Cambridge Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Cambridge

Renting a car in Cambridge provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With easy luggage management, a rental car is ideal for families, business travellers, and those seeking city-themed experiences. You can conveniently visit key attractions such as Kendall Square, a modern square perfect for city experiences, and Fenway Park, a historic sports stadium located 3 km away, which offers a glimpse into local culture and sports. Boston Common, an urban park 4 km away, is great for outdoor family activities.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby destinations including Boston, a vibrant metropolis featuring popular sites like Copley Square, and Downtown Boston, just 5 km away, home to the Citizens Opera House. Somerville, only 2 km from Cambridge, also offers attractions like Prospect Hill Park. Having your own vehicle simplifies travel plans and enhances your experience, making it easier to discover all that Cambridge and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Cambridge

• Midsize: The Midsize car option is perfect for accommodating up to 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for couples or families looking for a comfortable ride while exploring Cambridge. With ample space for luggage and passengers, you can enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace without feeling cramped.
• Compact: The Compact car is a versatile option that can also accommodate 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is suited for solo travellers, couples, or small families, offering a balance between space and manoeuvrability. Its smaller size makes it easier to navigate through Cambridge's bustling streets while still providing enough room for your essentials.
• Economy: Opting for an Economy car is an excellent choice for those looking to travel light, as it accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers or couples seeking an economical solution for their car rental needs. The Economy car allows you to explore Cambridge comfortably while being budget-friendly, ensuring you can enjoy your trip without overspending.

Top rated car suppliers in Cambridge

• Budget: With 2 rental locations in the Cambridge area, Budget is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility and value. Known for its compact and midsize vehicles, Budget provides a range of options to suit various needs. The combination of competitive pricing and convenient locations makes it easy for you to pick up your rental and explore Cambridge and its surroundings at your leisure.
• Avis: Avis operates 1 rental location in Cambridge, offering a selection of standard vehicles and standard SUVs. This supplier is renowned for its quality service and reliable vehicles, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy their travels in comfort. With Avis, you can easily manage your itinerary and luggage, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable car rental experience.

Where to stay around Cambridge

• Cambridge: Cambridge is an excellent base for exploring the rich cultural and educational landscape of the Boston area. Renowned for its historic institutions, visitors can enjoy nearby attractions such as Harvard University and MIT. The vibrant atmosphere offers a variety of restaurants, breweries, and parks, making it suitable for both family and cultural experiences.
• Downtown Boston: Located a mere 5 km from Cambridge, Downtown Boston is a bustling neighbourhood perfect for city-themed and family experiences. It boasts attractions such as the Citizens Opera House and Boston Common, offering a blend of cultural and recreational activities. Here, you will find numerous dining options, including fine restaurants, breweries, and wineries, adding to the vibrant city life.
• Back Bay: Just 4 km from Cambridge, Back Bay is a picturesque neighbourhood characterised by its Victorian brownstones and modern shopping centres. This area is ideal for those seeking a city and culture-themed experience, with highlights such as Copley Square and Fenway Park nearby. The diverse culinary scene, featuring restaurants and wineries, invites visitors to indulge in delightful meals and drinks.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. Booking early often allows you to obtain lower rates and ensures better 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 favourable balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a 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 generally the most economical option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental vehicle at airports, although the added convenience may justify the cost.
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 of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 and around Cambridge

The best time to rent a car in and around Cambridge is January and February, when prices are moderately low and demand is at its lowest. This period offers great value for those looking to explore the area. Following that, March and April can be decent options, with average prices and moderate demand. However, November tends to be the most expensive month, alongside July, which sees high demand and higher rental prices. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	28.8°F (-1.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	30.0°F (-1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	36.9°F (2.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
May	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.9°F (12.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
December	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average