$38 Car Rental Winston-Salem, NC

These Winston-Salem insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 14, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Winston-Salem

Renting a car in Winston-Salem offers the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Old Salem, a historic village perfect for cultural experiences, and the Bowman Gray Stadium, which caters to sports and adventure enthusiasts. For art lovers, the Reynolda House Museum of American Art is a must-see. Additionally, a car allows for convenient day trips to nearby destinations like Welcome, located 14 miles away, and Kernersville, just 10 miles from Winston-Salem, where you can discover more local sights like Korner's Folly. The flexibility of having your own transportation means you can manage your luggage easily and adjust your travel plans as you wish. Whether you're traveling with family, seeking outdoor adventures, or diving into the city's culture, renting a car enhances your experience by providing comfort and convenience throughout your visit.

Most popular car rentals in Winston-Salem

• Compact SUV: A popular choice among travelers in Winston-Salem, the Compact SUV comfortably accommodates up to 5 passengers and allows for the storage of up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is versatile, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to explore the area with ease. Its spacious interior and manageable size provide both comfort and flexibility, perfect for navigating through city streets or venturing out on day trips.
• Economy: The Economy car is another favorite for visitors in Winston-Salem, providing a practical option for up to 5 travelers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This car type is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families who prioritize cost-effectiveness without sacrificing comfort. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while still offering enough space for your luggage, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious adventurers.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option is ideal for those needing a bit more space, accommodating 5 travelers and up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it perfect for couples or families looking for a comfortable travel experience in Winston-Salem. With a balance of size and efficiency, the Midsize vehicle offers ample room for passengers and their belongings, ensuring a pleasant journey as you explore the local attractions at your leisure.

Top rated car suppliers in Winston-Salem

• Hertz: Hertz has one rental location in the Winston-Salem area and is well-known for its clean vehicles. Travelers appreciate the reliability of their service, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore the city. The most booked cars with Hertz are Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, providing ample space and comfort for your journey.
• Enterprise: With three rental locations in Winston-Salem, Enterprise stands out for its excellent customer service and a wide selection of vehicles. Many customers favor Midsize and Mini Vans for their trips, which cater well to families and larger groups. Enterprise's commitment to a smooth rental experience makes it a preferred option among travelers.
• Budget: Budget operates two rental locations in the Winston-Salem area, offering convenient access for travelers. Known for its competitive pricing, Budget’s most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, ensuring you have the right vehicle for your exploration needs. Customers often highlight their satisfaction with the value provided by Budget.

Where to stay around Winston-Salem

• Welcome: Located 14 miles from Winston-Salem, Welcome offers a blend of entertainment and outdoor experiences. Ideal for romantic getaways or family outings, you can explore attractions like the historic village of Old Salem. Enjoy the thrill of motor racing at Bowman Gray Stadium or spend quality time at Truist Sports Park. Nearby, you'll find options for dining and drinks, including local wineries and restaurants, making it a delightful place to stay.
• Kernersville: Just 10 miles from Winston-Salem, Kernersville is a vibrant city perfect for outdoor and family-themed activities. With attractions like Korner's Folly, a historic house, and the expansive urban park, there's plenty to explore. The area features a modern college university and various entertainment facilities. Guests can indulge in local wineries and sweet treats, ensuring a well-rounded visit.
• Clemmons: Situated 9 miles away from Winston-Salem, Clemmons is ideal for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. The picturesque Tanglewood Park and Truist Sports Park offer ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. With shopping centers and educational venues nearby, Clemmons makes for a convenient base. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy local wineries and breweries for a taste of the region.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Winston-Salem

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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 before your trip. Booking in advance typically ensures lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always review the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek 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 Winston-Salem

The best value period to rent a car in and around Winston-Salem is June, when prices are lower and demand is at its quietest. This month is followed closely by August and September, which also see moderately low prices and demand. In contrast, May tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand as well. April is another busy time, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters. January and February are generally high-demand months, pushing rental costs up as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
March	49.1°F (9.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
June	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
October	60.4°F (15.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	48.9°F (9.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Winston-Salem

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Winston-Salem

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $38.

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