Car Rental at Raleigh - Durham Intl. Airport (RDU) from $46

Reasons to book a car rental at Raleigh International Airport

Renting a car at Raleigh-Durham International Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the vibrant area around Raleigh. This convenient option allows business travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families to manage their luggage easily while enjoying the freedom to create their own travel itineraries. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as North Carolina State University, located just 9 miles away, and the Research Triangle Park, a mere 5 miles from the airport. The North Carolina State Fairgrounds, situated 7 miles away, offers family-friendly experiences that everyone can enjoy.

Additionally, having a car provides the convenience of exploring nearby destinations like Cary, which is 6 miles away and features both the fairgrounds and the university. North Raleigh, 8 miles from the airport, and Northwest Raleigh, only 5 miles away, present further opportunities to discover local culture and attractions, including the North Carolina Museum of Art. Renting a car ensures you have the flexibility to make the most of your trip, whether you are traveling with family or seeking outdoor adventures.

Most popular car rentals near Raleigh International Airport

• Midsize SUV: This option is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, comfortably accommodating up to 5 travelers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs provide a great blend of space and versatility, making them ideal for those looking to explore the attractions around Raleigh airport with ease. With their robust build and comfortable interiors, these vehicles ensure a pleasant driving experience while managing luggage effortlessly.
• Fullsize: Perfect for families or larger groups, fullsize cars fit 5 travelers and can handle up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option offers additional room and comfort, making it a top choice for those planning to embark on adventures from Raleigh airport. The extra space allows for flexible travel plans, whether you have more luggage or simply prefer a bit more legroom for your journeys around the area.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families, compact cars accommodate up to 5 travelers and provide room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is great for those seeking a more economical choice while still enjoying the freedom of exploring the Raleigh area. Compact cars are easy to maneuver, making them perfect for navigating city streets or parking with ease, ensuring a hassle-free rental experience.

Top rated car suppliers near Raleigh International Airport

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers at Raleigh airport, located 0.8 miles away. Known for its friendly service, Alamo has an overall rating of 7 out of 10, reflecting customer satisfaction. Travelers often book their Midsize SUV and Premium SUV options, making it a great selection for those looking for comfort and space during their travels.
• Sixt: Sixt offers convenient car rental services just 0.3 miles from Raleigh airport. This supplier is recognized for its friendly service and provides a solid selection of vehicles. Most travelers prefer Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making Sixt an excellent option for those needing reliable transportation while exploring the area.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Located only 0.2 miles from Raleigh airport, Thrifty Car Rental is known for its convenient proximity and efficiency. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Compact cars from Thrifty, which are ideal for navigating the local attractions. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Thrifty remains a strong contender for your car rental needs.

Where to go near Raleigh International Airport

• Cary: Located 6 miles away from Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Cary attracts travelers seeking family, city, and business experiences. Key points of interest include the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, ideal for outdoor family activities, and North Carolina State University, a modern college hub. The Raleigh Convention Center also offers business-related facilities. The visitor numbers peak in April, July, and September, making these months particularly lively for those exploring Cary.
• North Raleigh: Situated 8 miles from the airport, North Raleigh is perfect for families and business travelers alike. This neighborhood features attractions such as North Carolina State University and the Raleigh Convention Center, both suitable for city vacations and business engagements. Additionally, the North Carolina State Fairgrounds provides outdoor family fun. There is a notable peak in visitors during April, July, and September, which enhances the community's vibrancy during these months.
• Northwest Raleigh: Only 5 miles from Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Northwest Raleigh is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and entertainment options. Visitors can explore the North Carolina Museum of Art, which is ideal for cultural experiences, alongside the North Carolina State University and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds for varied activities. The area's visitor numbers peak in April, July, and October, making these months an excellent time to experience local events and attractions.

9 tips to save on your Raleigh International Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to reserve your RDU car rental as early as possible to secure lower prices and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead is optimal, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies 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 unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking with Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges on extended journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Raleigh International Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Raleigh Airport is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. March and May can also offer average pricing with moderate demand, making them decent options as well. However, the most expensive time to rent is October, which sees higher prices and steady demand. November follows closely with similarly elevated prices and demand levels.

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	Average	Average
April	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	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