Virginia Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Virginia

Renting a car in Virginia offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the state's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This is especially beneficial for those looking for outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. For example, you can visit the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which is perfect for outdoor, romantic, and family experiences, or head to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for a day filled with adventure and fun. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Shenandoah National Park, where you can immerse yourself in stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to conveniently explore popular destinations such as Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and Richmond. Virginia Beach features beautiful spots like Sandbridge Beach and First Landing State Park. In Williamsburg, you can discover attractions like Jamestown Settlement, while Richmond offers cultural sites like Broad Street and Maymont Park. Overall, renting a car in Virginia enhances your travel experience by providing the convenience to visit various attractions and destinations with ease.

Most popular car rentals in Virginia

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travelers comfortably and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups who need room for both passengers and luggage while exploring Virginia's attractions at their own pace.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV can also accommodate 5 travelers, but with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option provides a balance of comfort and space, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the flexible travel plans Virginia offers.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is designed to accommodate 5 travelers with ample storage for either up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a great option for families or groups traveling together, ensuring everyone has enough space for their belongings while enjoying the freedom of the open road in Virginia.

Where to stay in Virginia

• Virginia Beach: Virginia Beach is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor, romantic, or family experiences. The famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk offers a scenic esplanade perfect for leisurely strolls, while Sandbridge Beach provides an excellent spot for beach vacations. Nearby, First Landing State Park is great for outdoor adventures and scenic views. With its vibrant shopping area and numerous restaurants, you will find plenty of options for sweet treats and local wines. Enjoy the esplanade and nearby attractions during your stay in Virginia Beach.
• Williamsburg: Williamsburg is perfect for families and adventure seekers. Home to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, this amusement park is ideal for outdoor fun and thrilling experiences. The area also boasts the historic Jamestown Settlement and Historic Jamestowne, offering cultural insights and education. With proximity to theme parks and the beach, Williamsburg provides an exciting mix of activities. Enjoy local wineries and sweet treats available nearby to enhance your stay while exploring this vibrant city.
• Richmond: Richmond, a bustling metropolis, is perfect for families and business travelers alike. Explore Broad Street, known for its shopping centers and vibrant city atmosphere. Richmond Raceway offers a thrilling experience for sports enthusiasts, while Maymont Park provides a relaxing retreat with beautiful gardens. The city features a range of nearby restaurants and wineries, ensuring delightful dining options. Whether for work or leisure, Richmond offers a rich blend of urban experiences for every traveler.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Virginia

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, filters on Expedia can help you identify the perfect option for your trip.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well before your trip. Booking early often secures lower rates and improves availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-sized rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply 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 charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also work; just ensure you return the vehicle with an empty tank in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it can be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards as a form of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek 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 Virginia

The best value period to rent a car in Virginia is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January also offers a good opportunity with similar characteristics. Moving into March, prices remain average while demand starts to rise. June through August, however, see slightly high prices and high demand, making it the most expensive time to rent. July stands out as the peak month for expenses, with a significant influx of renters during this period.