Maryland Car Rentals

Reasons to book a car rental in Maryland

Renting a car in Maryland offers a practical and enjoyable way to explore the state's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for various types of travellers. For those seeking outdoor adventures or romantic experiences, Maryland has plenty to offer. You can visit the Ocean City Boardwalk for a scenic stroll or enjoy family-friendly activities along the beach. The Baltimore Inner Harbor Marina provides opportunities for adventure with its picturesque waterfront, while Deep Creek Lake invites you to relax and appreciate the natural beauty. A rental car also allows convenient access to popular destinations like Ocean City, which features the Ocean City Beach, or Baltimore, home to notable sites like Fort McHenry and Power Plant Live. If you're interested in visiting the nearby metropolis of Washington, you can easily drive to see landmarks such as the White House and the National Mall. Overall, renting a car enhances your Maryland experience, allowing you to discover its attractions comfortably and at your leisure.

Most popular car rentals in Maryland

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers, providing ample space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families or groups looking to travel comfortably without sacrificing cargo space. With its generous room, the Fullsize car allows for easy luggage management and a pleasant road trip experience.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a fantastic option for families, couples, or small groups of up to 5 travellers. It can hold up to 3 large suitcases, ensuring that you have enough room for everyone's belongings. This vehicle combines comfort with versatility, making it suitable for various travel needs. Its spacious interior is great for those who want a little extra room while exploring Maryland.
• Compact: If you are travelling solo, as a couple, or with a small family, the Compact car option is a smart choice. It can accommodate up to 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, making it perfect for those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle that is easy to park. The Compact car offers the flexibility to navigate through busy areas in Maryland while ensuring you have enough space for essentials.

Where to stay in Maryland

• Washington: A vibrant metropolis, Washington offers a blend of family-friendly and city-themed experiences. Stay close to the iconic attractions like the White House, a historic civic government building, and the National Mall, a beautiful national state park perfect for outdoor adventures. The Smithsonian Institution, a renowned natural history museum, adds to the cultural allure. Enjoy nearby shopping centres and relax in urban parks, all while having access to delightful food and drink options, including local wineries.
• Ocean City: This charming city is ideal for those seeking outdoor and romantic getaways, as well as family fun. Ocean City is home to the famous Ocean City Boardwalk, an esplanade that offers a delightful seaside experience. The pristine Ocean City Beach and Maryland Beach are perfect for beach holidays. With a variety of restaurants and a local distillery, you can enjoy a taste of the area's culinary scene while relaxing by the shore, particularly during the warmer months.
• Baltimore: As another bustling metropolis, Baltimore caters to families and business travellers alike. The Baltimore Inner Harbor Marina is an excellent spot for adventure and outdoor activities, while Power Plant Live offers a lively street atmosphere ideal for city-themed outings. Don't miss Fort McHenry, a historic fort that showcases the local culture. The city also features ample shopping centres and dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a convenient base for exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Maryland

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, 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 depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are 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 more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might make it worthwhile.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case anything unexpected occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on embarking on long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Maryland

The best value period to rent a car in Maryland is February, as it features the lowest prices and demand. Surrounding months like January and March also offer average prices with slightly lower demand, making them good alternatives. However, June through August see a significant increase in prices and demand, with June being particularly expensive. September also experiences high demand, which can lead to higher rental costs, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.