Why Renting a Car Makes Sense in Hampton
Hampton Roads is a sprawling region of interconnected cities, bridges and tunnels. While public transit is available, a rental car gives visitors the freedom to move easily between Hampton's attractions, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia Beach and the Historic Triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown. Residents also rent cars for road trips, insurance replacements and moving days, while military families often need temporary vehicles during relocation.
Rental locations are available at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, Norfolk International Airport and neighborhood branches throughout Hampton. Here are ten companies that stand out.
How We Ranked Them
We considered location coverage, vehicle selection, pricing, customer service, loyalty programs, ease of pickup and return, and benefits for military and government travelers.
The Top 10 Car Rental Companies in Hampton
1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Enterprise has an extensive network of neighborhood branches across Hampton and the Peninsula, along with airport locations. Its well-known pickup service and strong customer focus make it a top choice for insurance replacements and local rentals.
2. Hertz
Hertz offers a broad fleet, including premium and electric vehicles, at airport and select local locations. Its Gold Plus Rewards program allows members to skip the counter and get on the road faster.
3. Avis
Avis is popular with business travelers thanks to its Avis Preferred program and reliable service. Corporate and government rates make it a frequent choice for contractors visiting Langley and NASA.
4. Budget
Budget lives up to its name with competitive pricing and frequent discounts. It is a practical option for families and leisure travelers watching costs.
5. National Car Rental
National's Emerald Aisle allows members to choose any car in the designated section at participating locations, offering speed and flexibility that frequent travelers love.
6. Alamo
Alamo focuses on leisure travelers with straightforward pricing and self-service kiosks. It is a good fit for vacationers heading to the beaches and historic sites.
7. Thrifty
Thrifty offers value-oriented rentals with a range of economy and midsize vehicles. Travelers who are flexible on vehicle type can often find low rates.
8. Dollar
Dollar provides affordable rentals and simple booking, making it suitable for short trips and budget-conscious visitors.
9. Turo
Turo is a peer-to-peer car sharing marketplace where local owners rent out their vehicles. It offers unique options, from fuel-efficient compacts to convertibles for a coastal drive, often with flexible delivery.
10. U-Haul
For moving rather than sightseeing, U-Haul is a go-to choice. With many locations in Hampton, it offers trucks, cargo vans and trailers, which is especially useful for military households completing a PCS move.
Driving Tips for Hampton Roads
Traffic around the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel on Interstate 64 can be heavy during rush hours and summer weekends, so plan extra time when traveling between Hampton and Norfolk. The Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel on Interstate 664 is a useful alternative route. Some regional crossings, including the Downtown and Midtown tunnels between Norfolk and Portsmouth, have tolls, so ask your rental company how tolls are billed to avoid surprise fees.
Parking is generally easy in Hampton, though Downtown and Buckroe Beach can be busy during events and summer weekends.
How to Save on Car Rentals
Book in advance and compare airport and neighborhood locations, since off-airport branches often avoid extra fees. Check for military, AAA, Costco and corporate discounts. Review your personal auto insurance and credit card benefits before purchasing coverage at the counter. Return the car with a full tank to avoid refueling charges.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Compact cars are ideal for city driving and easy parking, while SUVs and minivans suit families heading to the beach with gear. Consider a hybrid or electric vehicle if you plan to drive extensively across the region, as charging infrastructure continues to grow in Hampton Roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a car to visit Hampton?
While rideshare and buses are available, a car makes it much easier to explore Hampton Roads and the Historic Triangle, especially if you plan to visit several cities.
Can I rent a car if I am under 25?
Most major rental companies allow drivers aged 21 to 24 to rent with a young driver surcharge. Some offer waivers for military and government travelers on official business.
How are tolls handled in rental cars?
Many rental companies offer electronic toll programs that charge a daily fee plus tolls. Ask about the program at pickup so you understand potential costs.
Is it cheaper to rent at the airport or in town?
Neighborhood branches in Hampton are often less expensive than airport counters because they avoid airport concession fees. If you can get a short rideshare from the airport, renting in town may save money on longer rentals.
Conclusion
A rental car unlocks the full Hampton Roads experience, from historic forts to sandy shores. Whether you need a quick local rental, a premium vehicle for business or a moving truck for relocation, the companies above provide reliable and convenient options.