North Carolina Car Hire

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car supplier logos

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car hire
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car hire
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top destinations to hire a car in North Carolina

A city skyline with modern buildings, a park with a fountain, and a construction crane in the background.
CarsCars

Charlotte

Charlotte

What you need to know for your North Carolina car rental

Reasons to book a car hire in North Carolina

Renting a car in North Carolina offers you the freedom to explore this diverse state at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans that suit your itinerary. This is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures, scenic views, or romantic experiences. For instance, you can visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, a historic house that provides rich cultural experiences. Alternatively, Lake Norman is perfect for those who enjoy beach and outdoor activities, while the Outer Banks Beaches offer beautiful seaside relaxation. A rental car also allows convenient access to popular destinations such as Charlotte, with attractions like the Charlotte Motor Speedway and NASCAR Hall of Fame. You can also explore the Outer Banks, home to Jennette's Pier and the Bodie Island Lighthouse, or take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville. The flexibility of having your own transport means you can enjoy everything North Carolina has to offer without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car hires in North Carolina

  • Midsize: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for the transportation of up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize cars are ideal for couples and families, providing a comfortable balance of space and efficiency, making them a popular choice for exploring North Carolina's attractions.
  • Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, and groups, the Standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers and has room for up to 2 medium suitcases. These vehicles offer a higher driving position and more storage capacity, making them a suitable option for those looking to travel with a bit more comfort and flexibility during their North Carolina adventure.
  • Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is designed for larger groups or families, accommodating 5 travellers with space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing extra room for luggage while enjoying the freedom to travel around North Carolina at their own pace.

Where to stay in North Carolina

  • Charlotte: As a bustling metropolis, Charlotte offers a blend of outdoor and family experiences alongside romantic getaways. Enjoy nearby attractions such as Lake Norman, perfect for scenic outings, and the Charlotte Motor Speedway for a thrilling sports adventure. The NASCAR Hall of Fame also provides cultural insights into motorsports. With numerous shopping centres and fine dining options, including local wineries and pubs, Charlotte is ideal for a well-rounded stay.
  • Asheville: Known for its stunning scenery and adventure opportunities, Asheville is a city that invites exploration. Key highlights include the Biltmore Estate, a magnificent historic house, and the scenic French Broad River, which is perfect for outdoor activities. The Blue Ridge Parkway Asheville Entrance offers eco-friendly family outings amid nature. With access to several breweries and wineries, Asheville is a delightful choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
  • Raleigh: Raleigh stands out as a vibrant metropolis, making it an excellent base for family and business-themed trips. Notable attractions include the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, a venue for outdoor fun, and Dorothea Dix Park, a lovely urban park perfect for family outings. The Research Triangle Park provides a glimpse into the city’s innovative spirit. With various shopping malls and local wineries, Raleigh combines urban living with rich cultural experiences.

10 tips to save on your car hire in North Carolina

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the most suitable option for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary according to demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better 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 busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of 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 making a booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate 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 favourable option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies predominantly accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can assist you in avoiding unnecessary expenses and provides you with added peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to hire a car.

Best time to rent a car in North Carolina

The best time to rent a car in North Carolina is September, when prices are at their lowest and demand is more manageable. Following this, February offers slightly low prices with moderate demand, making it a decent option for budget-conscious travellers. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, alongside August, when demand is also steady. April and May see a rise in both prices and demand, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Renting a car in North Carolina will give you the freedom to really get to the heart of this incredible part of the world. Use your hire car to discover the best that North Carolina has to offer, from its natural beauty to its bustling towns and cities.

With Expedia, booking you North Carolina car hire is easy. Each hire car in North Carolina option offers you competitive rates and a variety of pick-up and drop-off locations around the country to make your life easier. Book your rental car in in North Carolina with confidence through Expedia.

At Expedia, our goal is to offer you a great variety of North Carolina car rental discounts at the best price. When hiring a car in North Carolina with Expedia, you can compare a massive range of vehicles, from compact economy cars with low fuel consumption to luxury or off-road solutions, depending on your preference. Every North Carolina hire car we feature will come fully equipped with the latest amenities and safety features to ensure your trips will be safe and comfortable.

It has never been easier to find a rental car in North Carolina. We offer you competitive prices and up-to-date information, ensuring quality and efficiency for all our visitors, at all times. Rent a car in North Carolina today and enjoy your holiday, or get anywhere in time for your business meetings. At Expedia, we understand that travelling can be a hassle if you are not well organized, which is why we provide a variety of car types to compare and choose from for all types of travellers. In just a few clicks you can hire a car in North Carolina with Expedia.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my North Carolina car reservation?
Our Customer Service Portal has details about this. In almost all situations, total refunds are available if a prepaid booking is cancelled more than six hours prior to the pick-up time. It's a good idea to scan the hire agreement to see if there are any exceptions.
What types of cars can I rent in North Carolina?
Full-size, mid-size or compact... Hop behind the wheel of almost any kind of vehicle you like! Economy is the most commonly booked rental car category in North Carolina. Zippy, with great mileage and a snap to park, these rides make touring bustling city streets a dream. The best thing? They're easy on the hip pocket. That means you'll have more cash to spend on other things, like discovering as much of this awesome destination as you can.
How do I find the best car hire deals in North Carolina with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easy and fast to compare fees, offers and providers, and to check reviews. Combine your North Carolina car rental with hotel or flight bookings to save even more.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in North Carolina?
North Carolina requires drivers to be at least 21 before they can hire a vehicle. However, young drivers can expect a surcharge and stricter rental conditions. Most companies impose a daily young renter fee in addition to the usual car rental rate. This helps cover the extra risk of damage or accident. While many car classes (like compact and economy) are available to young renters, restrictions usually apply to premium and specialty cars.
What do you need to rent a car in North Carolina?
Before you can hop behind the wheel in North Carolina, you'll need a driver's license and a credit card. If you choose not to take out the company's insurance policy, you may also have to show proof of other coverage. Requirements may vary, so understand the policy terms and conditions before you choose a hire supplier.
Can I hire a car for a month or longer in North Carolina?
Yes, and you'll find your ideal set of wheels on our long-term car rental deals page. Just enter your trip information and we'll list fantastic offers from various top companies.
Where can I find a North Carolina hire car if I am younger than 25?
Some North Carolina outlets will hire cars to drivers under 25 years of age, and others won't. Age policies differ between suppliers, so you should do some research. Also, find out if there are additional costs. Some places will have a surcharge for customers between 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions to avoid any surprise fees.
Why should I rent a North Carolina car with Expedia?
There are tons of reasons to book with Expedia. We have multiple suppliers to choose from in North Carolina, and we'll help you land the cheapest price with our exclusive offers and member prices. Want even bigger savings? Combine your rental car, flights and hotels into a holiday package. The more you book and travel with Expedia, the more perks you get! Plus, when you're a member of our free One Key™ loyalty programme, you can collect OneKeyCash™* and use it on eligible flights, activities, hotels and more. *OneKeyCash disclaimer - OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia.

Car Hire Information

Popular car types:
SUV, Full Size, Economy
From the airport to your hotel:
Airport Transportation