Bellingham Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bellingham

Renting a car in Bellingham offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's attractions and the surrounding natural beauty at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This convenience is especially beneficial for those looking for outdoor adventures or scenic experiences. Key attractions such as Fairhaven Park, an urban park ideal for family outings, and Cornwall Beach, perfect for relaxing by the water, are easily accessible. You can also venture to Lake Whatcom, located just 9 km from Bellingham, where you can enjoy stunning views and outdoor activities. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore the charming neighbourhood of Fairhaven, which features Fairhaven Village Green and other local highlights. You can also visit Sudden Valley, known for its proximity to Lake Whatcom and Fairhaven Park, or the Bellingham City Center, where you can find additional beach access and parks. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience, making it easier to discover all that Bellingham and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Bellingham

• Midsize SUV: Accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing space for up to 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups exploring Bellingham. Its spacious interior ensures comfort while providing the flexibility needed for a variety of travel plans, making it ideal for those who wish to enjoy the local attractions at their own pace.
• Luxury SUV: This option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 4 large suitcases, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a premium experience. The luxury SUV offers enhanced comfort and style, allowing you to travel in elegance while exploring the beautiful sights around Bellingham. With ample space for luggage, it is well-suited for those who value both comfort and practicality.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car is another popular choice, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it ideal for families and groups, providing the necessary room for comfortable travel while allowing for ample luggage space. Renting a fullsize vehicle in Bellingham can enhance your travel experience by offering the flexibility to carry everything you need for your adventure.

Top rated car suppliers in Bellingham

• National Car Rental: With a rental location in the heart of Bellingham, National Car Rental is a popular choice among travellers. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, with the Fullsize car being the most booked option. This supplier is well-regarded for its efficient service, making it easy for you to pick up your vehicle and start your adventure around Bellingham and its surrounding areas.
• Budget: Budget has established a presence in Bellingham with a dedicated rental location, making it convenient for tourists. They are known for offering excellent value with their Midsize and Compact vehicles, allowing you to travel comfortably without breaking the bank. With Budget, you can expect a straightforward rental process and competitive pricing, ideal for exploring the local attractions.
• Hertz: Hertz also boasts a rental location in Bellingham, providing travellers with a reliable option for their car rental needs. Their Midsize cars are particularly popular, appealing to those who seek a balance between comfort and affordability. Hertz is known for its customer service, ensuring a pleasant experience as you embark on your journey through the scenic landscapes of Bellingham.

Where to stay in Bellingham

• Meridian: Meridian is an excellent choice for families seeking a blend of city and outdoor experiences. This neighbourhood is conveniently located near key attractions like Lake Whatcom, perfect for a romantic holiday or outdoor activities, and Fairhaven Park, ideal for family outings. The Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center also offers various events for family enjoyment. Dining options in the area ensure that travellers can enjoy local cuisine, making it a well-rounded destination for all types of visitors.
• Sehome: Sehome is a vibrant neighbourhood suited for those who yearn for adventure and stunning scenery. Close to Lake Whatcom and Cornwall Beach, it presents excellent opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation by the water. The area is rich in recreational facilities and boasts a modern college university, adding to its lively atmosphere. With various dining establishments nearby, Sehome is perfect for adventurers looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Bellingham City Center: Bellingham City Center is the heart of the city, offering a dynamic urban experience alongside natural beauty. Visitors can explore Cornwall Beach and Lake Whatcom, both great for enjoying the outdoors. Fairhaven Park is also within reach, ideal for family and city-themed outings. The neighbourhood hosts a range of restaurants, breweries, and wineries, making it an attractive spot for those looking to indulge in local flavours while enjoying a scenic backdrop.

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

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 the summer months, 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 prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically have lower rental costs and are easier to park in bustling areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may be unavailable. This can also apply 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 vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the most advantageous. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an additional charge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this might be worthwhile for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if the unexpected occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bellingham

The best time to rent a car in and around Bellingham is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is also low. October offers a similar situation, maintaining reasonable prices with average demand. The months of January and February can also provide good value, as they feature slightly low prices and low demand. However, June through August see higher prices and demand, with June being the most expensive month for rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	42.6°F (5.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
May	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
June	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	58.6°F (14.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	50.9°F (10.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average