Car Rental at Ohio State University Airport (OSU)

Reasons to book a car rental at Columbus Airport

Renting a car at Columbus airport is an excellent choice for travelers seeking the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. Whether you are a college visitor, sports enthusiast, or business traveler, having a rental car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. With many attractions just a short drive away, you can conveniently visit places like Ohio State University, located 6 miles from the airport, or the Greater Columbus Convention Center, situated 8 miles away, perfect for business engagements.

For families or those looking for cultural experiences, COSI, a science museum located 9 miles from Columbus airport, offers engaging activities for all ages. Additionally, you can explore nearby destinations such as Worthington, just 3 miles away, and Powell, also 6 miles away, both featuring attractions like Bridge Park and the Olentangy Indian Caverns. The University District, within 6 miles, is home to key venues like the Schottenstein Center. Renting a car ensures you make the most of your time in the Columbus area, providing the convenience and flexibility to visit multiple sites without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car rentals near Columbus Airport

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle is a popular choice for travelers at Columbus airport, comfortably accommodating 5 people along with up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs are ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area. With their spacious interiors, they offer a great balance of comfort and versatility, making them perfect for a variety of travel needs.
• Fullsize: Sought after for its spaciousness, the fullsize car can fit 5 travelers and carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for families or larger groups needing extra room for luggage or gear. Renting a fullsize vehicle at Columbus airport ensures you have ample space for both passengers and belongings while enjoying the freedom to explore at your convenience.
• Mini Van: The mini van is an excellent choice for larger families or groups, accommodating up to 8 travelers with the capacity to hold up to 6 large suitcases. This option is especially beneficial for those traveling with extra luggage or equipment, providing roomy seating and storage. Renting a mini van at Columbus airport offers the convenience of group travel while ensuring everyone stays comfortable throughout the journey.

Top rated car suppliers near Columbus Airport

• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations available, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers at Columbus airport, located just 0.1 miles away. Known for its friendly service and clean vehicles, Enterprise boasts an overall rating of 7 out of 10. The most popular options among renters are the Midsize SUV and Mini Van, making it easy to find the right vehicle for your needs while exploring the area.
• Budget: Budget also offers 3 rental locations, situated 1 mile away from Columbus airport. This supplier is favored for its competitive pricing and a solid selection of vehicles. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize models are the most booked options, catering to those looking for space and comfort during their travels around Columbus.
• Avis: Avis features 3 rental locations, with the nearest one located 1 mile from Columbus airport. This supplier is popular among travelers, offering a reliable fleet of vehicles. Like Budget, Avis sees high demand for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, ensuring you can find a vehicle that suits your travel plans and preferences.

Where to go near Columbus Airport

• Powell: Located 6 miles away from Columbus, OH, Powell is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The best time to visit is between May and July, when the number of traveler arrivals peaks. Attractions include the historic Ohio State University, the urban Bridge Park, and the adventurous Olentangy Indian Caverns. Visitors can also enjoy nearby shopping centers and a water park, making it a perfect destination for family and entertainment experiences.
• University District: Also situated 6 miles from Columbus, the University District offers a blend of culture, family activities, and sports experiences. Peak visitor times are in April, July, and September. Key highlights include the historic Ohio State University, the Greater Columbus Convention Center for business events, and the Schottenstein Center for arena entertainment. This neighborhood is an excellent choice for those looking for educational and sports-related attractions.
• Worthington: Located only 3 miles from Columbus, Worthington is a great neighborhood for family, city, and business experiences. The visitor numbers peak in April and during the summer months of June to July. Key attractions include the historic Ohio State University, the Greater Columbus Convention Center for events, and the Schottenstein Center, which offers family entertainment. Worthington features various shopping centers and educational venues, making it a convenient and engaging place to stay.

9 tips to save on your Columbus Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best options for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it’s generally advisable to book your OSU car rental as early as possible. Ideally, make your reservation 1 to 3 months in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also impact renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, 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.
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 often the most economical choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure the car is returned empty in that scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Columbus Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Columbus Airport is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January also presents a similar opportunity, offering low rates and quiet demand. As spring approaches, April sees slightly higher prices but remains a low-demand month. However, July marks the peak of both demand and pricing, making it the most expensive time for rentals. June and August also experience elevated prices and demand, contributing to the busier summer months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.6°F (-1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	41.7°F (5.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average