Ohio State University Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental around Ohio State University

Renting a car around Ohio State University provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the vibrant surroundings at your own pace. Whether you're visiting for educational purposes, family experiences, or cultural outings, having a rental car makes it convenient to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. You can easily visit nearby attractions such as COSI, located 5 km away, which offers engaging science exhibits, or the Wexner Center for the Arts, less than 1 km away, ideal for art enthusiasts. The Columbus Museum of Art, also 5 km from the university, is another great cultural stop.

A rental car allows you to explore the metropolitan area of Columbus, which features diverse attractions, including the University District, just a short drive away and home to many cultural experiences. Downtown Columbus, located 5 km from Ohio State University, invites you to discover even more local offerings, such as Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. For families and those seeking urban experiences, a rental car ensures you can make the most of your time in this dynamic city.

Most popular car rentals near Ohio State University

• Fullsize: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. It is ideal for families or groups, providing comfort and ample room for luggage, making it a popular choice for those exploring the area around Ohio State University.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for 5 travellers, this SUV can comfortably carry up to 3 large suitcases. It is an excellent option for families, couples, or small groups who want the versatility of an SUV while navigating the attractions around Ohio State University.
• Mini Van: Accommodating up to 8 travellers with space for 6 large suitcases, the Mini Van is ideal for larger families or groups. Its spacious interior allows for easy travel around Ohio State University, making it a highly booked option for those needing extra seating and luggage capacity.

Top rated car suppliers near Ohio State University

• Budget: With 3 rental locations positioned conveniently within 3 km of Ohio State University, Budget provides an excellent option for travellers seeking flexibility. Known for their great value, Budget's most booked vehicles include Fullsize and Midsize cars, perfect for those looking to navigate the area comfortably while managing their luggage with ease.
• Enterprise: Offering 2 rental locations within 4 km of Ohio State University, Enterprise is a popular choice for its diverse range of vehicles. Most notably, their Mini Van and Midsize options are frequently booked, making them ideal for families or groups. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Enterprise ensures a smooth rental experience for your adventures around Columbus.
• Avis: Located 5 km away from Ohio State University, Avis provides a solid option for those seeking reliable transportation. Their single rental location offers Economy and Standard SUV vehicles, catering to various travel needs. Avis is known for its straightforward rental process, making it a convenient choice for your explorations in the Columbus area.

Where to stay near Ohio State University

• Oletangy West: Situated directly at Ohio State University, Oletangy West is ideal for those seeking a cultural and family-friendly experience. Visitors can explore the historic college university and sports facility stadium. Nearby attractions include the Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens, perfect for outdoor family activities, as well as COSI, a science museum that caters to culture and family holidays. Dining options in the area feature various restaurants that provide local flavours.
• Downtown Columbus: Located 5 km from Ohio State University, Downtown Columbus offers a vibrant city atmosphere with a mix of business and family-oriented experiences. Here, travellers can enjoy education and entertainment venues, including the Wexner Center for the Arts, which showcases various artistic exhibits. Key attractions like COSI and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens provide cultural experiences for visitors. The neighbourhood is also home to numerous restaurants and wineries, making it a great place to explore local cuisine.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Ohio State University

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, filters on Expedia will assist you in locating the ideal 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 car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance increases your chances of obtaining lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and can be easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a solid compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the car 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 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 provide peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance while booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals 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 car.

Best time to rent a car around Ohio State University

The best value period to rent a car around Ohio State University is March, which typically features the lowest prices and demand. Nearby months like February can also be appealing, as they show average pricing and low demand. After March, April sees average prices and demand, making it another reasonable choice. However, January tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and average demand during the winter. June through August see higher demand and prices as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.6°F (-1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately High
February	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	41.7°F (5.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately Low
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
June	70.9°F (21.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
September	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
October	55.8°F (13.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	43.2°F (6.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	35.4°F (1.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Moderately Low