If you are flying into Charlotte Douglas International Airport, you will likely need a car. Charlotte is a big city with so much to see and do. Getting a reliable car rental is the first step for a great trip.
Finding the best car rental at Charlotte Airport can seem tricky. You want a good price but also a car you can count on. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know and cover the best companies.
Let’s make sure your journey from the airport to the city is smooth.
Finding a Car Rental at CLT Airport
One of the biggest questions people have is where to pick up their car. At Charlotte Douglas International Airport, this is easy. All the main companies are in one spot. This is the official Rental Car Facility. It is located in the Hourly Deck right in front of the main terminal of the airport.
When you land and get your bags, you do not need a shuttle. Just follow the signs for rental cars. You will go along a walkway and take an elevator to Level 2. That is where all the rental counters are and this is a huge time saver. This is a key reason why on-site car rental at CLT airport is so popular.
On-Site Car Rental Companies at CLT
Many top brands have counters at the on-site facility. This makes it a one-stop shop for your car rental needs.
Here are some of the main national car rental CLT companies you will find there:
- Alamo
- RDU Black Car
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- National
- Sixt
Each of these companies offers a range of vehicles. From compact cars to large SUVs, you can find a car for any trip.
What is the Cheapest Rental Car Option at CLT?
Everyone loves a good deal. When it comes to finding a cheap car rental CLT, it is all about timing and research. Prices can change daily. They also depend on the type of car you want.
Did you know that? In 2025 the average daily cost for a car rental CLT is about $60. However, prices can go as low as $21 per day for an economy car. This is why booking early is so important.
The cheapest rental cars Charlotte Airport tend to be smaller, economy models. Some brands are often found to have the lowest rates. The best way to lock in a low price is to book online well before your trip. The cost can go up a lot if you wait until you arrive at the airport.
How to Find the Best Car Rental at Charlotte Airport?
Finding the best car rental at Charlotte Airport is about more than just price. It is about the total value you get. This includes the car itself, customer service, and the booking process.
Here are some tips to help you find a great deal and a great car.
- Book online in advance: Booking your car rental CLT, NC early can save you a lot of money. It also gives you more choices.
- Compare prices: Do not just check one website. Look at a few different ones.
- Check discounts: Many companies offer discounts. You might find them through a credit card or a membership you already have. Look for Discount car rental Charlotte Airport offers before you book.
- Read the fine print: Always check what is included in the price. Some quotes might not include taxes and fees. Others may have an extra charge for a second driver. This is a key part of choosing a reliable car hire at Charlotte Airport.
For a fast and easy trip, you can also consider a luxury car service. For a trip that requires extra comfort and style, try the services of RDU Black Car.
Is It Cheaper to Book CLT Car Rental Online or On Arrival?
Yes, booking online is almost always cheaper. This is a fact that most travel experts agree on. When you book online, you are securing a rate based on current deals and availability.
When you wait until you get to the airport, the prices are often much higher. This is because you are dealing with a limited supply. Companies know you need a car right then. They can charge more.
What Are the Top-Rated Car Rental Companies at Charlotte Airport?
Choosing a company you can trust is a big deal. Reviews are a great way to figure out which company is right for you. While some companies might have a reputation, it is always smart to check recent feedback.
Where to Pick Up Rental Cars at Charlotte Airport?
The process of picking up your rental car is very simple. As mentioned before, all companies are in the same building. This is the Charlotte Douglas International Airport car rental center location.
Here are the easy steps to get your vehicle:
- After you land, follow the signs to Baggage Claim.
- Once you get your luggage, look for signs for “Rental Cars.”
- The signs will lead you to a covered walkway.
- You will take an elevator or escalator up to Level 2.
- At Level 2, you will find the counters for all the car rental companies at CLT.
- Go to your company’s counter. A staff member will help you finish your paperwork.
- They will give you directions to the vehicle. The cars are located in the same building. You do not have to leave the facility.
This setup makes for a very smooth arrival. It is perfect for both a quick business trip and a relaxing family vacation.
What Documents Do I Need to Rent a Car at CLT Airport?
Renting a car in North Carolina is very easy. You just need a few important documents. Have them ready to make your pick up fast.
- A valid driver’s license
- A major credit card
- Proof of travel
It is always a good idea to check your specific company’s rules before you go. This helps avoid any surprises at the counter.
Why Rent a Car Instead of Rideshare at Charlotte Airport?
The main reason is freedom. A rideshare is great for one trip. But a rental car gives you total control. For example, if you are visiting for work, you may need to go to multiple meetings. A car lets you come and go as you please. For families, a rental car is much easier. You can have car seats ready to go without any wait for a rideshare to show up.
A rental car can also be cheaper. If you are staying for more than a couple of days, the cost of many rideshare trips will add up. A Charlotte Airport car rental deal for a week might be a better value. The freedom of having your own vehicle is often worth the price.
Charlotte Airport Rental Car Center Location
The Rental Car Facility is easy to find. The address is 5489 Josh Birmingham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28208. You can just plug this into your GPS. The return process is just as simple as the pickup. Just follow the signs for “Rental Car Return” on the airport roads.
One-Way Car Rental from Charlotte Airport
Sometimes you need to rent a car at Charlotte Airport and drop it off somewhere else. This is called a one-way rental. Most major companies offer this service. You will likely pay a fee for it.
The fee can be high. It depends on the distance and where you are going. It is a very useful option if you are planning to travel to a different city or state. For instance, you could rent a car at CLT and drive to Asheville, then fly home from there. This offers a lot of flexibility for your travel plans.
Business Travel Car Rental at Charlotte Airport
For the business traveler, time is money. A quick and easy pickup is key. The on-site CLT car rental facility is perfect for this. You can get off your plane and be in your rental car in minutes.
Many companies offer special programs for business travelers. These programs can give you faster service. They also offer loyalty points. When you are on a business trip, having a Charlotte Douglas International Airport car rental ready to go makes everything better. You can get to your meetings faster and with less stress.
SUV and Luxury Car Rental CLT Airport
If you are looking for more space or a nicer ride, there are many options. Almost all companies offer SUV and luxury car rental CLT Airport. An SUV is great for a group of people or if you have a lot of luggage. A luxury car is a great way to make a special trip even more memorable.
You can book these types of vehicles online. They are a great choice if you need a little more room or style for your trip.
Weekend & Short-Term Car Hire CLT
Sometimes you just need a car for a short time. A weekend trip is a great example. Most companies offer weekend & short-term car hire CLT. You can pick up a car on Friday and return it on Sunday. The rates are often different than a weekly rate.
It is always a good idea to compare rates. Sometimes a three-day rental costs more than a full week. So, check both options. This small step can save you some money. It ensures you have the best car hire options CLT for your plans.
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect car. Remember, a great trip starts with smart planning.
For a trip that requires extra comfort and style, try the services of RDU Black Car.
FAQs
Is it better to use a travel agency or book directly with the company?
Booking directly with the company is often best. If something goes wrong, it is easier to solve the problem. Also, you might get a better deal and can use loyalty points. Some travel agencies can have extra fees you do not see at first.
What is the age requirement to rent a car at CLT?
Most companies require you to be at least 21 years old. If you are under 25, you will likely have to pay a “young driver fee.” This fee can be quite expensive. Always check the company’s rules before you book.
Can I rent a car with a debit card at Charlotte Airport?
Yes, many companies let you use a debit card. However, they may ask for extra proof of identity. They might also put a large hold on your card for a security deposit. This hold can be hundreds of dollars. It is best to use a credit card if you can.
Do I need extra insurance for my rental car?
You may not need extra insurance. Check with your personal auto insurance provider. Many policies already cover rental cars. Also, many credit cards offer some form of rental car insurance if you use their card to pay. Always know what you are covered for before you rent.
Can I drop off my rental car after hours at CLT?
Yes, most companies offer an after-hours return service. You can drop off the car and leave the keys in a special drop box. However, you are responsible for the car until an agent checks it in the next day. Take pictures of the car when you drop it off just to be safe.
