$36 Car Rental Princeton, NJ

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Princeton

Renting a car in Princeton offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key sites such as the Princeton University Art Museum, Nassau Hall, and Albert Einstein's House, all located within the area. This convenience is especially beneficial for families, as you can manage luggage effortlessly and tailor your travel plans to suit your needs. Moreover, a car allows you to venture beyond Princeton to nearby destinations like New Hope, a city 15 miles away known for Peddler's Village and the New Hope–Lambertville Bridge, or Trenton, only 9 miles from Princeton, which features the Grounds For Sculpture and the New Jersey State House. Somerset, located 14 miles away, offers attractions like Colonial Park and the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly activities, renting a car enhances your visit and makes it easy to explore the diverse offerings in and around Princeton.

Most popular car rentals in Princeton

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travelers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore Princeton with comfort and ease. With its balanced size, you can enjoy maneuvering through town while having enough room for your luggage.
• Fullsize: If you're traveling with a larger group or family, the Fullsize car is an excellent choice. This option also accommodates 5 travelers and provides space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. It ensures that everyone has enough space for their belongings while allowing for a comfortable ride around Princeton and its surroundings.
• Standard: The Standard car type is another fantastic option for groups of up to 5 travelers. Similar to the Midsize, it comfortably fits up to 3 large suitcases, making it suitable for couples or families. The Standard car offers a balance of space and efficiency, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore Princeton at their own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Princeton

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in the Princeton area, Budget is a popular choice among travelers seeking friendly service. Known for its approachable staff, Budget makes the car rental experience pleasant and easy. The most booked vehicles from this supplier are Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, perfect for accommodating both passengers and luggage during your explorations.
• Avis: Also featuring 2 rental locations in Princeton, Avis stands out for its short wait times, making it a convenient option for travelers on the go. With a focus on efficiency, Avis ensures that you can quickly get on the road to enjoy your adventure. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles are the most popular choices among renters, providing comfort and space for your journey.
• Enterprise: Located at a single rental site in the Princeton area, Enterprise offers a streamlined experience for those looking to rent a car. Known for its customer-centric approach, this supplier is ideal for travelers needing versatile vehicle options. The most popular choices here include Midsize SUVs and Mini Vans, catering to various group sizes and travel needs.

Where to stay around Princeton

• New Hope: Located 15 miles from Princeton, New Hope offers a delightful blend of family and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the charming Peddler's Village, enjoy the rides at Sesame Place, or stroll across the historic New Hope–Lambertville Bridge. With nearby attractions like a beach and lake, this city is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Dining options abound, including various restaurants and wineries, making it a great spot for culinary enthusiasts.
• Somerset: Just 14 miles away from Princeton, Somerset is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant city life. Key attractions include the beautiful Colonial Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, which offers scenic trails. The area also features shopping centers and local eateries, including restaurants and wineries, ensuring a fulfilling stay for travelers looking to combine leisure and exploration.
• Trenton: At a distance of 9 miles from Princeton, Trenton is a captivating destination for families and entertainment lovers. The Grounds For Sculpture museum is a must-visit for those interested in culture. Families can enjoy a fun day at Sesame Place, while the New Jersey State House provides a glimpse into local history. With various dining options nearby, including wineries and restaurants, Trenton offers a well-rounded experience for visitors.

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

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 economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you'll likely access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental prices and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, 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 available. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements 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 option is generally the most economical. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
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 in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 Princeton

The best value period to rent a car in and around Princeton is February, as prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. January also offers a quiet time with similar pricing. As spring approaches, March sees average prices and steady demand, while April and May maintain these moderate conditions. However, things change in June, when prices rise to slightly high levels, and demand tends to be moderately high, making it one of the most expensive months for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
October	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Princeton

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Princeton

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $36.

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