Columbus car hire
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Cheap car rentals in Columbus
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Columbus
- Though public transport is offered in the city, enjoying a sense of wonder as you adventure at your own pace in Columbus and its surroundings with a rental car can’t be compared to anything else. Using car rentals in Columbus gives you the freedom and comfort you need to move to any place at any time. Maneuvering through the city and arriving at your desired destination won’t be a problem, considering most Columbus car rentals have a GPS navigation system. Even if it’s your first time in the city, with a navigation system you can drive to Hocking Hills, which is about an hour’s drive from Columbus city center. Whether you’re planning a business trip or a romantic getaway, booking a rental car in Columbus will save you time and make your trip more enjoyable.
- Most car rentals in Columbus are either within the CMH airport’s premises or a short walk away. Companies such as Enterprise, Alamo, Avis, Hertz, Budget, and Dollar are located at the airport, while others such as Thrifty and National offer shuttle and pick-up services from the airport.
- Although the city roads are well maintained, you should be cautious while driving a rental car in Columbus, especially when it is raining. Watch out for speed limits, other motorists, and rid yourself of all distractions. If it’s your first time in Columbus, set all your rental car’s controls before leaving the parking lot. Adjusting your GPS device or other control knobs while driving might take your eyes off the road, and increase your chances of causing an accident.
- Columbus is a big and busy city with hundreds of cars on the road at nearly any given time. To dodge wasting time in traffic jams, avoid moving around during rush hour, which is around 6am-8am, 3:30pm-4pm, and 6pm-7pm on weekdays. If you have to drive during rush hour, the roads to avoid are Interstate 70-71 downtown, state Route 315, and the I-270 outer belt, which are hugely trafficked. If you’re on a schedule or trying to catch a flight, keep these times in mind when planning your route.
- Book your rental car in Columbus at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Intermediate rental cars in Columbus are around 36% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Columbus
What type of car is recommended for driving in Columbus?
A compact car is suitable for driving through the city as it occupies less space and fits into the various parking lots easily. You can choose between a fuel-efficient mid-range car, a minivan, a sedan, or a sports car. It all depends on your budget and preference. However, if you’re traveling with four to seven people, taking a ride with an eight-seater SUV could be a better alternative.
What’s the speed limit in Columbus?
While driving on highways, 65mph and 70mph are permitted, which stretches to the rural interstates. The speed limit for other areas varies depending on where you are driving to. For instance, while approaching school zones, you should drive at a speed not exceeding 25mph. Be conscious of the speed limit signs that are in place. Keep in mind that the roads are monitored with a video surveillance system on major highways.
Where are the best places to park in Columbus?
Like any other big city that is packed with cars, finding a parking spot can be a big hassle. The parking lot fees vary across the city. For instance, a parking lot in Downtown Columbus, such as the Bicentennial Public Parking Lot, will cost you about $10-$20 on weekdays, whereas about $5-$10 on the weekends. A maximum stay is restricted to a few hours downtown and up to about 12h on Columbus's outskirts.
How much is the price of fuel in Columbus?
The average price of fuel in Columbus is RM 15.21 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between RM 182 and RM 243, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular car hire in Columbus?
Intermediate (Nissan Versa or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Columbus.
How can I find car hires near me in Columbus?
Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.
How much does an Intermediate car hire cost in Columbus?
An Intermediate car hire in Columbus costs RM 217 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car hire cost in Columbus?
A Standard car hire in Columbus costs RM 227 per day, on average.
How much does a Special car hire cost in Columbus?
A Special car hire in Columbus costs RM 235 per day, on average.
Columbus car rental reviews and directory All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car rental booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.
Alamo
10.0
Wonderful
Read 1 reviewCleanliness
10.0
Comfort
10.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.0
Value for money
10.0
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
3250 W Britt David Rd
+1 844 806 3359
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
tamoria, Jun 2021
Pros:
The staff was friendly and so accommodating.Cons:
The remodeling at the airport makes it different to pick up cars now, but it is understandable and NOT their fault.National
6.2
Okay
Read 2 reviewsCleanliness
6.6
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.3
Value for money
6.6
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
3250 W Britt David Rd
+1 844 816 4379
Filters
Show reviews that mention
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2021
Pros:
Sadly, this was a business ending experience for us!Cons:
We needed an SUV-sized vehicle for our trip to a high school graduation (we were transporting a large item to a family member). My wife made the reservation in MARCH for an SUV to be used at the tail of May. The day before our rental, my wife went to the rental company to ensure we were going to get the size vehicle we reserved. NONE WERE AVAILABLE! We had to scramble and borrow a neighbor’s SUV. We will not go with the company in the future!6.8 Okay
Maureen, Jul 2020
Pros:
Part of the staff were helpful, the part were terribleCons:
When we got there, they didn’t have a premium SUV, the biggest was a 5 passenger, since there were 6 of us that wAsnt going to work. They didn’t offer a solution, told us we would have to take two cars. Finally a van magically appeared. Lots of my time was wasted!!! I will never ever use kayak againAvis
5.4
Fair
Read 6 reviewsCleanliness
5.4
Comfort
5.4
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.4
Value for money
5.4
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
3250 W Britt David Road, #112
+1 706 322 2539
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Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Mar 2021
Cons:
Everything could've been better. They made me wait hours on a reservation rental! They rented my sports utility and gave me a mini car for the same price. They charged my credit card more than once , taking over$300 for a1 Day rental! Now I'm fighting fort my money back. Worse experience Ever!!! Run Run Run, I left Enterprise but may return seeing that They aren't so bad now after comparing.2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2021
Pros:
The staff was TRASH! Careless attitudes and busy in personal phones. I had to return my rental because the oil light came on. No one apologized for holding me up, I was an hour late for an important appointment and they didn’t care, I will never rent from Avis again. Their staff needs more customer service training. A simple “I’m sorry for your inconvenience” would’ve went a long way!10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jun 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Sergio, Dec 2021
2.0 Poor
Louise, Nov 2021
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2021
Cons:
I was unable to get a rental from here because I did not have a credit card but debit card although I would have been paying for services upfront. I just went to Enterprise so if they give you a hard time Enterprise got you I had real business to take care of.Enterprise Rent-A-Car
5.0
Fair
Read 1 reviewCleanliness
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.0
Value for money
6.0
5 locations in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
1807 S Lumpkin Rd
+1 706 689 0896
3250 W Britt David Rd
+1 844 917 0961
3410 Veterans Pkwy
+1 706 653 7572
3450 Macon Rd
+1 706 568 3400
5733b Veterans Pkwy
+1 706 660 1090
Filters
Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Sept 2024
Passenger van
Budget
4.9
Mediocre
Read 6 reviewsCleanliness
5.5
Comfort
5.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.7
Value for money
5.0
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
3250 W Britt David Rd, Ste 111
+1 706 327 5501
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Reviews
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Sept 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Chiquita, Aug 2020
Pros:
The staff was very friendly and helpful. The rental process and return was super easy. Thanks Budget Columbus Ga Airport!3.6 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2020
Pros:
Staff unfriendly, didn't have a clean decent car. Never offered any apologies2.0 Poor
Anonymous, May 2020
Pros:
There was nothing about the experience with budget that was even expectable.Cons:
The right car available. Not getting a vehicle that smelt like marijuana and maintenance light not being on.4.0 Mediocre
Brian, Jan 2020
Pros:
Seemingly friendly staffCons:
The vehicle was awe full with no Nacional capabilities and very little utility in general. What vehicle doesn’t have the ability to at least connect a personal phone for navigation.8.0 Very Good
Todd, Mar 2023
Compact
Hertz
4.6
Mediocre
Read 5 reviewsCleanliness
5.6
Comfort
6.4
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.4
Value for money
4.4
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
3250 W Britt David Rd Ste 110
+1 706 324 2725
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Reviews
4.0 Mediocre
Anonymous, May 2021
Pros:
There was a vehicle for me to use.Cons:
The reservation although confirmed, was not ready. Staff at pickup were rude and short because my pickup was scheduled for 6pm, and they were ready to leave for the day at 6pm. I was told there was no vehicle like the one I had reserved, but they were willing to place me in a sedan. They handed the keys over, told me the total charge without explaining the break down and sent me on a hunt for the vehicle. It took me 10 minutes to find it only to see that the cleanliness sticker had been left torn from the previous rental trip. The car was not cleaned and it did not have a full tank of gas. There was no use going back to the counter since the staff was out the door before I could collect my baggage and follow. The drop off was smoother although I wasn't able to really talk to anyone about my concerns for billing. They had me drive up and leave the vehicle in a return line.2.0 Poor
carol, Mar 2021
Pros:
The vehicle was fine.Cons:
I dropped the car off on the day it was due. I went inside and handed the keys to the attendant. After three days I started getting calls that my vehicle was overdue and I needed to return it. I was on vacation and was on the phone for a long time. I was informed it would be taken care of. The calls continued for 3 days. I called the company several times during my VACATION. After asking for a supervisor and telling them I was tired of being harassed, the calls finally stopped.5.2 Fair
Leonardo, Feb 2020
Pros:
Employees were unable to explain about the toll pass, i was never told that dropping off the car at a later time was going to cost me 49 dollars more.10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Aug 2022
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jun 2021
Pros:
The staff was rudeOne location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
Filters
No reviews available
One location in Columbus
Locations in Columbus
Filters
No reviews available
Car hire locations in or near Columbus
Good to know
Most popular car type | Intermediate |
|---|
When to book a car hire in Columbus
Everything you need to know for your car rental in Columbus
Columbus car hire information
| Pick-up location | Columbus |
|---|---|
| Car types | |
| Hire locations | 12 |
| Airport locations | 8 |