Delaware Car Rentals

Photo by Leslie Kipp
I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

Top destinations to rent a car in Delaware

A large, historic house with a symmetrical facade, green shutters, and a well-maintained garden.
CarsCars

Wilmington

Wilmington

What you need to know for your Delaware car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Delaware

Renting a car in Delaware offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the state's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, managing your luggage becomes convenient, allowing you to travel comfortably without worrying about public transportation schedules. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, or family-friendly experiences, Delaware has something for everyone. You can easily visit the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, ideal for outdoor activities and family fun, or spend a relaxing day at Lewes Beach. For nature lovers, Cape Henlopen State Park provides scenic views and opportunities for adventure. Having a car also makes it simple to explore popular cities like Rehoboth Beach, where you can enjoy the boardwalk and nearby beaches. Bethany Beach and Dewey Beach are also within reach, offering more beautiful beaches and boardwalk experiences. Renting a car allows you to create flexible travel plans, ensuring that you can make the most of your time in Delaware while visiting its stunning attractions. This flexibility is especially beneficial for families or those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

Most popular car rentals in Delaware

  • Midsize: The midsize car option is a popular choice among travelers in Delaware, accommodating up to 5 individuals and allowing for 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples or families who appreciate the balance of comfort and space. With a midsize vehicle, you can enjoy the freedom to explore Delaware at your own pace while managing your luggage effortlessly.
  • Economy: The economy car is another highly booked option, perfect for 5 travelers and fitting up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for cost-effective transportation without compromising on convenience. Renting an economy car allows you to navigate Delaware’s attractions while keeping your travel plans flexible.
  • Standard SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the standard SUV is a favored choice. It accommodates 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for couples, families, or groups. The extra room in a standard SUV provides comfort during your travels, ensuring everyone has ample space to relax while exploring Delaware's diverse offerings.

Where to stay in Delaware

  • Rehoboth Beach: Rehoboth Beach is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples seeking a romantic getaway. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, which offers a vibrant atmosphere and access to various shops and recreational areas. The beautiful Rehoboth Beach, along with nearby Lewes Beach, creates perfect spots for sunbathing and swimming. Food lovers will appreciate the range of nearby restaurants and wineries, catering to various tastes and occasions, making it an ideal location for a memorable beach vacation.
  • Bethany Beach: Bethany Beach is a charming coastal town known for its inviting atmosphere and outdoor activities. The Bethany Beach Boardwalk is a highlight, providing a lovely esplanade perfect for romantic strolls and family fun. With stunning beaches like Maryland Beach and Bethany Beach Beaches nearby, visitors can relax by the ocean or partake in various water sports. The local dining scene features an array of restaurants and wineries, ensuring that guests can savor delightful meals throughout their stay.
  • Dewey Beach: Dewey Beach is an energetic destination that combines beach relaxation with vibrant nightlife. Popular for outdoor activities and romantic escapades, Dewey Beach is home to the picturesque Dewey Beach, where visitors can unwind on the sandy shores. The bustling Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is also accessible, offering additional recreational opportunities. With various restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Dewey Beach provides a fantastic selection of dining options for travelers looking to enjoy the local flavors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Delaware

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel 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 strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  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 fees. This is usually the most economical choice. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
  7. Know your payment options: Most 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 should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek rentals 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.

Best time to rent a car in Delaware

The best time to rent a car in Delaware is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low, making it a great value period. January also offers low demand but is slightly more expensive. March sees a rise in demand, while April and May maintain average prices and demand. However, from June through August, prices and demand increase, with July being the most expensive month. After that, September to November levels out with moderate pricing and demand.

Find Delaware Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Delaware car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Delaware, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Delaware offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Delaware car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Delaware to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Delaware airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Delaware rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Delaware airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Delaware car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time, many reservations qualify for a full refund. However, not all are eligible for this, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the policy. Read through your itinerary for the details or click through to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Delaware with Expedia?
Check customer reviews and ratings, choose your preferred car type and compare prices from the most popular providers. Expedia makes it easy to get the best deal on your rental wheels. Bundle your Delaware car rental with flight or hotel bookings and drive away with even more in your wallet.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Delaware?
You need to be at least 21. But there are a few age-related restrictions to keep in mind before reserving your Delaware wheels. If you're a younger driver, rental providers will likely charge an extra daily fee and limit the sorts of cars you can rent. The precise surcharge, and which age range it applies to, varies between companies. Take the time to compare the requirements.
What do you need to rent a car in Delaware?
Before you can hop behind the wheel in Delaware, you'll need a driver's license and a credit card that matches the name on your license. If you decline to take out the company's insurance plan, you may also have to show proof of alternative coverage. Rules may vary, so read the contract terms and conditions before you select a rental provider.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Delaware?
Expedia makes it a cinch to find a long-term car rental in Delaware. Simply head to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your details and compare your choices.
Where can I find a Delaware car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to investigate the age policy of the Delaware rental providers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years of age, be mindful that some will charge additional fees. It's better to know this before arriving at the desk so you can plan your budget accordingly. Every rental car company has its own rules for young drivers, so it pays to do your research.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Delaware?
Add collision protection while reserving your Delaware car rental with Expedia. This covers your ride against collision damage, theft and vandalism throughout your vacation. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and 24-hour emergency support, you can drive away knowing you're covered for most mishaps. Simply opt in to this plan while booking your rental car.
What are the cheapest car rentals in Delaware?
You can find cheap car rentals in Delaware from $11 a day with Thrifty Car Rental's midsize suv. Car rentals for exploring Delaware are picked up at the region's main gateway, Newark Liberty Intl Apo (EWR). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, Avis, and Budget operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Delaware.
What are the best car rentals in Delaware?
Car rentals across Delaware offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities - Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Ocean View. The most common car classes include:
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard elite SUV
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
These options cater to various travel needs, whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family. Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Delaware.

What are the best car rental companies in Delaware?
For car rentals across Delaware, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities - Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, and Ocean View. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Newark Liberty Intl Apo (EWR) for exploring Delaware?
Yes - you can pick up a rental car right at Newark Liberty Intl Apo (EWR) for exploring Delaware. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $13 a day. EWR is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Rehoboth Beach to Bethany Beach.
Can I rent a car one-way in Delaware?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Delaware - pick up in one city, such as Rehoboth Beach, and drop-off in another, like Bethany Beach, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $14 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Delaware?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Delaware, including in Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach. Sixt and Enterprise both offer electric options from $11 a day and hybrid options from $11 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also offers electric vehicles from $11 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Delaware?
For luxury car rentals across Delaware, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $21 a day (and fullsize elite SUV from $25 a day), while Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car add premium categories - high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Delaware.
What are the best car rentals in Delaware for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Delaware, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage - available across the region's cities, from Rehoboth Beach to Bethany Beach:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $16 a day - seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: fullsize SUV from $30 a day - seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
  • Budget: mini passenger van from $22 a day - seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Delaware.

What are the best car rentals in Delaware for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Delaware for solo travelers are economy and compact classes - small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach:
  • Economy car, from $20 a day - fits up to 5 people, up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $17 a day - fits up to 5 people, up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Delaware.

What are the best car rentals in Delaware for couples?
The best car rentals in Delaware for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach:
  • Midsize car, from $15 a day - fits up to 5 people, up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $15 a day - fits up to 5 people, up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a special car from Avis from $18 a day for scenic drives around Delaware. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Delaware.

What are the closest airports to Delaware for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Delaware offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Newark Liberty Intl Apo (EWR)
Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Delaware?
In Delaware, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust - take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
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 Delaware?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Delaware. 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 Delaware?
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 Delaware?
Budget car rental in Delaware 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 Delaware?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Delaware. 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 Delaware car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Delaware?
To rent a car in Delaware, 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 Delaware car rental?
If you need to cancel your Delaware 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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation