Car Rental at Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Renting a car at Raleigh–Durham International Airport is one of the most convenient ways to explore the Research Triangle region, which includes the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Because the region is quite spread out and public transport options are limited, many travelers choose to rent a car directly at the airport to move around comfortably and visit nearby attractions, universities, and business districts.

Several major international car rental companies operate at the airport. Their offices are located on airport property and can be reached by shuttle buses from the terminals.

Booking your rental car online before arriving at the airport can help you secure better prices and reduce waiting time at the rental counters.

Where Rental Cars Are Located

Rental car counters are located in the parking areas near the terminals. Some companies operate directly at the airport facilities, while others provide courtesy shuttle buses connecting the terminals with their rental offices on airport property.

Follow the signs for “Rental Car Shuttle” outside the baggage claim area to reach the rental car center.

Typical Rental Prices

Rental prices vary depending on the vehicle type, season, and demand. Economy vehicles generally offer the lowest rates, while SUVs and minivans are more expensive.

Vehicle Type	Typical Price / Day	Best For
Economy / Compact	$30 – $50	Solo travelers or couples
Sedan / Mid-size	$40 – $70	Business travel and small families
SUV	$50 – $90	Groups and road trips
Minivan	$70 – $120	Large families

On average, rental cars at RDU cost around $55 per day, although economy models can sometimes be found for about $33 per day.

Rental Company Comparison

Company	Typical Price / Day	Customer Rating	Notes
Hertz	$50 – $80	8 / 10	Wide selection of vehicles
Budget	$40 – $70	7.5 / 10	Competitive prices
Enterprise	$45 – $75	8.5 / 10	Strong customer service
Alamo	$40 – $70	8 / 10	Popular with leisure travelers
Dollar / Thrifty	$35 – $60	7 / 10	Often the cheapest option

Estimated Waiting Time at Rental Counters

Company	Average Waiting Time	Fast Pickup Options
Hertz	10–20 min	Loyalty program pickup
Enterprise	10–15 min	Online check-in
Alamo	10–15 min	Self-service kiosks
Budget / Avis	15–25 min	Fastbreak program
Dollar / Thrifty	15–30 min	Express pickup

Popular Destinations by Rental Car

Destination	Distance	Driving Time	Why Visit
Downtown Raleigh	17 miles	25–30 min	Museums, restaurants, nightlife
Downtown Durham	14 miles	20–25 min	Historic districts and dining
Chapel Hill	20 miles	30 min	University of North Carolina
Research Triangle Park	7 miles	10–15 min	Technology and business hub

Rental Car Insurance Explained

Rental companies usually offer several optional coverage plans. Understanding these options can help travelers avoid unnecessary costs.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW): covers damage to the rental car.
Liability Insurance: covers damage to other vehicles or property.
Personal Accident Insurance: covers medical costs for passengers.
Theft Protection: covers the vehicle in case of theft.

Rental agents often offer insurance at the counter, but some travelers may already be covered through their personal auto insurance or credit card benefits.

Always check your credit card coverage before purchasing additional insurance at the rental desk.

Car rental companies

In Raleigh–Durham Airport you can find the following car rental companies: