel drive pickup with premium features)

All vehicles are three years old or younger. The fleet avoids larger, more expensive vehicles to keep rentals affordable for most travellers.

Further Services and Inclusions

  • Online booking through the Avis website
  • Free airport pick-up and drop-off service
  • Free cruise ship passenger transportation
  • Children's car seats available (limited quantity)
  • Automatic discount system for longer rentals
  • Flexible payment options (cash or credit card)
  • Roadside assistance

Approximate Price

Daily rates for international visitors:

  • Datsun Go Cross: US$134 per day
  • Toyota RAV4: US$140 per day
  • Pick-up trucks: US$150 per day

There is a 10% discount applied every three days, with increasing discounts for longer rental periods.

Insurance

A security deposit is required of US$100 for overseas customers, returned automatically after seven days (or immediately upon return if paying cash). There is also an optional "excess reduction" available for US$20 per day, limiting customer liability to US$500 regardless of accident severity.

Rental Car Drive CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
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Tautai Car Rentals

A family-owned business that has been proudly serving American Samoa since 2006, Tautai Car Rentals is well worth considering. With nearly two decades of experience, they've established themselves as a reliable choice for visitors looking for quality rental vehicles that truly fit their budget.

What makes Tautai special is their fleet accommodating travellers' diverse needs, whether you're touring the island or simply need reliable transportation. Their range of vehicles caters to different budgets and requirements, from economical sedans to robust pickup trucks. Note that drivers must be 25 years or older.

They offer a traveller-friendly approach, particularly their complimentary after-hours services for Hawaiian Airlines passengers, recognising that island travel doesn't always follow standard business hours.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

Tautai offers flexible pick-up options at Pago Pago International Airport, hotels, or their main office in Nu'uuli near Tropic Traders.

However, all vehicles must be returned to their main office in Nu'uuli. Vehicles must be returned by 6 pm on your departure date to ensure smooth processing. Special accommodation is provided for Hawaiian Airlines passengers with complimentary after-hours services, including cleaning, airport delivery, parking and wait-time.

Vehicles Available

Tautai offers a well-balanced fleet covering different vehicle categories and budgets:

  • Premium Pickup Trucks (Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier)
  • Mid-Range SUVs and Sedans: (Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota Corolla, Nissan Rogue)

Further Services and Inclusions

  • Online booking system available
  • Insurance options available upon request
  • Free after-hours service for Hawaiian Airlines flights
  • Flexible pick-up locations (airport, hotel, or office)
  • Multiple payment options accepted
  • Credit card pre-authorisation for security

Accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover cards. Cash payments accepted upon arrival, but a major credit card is required for security hold with full rental amount pre-authorization.

Approximate Price

Daily Rates:

  • Premium trucks (Tacoma, Frontier): $110 per day
  • Standard vehicles (RAV4, Tucson, Corolla, Rogue): $85 per day

Weekly Rates:

  • Premium trucks: $100 per day (save $10/day)
  • Standard vehicles: $80 per day (save $5/day)

Insurance

Insurance options are available upon request.

Steven & Sons CREDIT AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com
© AmericanSamoaPocketGuide.com

Steven & Sons Car Rental

Steven & Sons Car Rental has built its reputation on offering competitive prices and reliable vehicles that actually meet your needs (no nasty surprises when you pick up your keys).

What we absolutely love about Steven & Sons is their brilliant dual approach. You'll find yourself at a proper car rental company that also happens to serve some of the most authentic Samoan cuisine on the island. You can sort out your transport and grab a fantastic meal showcasing traditional flavours all in one stop.

Their straightforward customer service approach really stands out. No complicated fine print or hidden fees - just honest pricing with clear discount tiers that reward you for longer rentals.

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations

Steven & Sons Car Rental is conveniently located on Lyons Park Road in Nu'uuli. Their central location makes it accessible for both airport arrivals and hotel guests.

Contact them via telephone or email for pickup and drop-off arrangements, and they provide an online reservation form for booking convenience.

Vehicles Available

Steven & Sons offers a focused fleet of modern SUVs and pickup trucks suitable for American Samoa's terrain:

  • Mid-Size SUVs (Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue)
  • Pickup Trucks (Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger)

Further Services and Inclusions

  • Online reservation system with a request form
  • Restaurant serving authentic Samoan fare on-site
  • Modern payment options, including Apple Pay
  • Tiered discount system for longer rentals

Payment options include MasterCard, Visa, Discover and Apple Pay.

Approximate Price

Mid-Size SUVs (Equinox, Terrain, Escape, Rogue):

  • Daily rate: US$100 per day
  • 3-5 days: US$95 per day (save $5/day)
  • 1 week or more: US$85 per day (save $15/day)

Pickup Trucks (Frontier, Ranger):

  • Daily rate: US$125 per day
  • 3-5 days: US$115 per day (save $10/day)
  • 1 week or more: US$105 per day (save $20/day)

More About Car Rentals in Pago Pago and American Samoa

That’s it for our complete comparison of the car rental companies in American Samoa. Learn more about renting a car using the following guides:

Finally, compare car rentals with other ways to travel around the island in our Pago Pago Transport Guide: 10 Ways to Get to (& Around) Tutuila.