$46 Car Rental Wilmington, NC

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wilmington

Renting a car in Wilmington provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key sites such as the Battleship North Carolina, a military museum that offers a glimpse into history, or relax at the beautiful Airlie Gardens. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens is a perfect spot for picnics and leisurely strolls.

A car also makes it convenient to discover popular neighborhoods like Downtown Wilmington, where you can see historic landmarks such as the Latimer House and Burgwin-Wright House. The Riverfront District is another must-visit area featuring attractions like the Bellamy Mansion Museum. If you wish to hit the beach, Myrtle Grove is nearby, boasting lovely places like Wrightsville Beach and the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Renting a car ensures easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for families and those seeking beach-related experiences. With Wilmington's straightforward roadways, having your own vehicle allows you to make the most of your trip without the limitations of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in Wilmington

• Compact: The Compact car is a top choice for travelers in Wilmington, accommodating up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases. This car is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or small families looking for an economical option. Its size makes it easy to maneuver through Wilmington's streets while providing enough space for your luggage, making it ideal for those who want to explore the area at their own pace.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is an excellent option for those traveling with family or friends, as it accommodates 5 travelers along with 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle offers a bit more space and comfort, making it ideal for couples, families, or groups looking to enjoy a road trip together. With its versatility, the Standard SUV is well-suited for both city driving and outdoor excursions around Wilmington.
• Midsize: The Midsize car is another popular choice among renters in Wilmington, providing ample space for 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases. This option is particularly appealing for couples or families who require extra room for their belongings. With its balanced size and comfort, the Midsize car ensures a pleasant driving experience, allowing you to explore Wilmington and its surroundings with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Wilmington

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has one rental location in Wilmington and is well-regarded for its friendly service. Travelers appreciate the ease of pickup and return, along with the cleanliness of their vehicles. The most booked cars from Alamo include Midsize and Fullsize options, making it an excellent choice for those looking for comfort and reliability during their stay.
• Enterprise: With five rental locations throughout Wilmington, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service. Customers often commend the helpful staff and the smooth check-in process. The most popular vehicles rented from Enterprise are Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, catering to a variety of travel needs. This makes Enterprise a top choice for families and business travelers alike.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty has one rental location in Wilmington and is known for its straightforward service and competitive pricing. The Midsize and Fullsize cars are the most booked options, offering travelers ample space and comfort. Thrifty's focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction makes it a solid option for those looking to explore Wilmington and the surrounding areas.

Where to stay in Wilmington

• Downtown Wilmington: This vibrant neighborhood is ideal for those seeking a romantic, outdoor, or beach experience. With easy access to the boardwalk, theater, and music concerts, Downtown Wilmington is perfect for entertainment. Notable attractions include the historic Latimer House and Burgwin-Wright House, both offering rich cultural insights. The Battleship North Carolina is also nearby, making it a must-visit for history buffs. Enjoy local wineries and breweries in the area, adding to your culinary exploration.
• New Market Center: Known for its family-friendly and culturally themed experiences, New Market Center boasts convenient shopping centers and educational venues. Close to Wrightsville Beach, it’s a great spot for beach lovers. Explore the beautiful Airlie Gardens and the military history at the Battleship North Carolina. This neighborhood offers a blend of shopping and culture, making it suitable for families looking to experience both the city vibe and the coastal charm.
• North Kerr: This neighborhood caters to families and business travelers alike, providing access to modern educational institutions and shopping centers. Key attractions here include the peaceful Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens, perfect for outdoor activities, and the historic Battleship North Carolina. Airlie Gardens is also close by, offering stunning landscapes. North Kerr’s blend of urban amenities and family-friendly spaces makes it an appealing choice for visitors.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine 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 for budget-friendly travel, utilizing filters on Expedia can help you identify the perfect 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 ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak times.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with a lower rental price and are easier to maneuver and park 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 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most cost-effective. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just be sure to return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an extra fee, but it can be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only 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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional fees.
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 Wilmington

The best time to rent a car in and around Wilmington is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. March offers average prices with similar demand, making it another reasonable option. However, from June through August, prices tend to rise to slightly high levels, with demand also increasing during these months. As a result, June is generally the most expensive month for rentals in this area, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	47.5°F (8.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
April	63.5°F (17.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Wilmington

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Wilmington

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $46.

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