$48 Car Rental Durham, NC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Durham

Renting a car in Durham allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Durham Performing Arts Center, known for its cultural experiences, and the historic Cameron Indoor Stadium, both conveniently located in the area of Durham. If you're interested in business or city-themed experiences, a drive to Research Triangle Park, just 6 miles away, is a great option.

A rental car also makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations like Raleigh, featuring North Carolina State Fairgrounds and Dorothea Dix Park, or Chapel Hill, which is only 10 miles away and home to Franklin Street and the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Families can benefit from the extra space for luggage and gear, while business travelers can easily manage their schedules. Whether you're in Durham for leisure or work, having a rental car enhances your travel experience, making it simple to access a variety of attractions and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Durham

• Compact SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The Compact SUV provides the perfect balance of space and maneuverability, allowing you to navigate Durham's roads comfortably while enjoying the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Midsize: This car type also accommodates 5 travelers but has the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases, which is perfect for couples and families with extra luggage. The Midsize car offers a spacious interior, ensuring comfort during your travels as you explore the attractions in and around Durham.
• Standard Convertible: Ideal for couples and business travelers, this option accommodates 4 travelers with the ability to carry up to 2 medium suitcases. The Standard Convertible offers a stylish and fun driving experience, allowing you to enjoy the open air while navigating through Durham's scenic routes.

Top rated car suppliers in Durham

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in Durham, offering 3 convenient rental locations throughout the area. Known for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise makes the car rental process smooth and efficient. The most booked vehicles are Midsize and Compact options, providing flexibility for various travel needs. Many customers appreciate the well-maintained vehicles and friendly staff, making it a reliable option for both short trips and extended stays.
• Hertz: Hertz also has 3 rental locations in Durham, making it easily accessible for tourists. This supplier is favored for its wide selection of vehicles, particularly Midsize and Fullsize cars, catering to different group sizes and travel preferences. Customers often highlight the efficiency of the rental process and the quality of the cars provided. Hertz stands out for its commitment to customer satisfaction and offers a great option for those looking to explore Durham and its surroundings.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Durham, offering competitive rates for travelers. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Economy vehicles, making it a perfect choice for those who may need extra space or are looking for economical options. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the convenience of having a rental location within the area. Budget provides a solid choice for visitors wanting to explore Durham while managing their travel budget effectively.

Where to stay in and around Durham

• Raleigh: A vibrant metropolis, Raleigh offers a family-friendly and city-themed experience. It is home to the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, ideal for outdoor vacations, and the Research Triangle Park, perfect for city exploration. Don’t miss the urban charm of Dorothea Dix Park. With various food and drink options, including wineries and breweries, Raleigh is a great base for travelers looking to enjoy both urban attractions and outdoor activities.
• Chapel Hill: Located 10 miles from Durham, Chapel Hill is well-suited for city, culture, and business-themed experiences. Key attractions include the historic Cameron Indoor Stadium, which is a must-see for sports enthusiasts, and the beautiful North Carolina Botanical Garden, perfect for family outings and romantic strolls. The lively Franklin Street offers excellent shopping and dining options, making Chapel Hill an appealing destination for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
• Gorman: Nestled in the area of Durham, Gorman is ideal for travelers seeking an outdoor and scenic experience. With access to urban parks and lakes, Gorman provides ample recreational opportunities. Notable attractions include the Durham Performing Arts Center for culture lovers and the nearby Research Triangle Park for those interested in urban exploration. Gorman’s local wineries and breweries enhance the experience, making it a delightful spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, 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 can vary with demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking early typically allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually 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 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also work, but make sure to 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 justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
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 in and around Durham

The best time to rent a car in and around Durham is January and February, when both prices and demand are usually low. March and April follow closely, offering average pricing and demand levels. However, June tends to see the highest prices and demand, making it the most expensive month for rentals. July continues this trend with slightly elevated demand, while August sees prices drop slightly but still remain high compared to earlier months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
June	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Durham

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Durham

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $48.

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