Cheap Car Hire & Car Rental at Tompkins Regional Airport, Ithaca

Reasons to book a car hire at Ithaca Airport

Renting a car at Ithaca airport is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the beautiful surroundings at their own pace. With the convenience of a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a flexible travel itinerary. The nearby attractions include the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, located just 1 km away, which offers a unique environmental experience. A short drive of 4 km will take you to the Cornell Botanic Gardens, perfect for family outings or a romantic stroll. For those interested in a deeper exploration, the EcoVillage at Ithaca, situated 9 km from the airport, provides insight into sustainable living practices.

Additionally, having a car allows you to navigate the charming city of Ithaca and its surrounding areas, including Northeast Ithaca, located 2 km away, and Cayuga Heights, just 4 km from the airport. These areas feature attractions like Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park, making it convenient for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience by offering freedom and flexibility to visit various destinations and attractions in and around Ithaca.

Most popular car hires near Ithaca Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice at Ithaca airport, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a comfortable ride while having enough space for their luggage. Its versatility makes it perfect for exploring the scenic attractions around Ithaca at your own pace.
• Fullsize: Renting a Fullsize car at Ithaca airport is another excellent option, designed to comfortably seat 5 travellers with ample room for luggage—up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a preferred choice for families and larger groups, ensuring you can enjoy your journey without worrying about space for your belongings.
• Compact: If you are travelling solo or as a couple, the Compact car is an efficient choice for your trip from Ithaca airport. It accommodates 5 travellers and up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for smaller travel parties. Its size also allows for easier navigation through the area while providing a comfortable ride for your exploration needs.

Top rated car suppliers near Ithaca Airport

• Budget: Budget is a popular car hire supplier with a location situated less than 1 km away from Ithaca airport. Travellers frequently choose Budget for its selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, which are well-suited for exploring the region's attractions comfortably and efficiently. With its close proximity to the airport, Budget ensures a convenient and accessible car hire experience, allowing you to manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans seamlessly.
• Avis: Avis also boasts a rental location less than 1 km from Ithaca airport, making it an excellent choice for those looking to hire a vehicle. Known for its reliable service, Avis offers a range of vehicle options, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars being the most booked. This supplier provides the flexibility needed for travellers eager to discover the beautiful surroundings of Ithaca at their own pace, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience during your trip.

Where to stay near Ithaca Airport

• Ithaca: Staying in Ithaca puts you at the heart of scenic beauty and outdoor activities. With attractions like Buttermilk Falls State Park and Robert H. Treman State Park nearby, you can easily immerse yourself in nature. The Cornell Botanic Gardens offer a romantic setting, perfect for leisurely strolls. Additionally, there are numerous dining options featuring local wineries and breweries, making Ithaca a delightful base for your adventures.
• Groton: Located 13 km from Ithaca, Groton is an excellent choice for those seeking a charming atmosphere. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers access to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the stunning Cornell Botanic Gardens. The area is also known for its outdoor activities, making it ideal for a romantic getaway or a family excursion. Enjoy the local food and drink scene, which includes inviting wineries and breweries.
• Freeville: Just 9 km from Ithaca, Freeville is a quaint village perfect for a peaceful retreat. Visitors can explore the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and the lovely Cornell Botanic Gardens, both of which are ideal for nature lovers. The area provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities, and with nearby wineries, it’s a wonderful place for those looking to unwind. Freeville is especially enjoyable in spring and summer when the natural beauty is at its peak.

9 tips to save on your Airport car hire near Ithaca

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 sunny days, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilise the filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It is generally advisable to secure your ITH car hire as early as possible to benefit from lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months in advance is optimal, particularly in anticipation of peak seasons.
3. 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—may have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals provide a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
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 often the best choice. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provide added peace of mind should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Ithaca Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Ithaca Airport is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is low. June tends to be another good option, as prices are slightly low with average demand. However, April generally sees higher prices and demand, making it one of the most expensive months. March also falls into this pricier category, with both demand and prices elevated, which may not be as budget-friendly for travellers.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	23.2°F (-4.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	24.8°F (-4.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	32.9°F (0.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	69.4°F (20.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	67.6°F (19.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	61.0°F (16.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
November	38.1°F (3.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
December	30.2°F (-1.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average