$47 Car Rental Washington, MD

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Washington

Renting a car in Washington offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or travelers with luggage, as a rental car makes it easy to manage your belongings while moving between attractions. With a vehicle, you can conveniently visit key sites such as the White House, National Mall, and the Smithsonian Institution, all located within the metropolitan area of Washington. Additionally, a car allows you to explore nearby destinations like Arlington and Bethesda, where you can find attractions such as the Congressional Country Club and Washington National Cathedral. The ability to travel without relying on public transportation or rideshares enhances your experience, giving you the opportunity to enjoy outdoor scenery and cultural experiences more fully. Whether you are interested in family-friendly activities, city-themed outings, or outdoor adventures, renting a car in Washington provides the convenience necessary to make the most of your visit.

Most popular car rentals in Washington

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This option offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage, making it a great choice for those looking to explore Washington comfortably while having room for personal belongings.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, or groups. The standard SUV provides a balance of space and maneuverability, allowing for a pleasant driving experience while still being able to transport both passengers and gear effectively.
• Compact SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. This option offers versatility and efficiency, making it a suitable choice for navigating the city while still providing ample storage for personal items.

Top rated car suppliers in Washington

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers in Washington, known for its friendly service and convenient locations. With 2 rental locations in the area, it offers a hassle-free experience for picking up and returning vehicles. The most booked options include the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, making it an excellent choice for those needing extra space and comfort. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and the efficiency of the rental process, making Alamo a reliable option for your trip.
• Sixt: Sixt operates 1 rental location in Washington, providing a streamlined and user-friendly experience for travelers. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, the most popular rentals include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, perfect for both solo travelers and families. Sixt is praised for its efficient service and competitive pricing, ensuring a smooth rental process that allows you to explore the city at your leisure while enjoying comfort and style.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With 4 rental locations in Washington, Thrifty Car Rental offers great flexibility for tourists looking to explore the area. This supplier is known for its competitive rates and a variety of vehicle options, particularly Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs. Travelers appreciate the convenience of having multiple locations to choose from, making it easy to pick up and drop off your rental. Thrifty’s focus on customer satisfaction ensures a pleasant rental experience as you navigate Washington and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Washington

• Downtown Washington D.C.: Located in the heart of the city, Downtown Washington D.C. offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for family and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the historic White House, both within proximity. The National Mall, a national state park, is also nearby, providing a scenic spot for adventure and relaxation. The area features various shopping centers and numerous food options, including sweet treats and wineries, ideal for a delightful break after a day of sightseeing.
• National Harbor: This charming village near Washington is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and urban experiences. National Harbor is home to attractions like The Awakening Sculpture and the Capital Children's Museum, making it suitable for cultural vacations. The National Mall is also easily accessible for those looking to connect with the outdoors. With shopping centers and resorts, visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, including restaurants and wineries, providing a well-rounded experience for leisure and business travelers alike.
• Arlington: Located just across the river, Arlington is a city that blends family and business themes seamlessly. Key attractions include the Washington Golf and Country Club and the historic sites of the area, with the renowned White House and the National Mall close by. Arlington offers shopping centers and educational venues, catering to diverse interests. The local dining scene features options such as wineries and sweet treats, ensuring that visitors can savor delightful culinary experiences while exploring this vibrant city.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for warm weather, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best fit 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 reservation well ahead of your trip. Booking early often leads to lower rates and greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, 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 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 charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if unexpected issues arise during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 and around Washington

The best value period to rent a car in and around Washington is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This is followed closely by January and March, which also offer lower prices with manageable demand. As spring approaches, April sees an increase in both prices and demand, while May and June shift to slightly high levels. The peak period arrives in July, when rental prices tend to be the most expensive, coupled with high demand for vehicles.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Washington

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Washington

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Washington. We partner with 25 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 Washington

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $47.

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