Car Rentals in Princeton, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Princeton

Renting a car in Princeton offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. Whether you're travelling with family or have a lot of luggage, a rental vehicle makes managing your travel plans convenient and comfortable. You can visit key attractions such as the Princeton University Art Museum, Nassau Hall, and Albert Einstein's House, all located within the area. Each destination provides a rich cultural experience, perfect for those interested in history and art.

Additionally, a rental car allows you to easily venture beyond Princeton to nearby cities like New Hope, just 24 km away, where you can explore Peddler's Village and the New Hope–Lambertville Bridge. Trenton, located 14 km away, features the Grounds For Sculpture and the New Jersey State House, while Somerset, 22 km from Princeton, offers beautiful parks like Colonial Park and the Negri-Napote Native Grassland Preserve. With a car, you can enjoy outdoor activities and city-themed experiences without the constraints of public transport, making your trip truly memorable.

Most popular car hires in Princeton

• Fullsize: This car option accommodates up to 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. It is ideal for families or larger groups looking for comfort and ample space during their journey. Renting a fullsize car in Princeton allows for easy luggage management while providing the flexibility to explore the area at your own pace.
• Midsize: The midsize car is another popular choice, offering seating for 5 travellers and the capacity to handle up to 3 large suitcases. It is particularly suited for couples or families who want a balance of space and fuel efficiency. This option is perfect for those wishing to navigate Princeton comfortably while still enjoying a compact vehicle.
• Standard: Similar to the midsize option, the standard car accommodates up to 5 travellers and can carry up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for couples or families seeking a dependable vehicle for their travels. The standard car provides a good mix of comfort and practicality, making it a popular selection for visitors in Princeton.

Top rated car suppliers in Princeton

• Budget: Budget is a popular choice for car hire in Princeton, offering a single rental location in the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility it provides to explore local attractions at their own pace. The most booked vehicles with Budget are Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, catering to various needs and preferences. Customers often highlight the convenience of managing their luggage easily and adjusting their itineraries while enjoying their travels around Princeton.

Where to stay around Princeton

• New Hope: Located 24 km from Princeton, New Hope offers a delightful family and outdoor experience. Visitors can explore the historic village and enjoy attractions like Peddler's Village, renowned for its quaint shops and eateries. The scenic New Hope–Lambertville Bridge provides stunning views, while Sesame Place theme park is perfect for family fun. Additionally, the area features a beach and lake, making it a great destination in the warmer months.
• Somerset: Situated 22 km from Princeton, Somerset caters to families and those seeking city-themed adventures. The area is home to the beautiful Colonial Park, ideal for outdoor activities, and the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, which offers scenic views for nature enthusiasts. With a variety of shopping centres and dining options, including local wineries, Somerset is a convenient base for exploring the region.
• Trenton: Just 14 km from Princeton, Trenton presents a blend of family and entertainment experiences. Notable attractions include the Grounds For Sculpture, a unique museum showcasing contemporary art, and the historic New Jersey State House. The city also features Sesame Place for family enjoyment and various shopping areas. With a range of restaurants and wineries nearby, Trenton is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra 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 significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre and park in busy areas. Mid-size cars offer a favourable compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and availability of certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be limited. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or pre-paid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an extra charge for collecting your rental car at airports, although it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can prevent unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car hire insurance when making a booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on embarking on lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Princeton

The best time to rent a car in and around Princeton is January, when both prices and demand are at their lowest. February also offers similar low rates and quiet demand. As spring approaches, March sees a spike in demand, making it a busier month for rentals. April and May follow with average to high prices and high demand, while June through August become the priciest months, marked by high demand and elevated rental costs.

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