Roanoke Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Roanoke

Renting a car in Roanoke offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those wishing to visit key attractions such as the Mill Mountain Star and the Center in the Square, both easily accessible by car. With a rental vehicle, you can manage your luggage effortlessly and adapt your travel plans as needed.

Outdoor enthusiasts and couples seeking romantic experiences will find it convenient to explore the natural beauty and cultural sites that Roanoke has to offer. For instance, a drive to Downtown Roanoke allows you to visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation alongside other cultural venues. Additionally, nearby cities like Hollins and Cave Spring offer attractions such as the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum and more views of the Mill Mountain Star. Having a rental car makes it easy to include these destinations in your itinerary without relying on public transportation. Overall, a rental car enhances your visit to Roanoke by ensuring comfort and accessibility to the region's diverse attractions.

Most popular car rentals in Roanoke

• Midsize SUV: This car option is particularly popular for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 large suitcases. The midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for exploring Roanoke and its surrounding areas with ease and convenience.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and groups, the fullsize car can comfortably fit 5 travellers and can manage up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for those who require a bit more space for luggage while enjoying the flexibility of travelling around Roanoke at their own pace.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is a great choice for couples, families, or groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option balances comfort and space, making it suitable for those looking to explore Roanoke while keeping their luggage organized and manageable.

Top rated car suppliers in Roanoke

• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar Rent A Car operates 1 rental location in Roanoke, making it a convenient choice for travellers. The supplier is popular for its Midsize and Fullsize vehicles, which are ideal for those looking for comfort and space during their travels. Customers appreciate the straightforward rental process and the suitability of their fleet for various needs, whether it's a family trip or a solo adventure.
• Enterprise: With 4 rental locations throughout Roanoke, Enterprise stands out for its exceptional customer service and extensive vehicle selection. The most booked options include Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, catering to those needing more space and comfort. Travellers often commend the friendly staff and smooth check-in experience, making it a reliable choice for both leisure and business trips.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has 1 rental location in Roanoke and is well-regarded for its Midsize SUVs and Premium vehicles. Customers frequently highlight the ease of the rental process and the quality of the vehicles offered. Alamo is known for providing a pleasant rental experience, ensuring that travellers can focus on enjoying their trip without any hassle.

Where to stay in Roanoke

• Hollins: A charming village located in the Roanoke area, Hollins attracts visitors seeking outdoor experiences and scenic views. This family-friendly destination features a historic college university, a picturesque lake, and access to a national state park. Notable attractions include the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, which offers cultural insights, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, great for family outings. Nearby, you can find numerous dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making Hollins a delightful base for your travels.
• Cave Spring: Another lovely village in the Roanoke vicinity, Cave Spring is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and family-friendly environments. Visitors can discover local parks and lakes while also enjoying the thrill of nearby motor racing events. Key points of interest include the Mill Mountain Star, a public art installation, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which caters to both cultural and family experiences. The area also offers various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, enriching your stay.
• Downtown Roanoke: Positioned in the heart of Roanoke, Downtown Roanoke is vibrant and perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This neighbourhood features an arena entertainment facility, educational venues, and recreational areas. Notable attractions include the Center in the Square, an arts centre, and the Taubman Museum of Art, which showcases local culture. With an array of restaurants nearby, Downtown Roanoke provides a convenient and engaging base for exploring the region.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize filters on Expedia to identify the best fit 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 in advance, you are likely to obtain lower prices 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 manoeuvre in crowded 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 fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most advantageous. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure to return the vehicle with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Roanoke

The best value period to rent a car in and around Roanoke is February, where prices are slightly low and demand is average. January also offers similar pricing, though demand is moderately high. For those seeking shoulder periods, April shows slightly low prices but comes with moderately high demand, while May and June maintain average pricing and demand levels. Conversely, December is the most expensive month, with prices trending higher as demand remains moderately low.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
February	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
May	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High