New Hampshire Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in New Hampshire

Renting a car in New Hampshire provides the freedom to explore the state's beautiful attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for various types of travelers, whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or romantic experiences. For instance, you can visit Hampton Beach for a relaxing day by the shore or head to Lake Winnipesaukee to enjoy breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. Nature enthusiasts can explore the White Mountain National Forest, which offers thrilling adventures amidst stunning landscapes.

A rental car also allows you to conveniently visit popular destinations like Moultonborough, where you can see Castle in the Clouds and enjoy the nearby lakes. North Conway is another great stop, featuring attractions such as the Conway Scenic Railway and Mount Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center. Portsmouth, known for The Music Hall and Strawbery Banke Museum, is also easily accessible. With a car, you can make the most of your New Hampshire trip, exploring these captivating sites without the constraints of public transportation.

Most popular car rentals in New Hampshire

• Midsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travelers and has space for 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for couples and families. With its balanced size, the midsize car offers a comfortable ride while providing enough room for luggage, perfect for those exploring New Hampshire.
• Fullsize: The fullsize vehicle also accommodates 5 travelers and has the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it an excellent option for families or groups traveling together, ensuring everyone has enough space for their belongings while enjoying the freedom to travel around New Hampshire.
• Standard SUV: With room for 5 travelers and space for 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is a great choice for couples, families, and groups. This option provides a comfortable and spacious interior, making it suitable for those who want to explore New Hampshire with a bit more capability and comfort during their journeys.

Where to stay in New Hampshire

• Moultonborough: For a romantic outdoor experience, Moultonborough is an excellent choice. Located near the scenic Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake, both ideal for beach and outdoor activities, you can soak in breathtaking views. Don’t miss visiting the historic Castle in the Clouds for a cultural touch. The area also offers local food and drink options, including wineries and breweries, making it perfect for leisurely afternoons.
• North Conway: Known for its adventurous spirit, North Conway is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby ski fields and resorts cater to winter sports lovers, while the Conway Scenic Railway provides a glimpse into the area's history. Families can enjoy Story Land, a theme park with rides and attractions. With various dining options, including breweries and restaurants, North Conway offers a lively atmosphere year-round.
• Portsmouth: Ideal for a family getaway, Portsmouth offers a blend of outdoor fun and cultural experiences. The Portsmouth Harbor Trail provides scenic views along the waterfront, while the Strawbery Banke Museum invites visitors to explore local history. Families can also enjoy the arts at The Music Hall. With various restaurants and wineries nearby, Portsmouth combines delightful dining with rich scenery, making it a wonderful place to stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in New Hampshire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to park 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 luxury models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
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 fees. This is typically the best choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be convenient; just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies accept only 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. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rental options 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 New Hampshire

The best value period to rent a car in New Hampshire is March, when both prices and demand are slightly low. February also offers low demand, making it a quiet time for rentals. Following March, April and May see average prices and demand, making them decent choices as well. However, July is the most expensive month, with high demand and rental rates. June through August also experience slightly high prices and demand, making them typically busier months for car rentals.