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Top destinations to rent a car in New York

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New York

New York

What you need to know for your New York car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in New York

Renting a car in New York offers the freedom to explore the state at your own pace, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to experience a variety of attractions. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and tailor your travel plans to suit your preferences. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families or groups looking to visit landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, all located within the vibrant metropolis of New York.

Furthermore, a rental car allows you to venture into neighbouring areas like Manhattan, known for its iconic Grand Central Terminal, and Brooklyn, where you can discover the Brooklyn Bridge and Prospect Park. The ability to explore scenic outdoor locations and romantic spots adds to the allure of a car rental. Whether you wish to enjoy a leisurely drive through Central Park or head to Coney Island Beach, having your own vehicle enhances your travel experience in New York, making it both convenient and enjoyable.

Most popular car rentals in New York

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travellers and provides ample space for up to 3 large suitcases. It is ideal for families, couples, or small groups who need comfort and flexibility during their travels in New York.
  • Standard SUV: Suitable for 5 travellers, this option allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. The standard SUV is perfect for couples, families, or groups seeking a balance between space and ease of handling while navigating the city.
  • Fullsize: Accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is an excellent choice for families and groups. It offers generous room for both passengers and luggage, making it a convenient option for your New York adventure.

Where to stay in New York

  • New York: A bustling metropolis offering a vibrant city experience, New York is ideal for family and business travellers alike. You'll find yourself near renowned attractions such as Times Square, a modern square perfect for city holidays, and Central Park, an urban park suited for outdoor family activities. Enjoy a variety of nearby restaurants and pubs to unwind after a day of exploring.
  • New York County: This area complements New York with its focus on family and outdoor experiences. The proximity to highlights like Times Square and Central Park ensures that you can engage in city-themed activities while enjoying the local theatre and shopping venues. The abundance of dining options, including wineries and restaurants, makes it a delightful place to stay.
  • Lake George: Nestled in the scenic backdrop of New York, Lake George is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. While it's a bit further from the city buzz, it offers stunning landscapes and activities like skiing in winter. Attractions like the Lake George Steamboat Company and Million Dollar Beach provide opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment in a picturesque setting.

10 tips to save on your car rental in New York

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to help you 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, especially during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of 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 available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may implement 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 provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but this could be worthwhile for the added convenience.
  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 offers added peace of mind should any unforeseen circumstances arise during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in New York

The best value period to rent a car in New York is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month follows a quiet September, which also offers good rates. January can be another decent option, as prices remain slightly low with average demand. In contrast, March tends to be the most expensive month, with higher prices and moderate demand. February and April also see slightly elevated prices, particularly compared to the quieter months surrounding them.

When you visit New York, you want to see every bit of landscape and culture at your fingertips. Yes, there is plenty to do and see in this part of the world, but public transportation can only get you so far. To see some of the most hidden gems, your own set of wheels will come in handy. New York car hire makes it possible to see the area on your own schedule with ease. If you hear about a restaurant tucked away at the edge of your favourite neighbourhood, it’s no problem. When you want to see a late night show or early morning sunrise off the beaten path, your car makes that possible too. Cheap car hire in New York allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible New York car rental deals right here on Expedia.com.au today. Whether you want a vehicle outfitted with luxury amenities, or a hybrid car with impressive gas mileage, you can find the perfect set of wheels on Expedia. From compact cars to spacious SUVs, we have loads of options to choose from and booking is just a few clicks away.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my New York car reservation?
We get that flexibility while travelling is important. That's why many prepaid reservations give a complete refund if you let us know a minimum of six hours ahead of the scheduled collection time. It's a good idea to check your cancellation policy though as there are some exemptions. If the information isn't there, click on our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in New York?
Small in size but big on advantages, economy vehicles are the top choice in New York. They're easy to handle and park, which is ideal if you'll be doing mostly city driving. And with great mileage, these reliable wheels will have you dashing around on the cheap. Prefer a larger car? Check out our range of mid-size, full-size or premium vehicles.
How do I find the best car rental deals in New York with Expedia?
Whatever kind of wheels you're after, Expedia will help you pick up the best deal. Compare the offers from top rental providers and select the option that's perfect for you. Want to hit the road with even more in your wallet? Combine your New York car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in New York?
Anyone with a valid driver's licence 21 and above can rent a vehicle in New York. While some companies may be willing to rent to drivers younger than 21, this will come with additional fees. Find out what age range the young renter fee applies to, and the cost, before booking your wheels. There are also restrictions on the categories of cars available to young drivers. Higher age limits apply for large vehicles like premium SUVs and luxury models.
What do you need to rent a car in New York?
Renting a car in New York is simple. Generally, all that's required is a valid driver's licence and a credit card in your name. Once you've found the perfect set of wheels, check your policy to ensure there are no additional requirements prior to pickup.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in New York?
Expedia makes it easy to pick up a quality long-term car rental in New York. Just visit our long-term car rental deals page, enter your preferences and browse your options.
Where can I find a New York car rental if I am younger than 25?
This depends on the rental companies that are in New York. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under 25, bear in mind that extra fees may apply. Conduct some research into what those charges could be before booking your rental.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular Car Rental Types:
Hire a SUV, Luxury, Full Size, Economy
 
Airport to Hotel Transportation:
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