Car Rentals in Birmingham, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Birmingham

Renting a car in Birmingham, Alabama, provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and business travellers alike. Birmingham boasts a variety of attractions, including the Barber Motorsports Park, perfect for adventure seekers, and Sloss Furnaces, which offers a glimpse into the city's rich history. You can also visit the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum for a unique blend of culture and sports. Additionally, a car allows for convenient day trips to nearby cities such as Hoover, where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Moss Rock Preserve and Oak Mountain State Park, or Pelham, known for its scenic Cahaba River. Exploring Bessemer is also a possibility, with attractions like DeBardeleben Park. Overall, a rental car ensures you can fully experience all that Birmingham and its vicinity have to offer without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires in Birmingham

• Midsize SUV: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups, the midsize SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and has space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option provides ample room for everyone and their luggage, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore Birmingham and its surroundings comfortably.
• Compact SUV: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families, the compact SUV also accommodates 5 travellers, with capacity for up to 3 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between size and efficiency, allowing you to navigate Birmingham’s streets with ease while still providing enough space for your belongings.
• Premium: Tailored for business travellers or couples, the premium car type fits up to 5 travellers and offers room for up to 4 large suitcases. This option embodies comfort and sophistication, ensuring that your journey around Birmingham is both enjoyable and stylish, particularly for those with a focus on a more luxurious driving experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Birmingham

• Avis: Avis is a popular choice among travellers in Birmingham, offering a convenient rental location in the area. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, Avis frequently sees bookings for Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars. Customers appreciate the flexibility and ease of managing their rental experience, making it an excellent option for exploring Birmingham and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz is another leading car hire supplier in Birmingham, also boasting a single rental location in the vicinity. It stands out for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Compact cars, which cater to various travel needs. Customers often commend Hertz for its reliable service and efficient rental process, ensuring a smooth experience as you navigate the attractions around Birmingham.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car provides an excellent car hire option in Birmingham, with a rental location conveniently situated in the area. Travellers often choose Alamo for its Midsize SUVs and Premium Pickups. The supplier is recognised for its commitment to customer satisfaction, including quick pick-up procedures and friendly service, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore Birmingham comfortably.

Where to stay in Birmingham

• Hoover: A charming village located in the Birmingham area, Hoover is ideal for travellers seeking a family-oriented and outdoor experience. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golf at local courses and shopping at nearby centres. Key attractions include the scenic Moss Rock Preserve and the expansive Oak Mountain State Park, both perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Aldridge Gardens offers a lovely botanical experience suitable for families and romantics alike. Dining options abound, with various restaurants, pubs, and even a winery in close proximity.
• Homewood: This neighbourhood is a delightful mix of outdoor and city-themed experiences, making it perfect for families. Homewood boasts attractions such as the Alabama Men's Hall of Fame museum and the historic Sloss Furnaces, catering to culture enthusiasts. The beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens is also nearby, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor enjoyment. Visitors can explore local breweries and wineries, adding to the vibrant culinary scene. The area is known for its educational venues and shopping centres, ensuring a well-rounded stay.
• Downtown Birmingham: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant entertainment options, Downtown Birmingham offers a range of activities for visitors. The area is home to the Birmingham Museum of Art and the engaging McWane Science Center, both excellent choices for culture and family outings. With a convention centre and various shopping facilities nearby, it is a bustling hub for business and leisure travellers alike. The local dining scene features several breweries and wineries, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car to save on costs, 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater 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-sized rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This may also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in this instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often an extra charge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Birmingham

The best time to rent a car in and around Birmingham is November, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. This period offers great value, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers. Additionally, September can also be a good option, as it tends to feature low prices and lower demand. In contrast, January is typically the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a less favourable time for car hires.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.1°F (16.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	64.4°F (18.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
November	53.1°F (11.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average