Car Rentals in Salem, USA

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Top Rental Car Deals in Salem

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Salem, Virginia, USA
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Salem, Virginia, USA
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Salem, Virginia, USA
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Salem, Virginia, USA
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Salem car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Salem

Renting a car in Salem provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting sites like Dixie Caverns, which offers an adventure experience, or the cultural highlights of Center in the Square, located just 10 km away. For those interested in scenic views, the iconic Mill Mountain Star is a short drive of 12 km from Salem.

A rental car is especially convenient for families and travellers seeking outdoor adventures, as it allows you to explore nearby cities such as Hanging Rock, Glenvar, and Mason Cove, each featuring attractions like the Virginia Museum of Transportation and McAfee Knob. This flexibility ensures that you can tailor your travel plans to suit your interests and schedule. With the ease of navigating between destinations, a rental car enhances your experience in and around Salem, making it an ideal choice for a memorable trip.

Where to stay in and around Salem

  • Cave Spring: Located 8 km from Salem, Cave Spring is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor and family experiences amidst beautiful scenery. The area offers a variety of activities, including access to recreational areas and educational opportunities. Key points of interest include the scenic Mill Mountain Star and the cultural Centre in the Square, both suitable for a cultural holiday. Additionally, the Virginia Museum of Transportation provides engaging exhibits for families. Visitors can also enjoy local dining options, including wineries and restaurants, making it a charming place to stay.
  • Hanging Rock: Nestled in the Salem area, Hanging Rock is a perfect spot for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. The village boasts a national state park and urban parks, ideal for exploration and recreation. Notable attractions include McAfee Knob, a cliff that offers stunning views, and the Centre in the Square, which highlights local arts. Families can also visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation for an enriching experience. Nearby food and drink options feature wineries and breweries, adding to the local flavour of your stay.
  • Glenvar: Glenvar is a vibrant village offering a mix of family-friendly and business-themed experiences. Located in the vicinity of Salem, it is well-known for its shopping centres and educational institutions. Key attractions include the Dixie Caverns, which provide a unique outdoor adventure, and the Centre in the Square, showcasing local arts and culture. The Virginia Museum of Transportation is also nearby, perfect for families. With its variety of amenities and close proximity to Salem, Glenvar is a convenient and enjoyable place to stay.

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

  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 those summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to pinpoint 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 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 good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—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 prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but it may be worth the extra cost for the added convenience.
  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 something 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 lengthy road trips, look for rental options that include unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a car.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available:
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Airport Transportation

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Salem?
You'll get bang for your buck in Salem, with car rental prices within the past seven days starting from as little as a day.
Can I hire a car from Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA)?
You can rent a set of wheels from Enterprise, which is just a short commute from Roanoke Regional Airport (ROA).
What happens if I need to cancel my Salem car reservation?
We know that having a bit of wiggle room is important. That's why most reservations offer a complete refund if cancelled six hours in advance of pick-up. It's a good idea to check the policy though because there are some exclusions. If there's nothing specified there, have a look on our Customer Service Portal.
What types of cars can I rent in Salem?
Most visitors opt for economy vehicles in Salem. Drivers love them because they're affordable and fuel-efficient. Plus, their small size makes them ideal for darting around cities, where streets are busy and parking spots are tight. But your options don't stop there. Compacts, full-size cars and SUVs are part of our hire range too. Whether you're sticking around Salem or journeying beyond, we'll have a ride that suits your needs.
Where can I go on a road trip from Salem?
When you've been to all of the fabulous attractions in Salem, there's heaps more to discover in the surrounding region. Grab the keys to a rental car, pack your bags in the trunk and get on the road. These are some road trips we think you'll love:
  • You'll discover University of North Carolina and loads more intriguing sights in Chapel Hill. From Salem, it's roughly 110 miles away.
  • Your next pit stop? Make it Greensboro, which is around 85 miles away. Greensboro Coliseum is one local hot spot you won't want to miss.
  • Spend time in the great outdoors and appreciate the serenity at Great Falls Park. It's approximately 190 miles from Salem.
How do I find the best car hire deals in Salem with Expedia?
Whatever kind of ride you're searching for, Expedia will help you score the best deal. Just compare the offers from top rental suppliers and pick the option that suits you. Love to hit the road with even more in your wallet? Bundle your Salem car hire with flight or hotel bookings.
How old do you have to be to hire a car in Salem?
Drivers have to be at least 21. But there are some age-related restrictions to be aware of before you reserve your wheels in Salem. If you're a younger driver, many rental providers will charge an additional fee and limit the kinds of cars you're able to rent. The precise surcharge, and which ages it applies to, differs between suppliers. Take your time to compare the requirements.
What do you need to rent a car in Salem?
A current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essentials. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? Then there's a good chance you'll also need proof of other coverage. Rules can differ between rental suppliers, so read your policy thoroughly.
What is the cheapest car hire in Salem?
The two lowest daily prices on offer in Salem within the past seven days were and . Now that's what we'd call a great deal! These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in Salem?
Yes, so you won't need to rebook a hire vehicle in the middle of your holiday. Head over to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and lock in a set of wheels to call your own for the length of your break.
Where can I find a Salem hire car if I am younger than 25?
If you're a younger driver hoping to rent a vehicle in Salem, we recommend checking the policies of the various rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under 25, some may not. There may be additional fees if you're aged between 21 and 24. To escape any unpleasant surprises at the hire desk, make sure you do your research.
Can I drive in Salem with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license from the United States, you may be required to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your country of residence before starting the car hire process. If you find that an IDP is part of the requirements to drive in the U.S, be aware that you'll also have to show your current driver's license and your passport or other forms of identification. Lastly, the credit card you used to hire the car needs to match the name on your license and passport in order to finalize your car hire. Other things you should know about hire cars in the U.S. Are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 in most states to be able to hire a car, although in some areas, 21 years and older is allowed. We recommend checking local rules and regulations, as well as with the company you're hiring from before your trip to understand additional terms and conditions.
  • Driving limitations: Don't forget to read the fine print before you drive off so you can avoid any unnecessary fees. When hiring a car in the United States, you typically can't cross country borders into Mexico or Canada, drive on ferries or traverse certain types of rugged terrain with your car hire. Please read all the rules and regulations before booking!
Why should I rent a Salem car with Expedia?
You'll find savings for the savvy traveller on Expedia. Whether you want something that'll fit the family or just the two of you, browse the deals from the multiple car rental companies in Salem. Our exclusive offers and discounts will help you get the lowest price possible. Combine your vehicle with your flights and hotel for even bigger savings. Need a few things to do in Salem? Add some experiences to your holiday package later on! Plus, when you're a member of our free One Key™ rewards programme, you can earn OneKeyCash™* and spend it on eligible hotels, car rentals, activities and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

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