Car Rental Philadelphia

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Top Car Deals in Philadelphia

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Cape Town, Western Cape, ZAF
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Cape Town, Western Cape, ZAF
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Cape Town, Western Cape, ZAF
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Cape Town, Western Cape, ZAF
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Philadelphia car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Philadelphia

Renting a car in Philadelphia offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming neighborhood and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your needs. Key attractions such as Bloubergstrand Beach, located 12 miles away, and Atlantic Beach Golf Club, just 9 miles from Philadelphia, are easily accessible. If you're interested in scenic views, Big Bay Beach is only 11 miles away, providing opportunities for outdoor experiences.

A rental car also allows you to venture into popular destinations like Cape Town, where you can visit renowned spots such as Camps Bay Beach and Table Mountain. Additionally, nearby areas like Cape Farms and Blaauwberg Coast are within a short drive, featuring beautiful beaches and golf clubs. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or with friends, having your own vehicle ensures you can comfortably explore the rich offerings in and around Philadelphia without the constraints of public transportation.

Where to stay around Philadelphia

  • Cape Town: Situated in the heart of Cape Town, Philadelphia offers easy access to a vibrant metropolis filled with outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and business opportunities. Travelers can explore nearby attractions such as Camps Bay Beach, Table Mountain, and Boulders Beach, all of which promise stunning scenery and adventure. Dining options abound with various restaurants and wineries, ensuring a delightful culinary experience during your stay.
  • Cape Farms: Located 6 miles away from Philadelphia, Cape Farms is an appealing destination for beach lovers. Notable highlights include Bloubergstrand Beach and Sunset Beach, both perfect for relaxing by the ocean. For golf enthusiasts, the Atlantic Beach Golf Club nearby offers excellent golfing opportunities. This area is ideal for those seeking a laid-back beach vacation while still being close to Philadelphia.
  • Melkbosstrand: Melkbosstrand is a neighboring community situated 8 miles from Philadelphia, attracting visitors for its outdoor and sports activities. With stunning beaches and a family-friendly atmosphere, it provides access to Atlantic Beach Golf Club, as well as Bloubergstrand Beach and Sunset Beach for enjoyable beach days. This area is great for those who appreciate both the ocean and golf, making it a versatile choice for accommodation.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match 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 lower prices and enjoy better availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver and park 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 specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before confirming your reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under 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 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 an additional surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra 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 provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, look for rental options 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.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies near Philadelphia?
You can find cheap car rentals near Philadelphia from $11 a day with Hertz's mini 4-5 door. U-Save Car Rental offers economy 4-5 door cars starting from $11 a day, while Sixt also has economy 4-5 door options starting from $11 a day. Carwiz provides mini 4-5 door vehicles starting from $11 a day. These companies offer some of the most affordable options in the Philadelphia area, allowing you to compare suppliers on Expedia to find a car rental that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Philadelphia.
What are the best luxury car companies near Philadelphia?
For luxury car rentals near Philadelphia, you can find premium options through providers like Carwiz, Enterprise, and Greenmotion. Carwiz offers premium 4-5 door vehicles starting from $85 a day, providing an elevated driving experience. Enterprise and Greenmotion also feature luxury category vehicles within their inventory, offering choices for travelers seeking enhanced comfort and style in the Philadelphia area. These luxury rentals often come with advanced features and a more refined driving experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Philadelphia.
Can I rent a car one-way near Philadelphia?
Yes, a one-way car rental near Philadelphia is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $12 a day. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in the Philadelphia area and drop it off at a different location, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Providers like Greenmotion and U-Save Car Rental may have flexible one-way policies, making them good options for a one-way car rental starting near Philadelphia. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Philadelphia.
Can I rent a car round-trip near Philadelphia?
Yes, the area near Philadelphia is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $11 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring areas near Philadelphia. This is ideal for visiting attractions such as Camps Bay Beach, Boulders Beach, and Clifton Bay Beach, and then returning to your original pickup point. Providers like Greenmotion and U-Save Car Rental also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Philadelphia.
What are the best car rentals near Philadelphia?
Car rentals near Philadelphia offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Economy elite 4-5 door
  • Compact crossover
  • Midsize monospace
  • Midsize elite passenger van
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission standard, and both automatic and manual transmissions are available across various categories. Families visiting attractions in the Philadelphia area often prefer SUVs or minivans for space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers find economy or compact cars to be efficient and easy to maneuver. Choose your rental based on passenger count, luggage needs, and your budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Philadelphia.

What are the best car rentals near Philadelphia for solo travelers?
The best car rentals near Philadelphia for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy 4-5 door, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Mini 4-5 door, starting from $11 a day — fits up to 4 people and up to 2 small suitcases, offering great fuel efficiency for solo adventures
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you are planning longer drives to spots like Camps Bay Beach, consider sizing up to a compact SUV for extra highway comfort and a bit more space. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Philadelphia.

What are the best car rentals near Philadelphia for couples?
The best car rentals near Philadelphia for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize monospace, starting from $21 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Standard SUV, starting from $29 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 4 large suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a premium 4-5 door vehicle, starting from $85 a day, for scenic drives around the Philadelphia area. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Philadelphia.

What are the best car rentals near Philadelphia for families?
The best car rentals near Philadelphia for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Midsize elite passenger van, starting from $24 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Fullsize passenger van, starting from $51 a day — seats up to 10 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and minivans have ample room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them the most comfortable fit for trips around the Philadelphia area. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during December, which tends to be the busiest month. Consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Philadelphia.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars near Philadelphia?
Yes, the area near Philadelphia has excellent hybrid vehicle options. Greenmotion offers hybrid vehicles starting from $36 a day, and U-Save Car Rental also provides hybrid options starting from $36 a day. Multiple rental companies near Philadelphia carry hybrid cars, which are widely available on Expedia. These vehicles can offer fuel savings, as charging costs less than equivalent gasoline cars. It is advisable to book hybrid vehicles 4-6 weeks ahead as demand can be high, and plan charging stops for longer trips.
What is the best time to book a car near Philadelphia?
From May, prices near Philadelphia are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. December tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What is the weather like for driving near Philadelphia?
Driving near Philadelphia offers varied conditions throughout the year. December tends to be the busiest month, when routes to spots like Camps Bay Beach get busiest—plan drives for quieter periods where you can. For wet or slippery stretches, an economy class vehicle offers reliable grip and traction. Always check the forecast before longer trips and carry water and an emergency kit for remote routes, especially when exploring the broader Philadelphia area.
What are the best car companies near Philadelphia?
Car rentals in the Philadelphia area are available from providers like Greenmotion, U-Save Car Rental, and Sixt, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Greenmotion has economy 4-5 door and economy elite 4-5 door options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. U-Save Car Rental offers economy 4-5 door and mini elite 4-5 door vehicles, providing good value and maneuverability. Sixt rounds out the choices with economy 4-5 door and mini 4-5 door vehicles. Choose a higher-clearance or all-wheel-drive class for mountain or winter driving, and a compact class for easy maneuvering and better mileage on longer highway stretches. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Philadelphia.
What are good day trip destinations from Philadelphia by rental car?
Top day-trip destinations and activities within easy reach from the Cape Town area include:
  • Camps Bay Beach, approximately 4 miles away
  • Boulders Beach, approximately 23 miles away
  • Clifton Bay Beach, approximately 4 miles away
  • Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Penguins Day Tour from Cape Town
  • Table Mountain, Penguins & Cape Point Group Tour from Cape Town
These distances are manageable for most car types, whether you prefer an economy car for efficiency or an SUV for comfort. Booking a car with flexible cancellation policies can be beneficial if your day trip plans are weather-dependent, ensuring a smooth experience as you explore the beautiful surroundings of the Cape Town area. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Philadelphia.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Philadelphia?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Philadelphia. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Philadelphia?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Philadelphia?
Budget car rental in Philadelphia can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Philadelphia?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Philadelphia. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Philadelphia car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Philadelphia?
To rent a car in Philadelphia, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Philadelphia car rental?
If you need to cancel your Philadelphia car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Philadelphia with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

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