$76 Car Rental Bristol, RI

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol, Rhode Island, offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area's rich history, beautiful coastlines, and outdoor experiences at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting attractions like Roger Williams University, located conveniently within the city, or the stunning Aldrich Mansion, just 6 miles away. If you're in the mood for some beach time, Oakland Beach is a mere 7 miles from Bristol, providing a perfect seaside escape.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture beyond Bristol to nearby cities such as Providence, just 13 miles away, where you can explore Brown University and the Rhode Island Convention Center. Middletown, located 11 miles away, is home to the iconic Newport Mansions, while Portsmouth is only 5 miles from Bristol and offers more of the region's charm. Whether you're a coastal explorer, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, having a car makes it convenient to discover the diverse attractions around Bristol, enhancing your travel experience significantly.

Most popular car rentals in Bristol

• Midsize: A popular choice for travelers in Bristol, midsize cars accommodate up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families seeking the perfect balance between space and maneuverability, making it easier to explore the coastal scenery and historic sites at your own pace.
• Fullsize SUV: If you're traveling with a larger group, the fullsize SUV is an excellent option. It fits up to 6 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This car type is perfect for families and groups who want ample space for everyone and their gear while enjoying the flexibility to venture out to Bristol's beautiful outdoor destinations.
• Compact: The compact car is a fantastic choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families. It seats up to 5 passengers and can accommodate up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for those looking for a more economical rental while still having the freedom to explore Bristol and its surroundings with ease and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers in Bristol

• Enterprise: Enterprise is the most popular car rental supplier in Bristol, known for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options. With one rental location in the area, travelers can easily access a variety of vehicles. The most booked cars are Midsize and Fullsize SUVs, which provide ample space and comfort for exploring Bristol and its surroundings. Customers appreciate the helpful staff and the ability to manage their itineraries efficiently, making Enterprise a reliable choice for your car rental needs.

Where to go around Bristol

• Providence: Located 13 miles from Bristol, Providence offers a rich blend of culture and entertainment. Visitors can explore the historic Brown University, attend events at the Rhode Island Convention Center, or enjoy a concert at the Amica Mutual Pavilion. With a peak in visitors during July to August and October, it's an excellent spot for cultural vacations.
• Middletown: Just 11 miles from Bristol, Middletown is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and beach scenery. Highlights include the stunning Newport Mansions and the picturesque Thames Street. The best time to visit is from June to August, when the beaches and parks are bustling with activity, providing a delightful experience for families and nature lovers alike.
• Portsmouth: Only 5 miles from Bristol, Portsmouth is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Newport Mansions and the scenic Thames Street. The area sees a surge in visitors from June to August, making it a great time to enjoy its beautiful beaches and parks while soaking in the local atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your Bristol car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower prices and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and some vehicle types—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: Certain rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most convenient option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure 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 it may be worth it for the convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Bristol

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bristol is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February also offers good rates with moderately low demand. Following these months, May and June maintain average pricing and demand, making them decent alternatives. However, July is the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand. August and September also see average prices but with increased demand due to summer travelers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
February	32.4°F (0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	48.0°F (8.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Bristol

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Bristol

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $76.

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