Car Rentals in Boston, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Boston

Renting a car in and around Boston offers significant freedom and flexibility for your sightseeing adventures. With your own vehicle, you can explore the city at your own pace, making it easy to visit key attractions like the historic Fenway Park, the urban parks of Boston Common, or the vibrant atmosphere of Copley Square, all of which are conveniently located within the city. Additionally, a rental car allows for easy luggage management, enabling you to travel comfortably without the hassle of public transport.

Beyond the city limits, a car hire provides the opportunity to discover nearby destinations such as Salem, home to the Salem Witch Museum and Peabody Essex Museum, or the bustling neighbourhoods of Downtown Boston and Cambridge. These areas are rich in culture and history, making them ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you're keen on a family day out or a cultural experience, having a rental car enhances your ability to explore the diverse offerings of Boston and its surroundings effortlessly.

Most popular car hires in Boston

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The Midsize SUV provides a comfortable ride and ample room for luggage, ensuring you can explore Boston and its surroundings without the hassle of managing your belongings.
• Standard SUV: With capacity for 5 travellers and room for up to 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV is a practical choice for couples, families, and groups. This vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and manoeuvrability, allowing you to navigate Boston's streets while enjoying the freedom to venture further afield.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car can accommodate 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent option for families and groups who need extra storage while travelling. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer journey, the Fullsize ensures you have the space necessary for a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Boston

• Budget: With over 10 rental locations throughout Boston, Budget provides excellent convenience for travellers looking to explore the area. Known for service as expected, this supplier makes it easy to manage your luggage and adjust your itinerary. The most popular vehicles rented from Budget are the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, making it a great choice for those needing space and comfort on their journeys.
• Thrifty Car Hire: Located in Boston, Thrifty Car Hire offers a more focused rental experience with one convenient location. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, ensuring you have the right vehicle for your travels. Thrifty is a solid choice for those wanting a straightforward and efficient car hire experience in the city.
• Avis: With more than 15 rental locations in Boston, Avis stands out for its accessibility and variety. This supplier is well-regarded for the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, which are frequently booked by customers. Avis is an excellent option for those seeking flexibility and a reliable car hire experience while exploring the vibrant surroundings of Boston.

Where to stay in Boston

• Salem: Salem is a vibrant city located close to Boston, renowned for its cultural and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the famous Salem Witch Museum and the Peabody Essex Museum, both suitable for culture enthusiasts. The urban park, Salem Common, is ideal for family outings and leisurely strolls. The city also offers a variety of nearby food options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful spot for families and culture seekers alike.
• Downtown Boston: As a bustling neighbourhood, Downtown Boston attracts tourists with its city-themed, family, and business experiences. Key attractions include the historic Fenway Park, perfect for sports fans, and the Citizens Opera House, which is ideal for those seeking culture and entertainment. The urban park, Boston Common, provides a lovely space for families to relax. With a variety of dining options, including restaurants and breweries, Downtown Boston offers an engaging atmosphere for all visitors.
• Cambridge: Cambridge is a dynamic city in the Boston area, known for its educational and cultural sites. The historic college university adds to its charm, while the modern Kendall Square serves as a hub for activities. Fenway Park is also accessible, catering to sports enthusiasts. Families will appreciate the outdoor space at Boston Common. The area boasts diverse dining options, including pubs and wineries, making Cambridge a great choice for those looking to enjoy a city experience.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Boston

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable to rent and are easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size options 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 vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might 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 operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire providers exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and offers peace of mind in case of any unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when you book with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to embark on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 and around Boston

The best value period to rent a car in and around Boston is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. February also offers good rental rates with average prices and moderately low demand. From March to May, prices and demand remain steady, making it a reasonable choice. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and moderately high demand. August continues this trend, with demand remaining high and prices average.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	30.0°F (-1.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	31.5°F (-0.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
March	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.6°F (19.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
September	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
November	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	36.3°F (2.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low