New York is a vibrant city with lots to offer, from iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty to the bustling Times Square. If you’re planning a trip to New York, 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 New York, 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 New York?
No, it’s not recommended to rent a car in New York. The city has an extensive public transportation system that makes getting around easy, convenient, and affordable. New York City is a busy place, and driving can be stressful and time-consuming, with heavy traffic and confusing roadways. Additionally, parking can be expensive and challenging to find, especially in Manhattan. Public transportation, including buses, subways, taxis, and ride-sharing services, offers a more efficient and stress-free way to explore the city.
Bottom line: Unless you have a specific reason for needing a car in New York, such as traveling with young children or having mobility issues, it’s not recommended to rent a car in the city.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In New York
While it’s not recommended to rent a car in New York, there are a few benefits to consider. If you plan to visit areas outside the city, such as upstate New York or nearby states like New Jersey or Connecticut, having a car can be useful. Renting a car can also give you more freedom and flexibility to explore the city at your own pace, without having to rely on public transportation schedules.
Another benefit is that rental cars often come with GPS navigation systems, making it easier to get around and avoid getting lost. 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 New York can be useful if you plan to travel outside the city or want more freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.
The Cons Of Renting A Car In New York
There are several cons to renting a car in New York that should be considered. First and foremost, driving in the city can be stressful and challenging. New York has some of the busiest and most congested roads in the world, with traffic jams and delays common during rush hour. Additionally, parking can be expensive and difficult to find, especially in Manhattan.
Another downside to renting a car in New York is the cost. Car rental rates in the city are often much higher than in other parts of the country, and you may also have to pay for tolls and parking fees. If you’re not familiar with driving in New York or don’t have experience navigating busy urban areas, it can be a challenging and frustrating experience.
Bottom line: Renting a car in New York can be expensive, stressful, and challenging, especially if you’re not familiar with driving in busy urban areas.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At New York Airport?
If you’ve decided to rent a car in New York, you might be wondering if it’s better to rent at the airport or in the city. In general, it’s cheaper to rent a car in the city, but if you’re arriving at the airport and need transportation to your hotel, renting a car at the airport can be more convenient.
Renting a car at the airport also gives you the option of dropping off the car at the airport when you’re ready to leave, saving you time and hassle. However, be prepared to pay higher rates and fees for airport rentals, including airport surcharges and taxes.
Bottom line: Renting a car at the airport can be more convenient, but it may come with higher rates and fees. If you’re looking to save money, consider renting a car in the city instead.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car New York
To find the cheapest rental car in New York, you can start by doing some research online. Many car rental companies offer discounts and special deals for online bookings, so be sure to compare prices and check for any promotions.
Another way to save money on a rental car in New York is to consider smaller, local car rental companies. These companies may not have as many locations or as large of a fleet as the bigger companies, but they can often offer lower rates and better customer service.
You can also save money by choosing a smaller car or renting for a longer period. Compact cars are often cheaper to rent than larger vehicles, and renting for a week or more can often result in lower daily rates.
Bottom line: To find the cheapest way to rent a car in New York, it’s best to compare prices from different rental car companies, look for discounts or promo codes, and book in advance. Additionally, renting a car in the city rather than at the airport can often save you money.
Rent A Car In New York
If you’re planning to rent a car in New York, here are some of the rental car companies to consider:
Alamo: starts at $70 per day
Avis: starts at $75 per day
Budget: starts at $65 per day
Enterprise: starts at $70 per day
Hertz: starts at $80 per day
Thrifty: starts at $60 per day
Dollar: starts at $65 per day
Gas prices in New York can vary depending on where you fill up, but you can expect to spend around $60 for a full tank. This is based on an average of $3.03 per gallon, and a standard car that holds 15 gallons of gas. It’s important to note that parking in New York can be challenging and expensive, so be sure to factor in parking fees if you plan to rent a car.
Tips For Driving In New York
Driving in New York City can be a daunting task for even the most experienced drivers. Here are some tips to help you navigate the busy streets and highways:
- Plan your route ahead of time: Use a GPS or map to plan your route before you start driving. This will help you avoid getting lost or stuck in traffic.
- Be aware of bike lanes: Many streets in New York have designated bike lanes. Make sure to stay out of these lanes and always be on the lookout for bicyclists.
- Use your horn sparingly: Honking your horn is a common practice in New York, but it’s important to use it sparingly and only when necessary.
- Follow the rules of the road: Obey traffic signals, signs, and speed limits. Be aware of pedestrian crossings and yield to pedestrians.
- Avoid rush hour: Rush hour in New York can be particularly stressful, with heavy traffic and long delays. Try to avoid driving during peak hours if possible.
- Be patient and courteous: Driving in New York can be frustrating, but it’s important to remain patient and courteous. Don’t cut off other drivers, and always be aware of your surroundings.
Bottom line: Driving in New York requires patience, awareness, and careful planning. Follow these tips to help you navigate the busy streets and highways safely and efficiently.
Rental Car Tips For New York
If you’ve decided to rent a car in New York, here are some tips to help you have a smooth and stress-free experience:
- Book in advance: To get the best rental car deals, it’s recommended to book in advance. This will give you more options to choose from and help you save money.
- Consider insurance: Rental car companies will offer you insurance, but it can be expensive. Before you book, check your personal car insurance or credit card benefits to see if they cover rental cars. This could save you a lot of money in the long run.
- Avoid renting at the airport: Renting a car at the airport can be more convenient, but it’s often more expensive. Consider renting from a location in the city to save money.
- Check for tolls and parking fees: New York has many toll roads and bridges, and parking can be expensive. Make sure to factor in these costs when budgeting for your trip.
- Know the traffic rules: New York has some unique traffic rules, such as no right turns on red in some areas. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the rules before hitting the road.
- Use a GPS or navigation app: New York City can be confusing to navigate, so using a GPS or navigation app can be very helpful. Make sure to download maps and directions before you hit the road, as cell service can be spotty in some areas.
- Be prepared for traffic: New York is known for its traffic, so be prepared for delays and congestion, especially during rush hour. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services during peak traffic times.
Bottom line: When renting a car in New York, it’s important to plan ahead, choose a reputable rental company, be aware of additional fees and insurance requirements, and familiarize yourself with the rules of the road and parking regulations in the city. Consider alternative transportation options and weigh the pros and cons of renting a car based on your specific travel needs.
Wrapping Up
Renting a car in New York can be a convenient way to explore the city and surrounding areas. However, it’s important to consider the traffic, parking, and tolls when making your decision. Additionally, renting a car can be expensive, so it’s important to compare rates and look for discounts. Finally, be sure to follow traffic laws and use caution when driving in New York, as it can be a busy and challenging city to navigate. With these tips in mind, renting a car in New York can be a great way to see all that the city has to offer.