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Top destinations to rent a car in Virginia

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What you need to know for your Virginia car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in Virginia

Renting a car in Virginia provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the state's diverse attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families or those seeking adventure. Virginia is home to stunning locations such as the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, perfect for outdoor and family experiences, and Busch Gardens Williamsburg, which offers thrilling rides and entertainment for all ages.

Additionally, the breathtaking scenery of Shenandoah National Park is readily accessible by car, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy outdoor activities. Popular cities like Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, and Richmond are within a short drive from each other, giving you the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in one trip. Whether you want to stroll along the sandy shores of Virginia Beach, delve into history at Jamestown Settlement, or explore the vibrant culture of Richmond, having a rental car makes it convenient to navigate between these sites. A car rental is truly a practical choice for making the most of your time in Virginia.

Most popular car rentals in Virginia

  • Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior ensures comfort during your travels, and the added luggage capacity makes it ideal for trips where you need to manage multiple bags.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups of up to 5 travellers, this SUV can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. It strikes a balance between space and manoeuvrability, allowing you to navigate Virginia's roads with ease while still having room for essential luggage. This option is particularly popular for those who seek a comfortable ride with practical storage.
  • Fullsize: Accommodating up to 5 travellers with the capability of holding up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the Fullsize vehicle is a fantastic option for families or groups. Its generous space ensures that everyone can travel comfortably without compromising on luggage. This choice is well-suited for those looking to explore Virginia while having ample room for their belongings.

Where to stay in Virginia

  • Virginia Beach: A vibrant city known for its outdoor and family experiences, Virginia Beach offers visitors a delightful blend of activities and attractions. Stay close to the famous Virginia Beach Boardwalk, an esplanade ideal for leisurely strolls and romantic evenings. Nearby, Sandbridge Beach provides a serene setting for beach holidays, while First Landing State Park invites adventure seekers with its scenic landscapes. The area is also home to various dining options, including restaurants and wineries, perfect for indulging in local flavours.
  • Williamsburg: This charming city is perfect for families and those seeking outdoor adventures. Williamsburg boasts attractions like Busch Gardens Williamsburg, an amusement park that promises excitement for all ages, and the historically rich Jamestown Settlement, which offers cultural insights. Visitors can explore the scenic esplanade and nearby beaches, making it an ideal destination for a mix of education and entertainment. The local wineries and sweet treat shops add a delightful touch to your stay.
  • Richmond: As a bustling metropolis, Richmond caters to both families and business travellers. The city is home to shopping centres and a variety of educational venues. Key attractions include Broad Street, where visitors can immerse themselves in city life, and Maymont Park, a tranquil private garden perfect for relaxation. For those interested in sports, Richmond Raceway offers thrilling motor racing events. With numerous dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, Richmond has something for everyone.

10 tips to save on your car rental in Virginia

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're after an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, 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 ahead of time. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain 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 busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years 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 over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but this may be worth it for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payments.
  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’re planning extended road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Virginia

The best time to rent a car in Virginia for value is November, when prices are lower and demand is moderate. October can also offer good options, as prices remain slightly low with steady demand. In contrast, July tends to be the most expensive month, characterised by high demand and slightly higher prices. June and August are similarly busy, with rental costs reflecting the peak summer season.

When you visit Virginia, 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. Virginia 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 Virginia allows you to set your ideal itinerary without paying a fortune. Book incredible Virginia 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 Virginia car reservation?
Subject to your rental policy, you may be eligible for a refund. Many prepaid bookings offer a full refund if cancelled at least six hours ahead of the collection time. Got any queries? If you can't find the answer in your confirmation, our Customer Service Portal is available 24/7.
What types of cars can I rent in Virginia?
Small in size but big on advantages, economy vehicles are the number one pick in Virginia. They're a snap to handle and park, which is handy if you'll be doing mostly city driving. And with superb gas mileage, this type of rental will have you touring around on the cheap. Want 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 Virginia with Expedia?
Pick up the best deal with Expedia. Simply choose your favourite ride, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and compare offers from major rental suppliers. Make even bigger savings when you bundle your Virginia car rental with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Virginia?
You'll need to be 21 and over to slide behind the wheel of a rental car in Virginia. Be aware that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car categories, such as economy and compact. Higher age limits generally apply for luxury and specialty vehicles. Many companies will also charge an additional fee for young renters. Read through the rules before clicking book and factor any extra fees into your travel budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Virginia?
A current driver's licence and a credit card in the same name. Opting out of the company's insurance plan? Then there's a good chance you'll also need proof of other coverage. Rules can differ between rental companies, so read your policy thoroughly.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Virginia?
Expedia makes it a cinch to book an affordable long-term rental in Virginia. Simply click through to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your information and compare your choices.
Where can I find a Virginia car rental if I am younger than 25?
Whether you can rent a vehicle if you are under 25 years old in Virginia often depends on the rental provider you select. Some businesses apply a surcharge for young customers between 21 and 24 years of age, whereas others may not have any extra costs for this age group. It'd be wise to read the terms and conditions of your prospective rental company to avoid any surprise charges at the rental desk.

Car Rental Information

 
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Hire a SUV, Luxury, Full Size, Economy
 
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