$67 Car Rental Southwest, DC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southwest

Renting a car in Southwest Washington, D.C. offers an incredible opportunity to explore at your own pace. With easy luggage management, you can travel comfortably without the constraints of public transportation. This flexibility is ideal for road trippers, adventurers, and cultural explorers alike. Key attractions, such as the iconic White House, located just 2 miles away, and the scenic National Mall, situated within Southwest, are easily accessible by car. You can also visit the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, which is 3 miles away, for any business needs. Beyond the neighborhood, a rental car allows you to venture into nearby Downtown Washington D.C. or Arlington, both just a short drive away, where you can find additional landmarks like the Pentagon and Georgetown University. Families will appreciate the convenience of having a vehicle for outings, and outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the nearby parks. Overall, renting a car in Southwest facilitates a personalized travel experience, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their adventure in the capital region.

Most popular car rentals in and around Southwest

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle fits 5 travelers comfortably, along with up to 3 large suitcases. It's an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups planning to explore Southwest and its surrounding attractions. The midsize SUV offers ample space and versatility, making it perfect for those who want the freedom to travel at their own pace while managing luggage easily.
• Fullsize: With room for 5 travelers and the capacity to accommodate up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is ideal for families and groups. This option provides generous space for both passengers and their belongings, making it a practical choice for road trippers looking to enjoy the sights and experiences in and around Southwest without feeling cramped.
• Standard SUV: This car type comfortably fits 5 travelers and can handle up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups. The standard SUV combines comfort and practicality, allowing you to navigate through the city and enjoy outdoor adventures in Southwest while ensuring your luggage is well-managed. Its balance of space and maneuverability makes it a popular choice among travelers.

Top rated car suppliers in and around Southwest

• Sixt: Sixt operates with 2 rental locations near Southwest, with the closest just 1 mile away. This supplier is popular for its well-maintained fleet, particularly Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, making it a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and space on the road.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty also has 2 locations within 1 mile of Southwest, catering to those in need of convenient transportation options. Known for its competitive rates, Thrifty's most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, perfect for exploring the area with ease.
• Alamo Rent A Car: With 2 rental locations approximately 2 miles from Southwest, Alamo provides excellent options for travelers. This supplier is favored for its Midsize and Premium SUVs, offering a comfortable ride while you navigate the attractions in and around Southwest.

Where to go around Southwest

• Downtown Washington D.C.: Located 2 miles away from Southwest, Downtown Washington D.C. offers a mix of family, outdoor, and city experiences. Visitors can explore key attractions such as the historic White House, the scenic National Mall, and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. The area sees peak visitor numbers from March to April and again in July, making it an exciting time for shopping and cultural exploration.
• Arlington: Situated 3 miles from Southwest, Arlington is known for its family-friendly, city, and business experiences. Highlights include the modern Pentagon, the historic White House, and the prestigious Georgetown University. Arlington experiences peak visitor numbers in March to April and July, providing a vibrant atmosphere for sightseeing and education throughout the year.
• Northeast: Northeast is located 4 miles from Southwest and attracts visitors with its family, outdoor, and city experiences. Notable attractions include the National Mall for adventure and scenery, the Smithsonian Institution for culture and family engagement, and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center for conferences. Visitor numbers peak from March to April and July, making it an ideal time for family outings and educational excursions.

10 tips to save on your Southwest car hire

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 additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to identify the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver 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 surcharges, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is typically the most advantageous. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers 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 provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans involve long 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 essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Southwest

The best value period to rent a car in and around the Southwest is February, when prices and demand are both low. January also offers slightly low prices and demand, making it a good option as well. Moving into March, prices begin to rise to an average level while demand stays moderate. May stands out as the most expensive month, with high demand and higher rental rates, leading into a busy summer season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average