Dulles Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Dulles

Renting a car in Dulles, Virginia, provides a great opportunity to explore the area with freedom and flexibility. This village serves as an ideal base for sightseeing, allowing you to visit key attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily access the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, located 5 km away, where you can immerse yourself in aviation history. For outdoor enthusiasts, Great Falls Park is just 19 km from Dulles, offering stunning scenery and adventure opportunities. Families can also enjoy Frying Pan Farm Park, which is 5 km away and provides a unique farm experience. Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to explore nearby cities such as Herndon and Sterling, both 7 km away, where you can find more attractions like Algonkian Regional Park and further options for family and business-themed experiences. Overall, renting a car in Dulles enhances your travel experience, making it easier to manage luggage and create flexible travel plans tailored to your needs.

Most popular car rentals in Dulles

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice for those travelling in and around Dulles. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, it is ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This car type offers a comfortable ride while providing ample space for luggage, making it perfect for exploring the area at your own pace.
• Fullsize: Another highly booked option in Dulles is the fullsize vehicle. This car can also accommodate 5 travellers, offering flexibility with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. It is an excellent choice for families and groups, ensuring that everyone has enough space for both passengers and luggage, allowing for a stress-free travel experience.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a great option for those who require a bit less space while still prioritizing comfort. Accommodating 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases, this vehicle is suitable for couples, families, or groups. It provides a balance of space and manoeuvrability, making it a convenient choice for navigating Dulles and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Dulles

• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental operates one location in Dulles, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for its affordable rates and diverse fleet, Thrifty is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles. Customers appreciate the ease of booking and the flexibility offered by renting from Thrifty, allowing them to tailor their travel experiences around Dulles and beyond.
• Enterprise: With a single rental location in Dulles, Enterprise is a favourite among tourists for its commitment to customer service. Many travellers opt for Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs from this supplier, which are highly recommended for exploring the local attractions. Enterprise is recognised for its friendly staff and smooth rental process, making it a reliable choice for both leisure and business trips.
• Sixt: Sixt also features one rental location in Dulles, providing a solid selection of vehicles for visitors. The Midsize SUV and Fullsize options are among the most booked, catering to those who value space and comfort during their travels. Sixt is noted for its modern fleet and straightforward rental process, ensuring a pleasant experience for customers looking to explore the Dulles area at their own pace.

Where to stay around Dulles

• Herndon: Located 7 km from Dulles, Herndon is an ideal spot for family, business, and city-themed experiences. Visitors can explore popular venues like the shopping mall and recreational area. Key attractions include the urban park for leisurely strolls, the national state park for outdoor adventures, and the event conference venue for business needs. Don’t miss highlights such as Frying Pan Farm Park, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center for aviation enthusiasts, and Great Falls Park, perfect for outdoor scenery and adventure.
• Sterling: Also situated 7 km from Dulles, Sterling offers a vibrant atmosphere for families and business travellers alike. The city features shopping centres and recreational areas for entertainment. Key points of interest include Algonkian Regional Park, which is perfect for outdoor activities, as well as Bowlero Sterling, a popular bowling alley. The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center is also nearby, providing cultural insights into aviation history, making Sterling a great base for exploration.
• Chantilly: Dulles itself is situated in Chantilly, making it a convenient choice for travellers. This city caters to families and business visitors, with numerous shopping centres and body treatment venues. Attractions include the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center for aviation culture and the historic Sully Historic Site, offering a glimpse into local history. Great Falls Park is also close by, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic adventures.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to access lower prices and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to manoeuvre and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium options—might not be accessible. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which can be fine too. Just ensure to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge associated with collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many 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 in case of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. It’s easy to add insurance when you book through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is mandatory for renting a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Dulles

The best value period to rent a car in and around Dulles is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This trend continues into March, offering moderate pricing and average demand. April through June sees average prices but slightly high demand as the summer approaches. November is typically the most expensive month, with higher demand and costs, while October remains moderately priced with steady demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.6°F (0.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
February	36.9°F (2.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	64.6°F (18.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	73.2°F (22.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	76.3°F (24.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
September	69.6°F (20.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	39.2°F (4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average