New York Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around New York

Renting a car in and around New York offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant metropolis at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs, whether you're travelling with family or for business. Imagine visiting iconic attractions like Times Square, which is at the heart of the city's bustling energy, or enjoying a serene day in Central Park, perfect for outdoor experiences with loved ones. A car also allows you to visit the Statue of Liberty, a symbol of culture and history. Beyond the main attractions, having your own vehicle makes it convenient to explore diverse destinations such as Manhattan, where you can experience Grand Central Terminal, or Brooklyn, known for the Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island Beach. Long Island City is another great spot, featuring Gantry Plaza State Park and stunning views. Overall, a rental car enhances your New York experience by providing the convenience to navigate the city and its surroundings without the restrictions of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in New York

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. This option allows for comfortable travel and ample space for luggage, making it ideal for those looking to explore New York at their own pace while managing their belongings effectively.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is suitable for couples, families, or groups of up to 5 travellers, with capacity for up to 2 medium suitcases. This versatile vehicle offers a balance of comfort and space, perfect for navigating both city streets and nearby attractions while enjoying the flexibility of a rental car.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize option caters to families and groups of up to 5 travellers, accommodating either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. With its spacious interior and luggage capacity, this car type is excellent for those seeking convenience and comfort during their journey around New York and its vicinity.

Top rated car suppliers in New York

• Budget: With over 5 rental locations throughout New York, Budget provides excellent convenience for travellers. Known for its value, this supplier offers a variety of vehicles, with the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV being the most popular choices among customers. Renting from Budget allows you the freedom to explore New York's attractions at your own pace.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has 4 rental locations within New York, making it a solid option for tourists. This supplier is particularly popular for its Premium SUV and Fullsize vehicles, which offer ample space and comfort for your travels. With Alamo, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience as you navigate the vibrant city and its surroundings.
• Avis: Avis stands out with over 10 rental locations in New York, ensuring that you're never far from a convenient pick-up spot. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, allowing for a comfortable ride while exploring the area. Avis is a trusted choice for those seeking reliability and a wide selection of vehicles during their stay.

Where to stay in New York

• Manhattan: A bustling borough that offers a vibrant blend of family, city, and business experiences. Visitors can explore attractions like Times Square, a modern square perfect for a city holiday, or enjoy the serenity of Central Park, an urban park ideal for family outings. Don't miss the iconic Grand Central Terminal, a cultural landmark that represents the essence of New York. With plenty of nearby restaurants, pubs, and shopping areas, Manhattan is an ideal place to stay for a diverse range of activities.
• Brooklyn: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences, Brooklyn is a dynamic city to explore. The historic Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see for culture enthusiasts, while Prospect Park offers a green oasis for families and outdoor lovers. Coney Island Beach provides a classic beach holiday experience. With numerous shopping areas and music venues, Brooklyn presents an exciting backdrop for a memorable stay.
• Queens: As a diverse borough, Queens caters to families and business travellers alike. Key attractions include Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, an urban park suitable for various outdoor activities, and the iconic Grand Central Terminal, a cultural landmark. Queens also boasts shopping malls and vibrant dining options, making it a convenient choice for those looking to experience the local culture while enjoying access to modern amenities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around New York

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly with demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to navigate and park in busy 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 vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is generally the most cost-effective option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you 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 added convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, search for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around New York

The best value period for renting a car in and around New York is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. March can also be a decent option, as prices remain slightly low, although demand tends to increase. For those looking to rent later in the year, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand. However, December is typically the most expensive month, with high demand and pricing that reflects the holiday season.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High