Car rentals in Washington: All you need to know

You need a great car to take you around Washington whether you're traveling for a business or pleasure. Explore the famous sites around the region and park in front of the popular restaurants in Washington. We've answered your most frequently asked questions about renting a car in Washington. Find out how to get the best rates on your ideal vehicle.

How do I find a great deal on a rental car in Washington?

You are well on your way to locating the best rate on your car rental by reserving it through us. But, to increase your savings when you travel to Washington you can do a few things. You can:

• Read through the mileage policy to prevent any surprise fees
• Book your vehicle as far in advance as you can
• Avoid airport pick-ups or drop-offs if possible; they usually are pricier
• Compare daily and weekly rates; you may save more with a longer rental

These tips can help you save even more on your next car rental in Washington.

What rental suppliers have retailers in Washington?

From budget-friendly brands like Dollar and Thrifty to global names like Hertz and Sixt, CarRentals.com has some of the best brands in the business. Look through the online reviews to get an idea of which meets your needs.

What type of rental car should I get for my trip to Washington?

That depends on how many people you are traveling with and what you'll be doing when you visit Washington. If you're having a little trouble picking the right car, be sure to read over the table below. We've compared the most popular types of cars for you:

What's the age requirement to rent a car in Washington?

Typically, to rent a car in Washington you must be at least 21—the same as it is across the rest of the United States of America. If you are under 25, you might also need to pay a surcharge. Be sure to read over the rental agreement to discover what the exact rate will be before you reserve your rental.

Do I need insurance to rent a car in Washington?

Most countries require driver's insurance. You may be able to pay for interim insurance with the rental car supplier. Otherwise, as a United States citizen, you can also book Collision Damage Coverage with CarRentals.com at checkout. Although many of the major card issuers, like Visa and MasterCard, give some coverage, there may be restrictions. For example, they may not cover your rental car if you book a luxury or larger vehicle. Check the policy before you decide.

What is the difference between all the fuel policies?

Most suppliers give you a choice of fuel policies. Here is a list of the typical policies.

What fuel policy should I get?

Most suppliers give you a full tank policy. At CarRentals.com, we suggest returning it filled up. If you want to keep your expenses lower, it is best to find a gas station before you return the car. Stations near airports or car rental places tend to have higher prices.

Is it worth getting unlimited miles?

Unlimited mileage is a good option for anyone who don't want to worry about incurring any extra charges with the distance they drive. Just make sure that your policy really provides unlimited miles. Check the details on mileage limits before you book.

Tips before you leave the lot

Be sure you check a few items before you leave the lot. You should:

• Walk around the vehicle and determine if there is any damage or scrapes. Be sure to make note of it on the paperwork, or you may get charged for it
• Inspect the trunk to see if the spare is inflated and the necessary tools to change it are there
• Get familiar with the controls of your car. Adjust the mirrors and seats to your liking, and figure out how to turn on the lights and wipers
• Figure out how to work the entertainment and GPS (if available). It's best to limit any unnecessary distractions when you are navigating a new area

Book your Washington car rental today

When you reserve your car with CarRentals.com, you know you can count on a wonderful ride that will result in more extra money to spare. Cash in on cheap deals on your Washington rental car when you book with us. See you on the road.