Manhattan Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Manhattan

Renting a car in Manhattan offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant borough at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed, making it a great option for families and those on business trips. Key attractions such as Times Square, Central Park, and Grand Central Terminal are all within the area of Manhattan, allowing you to visit these iconic sites conveniently. Additionally, with a car, you can venture into nearby neighbourhoods like the Upper West Side, which is less than 1 km away and features all the highlights of Manhattan. Lower Manhattan is also accessible, home to landmarks like the Empire State Building and Wall Street. Having your own vehicle makes it simple to explore all that New York has to offer without relying on public transport. Whether you're planning a day of sightseeing or need to travel for business, a rental car allows you to make the most of your time in and around Manhattan, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Most popular car rentals in Manhattan

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a fantastic choice for those travelling in groups, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 3 large suitcases. Its versatility makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore Manhattan. With a midsize SUV, you can enjoy the freedom to manage your luggage comfortably while navigating the city at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is another popular option, also accommodating 5 travellers, but with room for 2 medium suitcases. This makes it perfect for couples, families, or groups who require a bit more space without sacrificing comfort. Whether you have shopping bags or other essentials, the standard SUV provides a balanced blend of capacity and convenience for your Manhattan adventure.
• Economy: For those seeking a more compact solution, the economy car is an excellent choice. This option accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or small families. The economy car is particularly appealing for those who want to navigate the bustling streets of Manhattan with ease while still having room for necessary luggage.

Top rated car suppliers in Manhattan

• Budget: With 4 rental locations throughout Manhattan, Budget is a popular choice for many travellers seeking flexibility. Known for their excellent value, the most booked vehicles from this supplier include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it easy for you to explore the city comfortably while managing your luggage with ease.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Offering 2 conveniently located rental sites in Manhattan, Dollar Rent A Car is another excellent option for those looking to navigate the city. Their most popular vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, ideal for both solo travellers and families wanting to enjoy the sights at their own pace.
• Avis: With more than 5 rental locations across Manhattan, Avis stands out for its extensive network and customer service. Their fleet features popular choices like Midsize SUVs and Fullsize SUVs, ensuring that you have a variety of options to suit your travel needs while enjoying the freedom to explore the area.

Where to stay around Manhattan

• Manhattan: The bustling heart of New York, Manhattan offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can enjoy iconic attractions such as Times Square and Central Park, both perfect for family and city-themed holidays. The area is surrounded by numerous shopping venues and renowned theatre performances, ensuring ample entertainment options. With a plethora of dining choices, you'll find everything from fine dining to casual eateries nearby, making it an ideal base for your trip.
• Jersey City: Located 9 km from Manhattan, Jersey City is a vibrant metropolis with its own unique charm. It features attractions like the American Dream and Liberty State Park, which are perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The shopping centres and restaurants in the area provide a variety of options for dining and leisure. Jersey City offers a convenient alternative for those looking to explore both New York and its surrounding areas.
• Fairview: Just 4 km away from Manhattan, Fairview is an inviting city that combines urban convenience with family-friendly activities. Key points of interest include Times Square and Grand Central Terminal, both of which offer a taste of culture and history. With access to shopping areas and sports facilities, Fairview is a great choice for those looking for a quieter stay while still being close to the attractions of New York.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help identify 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 are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy locations. Mid-size cars 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. This can also apply to renters above 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 car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the best arrangement. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unexpected occur during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Manhattan

The best value period for renting a car in and around Manhattan is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is average. October also offers good options, though demand tends to be higher during this month. September features slightly lower prices with moderately high demand, making it another shoulder month. In contrast, March is usually the most expensive time, characterised by high demand. February and April can also see slightly elevated prices with moderately low demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	33.1°F (0.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
March	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
April	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
May	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
October	57.9°F (14.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
November	46.0°F (7.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High