Car Rental at Raleigh - Durham Intl. Airport (RDU) from $35

Reasons to book a car rental at Raleigh International Airport

Renting a car at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is a practical choice for travelers looking to explore the surrounding areas with ease. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to visit key attractions at your own pace, making it ideal for family-friendly experiences. The airport's convenient location allows you to access destinations like Research Triangle Park, just 5 miles away, and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, located 7 miles from the airport. For those interested in outdoor spaces, Dorothea Dix Park is only 10 miles away and offers a great setting for family outings.

Additionally, having a rental car makes it simple to explore nearby cities such as Cary, which is 6 miles away and features attractions like the Sri Venkateswara Temple of North Carolina, and Morrisville, where you can visit the RDU Observation Park. The flexibility of a rental car allows you to manage your luggage easily and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip in and around Raleigh.

Most popular car rentals near Raleigh Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travelers at Raleigh airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a comfortable ride with ample space for luggage. With a Midsize SUV, you can easily explore the surrounding areas at your own pace while enjoying the flexibility that comes with renting a vehicle.
• Fullsize: If you're traveling with a larger group or need extra luggage capacity, the Fullsize car option is well-suited for your needs. It comfortably accommodates 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families or groups who want to travel together without sacrificing comfort. Renting a Fullsize vehicle will provide you with plenty of room for both passengers and belongings during your trip.
• Compact: For those looking for a more economical option, the Compact car is a great choice. It can comfortably seat up to 5 travelers and carry up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small families. The Compact car offers a good balance of space and efficiency, which is ideal for navigating around Raleigh and its nearby attractions while keeping your travel plans flexible.

Top rated car suppliers near Raleigh International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers at Raleigh airport, boasting a rental location less than 1 mile away. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, this supplier is recognized for its friendly service and short wait times. The most booked cars with Alamo include Midsize and Compact options, making it a great choice for those seeking efficient and reliable transportation.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty offers convenient rentals from a location also situated less than 1 mile from Raleigh airport. Known for its straightforward rental process, Thrifty is a favored option among travelers. Midsize and Compact cars are the most popular selections, providing a balance of comfort and affordability for your journey around Raleigh.
• Sixt: Sixt stands out with its rental location less than 1 mile away from Raleigh airport, specializing in Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles. This supplier is ideal for those looking for spacious options to accommodate larger groups or extra luggage. Sixt is a great choice for travelers seeking a mix of comfort and versatility during their stay.

Where to stay near Raleigh International Airport

• Highcroft: Located 7 miles away from Raleigh, Highcroft offers a blend of sports and culture, making it a great spot for families. Nearby attractions include the Research Triangle Park and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, ideal for outdoor activities. Travelers can also enjoy recreational areas and shopping centers, providing a well-rounded experience for both relaxation and exploration.
• Cary: Situated 6 miles from Raleigh, Cary is perfect for family and business travelers alike. The city features a variety of educational venues and shopping mall centers. Key points of interest include the Sri Venkateswara Temple of North Carolina and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, both suitable for cultural and outdoor vacations. Cary's proximity to urban parks and sports facilities adds to its appeal.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Raleigh

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 drives, or a compact car for better luggage capacity, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally wise to reserve your RDU car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead of your trip is recommended, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favorable option. Other options, such as full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, may also be available. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something goes wrong during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend significant time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Raleigh Airport

The best time to rent a car from Raleigh Airport is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low, offering great value. March is also a decent option, as demand remains low while prices are average. However, demand starts to rise in April, leading to slightly higher prices. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand, making them the most expensive months for rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	51.4°F (10.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
April	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average