Roanoke Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Roanoke

Renting a car in Roanoke provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed. This flexibility is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor experiences or romantic getaways. You can visit key attractions like the Mill Mountain Star, which offers stunning views and cultural significance, or explore the Center in the Square, an arts centre that highlights local culture. The Virginia Museum of Transportation is also a must-see, especially for families interested in learning about the region's transport history.

A rental car makes it convenient to journey to popular destinations such as Downtown Roanoke, where you can find the Taubman Museum of Art alongside the previously mentioned attractions. You can also venture to nearby cities like Hollins and Cave Spring, which feature additional sites like the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum and various recreational options. With a rental car, you can fully enjoy Roanoke and its surroundings without the constraints of public transportation, ensuring a more enjoyable travel experience.

Most popular car rentals in Roanoke

• Midsize SUV: This car option is particularly popular for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for exploring Roanoke and its surrounding areas with ease and convenience.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the fullsize car can comfortably fit 5 travellers and can manage up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those who require a bit more space for luggage while enjoying the flexibility of travelling around Roanoke at their own pace.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a great choice for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option balances comfort and space, making it suitable for those looking to explore Roanoke while keeping their luggage organized and manageable.

Top rated car suppliers in Roanoke

• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car operates 1 rental location in Roanoke, providing travellers with a convenient choice for their car rental needs. Known for its competitive pricing, Dollar offers a selection of vehicles that cater to various preferences. The most booked cars with this supplier are Midsize and Fullsize options, making it a practical choice for those needing a comfortable ride for their adventures in and around Roanoke.
• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations in the Roanoke area, Enterprise is a highly popular choice among travellers. Renowned for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise is praised for its helpful staff and flexible rental options. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, providing ample space and comfort for families or groups. This supplier stands out as a reliable option for those exploring the scenic landscapes of Virginia.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car has 1 convenient location in Roanoke, making it accessible for travellers looking to rent a vehicle. Alamo is well-regarded for its efficient service and well-maintained fleet. The most booked cars are Midsize SUVs and Premium vehicles, ideal for those seeking comfort and performance during their stay. With its focus on customer satisfaction, Alamo is a solid choice for anyone wanting to enjoy their journey around Roanoke.

Where to stay in Roanoke

• Hollins: A charming village near Roanoke, Hollins is perfect for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. The area boasts scenic views and is home to the historic Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, ideal for culture enthusiasts. Explore the Virginia Museum of Transportation for a family-friendly outing, or enjoy some leisure time at AMF Hilltop Lanes for bowling. Nearby, you’ll find lovely food options including wineries and restaurants. Hollins provides access to nature with its proximity to a national state park and a picturesque lake, making it an inviting destination.
• Cave Spring: Nestled close to Roanoke, Cave Spring is another great option for families and outdoor lovers. The village features beautiful parks and recreational areas, perfect for enjoying the stunning scenery. Key attractions include the Mill Mountain Star, a public art piece that offers impressive views, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, appealing to both culture and family interests. With several dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, Cave Spring is a wonderful spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Downtown Roanoke: As a vibrant neighbourhood, Downtown Roanoke is an excellent choice for those looking for outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The area is home to the Taubman Museum of Art and the Center in the Square, both of which cater to art lovers. Families can enjoy the Virginia Museum of Transportation as well. With its array of restaurants nearby, Downtown Roanoke offers convenient dining options. This neighbourhood provides easy access to local parks and scenic areas, making it a dynamic place to stay during your visit.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, use the filters on Expedia to help you discover the perfect vehicle 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. By booking in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under 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 economical option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this added convenience may be worth the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It is easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
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 and around Roanoke

The best value period to rent a car in and around Roanoke is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. January also offers slightly low prices, although demand is moderately high. For a shoulder period, April presents slightly low prices with moderately high demand. Conversely, December tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining moderately low. This trend makes it less ideal for budget-conscious renters looking for lower rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
February	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
May	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High