Durham Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Durham

Renting a car in Durham, North Carolina, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily navigate to key attractions such as the Durham Performing Arts Center and Cameron Indoor Stadium, both located within the city. If you're interested in broader experiences, you can venture just 9 km to Research Triangle Park or take a short drive to Chapel Hill, which is 17 km away, to explore Franklin Street and the beautiful North Carolina Botanical Garden. This convenience is particularly appealing for families, business travellers, and those seeking cultural experiences, as it allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. Additionally, you can explore nearby destinations like Raleigh, which offers vibrant city life and attractions such as the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. Whether you're planning to catch a show, enjoy local cuisine, or visit historical sites, having a rental car makes it simpler to create your itinerary and discover everything Durham has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Durham

• Standard Convertible: Accommodates 4 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for couples and business travellers who appreciate a stylish ride while exploring Durham. The open-top design allows for a refreshing travel experience, making it ideal for enjoying the sights at your own pace.
• Compact SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This versatile vehicle is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, and families looking for comfort and practicality. Its spacious interior and higher seating position provide a comfortable ride while allowing for easy handling in urban settings.
• Midsize: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families needing extra space for luggage. The midsize car offers a balance of comfort and capacity, making it suitable for those who wish to travel comfortably while having room for their belongings.

Top rated car suppliers in Durham

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for car rentals in Durham, boasting three convenient locations within the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility and variety offered by this supplier, particularly their most booked vehicles, the Standard Convertible and Compact SUV. With a reputation for excellent customer service and well-maintained cars, Enterprise provides a reliable option for those looking to explore Durham at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz has one rental location in Durham, making it an accessible choice for visitors. Known for its selection of vehicles, the most popular options include Midsize and Compact cars. Travellers often highlight Hertz’s efficient service and straightforward rental process, making it a solid option for those who value convenience during their trip.
• Avis: Avis operates one rental location in Durham and offers a range of vehicles tailored to meet diverse needs. Their Standard and Standard SUV options are particularly popular among customers. Avis is recognized for its friendly service and commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a great choice for travellers seeking a hassle-free rental experience while discovering the attractions in and around Durham.

Where to stay in and around Durham

• Raleigh: Located in close proximity to Durham, Raleigh offers a vibrant city experience with attractions like the North Carolina State Fairgrounds and Dorothea Dix Park. Ideal for family, business, or city-themed experiences, Raleigh features modern colleges, an arena, and shopping options. It's also a great spot for food and drinks with nearby wineries and breweries, making it a versatile stay for any tourist.
• Chapel Hill: Situated 17 km from Durham, Chapel Hill is a charming city known for its cultural and educational offerings. Key highlights include Franklin Street and the North Carolina Botanical Garden, perfect for family outings or romantic strolls. With a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, it provides an excellent balance of culture and culinary experiences for visitors.
• Gorman: Located within the Durham area, Gorman is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. Key attractions include urban parks and lakes, making it a wonderful choice for families and nature enthusiasts. Notable points of interest include the Research Triangle Park and the Durham Performing Arts Center, providing cultural experiences alongside a beautiful natural setting.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Durham

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for cost savings, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller vehicles are more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. 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 vehicle with a full tank to prevent additional charges. This is typically the best option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you 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: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Durham

The best value period to rent a car in and around Durham is February, when both prices and demand are low. March and April can also be good options, with moderate pricing and average to low demand. However, May sees the highest demand and prices tend to rise during this month. As the year progresses, November is typically the most expensive month, with demand remaining steady. October also shows moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately High
February	43.9°F (6.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
April	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
May	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	50.5°F (10.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
December	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average