Princeton Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Princeton

Renting a car in Princeton offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families, those with luggage, and individuals seeking outdoor or cultural experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit local attractions like the Princeton University Art Museum, Nassau Hall, and Albert Einstein's House, all conveniently located within the city.

Moreover, having a car allows for seamless day trips to nearby destinations such as New Hope, situated 24 km away, where you can explore Peddler's Village and the New Hope–Lambertville Bridge. Trenton, just 14 km from Princeton, features the Grounds For Sculpture and the New Jersey State House, while Somerset, located 22 km away, offers attractions like Colonial Park and the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. A rental car simplifies travel plans, allowing for easy luggage management and spontaneous stops along the way, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maximise their sightseeing opportunities in and around Princeton.

Most popular car rentals in Princeton

• Fullsize: A popular choice for travellers in Princeton, the fullsize car accommodates up to 5 passengers and offers ample space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for families or groups looking to explore the area together. With its generous capacity, you can enjoy your journey with comfort and convenience, allowing your group to travel at your own pace.
• Midsize: The midsize vehicle is another well-favoured option among visitors to Princeton. It comfortably accommodates 5 travellers and provides space for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is particularly suitable for couples or families who want a balance of space and manoeuvrability. With a midsize car, you can navigate the streets of Princeton with ease while having room for your belongings.
• Standard: Similar to the midsize option, the standard car can also hold up to 5 passengers and offers space for 3 large suitcases. It is an excellent choice for couples and families seeking a reliable vehicle for their travels. The standard option combines comfort and functionality, making it a popular selection for those exploring Princeton and the surrounding areas.

Top rated car suppliers in Princeton

• Budget: Budget is the most popular car rental supplier in Princeton, with 2 convenient locations within the area. Known for its flexibility, Budget offers a range of vehicles, with Economy and Compact cars being the most booked options. Travellers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and the ability to adjust itineraries, making Budget a solid choice for exploring Princeton and its surroundings.

Where to stay around Princeton

• New Hope: Located 24 km from Princeton, New Hope is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore attractions like Peddler's Village, a historic site perfect for cultural experiences, and Sesame Place, a family-friendly theme park. The scenic New Hope–Lambertville Bridge also offers a glimpse into the area's rich history. For a relaxing day, enjoy the local beach and lake, and indulge in nearby wineries and restaurants.
• Somerset: Situated 22 km from Princeton, Somerset provides a blend of family-friendly activities and urban charm. Key attractions include the expansive Colonial Park, ideal for outdoor recreation, and the Negri-Napote Native Grassland Preserve, a serene nature reserve. The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is also nearby, perfect for scenic adventures. Somerset's shopping centres and diverse dining options, including wineries, make it a convenient base for exploration.
• Trenton: Just 14 km away from Princeton, Trenton offers a vibrant mix of family-oriented activities and cultural experiences. Highlights include the Grounds For Sculpture, an impressive museum, and the historic New Jersey State House. Families can also visit Sesame Place for entertainment. With a variety of restaurants and wineries close at hand, Trenton serves as an engaging hub for visitors seeking both education and leisure.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types 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's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy 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 cars strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle with an empty tank in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may justify the extra 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 unanticipated expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen circumstances during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Princeton

The best value period to rent a car in and around Princeton is January and February, when both prices and demand are low. Following this, April to June sees average prices and demand, making it a decent option for renters. However, June through August is the most expensive period, with high prices and average demand, particularly in June. March stands out for its high demand, further contributing to rising costs during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	31.6°F (-0.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
February	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Low
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Low
April	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	61.9°F (16.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	High
June	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
July	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High
August	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
September	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	45.5°F (7.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average