$49 Car Rental Bristol, VA

These Bristol insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 30, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol, Virginia, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for travelers seeking adventure, sports, or romantic experiences. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans without relying on public transportation.

Key attractions such as Cumberland Square Park and the Bristol Public Library are conveniently located within the city. For those interested in motorsports, Bristol Motor Speedway is only 7 miles away, offering thrilling experiences. Additionally, a rental car allows you to visit nearby destinations like Abingdon, located 14 miles away, where you can explore the Abingdon Courthouse and The Channels State Natural Area Preserve. Hilander Park, also in proximity, features South Holston Lake and the Bristol Caverns, making it an excellent spot for family outings. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, having a car ensures you can maximize your sightseeing opportunities while enjoying the beautiful scenery around Bristol.

Where to stay in and around Bristol

• Bristol: A vibrant city known for its thrilling sports and adventure opportunities, Bristol is home to the famous Bristol Motor Speedway and Bristol Dragway, both ideal for racing enthusiasts. The scenic South Holston Lake offers a perfect spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. With nearby restaurants and wineries, Bristol provides a rich culinary experience while ensuring easy access to recreational areas and shopping centres.
• Abingdon: Located 14 miles from Bristol, Abingdon is perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Visitors can explore the historic Abingdon Courthouse and enjoy the natural beauty of The Channels State Natural Area Preserve and The Channels State Forest. Abingdon also features local wineries and dining options, making it a great spot for those looking to immerse themselves in culture and nature.
• Hilander Park: Situated in the Bristol area, Hilander Park is ideal for those drawn to sports and outdoor experiences. The park boasts access to South Holston Lake, where visitors can enjoy beach activities and picturesque views. The nearby Bristol Caverns offers a thrilling adventure for explorers. With its recreational areas and proximity to sports venues, Hilander Park is a fantastic choice for active travelers.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilizing the filters on Expedia will help you discover the best vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you increase your chances of obtaining lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a solid balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most economical. Others may 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: There is often an extra fee for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the cost.
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 provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Bristol

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Bristol

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $49.

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