Car Rental Raleigh - Durham Intl. Airport (RDU)

Reasons to book a car rental at Raleigh International Airport

Renting a car at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. With convenient on-site rental services, you can easily manage your luggage and hit the road without delay. This is especially beneficial for families, allowing you to travel comfortably with kids and their gear while visiting local attractions.

With a rental car, you can easily reach key destinations such as Research Triangle Park, located just 8 km away, and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, only 11 km from the airport. For a relaxing outdoor experience, Dorothea Dix Park is a short 16 km drive. Additionally, you can explore nearby cities like Cary, where you can find the Sri Venkateswara Temple of North Carolina, or Morrisville, home to RDU Observation Park. Having a car ensures you can make the most of your trip to Raleigh and its surroundings, allowing for spontaneous detours and visits to various attractions without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Most popular car rentals near Raleigh Airport

• Fullsize: The fullsize car is a popular choice for those travelling with family or in groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with ample space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option offers comfort and convenience, making it ideal for longer trips where space for luggage is essential. With a fullsize vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while enjoying the flexibility to explore the attractions around Raleigh at your own pace.
• Compact: The compact car is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or small families, comfortably seating up to 5 passengers with room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those seeking an economical and maneuverable vehicle for city driving or short excursions. The compact size allows for easy parking and navigation through Raleigh, making it a practical choice for your car rental needs.
• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV seats up to 5 travellers and accommodates up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle type offers a blend of space, comfort, and versatility, making it perfect for those who require extra room for luggage or equipment. Renting a midsize SUV allows you to enjoy a smooth ride while exploring the scenic areas around Raleigh with ease.

Where to stay near Raleigh International Airport

• Highcroft: Located 12 km from Raleigh, Highcroft offers a blend of sports and cultural experiences. This neighbourhood is home to various educational and recreational venues, making it ideal for families. Key attractions include the North Carolina Museum of Art, perfect for cultural enthusiasts, and the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, which is suitable for outdoor holidays. Visitors can also enjoy nearby sports facilities and scenic lakes, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Cary: Situated 10 km away from Raleigh, Cary is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly atmosphere and business amenities. The area boasts numerous shopping centres and arena entertainment facilities, catering to diverse interests. Notable points of interest include the Sri Venkateswara Temple of North Carolina, which offers cultural insights, and the expansive Dorothea Dix Park, ideal for outdoor activities. Cary's proximity to Raleigh makes it a convenient lodging option for travellers.

9 tips to save on your International Airport car rental near Raleigh

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car to accommodate extra luggage, use the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to secure your RDU car rental as early as possible to access lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and the availability of certain vehicle types—like SUVs or premium models—might be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most economical choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Raleigh Airport

The best time to rent a car from Raleigh Airport is January and February, when prices and demand are both slightly low. This period offers the best value for travellers. March and April can also be decent months, with average prices and demand. However, rental rates tend to rise in May and June, as demand increases. The most expensive time to rent is typically October, when both prices and demand are high, making it a busier period for car rentals.