Salem Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Salem

Renting a car in Salem provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for adventure, as you can easily manage luggage and create flexible travel plans. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions such as the Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion, a great spot for family and outdoor experiences, or the Salem Riverfront Park, perfect for urban and family outings. The historic Oregon State Capitol is also conveniently accessible, enriching your cultural experience in Salem.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby destinations like Keizer, located 6 km away, where you can enjoy Staats Lake and revisit Salem’s attractions. The beautiful Willamette Valley, just 8 km from Salem, offers scenic views and more opportunities for exploration. Within Salem, the South Central neighbourhood features Bush's Pasture Park, adding to your travel options. With so much to see and experience, having your own vehicle ensures you make the most of your visit to Salem and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Salem

• Midsize: The midsize car is a popular choice for those travelling in groups or with family, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for couples or families looking to explore Salem comfortably while ensuring they have enough room for their luggage. With a balance of space and efficiency, the midsize car allows for a pleasant journey through the beautiful landscapes around Salem.
• Compact: Compact cars are perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families, accommodating up to 5 travellers and 3 medium suitcases. Their smaller size makes them ideal for navigating Salem's streets, where parking can be limited. This option offers flexibility and convenience, ensuring that you can explore the area without the hassle of large vehicle dimensions.
• Economy: The economy car is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This type of car is perfect for solo explorers or couples who want to experience Salem without the extra costs associated with larger vehicles. Its efficient fuel consumption and compact size make it a practical option for getting around while keeping travel expenses low.

Top rated car suppliers in Salem

• Hertz: With a rental location in Salem, Hertz provides an excellent option for travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers popular vehicle choices such as Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it easy to find a car that suits your needs for exploring the city and its surrounding areas.
• Enterprise: Renowned for its customer service, Enterprise boasts three rental locations in Salem. This supplier is a top choice for travellers looking for a diverse selection of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked options. This variety ensures you can find the perfect vehicle for your adventures, whether you're navigating city streets or heading out to nearby attractions.
• Budget: With a rental location in Salem, Budget is an ideal choice for those seeking value without compromising on quality. This supplier offers Midsize and Midsize SUVs, making it easy to accommodate both passengers and luggage for your journey. Budget’s competitive pricing ensures that you can enjoy your trip while keeping costs manageable.

Where to stay in and around Salem

• Keizer: Located 6 km from Salem, Keizer is an ideal base for those seeking a family or business-themed experience. This city offers a variety of attractions including the scenic Staats Lake, perfect for a romantic outing, and the Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion, suited for family-friendly activities. Additionally, visitors can explore the Salem Riverfront Park for outdoor fun. Dining options abound, with several wineries and restaurants nearby, making it a great spot for food enthusiasts.
• Southeast Salem: This vibrant neighbourhood, situated around Salem, is perfect for families and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy the Enchanted Forest Theme Park, which provides a delightful outdoor experience, and the Willamette Heritage Center for a taste of local culture. The Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion also offers family-oriented events. With numerous wineries and restaurants close by, Southeast Salem is a fantastic choice for those looking to combine adventure with culinary delights.
• North East Salem: North East Salem, located around Salem, is a picturesque neighbourhood ideal for families and couples seeking romantic experiences. Explore the beautiful Salem Riverfront Park, or visit the historic Oregon State Capitol for a dose of culture. The area also hosts the Oregon State Fairgrounds Pavilion for various family activities. With nearby wineries and parks, North East Salem provides a charming atmosphere for those looking to relax and enjoy outdoor pursuits.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match 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 more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise 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—might not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under 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. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel arrangements, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank 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: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
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 Salem

The best value period for renting a car in and around Salem is February, when both prices and demand are low. This month offers a quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for exploring. March and April also see low prices and demand, providing additional opportunities for budget-conscious renters. However, May tends to be the most expensive month, with average prices and increasing demand as the weather warms up. June through August follow closely, with high demand and average pricing during the peak summer months.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
March	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Low
May	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
June	61.7°F (16.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
July	68.5°F (20.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
August	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
October	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.3°F (7.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	40.1°F (4.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	High