Wilmington Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Wilmington

Renting a car in Wilmington offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like the Wilmington Riverwalk, an ideal spot for outdoor activities and family experiences. The Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library provides a cultural experience, while Longwood Gardens, located 18 km away, is perfect for those seeking urban park activities. A car also makes it convenient to explore different neighbourhoods, such as the Riverfront, which features the Chase Center and other attractions, or Downtown Wilmington, home to the Grand Opera House and Kalmar Nyckel Museum and Shipyard. Additionally, a short drive of 7 km will take you to Penns Grove, where you can visit the 9-11 Memorial Park. Renting a car is particularly beneficial for families or those with luggage, offering easy management of your belongings and flexibility in travel plans. Overall, having a rental car enhances your sightseeing experience and allows you to fully enjoy what Wilmington and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Wilmington

• Midsize: This car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers with enough space for up to 3 large suitcases. It’s an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore Wilmington comfortably, offering a balance of space and efficiency for your travel needs.
• Economy: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or small families, the Economy car accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for 2 medium suitcases. This option is great for those who want a budget-friendly vehicle that still offers the flexibility to explore Wilmington at your own pace.
• Premium Pickup: Designed for adventure travellers, families, or small groups, the Premium Pickup option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold 3 large suitcases. This car type is perfect for those seeking a more spacious experience while navigating the Wilmington area, ensuring you have plenty of room for both passengers and gear.

Top rated car suppliers in Wilmington

• Enterprise: With 2 rental locations in the Wilmington area, Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and convenience. Known for its diverse range of vehicles, the most booked options include Midsize and Economy cars, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your travel needs. Whether you're exploring local attractions or making your way to nearby destinations, Enterprise ensures a smooth rental experience.
• Hertz: Located within the Wilmington area, Hertz offers a reliable car rental experience with 1 convenient location. This supplier is favoured for its Midsize and Economy vehicles, providing great options for those looking to navigate the city and surrounding regions comfortably. With Hertz, you can expect friendly service and the ease of managing your transportation needs during your stay.
• National Car Rental: If you're in need of a spacious vehicle, National Car Rental has 1 location in Wilmington, primarily offering Mini Vans. This makes it an ideal choice for families or groups looking to travel together. With National, you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of a larger vehicle while exploring Wilmington and its attractions at your leisure.

Where to stay in and around Wilmington

• New Castle: Located 10 km away from Wilmington, New Castle offers a family-friendly and outdoor-themed experience. Visitors can explore attractions like the historic Old Court House and the scenic Fort Delaware State Park, perfect for adventure seekers. Battery Park is ideal for a relaxing family outing, while nearby dining options include various restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient choice for travellers.
• Downtown Wilmington: Situated around the heart of Wilmington, Downtown Wilmington is a vibrant neighbourhood that caters to families and couples alike. Key attractions include the Grand Opera House, which hosts captivating performances, and the Wilmington Riverwalk, perfect for leisurely strolls. With a variety of nearby wineries and sweet treat shops, this area is well-suited for those looking to experience both culture and romance during their stay.
• Newark: Approximately 19 km from Wilmington, Newark is a city rich in culture and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Newark Reservoir and explore the University of Delaware Botanic Gardens, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby White Clay Creek State Park provides further opportunities for adventure, while the city's shopping centres and diverse dining options enhance the overall travel experience.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that fit your needs. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to access lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance of affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements 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 beneficial option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payments.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your travels. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent 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 in and around Wilmington

The best value period to rent a car in and around Wilmington is January, when both prices and demand are low. Following closely, April and May also offer low prices with average demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by high demand, while June through August see elevated prices and demand levels. March is notably busy as well, with high demand and average pricing, making it a less ideal time for those seeking value.