Seattle is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, from the iconic Space Needle to the historic Pike Place Market. If you’re planning a trip to Seattle, 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 Seattle, 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 Seattle?
Yes, you should rent a car in Seattle. If you plan on exploring areas outside of downtown or want more flexibility in your schedule, renting a car can be a great option. This is especially true if you want to visit some of the more remote areas of Seattle or take day trips to nearby attractions like Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park.
However, If you’re planning on staying in the downtown area and only visiting the major tourist attractions, you may not need a car. Seattle has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars.
Bottom line: Whether or not you should rent a car in Seattle depends on your itinerary and how much flexibility you want during your trip.
The Benefits Of Renting A Car In Seattle
There are several benefits to renting a car in Seattle. 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 Seattle, such as the beautiful Snoqualmie Falls or the charming town of Leavenworth. 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 Seattle 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 Seattle
While there are benefits to renting a car in Seattle, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One of the biggest disadvantages is the cost. Seattle 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.
Seattle 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 downtown and popular tourist areas.
Bottom line: Renting a car in Seattle can be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging, especially in downtown and popular tourist areas.
Is It Better To Rent A Car At Seattle Airport?
No, while renting a car at the airport may be more convenient, it can also be more expensive. Airport rental locations typically have higher rates and fees than rental locations in the city.
If you’re on a tight budget, it may be worth considering taking public transportation or a taxi to your hotel and renting a car later in your trip. However, if you’re short on time and want to get on the road as soon as possible, renting a car at the airport may be the best option for you.
Bottom line: Renting a car at the airport can be more convenient, but it may also be more expensive. Consider your budget and itinerary when deciding where to rent a car.
The Cheapest Way to Rent A Car In Seattle
If you’re looking to save money on a rental car in Seattle, there are a few things you can do. First, compare prices between different rental car companies to find the best deal. You can also try booking your rental car in advance to get a lower rate.
Another tip is to avoid renting a car at the airport and instead rent from a location in the city. This can save you on airport fees and taxes. Additionally, consider renting a smaller car or using a car-sharing service like Zipcar to save on rental costs.
Lastly, be sure to check for discounts or promotions, such as AAA or AARP discounts, that you may be eligible for.
Bottom line: To save money on renting a car in Seattle, compare prices, book in advance, avoid renting at the airport, consider smaller cars or car-sharing services, and check for discounts or promotions.
Tips for Driving in Seattle
If you do decide to rent a car in Seattle, here are some tips for driving in the city:
- Watch for pedestrians: Seattle is a pedestrian-friendly city, so be aware of crosswalks and pedestrians.
- Prepare for hills: Seattle is a hilly city, so be prepared for steep inclines and declines. Make sure your rental car has good brakes and is in good condition.
- Use your GPS: Seattle can be confusing to navigate, so use your GPS or map app to help you get around.
- Plan for traffic: As mentioned earlier, Seattle is known for its traffic congestion, especially during rush hour. Plan your route and schedule accordingly.
- Follow parking regulations: Parking can be a challenge in Seattle, so make sure to follow parking regulations and watch for signs to avoid getting ticketed or towed.
Bottom line: If you’re driving in Seattle, be aware of pedestrians, prepare for hills, use your GPS, plan for traffic, and follow parking regulations to avoid any issues.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, whether or not to rent a car in Seattle depends on your itinerary and preferences. Renting a car provides flexibility, allows you to explore outside the city, and can be more comfortable for groups and those with a lot of luggage. However, it can also be expensive, and traffic and parking can be challenging. By considering your budget and itinerary, comparing prices, and following driving tips, you can make the best decision for your Seattle trip.
