This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in Columbus with a pick-up date of 5/12 and drop-off date of 5/19. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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Booking Insights
KAYAK’s insights & trends for Columbus car rentals
Check out the latest trends and booking tips to rent a car in Columbus with confidence.
How far in advance should you book a rental car in Columbus?
You should book your rental car in Columbus around 62 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price.
What is the cheapest car rental company in Columbus?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Hertz ($36.09/day), Budget ($36.33/day) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car ($47.01/day). The cheapest rental car price was found at Hertz, 3732 Woodruff Road (3.2 mi from city center).
What is the most popular rental car in Columbus?
Rentals in the Medium category (Hyundai Elantra or similar) are the most popular option in Columbus, costing $78/day on average. Some users have found deals as low as $50/day.
What is the cheapest month to rent a car in Columbus?
The cheapest month to rent a car in Columbus is January at an average cost of $52/day. March is the most expensive month to rent a car in Columbus when prices are $69/day on average, which tends to be 13% above the yearly average rental price for Columbus.
What rental car company in Columbus has the most locations?
Enterprise Rent-A-Car operates 5 locations in Columbus, more than any other rental company.
Though public transport is offered in the city, enjoying a sense of wonder as you adventure at your own pace in Columbus and its surroundings with a rental car can’t be compared to anything else. Using car rentals in Columbus gives you the freedom and comfort you need to move to any place at any time. Maneuvering through the city and arriving at your desired destination won’t be a problem, considering most Columbus car rentals have a GPS navigation system. Even if it’s your first time in the city, with a navigation system you can drive to Hocking Hills, which is about an hour’s drive from Columbus city center. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a romantic getaway, booking a rental car in Columbus will save you time and make your trip more enjoyable.
Most car rentals in Columbus are either within the CMH airport’s premises or a short walk away. Companies such as Enterprise, Alamo, Avis, Hertz, Budget, and Dollar are located at the airport, while others such as Thrifty and National offer shuttle and pick-up services from the airport.
Although the city roads are well maintained, you should be cautious while driving a rental car in Columbus, especially when it is raining. Watch out for speed limits, other motorists, and rid yourself of all distractions. If it’s your first time in Columbus, set all your rental car’s controls before leaving the parking lot. Adjusting your GPS device or other control knobs while driving might take your eyes off the road, and increase your chances of causing an accident.
Columbus is a big and busy city with hundreds of cars on the road at nearly any given time. To dodge wasting time in traffic jams, avoid moving around during rush hour, which is around 6am-8am, 3:30pm-4pm, and 6pm-7pm on weekdays. If you have to drive during rush hour, the roads to avoid are Interstate 70-71 downtown, state Route 315, and the I-270 outer belt, which are hugely trafficked. If you’re on a schedule or trying to catch a flight, keep these times in mind when planning your route.
Drivers in Columbus frequently engage in aggressive driving such as speeding, swerving between lanes, and failing to yield. Always care for the lives of other road users and occupants while driving in the city. Do not be tempted to engage in aggressive driving when you come across an aggressive driver on the road. Adhere to all driving and traffic laws in Columbus. For example, all vehicles must yield to pedestrians at a four-way intersection where stop signs force all drivers to stop. Otherwise, the first driver to arrive should be the first to proceed. And if two drivers arrive at the intersection simultaneously, the one on the left should yield to the driver on the right.
Columbus Metropolitan Airport (CSG) is approximately six miles from downtown Columbus. The drive downtown from the airport rental parking lot will take less than 20 minutes, depending on the route and traffic. The most common and fastest route is the use of Veterans Parkway. After exiting the airport, drive west on W Britt David Road and continue for about half a mile towards Mariner Drive. Join Airport Thruway and drive for about a mile before turning left onto Veterans Parkway. You will arrive in downtown Columbus after about four and a half miles.
Explore Georgia using cheap car rentals in Columbus by taking day trips to nearby cities and attractions. Drive to the beautiful and awe-inspiring Callaway Gardens about 40 miles away in just under an hour. About 130 miles northwest of Columbus is Vulcan Parka and Museum, a drive that will take about 2h 40min. Take a 45min family drive to Pine Mountain Wild Animal Safari for a thrilling nature and wildlife experience. Drive for about 3h 45min to the Appalachian Trail in Hiawassee, around 225 miles away. Moreover, you can take day trips to cities like Cold Springs, Riverside, Gainesville, and Monroe, all roughly 2h 30min away.
25% of our users found rental cars in Columbus for $45 or less
Medium rental cars in Columbus are around 52% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Columbus
What type of car is recommended for driving in Columbus?
A compact car is suitable for driving through the city as it occupies less space and fits into the various parking lots easily. You can choose between a fuel-efficient mid-range car, a minivan, a sedan, or a sports car. It all depends on your budget and preference. However, if you’re traveling with four to seven people, taking a ride with an eight-seater SUV could be a better alternative.
What’s the speed limit in Columbus?
While driving on highways, 65mph and 70mph are permitted, which stretches to the rural interstates. The speed limit for other areas varies depending on where you are driving to. For instance, while approaching school zones, you should drive at a speed not exceeding 25mph. Be conscious of the speed limit signs that are in place. Keep in mind that the roads are monitored with a video surveillance system on major highways.
Where are the best places to park in Columbus?
Like any other big city that is packed with cars, finding a parking spot can be a big hassle. The parking lot fees vary across the city. For instance, a parking lot in Downtown Columbus, such as the Bicentennial Public Parking Lot, will cost you about $10-$20 on weekdays, whereas about $5-$10 on the weekends. A maximum stay is restricted to a few hours downtown and up to about 12h on Columbus's outskirts.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Columbus?
On average a rental car in Columbus costs $61 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Columbus found in the last 2 weeks is $59.
Which car rental companies are at Metropolitan Area airport (CSG)?
The only car rental company onsite at Metropolitan Area airport is National.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Metropolitan Area airport (CSG)?
The only car rental company that offers shuttle or pick-up services from Metropolitan Area airport to off-airport locations is National.
How much does a Medium car rental cost in Columbus?
A Medium car rental in Columbus costs $70 per day, on average.
How much does a Special car rental cost in Columbus?
A Special car rental in Columbus costs $54 per day, on average.
How much does a Small car rental cost in Columbus?
A Small car rental in Columbus costs $78 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Columbus?
In Columbus, cars are most frequently rented at Hertz 3250 W Britt David Rd Ste 110 (5 miles from city center).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Columbus?
Most car rental providers in Columbus offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Columbus, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Columbus?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 8 car rental agencies in Columbus.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Columbus?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Columbus?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Columbus so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
Does downtown Columbus have rental locations?
Yes, renters can obtain cheap car rentals in Columbus downtown. Several rental companies provide a selection of vehicles suitable for all tastes and needs. Enterprise is along Veterans Parkway Road. Just like airport rental locations, downtown rentals offer 24-hour pick-up services at an extra fee.
Does Columbus have toll roads?
Luckily, Columbus car rentals don’t need to pay for tolls on roads in the city. However, you will incur tolls while driving on the I-75 and I-85 Express Lanes within the state. The former runs between Henry County and Clayton County, while the latter runs through Gwinnett Country.
Sadly, this was a business ending experience for us!
Cons:
We needed an SUV-sized vehicle for our trip to a high school graduation (we were transporting a large item to a family member). My wife made the reservation in MARCH for an SUV to be used at the tail of May. The day before our rental, my wife went to the rental company to ensure we were going to get the size vehicle we reserved. NONE WERE AVAILABLE! We had to scramble and borrow a neighbor’s SUV. We will not go with the company in the future!
Easirent
4.5
Mediocre
Cleanliness
5.2
Comfort
5.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.5
Value for money
5.1
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
Columbus Airport
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
Sunnycars
No score available yet
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
3250 W Britt David Rd
Opening times not available
Filters
No reviews available
15 travelers who rented a car in Columbus gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.5
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