New York Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in New York

Renting a car in New York is a practical choice for those wishing to explore the state at their own pace. With a vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it easier to visit key attractions such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Whether you are seeking outdoor experiences or a romantic getaway, having the freedom to drive allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of New York. Moreover, you can venture into popular destinations like Manhattan, known for its vibrant atmosphere and landmarks, or Brooklyn, which offers sites like the Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island Beach. With a rental car, you can easily navigate between these exciting locations and make the most of your sightseeing adventure. This option is especially beneficial for families and those who appreciate outdoor activities, as it provides the opportunity to explore various parks and urban spaces comfortably. Overall, renting a car enhances your travel experience in New York by offering the convenience and freedom to discover everything the state has to offer.

Most popular car hires in New York

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. It is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore New York comfortably. With ample space for luggage, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about packing restrictions, making it ideal for those with longer stays or extensive itineraries.
• Standard SUV: The standard SUV is perfect for 5 travellers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option suits couples, families, or groups who appreciate a bit more flexibility while travelling. Its size strikes a balance between comfort and convenience, ensuring you have enough room for both passengers and essential belongings as you navigate New York's vibrant streets.
• Fullsize: Accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize option is ideal for families or groups needing extra space. This vehicle provides a comfortable ride and ample room for luggage, making it a great choice for those who wish to explore New York without compromising on comfort or convenience.

Where to stay in New York

• Times Square: Located in the heart of New York, Times Square is a modern square celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic lights. It's a prime destination for city-themed holidays, offering a plethora of shopping areas, theatres, and arena entertainment facilities. With its proximity to major attractions, you'll find yourself immersed in the energy of the metropolis.
• Central Park: An urban park perfect for a family and outdoor holiday, Central Park provides a serene escape from the bustling city life. Families can enjoy picnics, playgrounds, and open green spaces, all while being just a short distance from key city landmarks. It's particularly lovely during the spring and autumn seasons.
• Statue of Liberty: A must-visit for culture enthusiasts, the Statue of Liberty stands as a symbol of freedom and is easily accessible from New York. This iconic statue offers a glimpse into American history and provides stunning views of the city skyline from its vicinity, making it a great spot for visitors interested in cultural landmarks.
• New York County: Known for its family-friendly and outdoor experiences, New York County is home to countless attractions, including shopping areas and theatres. Visitors can explore the local squares and modern squares while enjoying a variety of restaurants and wineries nearby, ensuring a delightful stay in this vibrant county.

10 tips to save on your car hire in New York

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly options, utilise filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle 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 before your trip. By booking ahead, you're more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and simpler to park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. 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—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. 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 vehicle 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 car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
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 unforeseen expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's licence and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in New York

The best time to rent a car in New York is March, when prices are slightly low and demand remains moderately low. This period offers great value, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers. Following March, September and October also present reasonable rates with average demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, seeing high demand and slightly high prices, with August close behind as a busy period for rentals. The months surrounding these peak times are generally busier and pricier.