Maryland Car Rentals

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Top destinations to rent a car in Maryland

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Baltimore

Baltimore

What you need to know for your Maryland car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Maryland

Renting a car in Maryland gives you the freedom to explore the state's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts. Maryland is home to numerous points of interest, such as the Ocean City Boardwalk, where you can enjoy outdoor, romantic, and family experiences. The Baltimore Inner Harbor Marina offers adventure and beach experiences, while Deep Creek Lake provides stunning scenery for romantic getaways and outdoor activities.

Having a car also allows you to visit popular destinations like Ocean City, with its beautiful beaches, or the vibrant metropolis of Baltimore, featuring attractions like Power Plant Live and Fort McHenry. Additionally, you can easily drive to Washington, which is nearby, to explore iconic sites like the White House and the National Mall. The convenience of a rental car enhances your travel experience in Maryland, providing you with the flexibility to create your own itinerary and enjoy the picturesque landscapes and rich culture the state has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Maryland

  • Midsize SUV: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to enjoy the freedom of exploring Maryland together. The midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride, making it a popular choice for those who need a bit more room for both passengers and luggage.
  • Compact: Perfect for up to 5 travelers, this car can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. The compact option is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small families. Its size makes it easy to park and maneuver, especially in crowded areas, while still providing enough space for your essentials as you explore Maryland.
  • Fullsize: Accommodating up to 5 travelers, the fullsize car option offers flexibility with the ability to hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families and groups needing extra space for luggage. With its roomy interior, the fullsize vehicle ensures a comfortable journey as you travel around Maryland.

Where to stay in Maryland

  • Washington: A vibrant metropolis, Washington offers a blend of family-friendly and city-themed experiences. Travelers can explore iconic landmarks such as the historic White House, which is perfect for culture enthusiasts, and the National Mall, a national state park ideal for outdoor adventures. Nearby attractions include the Smithsonian Institution, catering to families and culture seekers alike. Washington also provides ample food and drink options, including sweet treats and local wineries, making it a great base for urban exploration.
  • Ocean City: Known for its charming beach atmosphere, Ocean City is a fantastic destination for outdoor and family experiences. Visitors can enjoy the lively Ocean City Boardwalk, which is perfect for a romantic stroll or family fun. The beautiful Ocean City Beach and Maryland Beach offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. With a variety of nearby restaurants and distilleries, Ocean City is ideal for those looking to unwind and savor the local flavor, especially during the warmer summer months.
  • Baltimore: As a bustling metropolis, Baltimore caters to families and business travelers alike. The Baltimore Inner Harbor Marina provides scenic views and outdoor activities, while Power Plant Live offers a vibrant street scene for city enthusiasts. Notable attractions include Fort McHenry, a historic fort that highlights the city’s rich culture. With numerous shopping centers and dining options, including local pubs and wineries, Baltimore presents a diverse urban experience that is best enjoyed in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Maryland

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the ideal match 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 ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain car categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
  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 usually the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many 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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Maryland

The best time to rent a car in Maryland is February, when prices and demand are both slightly low, providing excellent value. January also offers a quieter experience with similar pricing. Moving into March and April, demand remains moderate, and prices are average, making these months decent options as well. However, from June through August, demand and prices rise due to the summer influx, with July being the most expensive month for rentals.

Find Maryland Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Maryland car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Maryland, bringing you discount car rental rates and a wide variety of car rental classes including economy, compact, midsize, full-size, convertible, van, luxury and SUV rentals. Our partner car rental companies in Maryland offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Maryland car rental, follow the links on this page to view more information and details on your next short or long term car rental.

Expedia.com offers a wide selection of rental cars in Maryland to meet nearly every need. If you need any special equipment, like a child seat or ski rack, let us know and we will forward your request on to the rental car company. And what's more, when you choose to rent a car from one of our Maryland airport car rental partners you'll be dealing with a rental car company that has made a special commitment to provide Expedia customers with great customer service, a wide choice of top quality cars, and competitive total pricing.

Expedia.com offers many Maryland rental cars pick up locations

Find the best place to get your Maryland airport rental cars by searching tons of pickup locations with Expedia.com

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Maryland?
You can find cheap car rentals in Maryland from $13 a day with Payless's compact 2/4 door. Car rentals for exploring Maryland are picked up at the region's main gateway, Philadelphia Airport (PHL). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Ocean City and McHenry. Suppliers such as Sixt and Enterprise operate across the region. Rates shift by vehicle type and dates, so compare a few pickup points and dates on Expedia to find a rate that suits your trip. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Maryland.
What are the best car rentals in Maryland?
Car rentals across Maryland offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Avis, broadly available in the region's main cities — Ocean City, McHenry, and Oakland. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
Choose based on passenger count, luggage, and whether you're driving in the city or exploring the wider region. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Maryland.

What are the best car rental companies in Maryland?
For car rentals across Maryland, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Avis offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Ocean City, McHenry, and Oakland. Compare suppliers and pickup points on Expedia to find a great rate and the right vehicle for your trip.
Can I rent a car from Philadelphia Airport (PHL) for exploring Maryland?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Philadelphia Airport (PHL) for exploring Maryland. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Avis operate at the airport, with rates from around $13 a day. PHL is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Ocean City to McHenry.
Can I rent a car one-way in Maryland?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Maryland — pick up in one city, such as Ocean City, and drop-off in another, like McHenry, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $20 a day. Providers like Sixt and Enterprise offer flexible one-way options. A one-way drop-off fee may apply, so confirm it when booking on Expedia.
Are there electric or hybrid car rental companies in Maryland?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Maryland, including in Ocean City and McHenry. Sixt offers hybrid options from $13 a day, and Enterprise provides electric options from $13 a day. EVs keep fuel costs low, and charging is widely available along major routes. Book a few weeks ahead as demand is high, and plan charging stops for longer regional drives.
What are the best luxury car rental companies in Maryland?
For luxury car rentals across Maryland, Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door cars from $20 a day, while Enterprise and Avis add premium categories — high-end vehicles with extra comfort and space for exploring the region in style. You'll find them in the region's main cities like Ocean City and McHenry. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Maryland.
What are the best car rentals in Maryland for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Maryland, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Ocean City to McHenry:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $14 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $23 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $38 a day — seats up to 6 with room for 3 large or 5 medium suitcases
These keep everyone comfortable for both city driving and longer trips into the surrounding area. Book a few weeks ahead, as the larger vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Maryland.

What are the best car rentals in Maryland for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Maryland for solo travelers are economy and compact classes — small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring the region at their own pace, available across cities like Ocean City and McHenry:
  • Economy car, from $23 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $14 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find the right car for getting around the region. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Maryland.

What are the best car rentals in Maryland for couples?
The best car rentals in Maryland for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Ocean City and McHenry:
  • Midsize car, from $13 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $17 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for regional day trips
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a convertible for scenic drives around Maryland. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Maryland.

What are the closest airports to Maryland for car rental pick-up?
Several airports across Maryland offer car rental pick-up, giving you flexible options close to your arrival point:
  • Philadelphia Airport (PHL)
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
  • Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY)
These give travelers flexible arrival options close to where they need to be in the region. Compare rental rates at each airport on Expedia to find a rate that fits your trip.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Maryland?
In Maryland, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Keep to local speed limits and traffic laws for a safe, easy drive while exploring the region's cities and the roads between them. If you're used to driving on the other side, give yourself a little time to adjust — take extra care at intersections and roundabouts, which flow in the opposite direction.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Maryland?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Maryland. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Maryland?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Maryland?
Budget car rental in Maryland can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Maryland?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Maryland. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Maryland car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Maryland?
To rent a car in Maryland, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Maryland car rental?
If you need to cancel your Maryland car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.

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