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Top destinations to rent a car in Washington

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Seattle

Seattle

What you need to know for your Washington car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Washington

Renting a car in Washington is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the state’s diverse attractions at their own pace. With the flexibility a rental car provides, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your preferences. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures or city experiences, having a car allows you to explore key destinations conveniently. For instance, you can visit the Seattle Waterfront for beautiful scenery, the iconic Space Needle for stunning city views, or enjoy family time at the Seattle Center, all located within the vibrant city of Seattle. Additionally, if your travels take you to Spokane, you can discover attractions like Riverfront Park and Manito Park without the hassle of public transportation. The convenience of a rental car not only enhances your sightseeing experience but also opens up opportunities for spontaneous adventures throughout Washington. With a car, you can easily navigate to different neighborhoods, such as Downtown Seattle and its attractions, or venture to nearby cities, ensuring you make the most of your trip while enjoying the freedom to explore.

Most popular car rentals in Washington

  • Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice among travelers in Washington, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 3 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want the versatility to navigate both city streets and country roads comfortably. With ample space and a higher driving position, it provides a great balance of comfort and capability for your explorations.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is another favorite, also accommodating 5 travelers and offering room for either 3 large suitcases or up to 5 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for families or larger groups needing more luggage capacity without sacrificing comfort. Whether you're planning an extended stay or just want to travel with extra gear, the Fullsize vehicle combines spaciousness and practicality for your journey in Washington.
  • Compact: For solo travelers or couples, the Compact car option is a fantastic choice. It accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for 3 medium suitcases, making it versatile for smaller travel parties. Its size makes it easy to park and maneuver in urban environments, while still providing enough room for your luggage. This option is ideal for those looking to balance economy with comfort during their trip to Washington.

Where to stay in Washington

  • Seattle: A vibrant metropolis, Seattle is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Key attractions such as the Seattle Waterfront are ideal for a relaxing day by the harbor, while the iconic Space Needle offers breathtaking views of the city. Families can enjoy the Seattle Center, which features a variety of activities suitable for all ages. Additionally, nearby food options including cafes and restaurants ensure a delightful dining experience. Best visited in the summer for pleasant weather, Seattle's charm is undeniable.
  • Leavenworth: Known for its Bavarian-style architecture, Leavenworth is a charming city that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The picturesque Lake Wenatchee, along with the scenic Lake Wenatchee State Park, offers opportunities for beach outings and outdoor romance. Front Street Park provides a quaint urban escape for families looking to enjoy the scenery. Ideal for visits during the fall, when the foliage is vibrant, Leavenworth's unique atmosphere makes it a delightful retreat.
  • Spokane: Spokane is a bustling metropolis that caters to families and outdoor adventurers alike. Riverfront Park is a beautiful urban park perfect for leisurely strolls or family picnics, while Manito Park offers a serene escape with its lush gardens. The Great Northern Railway Depot Clocktower stands as a cultural landmark, adding to the city's charm. Spokane is particularly lovely in the spring, when flowers bloom and the parks come alive, making it a great choice for a family getaway.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Washington

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car to save money, filters on Expedia can assist you in finding the perfect fit 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. Booking early often allows you to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before 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 fees. This option is usually the most economical. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers may justify the cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your travels. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 Washington

The best time to rent a car in Washington is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February follows closely, maintaining similar low rates and demand. April also offers slightly low prices with average demand, making it a good choice. However, from June through August, prices trend slightly high, coinciding with higher demand due to summer travel. July, in particular, stands out as the most expensive month for rentals.

Find Washington Car Rentals

Expedia.com makes it easy for you to book your next Washington car rental. We work with the best car rental companies in Washington, 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 Washington offer different pick-up and drop-off options. If you are ready to book your Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington 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 Washington rental cars pick up locations

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

Frequently asked questions

What are the cheapest car rentals in Washington?
You can find cheap car rentals in Washington from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's economy 2/4 door cars. Car rentals for exploring Washington are picked up at the region's main gateway, Fox Rent A Car Seattle (SEA). From there it's an easy drive to towns like Seattle and Cle Elum. Suppliers such as Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car 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 Washington.
What are the best car rentals in Washington?
Car rentals across Washington offer a full range of vehicle types from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car, broadly available in the region's main cities — Seattle, Cle Elum, and Leavenworth. The most common car classes include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 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 Washington.

What are the best car rental companies in Washington?
For car rentals across Washington, well-rated providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car offer a strong mix of vehicles and competitive rates, with wide availability in the region's main cities — Seattle, Cle Elum, and Leavenworth. 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 Fox Rent A Car Seattle (SEA) for exploring Washington?
Yes — you can pick up a rental car right at Fox Rent A Car Seattle (SEA) for exploring Washington. Providers including Sixt, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car operate at the airport, with rates from around $11 a day. SEA is the region's main gateway and a convenient base for reaching cities across the area, from Seattle to Cle Elum.
Can I rent a car one-way in Washington?
Yes, one-way car rentals work well across Washington — pick up in one city, such as Seattle, and drop-off in another, like Cle Elum, which is ideal for regional road trips, with prices starting from around $10 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 Washington?
Electric and hybrid car rentals are available across Washington, including in Seattle and Cle Elum. Sixt and Avis both offer electric cars from $14 a day, while Sixt and Enterprise offer hybrid options from $20 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 Washington?
For luxury car rentals across Washington, Sixt offers premium cars from $11 a day (and luxury cars from $11), while Avis and Budget 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 Seattle and Cle Elum. Use Expedia's car-class filters to browse premium options and compare rates before you book. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Washington.
What are the best car rentals in Washington for families or groups?
For families or groups exploring Washington, SUVs and minivans give you room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage — available across the region's cities, from Seattle to Cle Elum:
  • Sixt: midsize SUV from $11 a day — seats up to 5 with room for 3 large suitcases
  • Enterprise: mini passenger van from $26 a day — seats up to 8 with room for 6 large suitcases
  • Alamo Rent A Car: fullsize SUV from $34 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 Washington.

What are the best car rentals in Washington for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Washington 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 Seattle and Cle Elum:
  • Economy car, from $11 a day — fits up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on tight city streets
  • Compact car, from $11 a day — fits 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 Washington.

What are the best car rentals in Washington for couples?
The best car rentals in Washington for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two, available across the region's cities like Seattle and Cle Elum:
  • Midsize car, from $11 a day — fits up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, from $14 a day — fits 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 Washington. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Washington.

Which side of the road do you drive on in Washington?
In Washington, 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.
What are the best road trip destinations from Washington by rental car?
From Seattle, a rental car opens up plenty of nearby sights and road trips across the Washington region. Easy drives from the Seattle hub include:
  • Seattle Waterfront, Seattle, approximately 1 mile away
  • Pike Place Market, Seattle, approximately 1 mile away
  • The Space Needle, Seattle, approximately 2 miles away
You could time your trip around events like the Issaquah Salmon Days Festival, or enhance your visit with activities such as a multi-attraction pass. With cities like Cle Elum and Leavenworth also within reach, having your own car makes exploring the wider Washington region simple and flexible for any car rental Washington road trip. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Washington.

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 Washington?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Washington. 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 Washington?
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 Washington?
Budget car rental in Washington 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 Washington?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Washington. 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 Washington car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Washington?
To rent a car in Washington, 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 Washington car rental?
If you need to cancel your Washington 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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