Pittsburgh Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Pittsburgh

Renting a car in Pittsburgh provides an excellent opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and maintain flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families or those seeking outdoor experiences. You can visit key attractions such as PNC Park, a great urban park for city and family experiences, or enjoy the thrill of Kennywood, a nearby theme park. The Sri Venkateswara Temple offers a unique cultural experience, all within a short drive.

A car rental also simplifies visits to popular destinations like Downtown Pittsburgh, where you can explore the Benedum Center and Point State Park, or venture to Bethel Park and Washington. These areas feature notable sites such as the Carnegie Science Center and the David Bradford House, making them worthwhile stops. The convenience of having your own vehicle allows you to enjoy Pittsburgh's diverse offerings without the constraints of public transport, ensuring a more personalised and enjoyable journey.

Most popular car rentals in Pittsburgh

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for those travelling in groups, as it comfortably accommodates up to 5 passengers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV provides ample space for everyone and their luggage, making it perfect for exploring Pittsburgh and its surroundings.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is another excellent option for those needing space and flexibility. It can carry 5 travellers alongside up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for couples, families, or groups. This type offers a nice balance of comfort and practicality, allowing for easy navigation through the city and beyond.
• Compact SUV: For solo travellers or smaller groups, the compact SUV is a great choice. It accommodates 5 passengers and has room for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for couples and families who want a nimble vehicle that is easy to park and manoeuvre around Pittsburgh while still offering enough space for essentials.

Top rated car suppliers in Pittsburgh

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo has a rental location in Pittsburgh, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for its customer-friendly service, Alamo offers a selection of vehicles that cater to various preferences. The most popular rentals with Alamo are the Premium SUV and Midsize SUV, ideal for those looking for comfort and space during their travels around Pittsburgh and beyond.
• Dollar Rent A Car: Dollar operates a rental location in Pittsburgh, providing a straightforward and efficient car rental experience. With a focus on affordability, Dollar's most booked vehicles include the Midsize and Compact cars, perfect for navigating the city and surrounding areas with ease. This supplier is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers seeking reliable transportation.
• Budget: Budget stands out with two rental locations across Pittsburgh, ensuring easy access for renters. Renowned for its value, Budget offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most popular options among customers. This supplier combines affordability with convenience, making it a great choice for those exploring the Pittsburgh vicinity.

Where to stay in Pittsburgh

• Downtown Pittsburgh: A vibrant neighbourhood offering a blend of family, city-themed, and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore notable attractions such as the Benedum Center for the arts, Point State Park for outdoor adventures, and PNC Park for a family-friendly urban park experience. Dining options abound with various restaurants and wineries in the area, making Downtown Pittsburgh an excellent base for your stay.
• Washington: Known for its city-themed, family, and romantic experiences, Washington features attractions like the historic David Bradford House and F. Julius LeMoyne House. The Canonsburg Town Park provides a lovely setting for outdoor activities. The area is also home to numerous shopping centres, restaurants, and wineries, making it a well-rounded option for travellers seeking both culture and leisure.
• Cranberry Township: This city is perfect for family, city-themed, and business-oriented visitors. With attractions such as Ehrman Farms Playground and Glen Eden Park, there's plenty to see and do. North Boundary Park is another excellent urban park for outdoor enjoyment. The township boasts a selection of shopping centres and dining options, including wineries and restaurants, catering to various tastes and preferences.

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

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 enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match 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 in advance, you're likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak periods.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to hire and easier to manoeuvre in busy 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate 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 advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though 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 should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for hiring a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Pittsburgh

The best value period for renting a car in and around Pittsburgh is April, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February offers the lowest demand, making it a quiet month for rentals. Following April, May tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand. June through August see average pricing and demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.