Car Rental Amherst, VA

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Top Car Deals in Amherst

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Amherst, Virginia, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Amherst, Virginia, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Amherst, Virginia, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Amherst, Virginia, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Amherst car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Amherst

Renting a car in and around Amherst, Virginia, offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it easier to discover the area's rich attractions. For culture enthusiasts, the Amherst County Museum and Historical Society is a must-visit, while a short drive of 9 miles takes you to Woodson's Mill, a historic site worth exploring. Families will find the Mary Helen Cochran Library, located just 3 miles away, an ideal spot for enjoyable cultural experiences. Additionally, popular destinations like Lynchburg, only 13 miles away, offer attractions such as Lynchburg City Stadium and Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest. The nearby city of Monroe, 7 miles from Amherst, features the Maier Museum of Art and the Legacy Museum of African American History. With a rental car, you can effortlessly visit these sites and enjoy the beautiful scenery and outdoor adventures that the region has to offer, making it an excellent choice for all types of travelers.

Where to stay in and around Amherst

  • Lynchburg: Located 13 miles from Amherst, Lynchburg offers a rich blend of outdoor activities, culture, and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore attractions like the historic Lynchburg City Stadium and Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest. For those interested in recreation, the nearby national state park and lake provide ample opportunities for adventure. Lynchburg's vibrant food and drink scene, including local wineries and breweries, makes it an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploration.
  • Roseland: Just 12 miles away from Amherst, Roseland is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, especially those who enjoy skiing. The area features ski resorts and fields that attract visitors during the winter months. Explore natural wonders like Crabtree Falls or visit the Walton's Mountain Museum for a cultural experience. Roseland also offers nearby wineries and breweries, perfect for relaxing after an active day in the outdoors.
  • Piedmont: Situated within the Amherst area, Piedmont is known for its outdoor adventures and access to ski resorts. Key attractions include the James River State Park, which is ideal for those looking to connect with nature. Historic sites like Oak Ridge Estate and Woodson's Mill offer cultural insights, while local wineries add to the region's charm. Piedmont's proximity to picturesque waterfalls and lakes makes it a great base for outdoor enthusiasts.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Amherst

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure more competitive rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a favorable balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the vehicle empty in those cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of any unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Amherst

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Amherst

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Amherst. We partner with 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 Amherst

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

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.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Amherst?
You can find cheap car rentals in Amherst from $13 a day with Dollar Rent A Car's economy 2/4 door cars. Dollar Rent A Car offers midsize 4-5 door cars starting from $14 a day, and Budget offers fullsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $19 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Amherst that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Amherst.
What are the best luxury car companies in Amherst?
For luxury car rentals in Amherst, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise. Alamo Rent A Car offers premium pickup regular cab vehicles starting from $27 a day and premium crossover options starting from $37 a day. Enterprise also provides premium pickup regular cab vehicles starting from $28 a day and fullsize SUVs starting from $42 a day, offering enhanced comfort and features for your trip. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Amherst.
Can I rent a car one-way in Amherst?
A one-way car rental in Amherst is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $15 a day. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for one-way car rental in Amherst, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Amherst and drop it off at a different location, which is convenient for extended travel plans. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Amherst.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Amherst?
Amherst is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $13 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Amherst and returning to the same spot. Providers like Alamo Rent A Car and Enterprise also offer wide round-trip availability, making it easy to plan your itinerary. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Amherst.
What are the best car rentals in Amherst?
Car rentals in Amherst offer extensive vehicle variety. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
Most come with automatic transmission standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available. Families visiting attractions prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do well with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Amherst.

What are the best car rentals in Amherst for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Amherst for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $26 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $29 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives, consider sizing up to a compact SUV, starting from $26 a day, for extra comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Amherst.

What are the best car rentals in Amherst for couples?
The best car rentals in Amherst for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $25 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $26 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives around Amherst. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Amherst.

What are the best car rentals in Amherst for families?
The best car rentals in Amherst for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $26 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $30 a day—seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around Amherst. For even more space, a fullsize SUV starts from $42 a day. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for travel during March and June, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during these busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Amherst.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Amherst?
Amherst has electric and hybrid vehicle options available from several providers. Dollar Rent A Car offers electric vehicles starting from $14 a day, and Enterprise provides hybrid options starting from $14 a day. Avis also has electric vehicles available starting from $20 a day. These eco-friendly choices can be a great way to explore Amherst while potentially saving on fuel costs.
What is the best time to book a car in Amherst?
From February, prices in Amherst are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $14 a day during this period. March and June tend to be the busiest months, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What is the weather like for driving in Amherst?
Driving in Amherst experiences varying conditions throughout the year. Traffic and demand tend to build around March, when routes can get busier—planning drives for quieter periods can help. For reliable grip and traction in diverse conditions, consider a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), which are available from providers like Alamo Rent A Car. Always check the local forecast before longer trips and consider carrying water and an emergency kit for remote routes.
What are the best car companies in Amherst?
Car rentals in Amherst are available from providers like Alamo Rent A Car, Enterprise, and Budget, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Alamo Rent A Car has midsize 2 or 4 door and midsize SUV options that are easy to park and offer good space for city streets or day trips. Enterprise offers standard pickup regular cab and economy 2 or 4 door vehicles, providing value and efficiency. Budget rounds out the choices with fullsize 2 or 4 door and midsize 2 or 4 door vehicles, offering comfort and practicality. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for varied terrain, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Amherst.
What are good day trip destinations from Amherst by rental car?
For excellent day trips from Amherst by rental car, consider exploring several nearby attractions that cater to various interests. You can easily reach these destinations with a comfortable rental car, ensuring a smooth journey for families, couples, or solo travelers.
  • Sweet Briar College, located just 4 miles away, is perfect for a quick visit, perhaps for prospective students or alumni.
  • Liberty University in Lynchburg is approximately 21 miles from Amherst, offering campus visits and events, and is easily reachable in about 30 minutes.
  • Wintergreen Resort in Nellysford, about 29 miles away, provides mountain recreation opportunities like skiing in winter or hiking in warmer months, making it ideal for couples and families.
  • Smith Mountain Lake in Moneta, roughly 59 miles from Amherst, is a fantastic destination for water activities and relaxation, typically a drive of about 1 hour.
  • Shenandoah National Park, located about 88 miles away, is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours.
For these trips, a comfortable midsize sedan or an SUV would be suitable, especially if you are traveling with family or need extra space for gear. A midsize SUV starts from $26 a day, while a mini passenger van starts from $30 a day, providing ample room for passengers and luggage. Before heading out, ensure your rental car is fueled up, and consider packing water and snacks, particularly for longer drives to places like Shenandoah National Park. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Amherst.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Amherst?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Amherst. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Amherst?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Amherst?
Budget car rental in Amherst can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Amherst?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Amherst. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Amherst car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Amherst?
To rent a car in Amherst, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Amherst car rental?
If you need to cancel your Amherst car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Amherst with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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