$97 Car Rental Central Washington University, WA

Reasons to book a car rental around Central Washington University

Renting a car around Central Washington University offers great freedom and flexibility for exploring the area at your own pace. This modern college town provides easy access to several attractions, making it a popular choice for visitors. For those traveling with family or managing luggage, a rental car allows for convenient trips without the hassle of public transportation. You can visit West Ellensburg Park, located only 1 mile away, which is perfect for outdoor family experiences. The Kittitas County Historical Museum, also less than 1 mile away, is ideal for immersing yourself in local history. If you're interested in culture, Olmstead Place State Park Heritage Area, situated 4 miles from the university, offers a rich historical experience. A rental car also makes it simple to venture into nearby towns like Kittitas, which is 6 miles away, or Thorp, located 8 miles from the university, where you can find additional attractions like the Whiskey Dick Wildlife Area. With a rental car, you can enjoy a trendy and budget-friendly experience while discovering the friendly atmosphere of the region.

Most popular car rentals near Central Washington University

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travelers comfortably and can carry up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV provides ample space for passengers and luggage, ensuring a smooth ride as you explore the attractions around Central Washington University at your own pace. With the flexibility to manage your travel plans, this option is perfect for those looking to embark on a memorable journey.
• Standard SUV: A great option for 5 travelers, the standard SUV can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups. It strikes a balance between space and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your travels while easily accommodating your belongings. Choosing a standard SUV near Central Washington University will enhance your experience, giving you the freedom to explore the local area with ease and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers near Central Washington University

• Enterprise: Located less than 1 mile from Central Washington University, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers seeking convenience. They offer a diverse fleet, with the Midsize SUV and Standard being the most booked vehicles. Renting from Enterprise ensures flexibility in exploring the local attractions at your own pace.

Where to stay near Central Washington University

• Ellensburg: Located directly around Central Washington University, Ellensburg offers a blend of outdoor and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like West Ellensburg Park, which is perfect for eco-friendly family outings, and Olmstead Place State Park Heritage Area for a dose of history. The city also features various food and drink options, including local wineries and cafes, making it a vibrant place to stay.
• Kittitas: Situated 6 miles from Central Washington University, Kittitas is known for its business and cultural experiences. Here, you can visit the Kittitas County Historical Museum to delve into local history or enjoy outdoor activities in the area. The proximity to Olmstead Place State Park Heritage Area and West Ellensburg Park adds to the appeal for nature lovers. Additionally, Kittitas offers a selection of wineries and venues for dining.
• Thorp: About 8 miles from Central Washington University, Thorp is a charming destination ideal for those seeking scenic outdoor experiences. The area features access to hiking trails and picturesque lakes, perfect for romantic getaways or peaceful retreats. Key highlights include the West Ellensburg Park and Olmstead Place State Park Heritage Area. Thorp also has local wineries to enjoy after a day of exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Central Washington University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to secure better rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between price, 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 accessible. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the vehicle 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 justify the cost.
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 unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if unforeseen events arise during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when you book with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car around Central Washington University

The best value time to rent a car around Central Washington University is April, when prices are at their lowest and demand remains manageable. March is also a good option, with slightly low prices and average demand, making it an ideal shoulder month. May sees moderate prices and demand, providing another reasonable choice. In contrast, September tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and pricing, while June through August experience a spike in both demand and costs.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.4°F (-2.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	31.3°F (-0.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	37.6°F (3.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	45.3°F (7.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	55.4°F (13.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	70.0°F (21.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	47.8°F (8.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	35.1°F (1.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	27.3°F (-2.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average