$56 Car Rental New Bern, NC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around New Bern

Renting a car in New Bern offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily navigate to key attractions like Tryon Palace, a history museum perfect for cultural experiences, or enjoy the outdoor activities at New Bern Grand Marina and Union Point Park, both ideal for family and beach outings. The convenience of having a car allows you to manage your luggage with ease and adjust your travel plans on the fly.

Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations such as James City, Fairfield Harbour, and Bridgeton, all featuring the same attractions that make New Bern special. This flexibility is especially appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures or romantic scenery. Whether you're traveling with family or looking for a peaceful getaway, a rental car ensures that you can take in all the sights and experiences that New Bern and the surrounding areas have to offer without the limitations of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in New Bern

• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is a popular choice among travelers in New Bern, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for couples, families, or groups who want to explore the area comfortably. With its spacious interior and versatile design, a Standard SUV allows you to enjoy your journey while having ample room for luggage and any extra gear you might bring along.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families, the Economy car option also accommodates 5 passengers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This type of vehicle is highly sought after for its affordability and efficiency, making it a great choice for those looking to explore New Bern without breaking the bank. The Economy car provides the flexibility to navigate the city and surrounding areas with ease.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option offers a balance of space and comfort, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for couples and families who need a bit more storage for their belongings. Whether you're planning a longer stay or simply want to ensure you have space for all your luggage, the Midsize vehicle is practical and versatile for your car rental needs in New Bern.

Top rated car suppliers in New Bern

• Alamo Rent A Car: With one rental location in New Bern, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for travelers seeking convenience. Known for their reliable service, Alamo offers a selection of vehicles that includes Midsize and Economy options, making it ideal for those looking for efficiency and comfort during their travels.
• Enterprise: With two rental locations in the New Bern area, Enterprise provides maximum convenience for tourists. Their diverse fleet features Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, allowing you to choose the perfect car for your adventure. Enterprise is favored for its customer service and ease of booking, ensuring a smooth rental experience.
• Budget: Budget has one rental location in New Bern, making it an accessible option for travelers. They are known for their affordable rates and a solid selection of Midsize and Fullsize vehicles. Budget provides great value for those looking to explore New Bern and the surrounding areas without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in and around New Bern

• Fairfield Harbour: Fairfield Harbour is a village located near New Bern, ideal for families looking for outdoor and beach experiences. Key attractions include the historic Tryon Palace, the scenic New Bern Grand Marina, and Union Point Park, perfect for family outings. The area offers various dining options, including bars for relaxation after a day of activities. With its golf course and nearby marina, Fairfield Harbour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking adventure and a coastal vibe.
• James City: Situated close to New Bern, James City is a charming village that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and families. Visitors can enjoy the boardwalk, access to a beautiful lake, and shopping centers. Important sites include Tryon Palace, New Bern Grand Marina, and Union Point Park, where families can engage in recreational activities. The area is also home to several wineries and breweries, making it a great spot for romantic getaways and leisurely afternoons.
• Grantsboro: Located 12 miles from New Bern, Grantsboro offers a delightful seaside experience for families and beach lovers. The area boasts attractions such as Kennel Beach, ideal for sunbathing and relaxation, along with golf courses and theaters for entertainment. Visitors can explore Tryon Palace and the New Bern Grand Marina for cultural and outdoor adventures. Additionally, Grantsboro features local wineries, providing ample opportunities to unwind after a day of exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around New Bern

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices fluctuate with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to find lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions 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 generally the most favorable option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as long as you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but this added convenience might be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, search for rentals that come with unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 New Bern

The best value period to rent a car in and around New Bern is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This trend continues into March, which offers average pricing and low demand. However, as April and May approach, prices become slightly high and demand increases, making this the most expensive period for rentals. June through August maintain high demand as well, with prices remaining elevated during these busy summer months.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in New Bern

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in New Bern

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $56.

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