How to find a cheap car hire deal in Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Whether you need a compact for cruising around town or a bigger ride for the open road, we'll help you find a cheap Raleigh-Durham International Airport rental car. Choose from options averaging Rs21,758 a day and get on the road for less.
The cheapest daily price for a rental at Raleigh-Durham International Airport is Rs10,375.
Staying on in Durham for a while? Pick up a weekly rental from Rs49,811 and squeeze in some detours or road trips.
Timing is everything when it comes to finding a cheap RDU car hire. Book around one week before your trip to land the best price.
Check out the offers available from Thrifty, Dollar and Hertz. These are some of the leading providers at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
Whether you go with Thrifty or a different supplier, be sure to check the coverage on your Raleigh-Durham International Airport car hire. Some companies include a collision damage waiver (CDW), while others offer it as an optional extra.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be the key to finding a deal. Simply check 'Return car to a different location' when searching for a car for hire in RDU. Providers often have to move vehicles from one location to another, which means you can score some great one-way prices.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Raleigh-Durham International Airport with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. No surprise fuel add-ons when you hand back the keys either.
Hit the highway without counting the miles and racking up extra charges. Go to the 'Policies' filter and pick 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you explore without limits.
Best value car hire options right now
In the number-one spot for value is this company, with average prices of Rs21,131 a day.
Not too far behind, this provider offers daily rates of around Rs20,515.
The third option won't cost a fortune either. You'll pay roughly Rs24,135 a day with this provider.
The Intermediate rental category is a reliable choice if you're not sure what kind of ride you need. It's also the car type that's booked the most at RDU.
Compare car hire types from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Small: Whether you're navigating busy cities or taking a short trip, this cheap Raleigh-Durham International Airport rental car category offers big value in a small package. Including mini and economy classes, you can look forward to excellent fuel efficiency and easy handling.
Medium: A smart pick when you want something that has a few more features but is still easy to drive. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a little extra leg room compared to smaller options.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and extra tech features, this RDU car hire option includes full-size cars. With roomier rear seats and ample storage space, they let you load up and transport everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: When adventure's on your mind, an SUV's made for the moment. It's your perfect road trip buddy, ready for backroads, highways, and anything in between. These sports utility vehicles also offer extra space and improved safety features.
Van: Featuring options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Raleigh-Durham International Airport handles big loads and group travel with ease. They're roomy, hardworking, and ready to take on any task.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but it's worth considering. If you're in an accident, no matter how minor, it can save you from paying a hefty excess fee. Different RDU car hire providers have different insurance policies and cover levels, so check the details before booking.
From GPS units to mobile Wi-Fi, the right extras can totally transform your drive. Think about which extras will suit your needs when you rent a car in Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
Good to know
Usually, you have to be at least 21 years old to rent a car in the United States. Some providers still accept younger drivers — just be prepared for extra fees or rules. Check the companies' terms and conditions before you book.
If you're going away with the kids, find out if you need to add a car seat to your RDU car hire reservation. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to ride.
You'll need some documents when you collect the keys. As a rule, bring your physical driver's licence, a credit card with enough balance for the deposit (debit cards usually aren't accepted), and another form of photo ID. Your booking will confirm exactly what's required.
Driving in the United States may take some getting used to if it's your first time. Keep in mind you'll need to stick to the right side of the road.
Stay within local speed limits of about 40kph in urban areas and around 110kph on highways. Check the road signs, as limits may vary.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the United States is 0.08%. Because alcohol doesn't affect all people equally, the best way to be sure you're safe to drive is not to drink anything at all.
Drive smarter from the start
With a RDU car hire, you're the boss when it comes to where you go. If central Durham is the first place you're exploring, it's around 18 kilometres northwest of the airport and a trip of about 20 minutes.
In rush hour, expect the drive from Raleigh-Durham International Airport to the centre to take as long as 30 minutes.
One of the busiest times for traffic in this destination is around 5pm. Make things easy by driving outside rush hours in general.
If you don't need a set of wheels as soon as you land, consider picking up a car hire in Durham instead of at the airport. Collect your ride at a time that works for you and only pay for the days you need.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Before you go anywhere else, sightsee around Durham first. Top attractions like DPAC - Durham Performing Arts Centre and American Tobacco Campus District are the perfect warm-up for the rest of your trip.
Raleigh has to be on your itinerary if you'd like to see North Carolina Museum of Art and North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. This city is about 18 kilometres southeast of RDU.
Up for a bonus adventure? Norfolk is a popular road trip destination that's around 241 kilometres northeast of RDU. Martin Luther King Jr Memorial and The Chrysler Museum Glass Studio are the perfect pit stops.
