Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Seattle to Washington D.C.. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 166/dayStarting from
US$ 185/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 556-US$ 1,732 | US$ 399-US$ 1,689 | US$ 498-US$ 1,923 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 1,732 | US$ 1,689 | US$ 498-US$ 1,923 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 560-US$ 1,736 | US$ 399-US$ 1,689 | US$ 506-US$ 1,936 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 535-US$ 1,725 | US$ 399-US$ 1,689 | US$ 554-US$ 1,906 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Van | US$ 580 | US$ 399-US$ 500 | US$ 782 | Large families, groups |
| Pickup Truck | US$ 548 | US$ 399-US$ 500 | US$ 746 | 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 car before returning to avoid extra charges by the rental company.
Save the last refueling receipt as proof of refueling.
Use recommended fuel types to avoid potential engine issues.
The average fuel cost along the route is approximately $3.80 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.
Ensure tires are properly inflated before starting the journey.
Use air conditioning sparingly to conserve fuel.
Street parking in downtown Seattle costs around $2.50 per hour.
Public parking garages are available at an average rate of $15 per day.
Consider using apps like ParkMobile for real-time parking availability.
Street parking in Washington D.C. requires payment during business hours.
Parking garages near downtown areas charge approximately $20–$30 per day.
Residential areas may require permits for overnight parking.
ParkMobile for finding parking spaces.
SpotHero for booking parking in advance.
PayByPhone for seamless parking payment.
Experience the Cascade Mountains and stop in the vibrant city of Spokane.
A short but eventful drive from the Windy City to the racing capital Indianapolis.
Explore the music city before heading to the historic heart of Virginia.
A scenic end to your journey featuring Appalachian foothills.
Plan Your Route: Use GPS and update with real-time traffic and weather conditions. Select routes with rest stops and accommodation options.
Estimate Your Travel Time: Plan for flexibility by incorporating break times. Aim for safety with no more than 10 hours of driving per day.
Inspect Rental Conditions: Ensure the rental agreement supports one-way travel and does not carry extra return fees.
Prepare Emergency Supplies: Carry essentials like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and vehicle breakdown tools.
Research Lodging Options: Book accommodations in advance during peak seasons to avoid unexpected inconvenience.
Fuel Up Strategically: Monitor fuel stations on your route. The further from urban areas, the pricier fuel can become.
When choosing a car rental company for a one-way journey from Seattle to Washington D.C., it is essential to consider factors such as the one-way fee, the variety in vehicle fleet, location coverage, and additional advantages each company provides. The following companies offer reliable one-way rental services.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$$ | High | Extensive | Wide range of vehicles , 24/7 customer support , Multiple pickup/drop-off locations nationwide |
| Enterprise | $$ | Moderate | Extensive | Convenient downtown locations , Wide availability of hybrid and electric cars , Comprehensive customer care |
| Avis | $$$ | High | Good | Fast and efficient booking process , Loyalty program for frequent renters , Availability of luxury vehicles |
| Budget | $$ | Moderate | Good | Affordable rates , User-friendly website and mobile app , Frequent deals and offers |
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Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has a dedicated Rental Car Facility located approximately 5 minutes from the main terminal.
Open 24/7, providing flexibility for late-night or early-morning drop-offs.
Shuttles run every 5 minutes from designated areas at the airport terminal to the rental facility.
Public transport and taxi services are readily available at the Seattle Airport for onward travel after returning the rental car.
Verify shuttle timings and operating hours in advance to avoid delay, and ensure full documentation for a smooth rental process.
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