$42 Car Rental Wilmington, DE

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wilmington

Renting a car in Wilmington offers travelers the freedom to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to key sites like the Wilmington Riverwalk, an ideal spot for family outings and romantic strolls. For those interested in culture, the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library provides a rich historical experience right in the area. If you're looking to enjoy outdoor activities, Longwood Gardens, located 11 miles away, is a beautiful urban park perfect for families and nature lovers alike. Having a car also makes it convenient to visit nearby neighborhoods such as the Riverfront, which features attractions like the Chase Center and additional cultural experiences. Downtown Wilmington offers more local flavor with sites like the Grand Opera House and the Kalmar Nyckel Museum. Additionally, you can easily drive to Penns Grove, just 4 miles away, to visit the 9-11 Memorial Park. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking outdoor adventures, renting a car enhances your experience by providing flexibility and convenience for your travel plans.

Most popular car rentals in Wilmington

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for travelers in Wilmington, accommodating up to 5 people with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking to explore the area without the hassle of larger vehicles. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate Wilmington’s streets while providing the flexibility to manage your luggage comfortably.
• Premium Pickup: If you’re an adventure traveler or part of a small group or family, the Premium Pickup is an excellent option. This vehicle comfortably seats 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for those who need extra space for gear or larger bags. Renting this type allows for a luxurious travel experience while exploring Wilmington and its surrounding attractions.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is another favored option in Wilmington, accommodating 5 travelers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for couples or families who want a balance of comfort and space. With a Midsize car, you can enjoy a smooth driving experience while having enough room for your luggage, enhancing your overall travel convenience.

Top rated car suppliers in Wilmington

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travelers in Wilmington, offering one rental location in the area. Customers frequently choose Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, which cater well to various travel needs. Hertz is recognized for its reliable service and well-maintained cars, making it a solid option for those looking to explore Wilmington and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With four rental locations in Wilmington, Enterprise is known for its exceptional customer service and flexible rental options. Most travelers opt for Midsize vehicles or Mini Vans, making it an excellent choice for families and groups. The company prides itself on friendly staff and a smooth rental process, enhancing the overall experience for customers seeking to navigate the area comfortably.
• Budget: Budget provides convenient car rental services through its single location in Wilmington. Travelers often select Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, which offer ample space and comfort for various adventures. Budget is appreciated for its competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for those wanting to explore Wilmington without breaking the bank.

Where to stay in and around Wilmington

• New Castle: Located 6 miles from Wilmington, New Castle offers a family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor and city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore the historic charm at the Old Court House or enjoy nature at Fort Delaware State Park. Battery Park provides a lovely urban park setting for families. With nearby restaurants and wineries, this city is perfect for those looking to enjoy both culture and recreation.
• Downtown Wilmington: Around Wilmington, Downtown is ideal for family, outdoor, and romantic experiences. The area features attractions such as the Grand Opera House for culture and entertainment, and the Wilmington Riverwalk, which is perfect for leisurely strolls. The Kalmar Nyckel Museum and Shipyard offers a glimpse into maritime history. This vibrant neighborhood is also home to various dining options, including sweet treats and wineries.
• Newark: Situated 12 miles away from Wilmington, Newark is known for its family-friendly and culturally themed experiences. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Newark Reservoir and explore the University of Delaware Botanic Gardens, which are ideal for romance and outdoor activities. Additionally, White Clay Creek State Park offers scenic adventures. The city has a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful place for travelers.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to secure lower rates and enjoy improved availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can 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, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental car insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring 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 Wilmington

The best time to rent a car in Wilmington is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. You can find decent value during April and May, as prices remain average while demand starts to rise. However, June through August see higher prices and increasing demand, making July the most expensive month to rent a car. Following this peak, September can offer average pricing with slightly lower demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Wilmington

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Wilmington

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $42.

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