$45 Car Rental Washington, MD

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Washington

Renting a car in Washington offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for cultural explorers, history lovers, and weekend travelers. With your own vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like the historic White House and the scenic National Mall at your own pace. The convenience of managing luggage and having flexible travel plans enhances your experience, especially for families or those seeking outdoor adventures. You can explore vibrant neighborhoods such as Downtown Washington D.C., which features the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, and Northwest, home to the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Additionally, a rental car simplifies trips to nearby destinations like Arlington, where you can see the iconic Pentagon and Georgetown University. Whether you want to enjoy family outings or delve into the rich history and culture of the area, having a rental car ensures you can navigate the metropolis with ease. With so much to see, a car allows you to create your own itinerary and makes it convenient to explore all that Washington and its vicinity have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Washington

• Midsize SUV: A popular choice among travelers, the midsize SUV comfortably fits 5 travelers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Washington at their own pace. With ample space for luggage and the flexibility to navigate both city streets and outdoor areas, the midsize SUV offers the versatility needed for a memorable trip.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can carry 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between size and comfort, making it suitable for those who enjoy city driving while still wanting some extra room for their belongings. Renting a standard SUV allows for easy maneuverability through the bustling streets of Washington, enhancing your travel experience.
• Fullsize: The fullsize vehicle is an excellent option for families or groups, as it accommodates 5 travelers along with either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This spacious car type ensures that you have enough room for everyone’s luggage while providing a comfortable ride throughout your journey. With its generous capacity, the fullsize car is perfect for those who want to make the most of their trip in and around Washington.

Top rated car suppliers in Washington

• Sixt: Sixt has 2 rental locations in the Washington area, making it easily accessible for tourists. This supplier is popular for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the city and surrounding areas. Customers appreciate the modern fleet and the flexibility Sixt provides, allowing you to explore Washington at your own pace without the hassle of public transport.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With 4 rental locations in Washington, Thrifty Car Rental offers great convenience for travelers. Their most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which are perfect for both business and leisure trips. Thrifty is known for providing reliable cars and competitive pricing, making it a favorable choice for those looking to enhance their travel experience in the D.C. area.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo operates 2 rental locations in Washington and is favored for its excellent customer service. The supplier's most popular choices are Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, which cater to various needs for comfort and space. Alamo is recognized for its efficient pickup process and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth rental experience for tourists exploring the vibrant city and its surroundings.

Where to go in Washington

• Downtown Washington D.C.: This vibrant neighborhood is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the city's culture. Key attractions include the historic White House and the expansive National Mall, ideal for adventure and scenic strolls. The Walter E. Washington Convention Center caters to business travelers. With visitor numbers peaking in March to April and July, it's a bustling hub with shopping centers and educational venues that enhance the experience.
• Northwest: Known for its rich culture and family-friendly atmosphere, Northwest features notable landmarks such as the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This area is also home to various shopping centers and educational venues, making it a well-rounded destination. Visitor numbers peak in February, April, and July, providing ample opportunity to explore its urban parks and cultural sites.
• Arlington: A city adjacent to Washington, Arlington is a great choice for families, business travelers, and city explorers. Attractions like the Pentagon and historic Georgetown University enrich your visit. The area offers educational opportunities and shopping centers, ensuring a convenient stay. Peak visitor seasons are from March to April and July, making it an ideal time to enjoy its urban parks and historical places.

10 tips to save on your Washington car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to access lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options offer a good balance of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as long as you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for transactions.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Washington

The best value period to rent a car in and around Washington is February, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. January also offers low prices and demand, making it another good option. As spring approaches, March sees a slight increase in demand and average pricing. However, July is the most expensive month, with both prices and demand peaking during the summer. June and August also have high demand and prices, making them less ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Washington

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Washington into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Washington and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Washington

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Washington. We partner with 25 reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Washington

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $45.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals