$51 Car Rental Wilmington, DE

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wilmington

Renting a car in Wilmington offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for business travelers, family explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate the convenience of easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as **Longwood Gardens**, located 11 miles away, perfect for family and outdoor experiences, or enjoy the scenic **Wilmington Riverwalk**, situated right in the city, ideal for family and romantic outings.

Additionally, you can delve into cultural experiences at the **Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library**, also located in Wilmington. A rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like **Newark**, just 12 miles away, home to the University of Delaware and Newark Reservoir, or **Chadds Ford**, only 9 miles from Wilmington, where you can revisit Longwood Gardens and Winterthur. Exploring **New Castle**, 6 miles away, offers opportunities to enjoy the Wilmington Riverwalk and Fort Delaware State Park. Having a rental car ensures you make the most of your visit to Wilmington and the surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Wilmington

• Economy: This car type is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families. It accommodates up to 5 travelers and has space for 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for those exploring Wilmington at their own pace while managing their luggage easily. The economy option is popular among business travelers and those seeking a cost-effective solution for city driving.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV fits 5 travelers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is particularly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the surrounding areas of Wilmington. Its spacious interior provides comfort for longer journeys while still allowing for flexible travel plans.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is a great fit for families or larger groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers and allowing for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it a popular choice for those who prioritize space and comfort during their travels around Wilmington. With ample room for passengers and luggage, the fullsize car is perfect for those with more extensive needs.

Top rated car suppliers in Wilmington

• Hertz: With 1 rental location in Wilmington, Hertz is a great choice for travelers seeking convenience. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a selection of vehicles that cater to various needs, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. Whether you're exploring downtown Wilmington or heading out to nearby attractions, Hertz provides the flexibility to manage your travel plans effortlessly.
• Enterprise: Featuring 4 rental locations in the Wilmington area, Enterprise stands out for its accessibility and excellent customer service. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, ideal for families or groups looking for comfort on the road. With Enterprise, you can easily pick up your vehicle and embark on your adventure around Wilmington and beyond.
• Budget: With 2 rental locations in Wilmington, Budget is perfect for travelers seeking great value without compromising on quality. Their most popular options are Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, making it a practical choice for those needing space and comfort. Budget's competitive rates and convenient locations ensure that you can quickly get on the road and explore the beautiful surroundings of Wilmington.

Where to go in and around Wilmington

• Newark: Located 12 miles away from Wilmington, Newark offers a blend of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the historic University of Delaware, catch a show at the Bob Carpenter Center, or enjoy the serene surroundings at Newark Reservoir. The best times to visit are in April, July, and September, when traveler numbers peak, making it an ideal spot for family, city, and cultural experiences.
• Chadds Ford: Just 9 miles from Wilmington, Chadds Ford is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Highlights include the stunning Longwood Gardens, the modern West Chester University of Pennsylvania, and the Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library, which offers a glimpse into local history. Peak visitor months are April, July, and September, providing a vibrant atmosphere for city and outdoor vacations.
• New Castle: Situated 6 miles away from Wilmington, New Castle is a charming city inviting families and outdoor lovers. Key attractions include the scenic Wilmington Riverwalk, the historic University of Delaware, and the adventurous Fort Delaware State Park. This area sees peak visitor numbers in April, July, and September, making it a great destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

10 tips to save on your Wilmington 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 extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to book your car well ahead of your trip. By reserving early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to 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 certain vehicle types—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 rental companies require 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. Other companies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be acceptable as well. Just make sure to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
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. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek rentals 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.

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 $51.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

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