Puget Sound Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Puget Sound

Renting a car in Puget Sound offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans to your preferences, making it a popular choice for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. The area is home to many key attractions, including the iconic Space Needle and the vibrant Seattle Center, both located 17 km away, perfect for those seeking urban experiences. If you are looking for more outdoor activities, the Bainbridge Island Ferry Dock, situated 14 km away, provides access to beautiful beach experiences and adventures. Additionally, nearby cities like Indianola and Suquamish, just 3 km and 5 km away respectively, offer easy access to these attractions. The charming neighbourhood of Port Madison, located 6 km from Puget Sound, features the serene Bloedel Reserve along with the Space Needle and Seattle Center. Whether you are travelling with family, seeking outdoor experiences, or looking for adventure, having a rental car makes exploring Puget Sound and its surrounding destinations convenient and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals around Puget Sound

• Midsize SUV: The midsize SUV is a popular choice among travellers in Puget Sound, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal option for families, couples, or small groups looking for space and versatility. With its higher driving position and spacious interior, a midsize SUV provides comfort for both short trips and longer adventures around the beautiful Puget Sound region.
• Standard Pickup: If you’re an adventure traveller or part of a small group or family, the standard pickup is a fantastic option. It also accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for those who need extra cargo space for outdoor gear or other essentials. The standard pickup offers the ruggedness and flexibility needed for exploring the diverse landscapes surrounding Puget Sound.
• Premium: For those seeking a touch of luxury, the premium car option is highly regarded amongst business travellers and couples. This car type can accommodate 5 travellers and up to 4 large suitcases, making it perfect for those who value comfort and style. Renting a premium vehicle allows you to enjoy a sophisticated driving experience while navigating the scenic routes of Puget Sound, ensuring that your trip is both enjoyable and memorable.

Top rated car suppliers around Puget Sound

• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations within a convenient 10 km radius of Puget Sound, Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers. Known for its exceptional customer service, this supplier offers a wide selection of vehicles, including the highly preferred Midsize SUV and Standard Pickup. Many customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and the flexibility to adjust their itinerary while exploring the beautiful scenery around Puget Sound.
• Hertz: Located 10 km away from Puget Sound, Hertz stands out with its reliable service and well-maintained fleet. This supplier offers a great selection of vehicles, with Fullsize and Economy cars being the most booked options. Travellers often commend Hertz for its efficient booking process and straightforward pick-up arrangements, making it a solid option for those looking to explore the region at their own pace.
• National Car Rental: Situated 13 km from Puget Sound, National Car Rental is another excellent choice for those seeking luxury and comfort. The supplier is known for its top-quality vehicles, with Luxury and Midsize cars being the most popular among customers. Many travellers appreciate the professional service and seamless pick-up experience, ensuring a smooth start to their adventure around the stunning Puget Sound area.

Where to stay around Puget Sound

• Indianola: Located 3 km from Puget Sound, Indianola offers a delightful mix of outdoor experiences and family-friendly activities. This charming city is known for its beautiful scenery and recreational areas. Popular attractions include the Space Needle, Seattle Center, and the Bainbridge Island Ferry Dock, all within reach for adventurous outings. Enjoy local dining options featuring restaurants and wineries, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Suquamish: Situated 5 km from Puget Sound, Suquamish is ideal for those seeking a romantic getaway or a vibrant city atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as golfing and relaxing at resorts. Key points of interest include the Space Needle and Seattle Center, which offer both cultural and recreational experiences. With nearby restaurants and wineries, Suquamish provides ample opportunities for culinary delights amidst stunning natural beauty.
• Kingston: Kingston, located 6 km from Puget Sound, is perfect for travellers looking for romantic escapes and scenic outdoor experiences. The city boasts recreational areas and golf venues, allowing for a blend of relaxation and activity. Attractions such as the Bainbridge Island Ferry Dock and the Port of Poulsbo are great for outdoor enthusiasts. Kingston also features a variety of dining options, including restaurants and local wineries, making it a wonderful spot to savour the region's flavours.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Puget Sound

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for sunny days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. Renters over the age of 70 could also face similar restrictions. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals follow a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might justify the extra expense.
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 provide you with peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive 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 required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Puget Sound

The best value period to rent a car in and around Puget Sound is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February follows closely, offering average prices and low demand, making it a quiet time to rent. April also presents a good opportunity with slightly low prices and average demand. However, August is the most expensive month, characterised by slightly high prices and high demand, making it a busy time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.8°F (4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
March	43.7°F (6.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
June	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	66.0°F (18.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
November	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average