Baltimore is a bustling city known for its historic attractions and stunning waterfront views. If you’re planning a trip to Baltimore, you might be wondering if you should rent a car. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of renting a car in Baltimore, as well as some tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Hertz
J.D. Power ranks Hertz as the best car rental company in North America, and for good reason. Their focus on customer satisfaction means you’ll have a great time renting from them – from start to finish.
Enterprise
Enterprise Rent-A-Car has locations all over the world, so they’re bound to have one close by. Plus, they offer a wide selection of cars – from economy to luxury – so you can find the perfect ride for your trip.
Fox Rent-A-Car
Fox Rent-A-Car is the perfect solution for budget-minded travelers. They offer low rates on all of our vehicles, so you can hit the open road without breaking the bank.
* With Expedia member prices, you could save 10% or more right now on thousands of cars.
Should I Rent A Car In Baltimore?
Yes, If you plan on exploring areas outside of downtown or want more flexibility in your schedule, renting a car can be a great option.
However, if you’re only visiting the major tourist attractions in the city and plan on staying in the downtown area, you may not need a car. Baltimore has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and the metro subway.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Baltimore provides flexibility and allows you to explore areas outside the city, but it’s not necessary if you plan on staying in the downtown area and only visiting the major tourist attractions.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Baltimore
There are several benefits to renting a car in Baltimore. First and foremost, it provides more flexibility in your schedule. You won’t be tied to public transportation schedules or have to worry about finding a ride to more remote areas of the city.
Renting a car also allows you to explore areas outside of Baltimore, such as the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay or the historical sites of Annapolis. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, a rental car can be more comfortable and convenient than public transportation.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Baltimore provides flexibility, allows you to explore outside the city, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In Baltimore
While there are benefits to renting a car in Baltimore, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Baltimore has some of the highest car rental rates in the country, and you may also have to pay for parking at your hotel or other attractions.
Baltimore is also known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. If you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic, it can be stressful and time-consuming. Additionally, parking can be a challenge in the city, especially in the downtown area.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Baltimore can be expensive and stressful due to traffic and parking.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Baltimore Airport?
Yes, renting a car at the airport can be more convenient, as you won’t have to worry about finding transportation to your hotel. Additionally, many rental car companies have locations at the airport, making it easy to pick up and drop off your car.
However, renting a car at the airport can also be more expensive, as airport car rental facilities often charge additional fees. If you’re looking to save money, it may be better to rent a car in the city.
Bottom line: Renting a car at Baltimore’s Airport can be more convenient, but it’s often more expensive.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Baltimore
If you’re looking to save money on a rental car in Baltimore, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, try to book your rental car in advance. Many rental car companies offer discounts for early bookings.
Additionally, consider renting a car from a location outside of the airport. Rental car
facilities at the airport often charge additional fees, so renting from a nearby location can save you money.
Another tip is to compare prices from multiple rental car companies. Prices can vary greatly depending on the company and the time of year, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal.
Finally, check if your credit card or travel insurance offers rental car coverage. This can save you money on additional insurance fees.
Bottom line: To save money on a rental car in Baltimore, book in advance, consider renting from a location outside of the airport, compare prices from multiple companies, and check for rental car coverage through your credit card or travel insurance.
Rent A Car In Baltimore
If you’re looking to rent a car in Baltimore, here are some of the rental car companies and their starting rates:
- Alamo: starts at $72 per day
- Avis: starts at $72 per day
- Budget: starts at $60 per day
- Enterprise: starts at $68 per day
- Hertz: starts at $72 per day
- Thrifty: starts at $43 per day
- Dollar: starts at $46 per day
Gas prices in Baltimore are also variable, but you can expect to spend around $55 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.70 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Baltimore can be expensive, with rates starting at $43 per day and gas prices averaging around $3.70 per gallon. Be sure to budget accordingly if you plan to rent a car during your trip.
Tips For Driving In Baltimore
If you decide to rent a car in Baltimore, here are some tips for driving in the city:
- Watch for pedestrians: Baltimore is a city with a lot of foot traffic, so be mindful of pedestrians and crosswalks.
- Be prepared for narrow streets: Some streets in Baltimore can be narrow and winding, so be cautious when driving through them.
- Check for road closures: Baltimore often has road closures for events, so check for any closures before heading out on the road.
- Avoid rush hour: Baltimore experiences heavy traffic congestion during rush hour, so plan your route and schedule accordingly.
- Be mindful of parking regulations: Parking in Baltimore can be challenging, with limited parking spaces and various parking regulations. Always read the signs and follow parking regulations to avoid getting ticketed or towed.
Bottom line: If you’re driving in Baltimore, watch for pedestrians, be prepared for narrow streets, check for road closures, avoid rush hour, and follow parking regulations to have a smooth driving experience.
Rental Car Tips For Baltimore
If you’re planning to rent a car in Baltimore, here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Consider your route: Some areas of Baltimore, particularly the downtown and Inner Harbor areas, can be congested and have narrow streets. Consider this when choosing a rental car size and planning your route.
- Check for tolls: Like Seattle, Baltimore has some highways with tolls, so check your route and have cash or a toll pass ready.
- Inspect the car: Before driving off the rental lot, inspect the car for any existing damage and make sure to report it to the rental company to avoid being charged for it later.
Bottom line: To have a smooth rental car experience in Baltimore, consider your route, check for tolls, and inspect the car before driving off.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car in Baltimore can provide flexibility and allow you to explore areas outside of the city, but it’s not necessary if you’re only visiting the major tourist attractions in the downtown area. Consider your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip before deciding whether to rent a car. If you do decide to rent, be sure to compare prices and follow the tips above to save money.
