Car Rentals in Roanoke, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Roanoke

Renting a car in Roanoke provides the freedom to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit notable attractions like the Mill Mountain Star, a public art piece that offers stunning views, and the Centre in the Square, a hub for cultural experiences. Families will appreciate the Virginia Museum of Transportation, where fun and educational exhibits await. The convenience of a car also allows you to explore nearby cities such as Hollins, home to the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, or Cave Spring, where you can find the same cultural gems. For those seeking a romantic getaway, the scenic routes leading to destinations like McAfee Knob in Hanging Rock offer beautiful vistas. Travelling with luggage is hassle-free, as you can store your belongings in the boot while visiting these attractions. Overall, hiring a car in Roanoke enhances your travel experience, providing flexibility and convenience whether you're on a family holiday or a romantic escape.

Most popular car hires in Roanoke

• Midsize SUV: This car type is highly popular among tourists in Roanoke, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with up to 3 large suitcases. The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking both space and comfort. With its versatility, this option allows you to explore Roanoke’s attractions without compromising on luggage management, making it an excellent choice for those with plenty of gear.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the Standard SUV also accommodates 5 travellers but offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. Its well-balanced size provides a comfortable driving experience while still allowing for flexibility in your travel plans. This option is particularly suited for those who prefer a slightly smaller vehicle without sacrificing the ability to carry essential luggage.
• Fullsize: A fantastic choice for larger families or groups, the Fullsize car can accommodate 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a highly sought-after option for those needing ample space for both passengers and luggage. If you anticipate travelling with more belongings or require extra room for comfort, the Fullsize vehicle is a solid selection for your trip in Roanoke.

Top rated car suppliers in Roanoke

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travellers in Roanoke, offering a reliable and comfortable experience with 1 rental location in the area. Known for its quick pickup and friendly staff, Alamo provides well-maintained vehicles, with the Standard SportsCar and Mini being the most booked options. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and the hassle-free return process, making it an excellent option for those looking to explore the city at their own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz, with 1 rental location in Roanoke, is favoured for its diverse vehicle selection and customer service. The Midsize SUV and Standard vehicles are particularly popular among renters. Hertz is recognised for its efficient service and well-maintained fleet, making it a great choice for travellers seeking flexibility and comfort while discovering the attractions of Roanoke. The ease of managing your itinerary with Hertz enhances the overall car hire experience.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Roanoke, offering competitive rates and a variety of vehicle options. The Fullsize and Midsize SUVs are commonly booked by customers, reflecting the demand for spacious and comfortable cars. Budget is praised for its convenient pickup locations and straightforward rental process, making it a practical choice for those who want to explore Roanoke and its surroundings without any hassle.

Where to stay in Roanoke

• Hollins: Nestled in the Roanoke area, Hollins is an excellent choice for families seeking outdoor experiences and beautiful scenery. The village is close to attractions such as the historic college university and a national state park, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Notable points of interest include the Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, perfect for art lovers, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which caters to families. After a day of exploration, enjoy local dining options, including wineries and restaurants.
• Cave Spring: This charming village in Roanoke is popular for its recreational areas and scenic views, appealing to families and outdoor lovers alike. Key attractions include the Mill Mountain Star, a striking public art piece, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation, suitable for cultural and family outings. The area is known for its vibrant dining scene, featuring wineries and restaurants. Cave Spring is a great base for enjoying the local parks and stadium events.
• Hanging Rock: Ideal for adventure seekers, Hanging Rock offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. With proximity to a national state park and McAfee Knob, it’s a haven for those who enjoy hiking and scenic vistas. Cultural experiences can be found at the Center in the Square and the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Dining options include local wineries and breweries, providing a perfect way to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best options 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain 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-size rentals offer a sensible compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements necessitate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you intend to go on long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep extra 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 Roanoke

The best value time to rent a car in and around Roanoke is March, when prices are moderately low and demand is low. April and May also offer average prices with lower demand, making them good options as well. However, July tends to be the most expensive month due to higher demand, alongside June and August, which also see increased prices and steady demand. Meanwhile, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	33.8°F (1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
May	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
July	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
September	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
November	44.8°F (7.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
December	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average