Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Raleigh to Washington D.C.. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 178-US$ 179 | US$ 100 | US$ 269-US$ 270 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 179 | US$ 100 | US$ 272 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 180-US$ 367 | US$ 100-US$ 150 | US$ 277-US$ 663 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 240-US$ 626 | US$ 150-US$ 350 | US$ 333-US$ 1,056 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Van | US$ 379 | US$ 150 | US$ 783 | Large families, groups |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 268 | US$ 150 | US$ 409 | Adventure Travelers, heavy luggage |
Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the vehicle before returning it to avoid additional charges.
Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
Use nearby gas stations to ensure a full tank at drop-off.
The estimated fuel cost for this route is approximately $3.50 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency.
Check and maintain proper tire pressure before starting the trip.
Avoid excessive use of air conditioning to save fuel.
Parking in downtown Raleigh can range from $1.50 to $2.50 per hour.
Free parking is available in some residential areas outside the city center.
Consider using parking garages for long-term parking needs.
Parking in Washington D.C. can cost between $2 and $10 per hour depending on the location.
Street parking is limited and often metered.
Use parking garages or apps to secure a spot in advance.
SpotHero for booking parking in advance.
ParkMobile for easy meter payments.
Parking Panda for finding affordable parking options.
No tolls are applicable on this route.
No tolls are applicable on this route.
A visit to Virginia's capital, known for its civil war history and cultural spots.
Explore historic battlefields and charming small-town streets.
Visit the National Mall and many free Smithsonian museums upon arrival.
Walk through cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafes.
Plan Vehicle Type: Choose a car suitable for the mileage and terrain; consider fuel efficiency for long trips.
Budget Your Trip: Factor in rental fees, gas, and tolls; use apps like GasBuddy for economical refueling.
Research the Route: Plan in advance for stops, accommodation, and possible construction detours.
Reserve Early: Book vehicles well in advance, especially during holidays to ensure availability and better prices.
Use GPS Navigation: Equip yourself with a reliable GPS or maps; also plan for areas of weak signal.
Check Parking Options: Research parking regulations in Washington D.C. to avoid unexpected fines.
Selecting the best car rental company is essential for a seamless one-way trip from Raleigh to Washington D.C. Consider companies offering reliable vehicles, extensive coverage, and favorable one-way rental terms.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enterprise Rent-A-Car | $$ | High | Extensive | Large selection of vehicles including economy to luxury models , Strong location network across the U.S. , Responsive customer service |
| Hertz | $$ | High | Extensive | Wide vehicle variety such as eco-friendly and premium cars , Express rent facility for online bookings , Frequent renter programs for savings |
| Avis | $ | Moderate | Moderate | Affordable rates for one-way rentals , Online check-in and flexible policies , Efficient pick-up and drop-off systems |
| Budget | $ | Moderate | Moderate | Great value for budget-conscious travelers , Reliable customer service , Convenient rental procedures |
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The car rental center in Raleigh operates from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily.
Located at 4000 Rental Road, Raleigh-Durham International Airport, just a short walk from the terminal.
Shuttle services between the airport terminal and the rental center run every 10 minutes.
Consider booking your rental car online to take advantage of discounts and faster pickup processes.
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