Maryland Car Rental Deals – Save Big on Your Chesapeake Adventure

Quick Search & Book

It’s easy to book your Maryland rental: use the search form above by entering your pickup location (city, downtown or any airport like BWI, Baltimore/Washington International), select dates, and hit search. In seconds, you’ll see all available cars from our network of Maryland rental partners, from budget compacts to spacious vans. With our fast filters, you can narrow by car type, price, or specific features (like GPS, car seat, etc.). We do not require prepayment on most bookings, reserve now and pay later at pickup, with free cancellation if your plans change. In short, we’ve made renting a car in Maryland simple, transparent, and affordable.

Why Rent a Car in Maryland?

Maryland might be one of the smaller states, but its attractions are spread out and often spilling into neighboring D.C. and Virginia. A rental car gives you flexibility to:

• Access All Areas: Public transportation in Maryland is limited outside the Baltimore–Washington corridor. Want to visit the Naval Academy in Annapolis, the beaches of the Eastern Shore, or Antietam Battlefield in Western MD? A car is by far the easiest way to reach those.
• See D.C. and Beyond: Many travelers use Maryland as a base for Washington D.C. (for example, staying near BWI or in Bethesda), with a car, you can drive to a Metro station, park-and-ride into D.C., then also explore Maryland’s own attractions afterward. Without a car, you’d be restricted to Amtrak or MARC train schedules.
• Enjoy Scenic Drives: Maryland has charming byways, cruise along Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway on the Eastern Shore, or drive up to the Appalachian Mountains in western MD. You’ll pass through quaint towns, lighthouses, and forests at your leisure.
• Convenience for Day Trips: With a car you can do day trips that would be impractical otherwise, e.g., a day in Gettysburg, PA (just across the border), or a journey down to Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Maryland’s central location makes multi-state excursions easy, and rental cars come with unlimited mileage, so you’re free to roam.

Our Maryland Car Rental Benefits

• Top Brands & Local Providers: We partner with all major car rental companies in Maryland (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, etc.) as well as reliable local agencies. This means you get a wide selection and competitive rates. Whether you’re picking up at BWI Airport, downtown Baltimore, or a suburban location, you’ll see the best options in one place.
• Competitive Prices & Discounts: Finding a bargain is our specialty. Our search engine hunts down promotions like weekend specials, AAA/AARP discounts, or free upgrade offers, and displays them automatically. We often have exclusive deals for AirportVanRental customers, for instance, discounted GPS or an additional driver for free (some companies normally charge ~$13/day for extra drivers).
• Transparency on Fees: Maryland rentals might involve tolls or city surcharges, we’re upfront about all of it. You’ll see the estimated total including Maryland’s sales tax (around 6%) and any local fees before you book. No hidden “energy fees” or weird add-ons at checkout. Planning a one-way from Maryland to another state? We show any drop fee instantly so you can decide cost-effectively.
• Flexible Pick-Up Options: Need the car delivered? Some Maryland downtown locations (e.g., in Baltimore) offer pick-up service where they’ll come get you. Or if you’re flying into one airport and out of another (DCA, IAD, etc.), we can arrange for you to return the car there. We aim to accommodate your itinerary, not force you into rigid plans.
• Customer Support & Roadside Help: Booking through us means you have our support 24/7. Locked your keys in the car after that Ocean City boardwalk stroll? We’ll coordinate quick roadside assistance. Flight delay into BWI causing late pickup? We can liaise with the rental counter to hold your car (many airport locations are 24h, but we communicate special cases). We’ve got your back so you can travel worry-free.

Today’s Best Maryland Car Rental Deals

(Here are a few sample deals available for Maryland locations. These refresh frequently, we update this list to showcase recent low prices.)

• Compact Car from $27/day, Example: Nissan Versa or similar. Perfect for solo travelers or couples around town. Latest find: rate at BWI Airport, checked 3 hours ago.
• Full-Size Sedan from $32/day, Example: Toyota Camry or similar. A comfy choice for highway driving between Baltimore and D.C. Deal observed: Baltimore downtown location this week.
• SUV from $45/day, Example: Ford Escape or similar (5-passenger). Great for families visiting national parks or needing extra cargo room. Special: weekend rate in Silver Spring, MD (with free GPS included).
• Minivan from $59/day, Example: Dodge Grand Caravan, 7-seater. Ideal if you’re taking the kids to Ocean City or moving students into college (plenty of space for boxes). Note: includes unlimited miles.

(Prices vary by date and availability. “From” rates are based on recent bookings in Maryland and include base rate only, taxes and fees to be added. To get the current price for your trip, do a quick search above!)

Driving in Maryland: Tips and Local Insights

Maryland’s roads range from bustling Beltways to peaceful country lanes. Here are key things to know when driving in MD:

• Baltimore-Washington Traffic: Central Maryland is part of the D.C. metro area, meaning heavy traffic during rush hours. The I-95 corridor, the Baltimore Beltway (I-695), and the D.C. Beltway (I-495) all get congested on weekdays from about 6:30-9:30 AM and 3:30-7:00 PM. Plan extra time if you’re driving then. Tune into traffic reports (e.g., WTOP 103.5 FM for D.C. area) for accident alerts. Note that the I-95 Express Toll Lanes north of Baltimore allow a faster ride for a fee (EZPass or video toll) if traffic is bad. Similarly, I-495 and I-95 in Northern Virginia (outside D.C.) have Express Lanes, if you venture down toward Virginia, be aware those require an E-ZPass or you’ll be billed.
• Tolls & E-ZPass: Maryland has several toll facilities: the Fort McHenry Tunnel and Harbor Tunnel on I-95 in Baltimore, the Key Bridge (east Baltimore), the I-95 Express lanes (as mentioned), the Bay Bridge (US-50 to the Eastern Shore), the ICC/MD-200 (toll road between I-270 and I-95), and others. Most now use all-electronic tolling, no cash. If your car has an E-ZPass transponder, tolls will deduct from that. If not, cameras will bill the rental car via Video Toll. Rental companies typically charge you the toll plus a service fee. For instance, driving over the Bay Bridge (current toll ~$4) without E-ZPass, you’ll get a bill or see a charge later with maybe a ~$5 fee. If you plan multiple tolls, consider asking the rental agent if the car is equipped with E-ZPass or if you can rent one. Alternatively, you can pay Maryland video tolls online by license plate within a few days to avoid rental admin fees, something to keep in mind.
• City Driving, Baltimore/DC: In Baltimore City, watch for narrow one-way streets especially downtown and in neighborhoods like Fells Point. Keep an eye out for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly around the Inner Harbor and university areas (Johns Hopkins, etc.). Speed cameras and red-light cameras operate in Baltimore and D.C., mostly near schools and high-risk areas. If you speed over, say, 12 mph above the limit in a camera zone, expect a mailed ticket (the rental company will get it and pass the cost to you plus a fee). So obey posted limits, typically 25 or 30 mph in residential/city settings, unless otherwise signed. Parking in Baltimore: use garages or official lots when possible. Street parking downtown is metered (you can pay via app). In D.C., parking is even tighter, many streets require residential permits or have time limits. If you’re visiting D.C. for the day, it might be wise to park at a Metro station in MD (like New Carrollton or Silver Spring) and take the train in, to avoid D.C. driving altogether (traffic and expensive parking).
• Unique Maryland Road Laws: Maryland has some lesser-known rules. Move Over Law: You must move over or slow down for emergency vehicles and any vehicles with flashers on the side (tow trucks, utility vehicles). This is enforced, so if you see flashing lights on the shoulder, safely change lanes away or slow to a safe speed. Rain & Headlights: Maryland (like many states) requires you to turn on your headlights whenever you’re using your windshield wipers due to rain or fog. It’s common sense for visibility, and it’s the law. License Plate Covers: It’s illegal to obscure any part of your license plate with covers or frames, won’t likely matter for a rental, but just don’t tamper with the plates or temp tags. Left Lane: On highways, left lanes are generally for passing; Maryland police can ticket drivers impeding traffic in the left lane (though this isn’t super common, just etiquette, keep right if not passing).
• Speed Cameras & Enforcement: Maryland uses speed cameras in work zones and school zones extensively. For example, if you drive on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (MD-295) or I-95 through highway construction, you might see signs “Speed Camera Enforcement.” They mail tickets (usually ~$40) but no points, still, no one wants that surprise. Also, many local roads near schools have cameras active on weekdays. These typically trigger if you’re 12+ mph over the limit. It’s another reason to stick to limits. Maryland also has aggressive driving and anti-road rage laws; essentially, don’t weave or tailgate, you could be cited if a trooper observes dangerous maneuvers.
• Winter Driving: Maryland gets all four seasons. If you’re here in winter (Dec-Mar) and planning to drive west toward Garrett County (Deep Creek Lake) or even around Baltimore during a snowstorm, be prepared. Major highways are plowed efficiently, but smaller roads can be slick. Keep greater following distance on snow/ice. The state sometimes implements snow emergency plans, requiring tire chains or snow tires in certain mountainous areas, though if conditions are that bad, it’s best to delay travel. In general, coastal and central MD have milder winters (some snow, but not constant). Western MD can have heavy snow, if you rent in winter and plan to ski at Wisp Resort, consider requesting an AWD or 4x4 vehicle for extra stability.
• Scenic and Rural Drives: Driving the rural byways of Maryland is pretty straightforward. Watch out for farm vehicles on roads on the Eastern Shore or north-central MD, tractors occasionally cross or drive slowly. Also, deer crossings are a real hazard, especially at dawn/dusk in suburban and rural areas. Keep your eyes peeled for deer on the move (October-January are peak deer collision months). Hitting a deer can cause significant car damage, if it happens, pull over and call the authorities/rental company. But better to avoid by staying alert on woodsy roads. At the same time, enjoy those scenic drives, Maryland’s covered bridges, fall foliage in October, and bay views are worth it.

By understanding these tips, you’ll navigate Maryland like a local. Maryland drivers are generally courteous but can be brisk (especially on I-95). When in doubt, yield, a little patience goes a long way on MD roads.

Road Trip Ideas from Maryland

Maryland’s location makes it a fantastic launching point for road trips, you can easily reach mountains, beaches, and big cities. Here are three itineraries to showcase trips starting in Maryland:

Chesapeake Bay Getaway (Baltimore to Ocean City via Eastern Shore)

Distance: ~150 miles from Baltimore to Ocean City (3 hours drive, not counting stops).
Route: From Baltimore, take I-97 South to US-50 East across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Continue on US-50 through Maryland’s Eastern Shore all the way to Ocean City.
Highlights: Start off in Baltimore (perhaps grab some coffee and a famous Berger cookie for the road). After about 30 minutes you’ll approach the monumental Chesapeake Bay Bridge near Annapolis, a 4.3-mile span over the bay. Enjoy the view (passengers often spot boats or even U.S. Navy vessels) but drivers, stay focused, it’s high up! Once across, consider stopping in the town of Chesapeake Beach or the outlets in Queenstown if shopping interests you. Continuing on US-50, you enter the heart of the Eastern Shore, a region known for farming, seafood, and charming historic towns. A great detour is St. Michaels (turn off at Easton onto Route 33), a postcard-pretty harbor town with seafood restaurants, boutiques, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (you can see Hooper Strait lighthouse). Back on US-50, as you pass through Cambridge, consider a stop at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (especially if you like bird-watching, eagles and herons galore). Further east, you might treat yourself to an authentic Eastern Shore snack: boiled peanuts or a slice of Smith Island cake (Maryland’s state dessert, 8+ layered cake). Approaching Ocean City, you’ll cross the flat expanse of the Salisbury area (maybe stop for the Salisbury Zoo, free admission!). Finally, arrive in Ocean City and drive the length of “the strip” on Coastal Highway. Don’t miss the classic Ocean City Boardwalk, maybe park and stretch your legs with some Thrasher’s fries or saltwater taffy. Dip your toes in the Atlantic; you’ve gone from one bay to the open ocean.
Tips: The Bay Bridge can get congested on summer Fridays & Sundays (beach traffic), try to cross at off-peak times (early morning or late evening) to avoid backups, which can be several miles long. There’s a $4 (EZPass) or $6 (video toll) eastbound toll on the bridge; westbound is free. Ocean City in summer has heavy traffic along Coastal Hwy, patience and watch for pedestrians. Also, in peak season, parking near the boardwalk may fill up; there are paid lots and street parking with meters, use the ParkMobile app if needed. Keep some cash for smaller tolls: the Kent Narrows bridge on US-50 has a $1.50 toll eastbound (takes EZPass). Lastly, bring insect repellent if you stop in marshy areas (mosquitoes can be fierce in warmer months by the Bay). This drive offers a great blend of Maryland’s maritime culture and beach fun.

Capital Region History Tour (Baltimore, Annapolis, Washington D.C.)

Distance: ~100 miles round trip (Baltimore to Annapolis to D.C. to Baltimore).
Route: Baltimore to Annapolis via I-97 (30 mi), Annapolis to D.C. via US-50 West / I-495 (35 mi), D.C. back to Baltimore via Baltimore-Washington Parkway MD-295 or I-95 (40-45 mi).
Highlights: Dive into the rich history around Maryland and D.C. Start in Baltimore, perhaps visiting Fort McHenry (where the national anthem was inspired). Then head down I-97 to Annapolis, Maryland’s capital city and a colonial gem. Park near downtown (Hillman Garage or street parking) and explore the U.S. Naval Academy (public tours available) and the Maryland State House (the oldest state capitol in continuous use, and once the nation’s capital in 1783-4!). Stroll the cobblestone streets and grab some crab cakes for lunch by the City Dock. Next, head west on US-50 towards Washington, D.C. On the way, you’ll cross the Potomac River into DC (actually into Virginia then DC depending on your route), consider stopping at Arlington National Cemetery just before D.C. to pay respects and see the eternal flame at JFK’s grave. In Washington D.C., drive the National Mall loop (Constitution and Independence Avenues) to see the Capitol, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial by car. You can park around the Mall (metered) or in a parking garage near downtown if you want to get out and explore on foot, seeing the White House and museums up close is worth it. After soaking in the capital’s atmosphere (and maybe a free Smithsonian museum or two), head back to Baltimore. Easiest route is the BW Parkway (MD-295), a tree-lined parkway without trucks that runs directly to Baltimore, a fittingly scenic end through greenery. Alternatively, if it’s late, I-95 might be swifter.
Tips: D.C. driving can be confusing with traffic circles (like Dupont Circle) and one-way streets. Consider parking once and using the DC Circulator bus or walking to cover the Mall area. Weekday rush hour in D.C. (and between Baltimore & DC) is intense, try to schedule your D.C. portion outside of 7-9am or 4-6pm. Annapolis also can have traffic backups when the Naval Academy has events or during Boat Show weeks. In summer, watch out for afternoon thunderstorms common to this region, they can be sudden; if rain gets heavy, Maryland law says headlights on with wipers and slow down to prevent hydroplaning. Lastly, bring a valid ID if you plan to enter federal sites like the Naval Academy or Capitol, security is tight but tours are rewarding. This loop packs in U.S. history, colonial era to modern, all within a short drive.

Appalachian Adventure (Baltimore to Deep Creek Lake, Western MD)

Distance: ~200 miles one-way (about 3.5-4 hours drive).
Route: From Baltimore, take I-70 West through Frederick to I-68 West (at Hancock) and continue to Deep Creek Lake area (exit at US-219).
Highlights: This road trip takes you to the mountains and lakes of Maryland’s western panhandle. As you depart Baltimore on I-70, the first 45 minutes bring you to Frederick, a historic town with a vibrant downtown, a quick pit stop for coffee on Market Street or to see Civil War era sites. Continue on I-70 over South Mountain; just past Hagerstown, you could detour briefly to Antietam National Battlefield (in Sharpsburg, ~10mi south of I-70) if Civil War history interests you, Antietam was the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. Otherwise, at Hancock, MD- where the state narrows, transition to I-68 West (also known as the National Freeway). This stretch of I-68 is scenic, you’ll cross Sideling Hill, where there’s a notable road cut through the mountain exposing colorful rock layers (there’s a rest area/overlook on Sideling Hill, worth a photo). Further on I-68, you’re essentially following parts of the old National Road through small towns like Flintstone and Cumberland. Cumberland’s charming historic downtown is another optional stop, maybe for a bite or to see the C&O Canal terminus. Now the terrain gets hillier as you climb the Appalachian Plateau. Exit onto US-219 toward Deep Creek Lake, Maryland’s largest freshwater lake nestled in the mountains. Deep Creek is a four-season resort area, boating, fishing, and hiking in summer; brilliant foliage in fall; skiing at Wisp Resort in winter. Enjoy the serene lake views, maybe rent a kayak or take a short hike in Swallow Falls State Park to see a beautiful waterfall. It’s hard to believe you’re still in Maryland! Nearby, the town of Oakland has a quaint downtown and a historic railroad station if you’re interested. If you’re up for more, drive a bit further west on I-68 and you can stand at the Maryland/West Virginia border, or even hit the town of Accident, MD for a fun photo with the town sign (yes, Accident is a place).
Tips: Western Maryland is at a higher elevation (~2,500 feet in Garrett County), so weather can be cooler, pack an extra layer. In winter, this area gets significantly more snow than Baltimore (Deep Creek could have snow when Baltimore has none). If traveling in winter, ensure your car has all-season tires or 4WD; check if any snow emergency is in effect (if so, Maryland law requires tire chains or snow tires on certain routes). On the way west, after Frederick, services (gas/food) become sparser but still available at intervals, just don’t let your tank get too low. There’s a 40-mile stretch on I-68 with no major towns (between Cumberland and Deep Creek exits), consider fueling in Cumberland. Cell service can be spotty in the deep valleys. Lastly, watch your speed on I-68’s downhills, they are patrolled and there are some speed cameras in work zones. This trip reveals Maryland’s “mountain side of Maryland” often overlooked, you’ll experience a quiet, nature-rich contrast to the bustling cities in the east of the state.

Maryland’s position means you can also easily extend any of these trips: from Deep Creek, you could hop to Pittsburgh in a couple hours, or from Ocean City, pop up to Delaware’s beaches. The possibilities are many when you have a car at your disposal.