$35 Car Rental Hickory, NC

These Hickory insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 25, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Hickory

Renting a car in Hickory provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create personalized travel plans without relying on public transportation schedules. This is particularly beneficial for those seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or romantic experiences. You can visit key attractions like the Harper House and Maple Grove, both historic sites that offer cultural insights, as well as the Catawba Science Center, ideal for family-oriented outings. Additionally, having a car allows you to venture into nearby cities such as Mountain View and Bethlehem, where you can enjoy Lake Hickory and Hickory Motor Speedway. Each destination is easily accessible, making it convenient for families, culture enthusiasts, and couples to explore the area's rich offerings while enjoying the comfort of their own vehicle. Overall, renting a car in Hickory enhances your travel experience by providing you with the ability to discover and enjoy all that this charming region has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Hickory

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a favorite among travelers in Hickory, accommodating up to 5 people and offering space for 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area with comfort and convenience. With its blend of space and maneuverability, it's an ideal choice for navigating both urban and rural settings.
• Fullsize Pickup: For those seeking adventure, the fullsize pickup is a popular option that comfortably fits 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is excellent for adventure travelers and larger families or groups who may need extra room for gear or luggage. Its robust build ensures you can tackle various terrains while enjoying the flexibility of a spacious cabin.
• Mini Van: The mini van stands out as the best option for larger groups, accommodating up to 8 travelers and providing room for 6 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for families or groups traveling together, ensuring everyone can travel comfortably without sacrificing luggage space. The mini van allows for easy access and convenience, making it a top choice for group excursions in and around Hickory.

Top rated car suppliers in Hickory

• Enterprise: With a rental location conveniently situated in Hickory, Enterprise is a favored choice among travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. This supplier is known for its diverse range of vehicles, making it easy to find the perfect ride for your trip. The most booked options include Midsize cars and Mini Vans, ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Renting with Enterprise allows you to explore Hickory and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Budget: Budget is another excellent option for car rentals in Hickory, featuring a single rental location. Travelers appreciate Budget for its competitive rates and value for money. The most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to various preferences and travel needs. With Budget, you can enjoy the freedom to navigate the area without breaking the bank.
• Hertz: Also located in Hickory, Hertz is a top supplier known for its reliable services and a wide selection of vehicles. Customers often choose Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, making it easy to find a vehicle that suits your travel style. Renting from Hertz ensures you have the means to comfortably explore Hickory and the surrounding attractions, providing flexibility and convenience during your visit.

Where to stay in and around Hickory

• Conover: Located 7 miles away from Hickory, Conover is a charming city ideal for travelers seeking outdoor and romantic experiences. Visitors can explore urban parks like Conover City Park, Conover Downtown Park, and Majestic Park, perfect for family outings and leisure. The city also offers nearby attractions such as lakes and shopping centers, alongside food and drink options including wineries and restaurants, making it a lovely place to stay while enjoying the scenic beauty.
• Newton: Situated 8 miles from Hickory, Newton is another great option for those who appreciate outdoor activities and scenic views. Known for its motor racing events at the Hickory Motor Speedway, visitors can indulge in the local culture at the Newton Performing Arts Center. With several urban parks and a vibrant shopping center, Newton also features nearby wineries and distilleries, making it a delightful choice for a stay focused on adventure and relaxation.
• Mountain View: Nestled in the area of Hickory, Mountain View is a village perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With attractions like Lake Hickory, offering opportunities for beach activities and romantic outings, visitors can also enjoy the nearby Hickory Motor Speedway for motorsport thrills. The village features golf courses and national state parks, along with food and drink options such as wineries, making it a scenic and enjoyable destination for your stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify 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 likely to access lower prices and greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars 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 types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable—just ensure you 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 convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive 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 necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Hickory

The best time to rent a car in and around Hickory is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. March offers average prices with slightly low demand, making it another good option. However, July tends to be the most expensive period, with slightly high prices and high demand. June and August also see higher prices and demand, which can make securing a rental more challenging during those months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
April	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	74.1°F (23.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Hickory

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Hickory

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $35.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

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