Newark Car Rental Your Gateway to the Garden State & NYC

Ready to explore Newark and beyond? Use the search form above to find your ideal car. Enter your Newark pick-up location (we serve all major points Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Newark Penn Station, Downtown Newark, etc.), select your dates, and let our system compare real-time deals from multiple car rental companies in the area. In seconds, you’ll see options for every need: compact cars for easy city parking, SUVs for family trips, luxury vehicles for arriving at that meeting in style, even vans if you’ve got a group heading down the Shore. Booking is fast and secure. Most rentals in Newark allow you to reserve now and pay later at pick-up, and include free cancellation if your plans change. In just a few clicks, you’ll lock in the ideal ride for your Newark adventure. With a great rate confirmed, you can focus on mapping out your must-see stops perhaps a famous deli in the Ironbound, a drive to the Prudential Center for a Devils game, or a day trip into Manhattan knowing your transportation is sorted.

Newark has decent public transit links (including commuter trains into NYC), but there’s a lot that having a car unlocks in this region. Depending on your plans, renting a car in Newark can be a game-changer for convenience and exploration. Here are some top reasons to consider getting your own set of wheels in Newark and North Jersey:

• Freedom to Explore Beyond the City: Newark’s downtown is just the start New Jersey’s attractions are spread across the state, and New York City is next door. With a car, you can easily venture to Jersey Shore beaches (enjoy a sunny day at Asbury Park or Point Pleasant), drive west to the Delaware Water Gap for hiking, or head up to the Hudson Valley in New York for winery tours. Public transportation can’t easily reach many of these spots. Having a car means you’re not confined to train schedules Liberty State Park, mountain trails, small historic towns like Princeton all become accessible on your own timetable.
• Convenience for Multiple Stops: If your visit involves multiple stops (say you’re touring colleges like Rutgers and Princeton, or you have business in various NJ suburbs), a car is by far the easiest way to hop between locations. North Jersey’s various towns each have their own draws you might grab breakfast in Montclair, then head to Jersey City for waterfront views, and later drive into Hoboken for dinner. You could rideshare or juggle bus routes… or just drive 20 minutes to each, with all your finds tucked safely in the trunk. A Newark rental car connects the dots seamlessly, letting you maximize your time.
• Gateway to NYC (On Your Terms): Newark is just 10 miles from Manhattan. Many travelers actually use Newark as a base to explore New York City without paying NYC prices. By renting a car, you have the option to drive into the city for a Broadway show or museum trip or, alternately, park in New Jersey and take a quick PATH train across the river to avoid city traffic. A car gives you the flexibility to decide when and how to approach NYC. Plus, if you’re flying into Newark but also visiting other boroughs or upstate New York, a rental lets you go beyond what the NJ Transit and MTA trains cover.
• Explore the Whole Garden State: New Jersey is known as the Garden State for a reason there’s a lot of ground to cover, from the pine barrens in the south to the highlands in the north. Many of the state’s best sights (like Cape May’s historic seaside, Six Flags Great Adventure theme park, or Atlantic City’s boardwalk) are not in the immediate Newark area. With a car, you can explore New Jersey’s full variety. One day you could be hiking in the Watchung Reservation, the next day riding roller coasters, and the next relaxing at a Cape May B&B try doing that on a bus schedule! Renting a car turns a Newark trip into a true statewide adventure.
• Flexibility & Time Savings: Compared to relying on trains or buses, driving often saves significant time when you have a multi-stop itinerary. New Jersey’s public transit is great for point-to-point into NYC, but if you plan to roam between various suburbs, malls, parks, and attractions, nothing beats the efficiency of your own vehicle. You’re not waiting for the next train or rideshare you’re in control. Particularly if you plan day trips or spontaneous detours (maybe a quick drive to Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, then an evening ferry ride out of Weehawken), a rental car ensures you can do it all in one day, at your pace.

Our Newark Car Rental Benefits (USPs)

Why book your Newark ride with AirportVanRental? We specialize in rental vehicles and partner with all major brands across New Jersey to deliver a smooth, affordable experience. Here are some of the perks and guarantees we offer for Newark car rentals:

• Wide Selection Across NJ: Thanks to our network of multiple suppliers, you’ll find the right vehicle for your needs. From economy cars perfect for zipping around Newark’s city streets (and fitting into tight parking spots), to 7-passenger vans ideal for group trips down the Shore or up to MetLife Stadium for a game, we’ve got it all. Need a fuel-efficient hybrid for commuting into NYC? An SUV for a winter ski trip to the Poconos? No problem browse and choose from thousands of cars available at Newark Airport and local NJ locations.
• Best Rate Guarantee: We continuously scan rates from Newark Airport and nearby branches to ensure you get the lowest price. Because we aggregate deals from so many providers, you’ll see special offers here that you won’t find on single-brand sites. If there’s a weekend sale at EWR or a promotional rate at a downtown Newark agency, we highlight it so you never miss a bargain. Found a better rate for the same car and terms? Let us know we’ll match it. Saving you money is our priority.
• No Pre-Payment & Free Cancellation: Travel plans can change, especially when business meetings shift or weather rolls in. Most of our Newark rentals do NOT require any upfront payment reserve now, pay at pick-up. Cancel anytime up to 48 hours before pick-up with zero fees. This flexibility means you can book early to snag a great deal and adjust later if needed, without stress or penalty. (We think flexibility is a must why be locked in if your itinerary shifts?)
• Transparent Pricing No Hidden Fees: The price you see is the price you pay. Newark rentals may include taxes and surcharges (NJ state rental car tax, airport concession fees if you rent at EWR, etc.), but we display all mandatory charges upfront. No last-minute surprises at the counter, no “Newark city use fee” sneaking in later. We also give you a heads-up on common optional expenses: for example, if you plan to use the New Jersey Turnpike’s tolls or cross into NYC via tunnel, we explain how those toll charges work (see driving tips below). Bottom line: we hate hidden fees as much as you do, so we’ve made everything clear for peace of mind.
• Unlimited Mileage on Almost All Rentals: Don’t worry about mileage caps virtually all rentals we offer around Newark come with unlimited miles. Whether you’re driving 5 miles to Jersey City or 500 miles on a Northeast road trip, you won’t pay extra for distance. Want to do a round-trip from Newark to Washington D.C. and back, or a loop through New England? Go for it no mileage fees holding you back. (If a rare exception vehicle has a mileage limit, we’ll flag it clearly before you book.)
• Local Expertise & Support: We’re not just a booking site we’re your travel ally. Our team knows Newark and the greater NYC/NJ area, and we infuse local knowledge into this page, from driving law tips to road trip ideas below. Need advice on avoiding traffic at the Holland Tunnel, or where to find affordable parking near Newark Penn Station? We have the answers. When you book with AirportVanRental, you’re tapping into a Newark-savvy resource. And if any issue arises during your rental, our customer support is available 24/7 we can quickly assist or liaise with the rental company on your behalf. You’re not alone on the road with AVR!

Top Car Deals in Newark Today

• Economy Car, from $28/day. Example: Nissan Versa or similar. These small cars are perfect for navigating Newark’s city streets and maximizing fuel economy. They’re easy to park in tight spots downtown or across the river in Manhattan. Why so affordable? There’s high competition at Newark Airport and nearby locations, especially outside peak summer, driving prices down. Great for solo travelers or couples making quick trips into the city or across NJ on a budget.
• Full-Size Sedan, from $35/day. Example: Toyota Camry or Nissan Altima. A comfortable choice if you need a bit more room (say for a family of four with luggage) while still blending into urban traffic. At around $35 a day in off-peak times, these are a steal considering the comfort and trunk space nice for a scenic drive out to Princeton or even down to Philadelphia for a day. Many sedans include advanced safety features and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto), which makes navigating North Jersey’s highways and Newark’s streets much easier.
• Midsize SUV, from $45/day. Example: Hyundai Tucson or Ford Escape. A versatile option if you want higher ground clearance (helpful for winter snows or seeing over traffic) and extra cargo space. From Newark, many travelers grab SUVs for ski trips to the Poconos or Catskills, and you can too at a great daily rate. Heading to the mountains or just craving more space for shopping trips to Jersey’s outlet malls, an SUV is a popular pick. (Yes, that rate typically includes unlimited miles, so no worries if you’re planning a long drive to Niagara Falls or Washington D.C.)
• Minivan, from $55/day. Example: Chrysler Pacifica or Dodge Grand Caravan (7-passenger). Traveling with the whole crew? Minivans are extremely popular for New Jersey family vacations or group outings think a friends’ weekend down in Atlantic City or shuttling relatives to a reunion. With seating for 7-8 and ample luggage room, ~$55/day is an excellent value (split among 6 or 7 people, that’s under $10 each!). Book early, though during summer and holidays, minivans often sell out as Newark is a starting point for many road trips and family visits in the region.

Note: “From” rates are based on rentals at major hubs like Newark Liberty Airport and large downtown agencies during the low season. Prices may be higher at smaller neighborhood locations or during peak periods (summer weekends, holiday season, etc.). Always search with your exact pick-up location and dates to see up-to-date rates we update these deals frequently to reflect current promotions and seasonal specials.

Driving in Newark & New Jersey: What to Know

Driving in the Newark/NYC metro area can be incredibly rewarding you’ll have the freedom to go from urban centers to coastal highways in a single trip but it helps to be prepared. To keep your journey safe and stress-free, here are key New Jersey driving tips, rules, and quirks to be aware of:

• Traffic & Rush Hours: North Jersey and the NYC area are known for heavy traffic, especially during weekday rush hours. In Newark and the surrounding highways, peak traffic typically hits 6–10 AM (morning commute, mainly west-to-east toward NYC) and 4–7 PM (evening commute, east-to-west out of the city). Key highways like the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), I-78, and I-280 can become congested during these times, as can the approach roads to the Holland Tunnel and Lincoln Tunnel into Manhattan. If possible, plan long drives during off-peak times or use navigation apps to find less congested routes. Also be mindful of weekend traffic: summer Fridays can see big delays heading down the Garden State Parkway toward the shore, and Sunday evenings often have slowdowns coming back north. Patience and allowing extra travel time will serve you well around here traffic can be unpredictable.
• City Driving & Parking: Newark’s downtown is laid out in a grid, but driving in any city environment requires attention. Look out for one-way streets in downtown Newark and adjacent cities like Jersey City or Hoboken they’re common. Consider using GPS navigation, especially if you’re not used to local roads or if you plan to drive into New York City (Manhattan’s street grid is easier, but the traffic is intense). Parking in Newark ranges from reasonable to challenging: downtown has garages that cost around $15–$25/day, and on-street parking in some areas is metered or time-limited. Many neighborhoods require resident permits for street parking always read the signs before leaving your car curbside. An insider tip: if you’re staying in Newark or Jersey City and plan to spend a day in Manhattan, it’s often easier to park at a PATH train station or a park-and-ride in NJ and take public transit into NYC, rather than dealing with expensive Manhattan parking (which can run $40–$60+ a day). Within Newark, if you’re not using your car daily, your hotel in Newark might offer parking deals, or you can find more affordable garages slightly outside the downtown core.
• Tolls (Cashless Tolling): New Jersey has several toll roads and bridges, and cashless tolling is increasingly the norm. The NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway still accept cash at some plazas (as of 2025), but many bridges/tunnels and newer toll points are electronic-only. All Port Authority crossings into New York City (like the Holland Tunnel, Lincoln Tunnel, George Washington Bridge) are cashless no stopping to pay. If you have an E-ZPass transponder (common for Northeast drivers), bring it; it will work on all NJ/NY toll facilities and usually gives a discount. If not, don’t worry: the system will photograph your license plate and bill the toll to the car’s owner (the rental company). The rental company will then charge you the toll, often plus a small admin fee. We recommend asking your rental provider about their toll policy at pick-up. Many offer an optional toll program (a flat daily fee to cover all tolls) which can be worth it if you’ll be driving through many tolls each day. Otherwise, you can simply pay per toll via the plate billing just plan for that added cost. For example, driving from Newark into Manhattan typically incurs a ~$16 toll one-way (charged when entering NYC). If you’d prefer to avoid tolls, use your GPS settings to find “no toll” routes but be aware, those can significantly lengthen travel time in this region.
• “Jughandles” for Left Turns: A quirky New Jersey driving feature is the jughandle a type of ramp or curved turn-off that allows you to make a left turn by exiting right. In many areas, especially on busy highways and boulevards in NJ, you’ll see “No Left Turn” signs at intersections. Instead of a direct left, you exit to the right onto a jughandle ramp that loops you around to cross the intersection straight or make a left. It can be confusing if you’ve never seen it! The key is: if left turns are prohibited on the road you’re driving, watch for a posted exit on the right for your left turn. Follow the signs for “All turns from right lane.” It feels counter-intuitive, but it keeps traffic flowing. Take it slow the first time you encounter a jughandle and don’t worry, they’re clearly marked. Once you get used to them, they’re not so bad.
• Driving Laws & Safety: In New Jersey (as in all U.S. states), you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory for all drivers and passengers. Right turns on red are allowed (after a complete stop) unless a sign specifically says “No Turn on Red.” Do note that in many dense areas (for example, parts of downtown Newark or Jersey City), you will see “No Turn on Red” signs due to pedestrian traffic obey those to avoid a ticket. New Jersey law does NOT allow left turn on red (except in the rare case of turning from a one-way road onto another one-way road, but that scenario is uncommon in NJ when in doubt, don’t do it). NJ also enforces a hands-free driving law: it’s illegal to hold or use a handheld phone while driving, even at stoplights. If you need to use your phone for navigation or calls, use Bluetooth, speaker, or a dashboard mount or pull over to use your device. Police do ticket drivers for distracted driving here, and fines can start around $200 for a first offense. Essentially, keep your eyes on the road and not on your texts! Also, remember to use headlights from 30 minutes after sunset until 30 minutes before sunrise (common rule in the U.S.).
• Headlights & Wipers: New Jersey law requires that headlights be on whenever your windshield wipers are in use due to rain, snow, or mist. In other words, if weather conditions require you to use your wipers (even in daylight), you must turn on your headlights it’s about safety and visibility, and yes, it’s the law (and you could be pulled over if you forget). Many rental cars have automatic headlight settings; just ensure they’re actually on in bad weather. It’s a simple thing that improves safety and avoids a possible ticket.
• Winter Driving: If you’re visiting Newark in winter (roughly late November through March), be prepared for the possibility of snow and ice. North Jersey gets regular snow, and while roads are generally well-plowed and salted after storms (especially highways and main arteries), driving in snow still requires caution. Slow down on snowy or slushy roads, leave extra space for braking, and avoid sudden turns or stops to prevent skids. Rental cars in New Jersey come with all-season tires, which are usually sufficient for moderate snow common in Newark. However, they are not the same as dedicated snow tires. The good news is major highways like the Turnpike and I-78 are top priority for plows, so they’re cleared quickly. On the rare occasion of a huge blizzard or ice storm, authorities might temporarily restrict travel or certain vehicles (e.g., trailers) on highways if conditions are extreme, consider waiting it out or taking advantage of our partners’ roadside assistance if needed. Sunny winter days with dry roads are common between storms, and a winter drive can be beautiful (think snow-dusted trees). Just allow extra time and take it slow. Also note: New Jersey allows snow chains or studded tires only in winter months (Nov 15 Apr 1), but you likely won’t need them for standard travel in this area.
• Pedestrians & Cyclists: New Jersey drivers can be assertive (you might hear some colorful local nicknames for aggressive driving), but by law they must yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks. In Newark and surrounding cities, be vigilant for jaywalkers and people in crosswalks always stop for pedestrians at intersections and crosswalks, even if there’s no traffic light. Failing to yield to pedestrians can not only earn a ticket but, more importantly, endanger lives. Also be cautious of cyclists, especially in more urban areas or parks. Cities like Newark are adding bike lanes; give cyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing, and check your mirrors for bikes before turning or opening your car door (to avoid “dooring” someone on a bike). Essentially, stay alert and share the road kindly. New Jersey roads can be busy, but a little patience and attentiveness go a long way to keeping everyone safe.
• Fuel & Gas Stations: In New Jersey, you are not allowed to pump your own gas full-service is the law statewide. This is unique (only NJ and Oregon have this rule). When you pull into a gas station, simply roll down your window; an attendant will come pump the gas for you (you can tell them “Fill it regular” for regular unleaded fuel, which is what most cars use). Tipping the gas attendant is not required, but some people will round up a dollar or two, especially in bad weather, as a courtesy. Gas prices in NJ are often a bit lower than neighboring New York and Pennsylvania, thanks to slightly lower state tax a nice perk. Gas is measured in gallons (1 U.S. gallon ≈ 3.785 liters). Most stations accept credit cards right at the pump or via the attendant. We recommend refilling the tank before returning your rental to avoid high refueling charges from the rental company. Luckily, there are plenty of gas stations near Newark Liberty Airport and along major highways. (Example: there’s a cluster of stations on Routes 1&9 just a couple of miles from EWR perfect for a last fill-up if you’re returning a car to the airport.) Remember, in NJ just stay in your car and let the attendant handle the pump sit back for a minute!

By following these tips and using common sense, you’ll find that driving in Newark and New Jersey is manageable and often the best way to discover all the area has to offer. Always keep a GPS or map handy (your rental may come with one, or just use your smartphone’s navigation) and enjoy the journey!

Road Trip Ideas from Newark, NJ

One of the best perks of renting a car in Newark is the ability to embark on some amazing road trips. From coastal escapes to historic trails, the region offers a variety of drives all within a few hours. Here are three exciting road trip ideas that start in Newark:

• Jersey Shore Getaway (Newark ➜ Asbury Park ➜ Atlantic City ➜ Cape May) Route: Newark to Asbury Park via Garden State Parkway (approx. 55 miles), then down the Parkway to Atlantic City (75 miles), ending in Cape May at NJ’s southern tip (another 45 miles).

Highlights: Start by driving south from Newark about an hour to Asbury Park, an iconic beach town known for its music scene (stop by the Stone Pony, where Bruce Springsteen famously played). Stroll the boardwalk and grab some ice cream or a slice of boardwalk pizza. Continuing south, you can hop between classic Jersey Shore towns Point Pleasant Beach (family-friendly amusements) or Seaside Heights (vibrant boardwalk rides) as you make your way down the coast. Next, head to Atlantic City, roughly 1.5 hours from Asbury Park. In AC, try your luck at a casino or enjoy a walk on the historic boardwalk; even if you’re not into gaming, the people-watching, shops, and ocean views are worth the stop. Finally, continue on to Cape May, about another hour south. Cape May is a charming Victorian seaside town think colorful historic B&Bs, a beautiful lighthouse (you can climb it for panoramic views), and calm beaches. It’s a perfect place to relax after the glitz of Atlantic City.

Pro Tip: Summer traffic on the Garden State Parkway heading to the shore can be heavy, especially on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings. To beat the crowds, consider leaving Newark early in the morning, or take a slightly longer but scenic alternative route like Route 35/Highway 9 in some sections to enjoy small shore towns along the way. Also, if you have time, from Cape May you can take the Cape May–Lewes Ferry across Delaware Bay to continue a journey towards Delaware or Washington, D.C. but book ferry tickets in advance if you plan to do this with a car, especially in summer.

• Historic Philadelphia & Amish Country (Newark ➜ Philadelphia ➜ Lancaster County) Route: Newark to Philadelphia via I-95 south (~80 miles), then Philadelphia to Lancaster County via I-76 and US-30 (~70 miles to heart of Amish country).

Highlights: Drive approximately 1.5 hours from Newark to Philadelphia, PA, the City of Brotherly Love. Park in Center City and explore Philly’s rich history Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are must-sees for American history (timed tickets for Independence Hall are free, just reserve ahead). Grab a classic Philly cheesesteak for lunch (Pat’s and Geno’s are the famous rivals, or try Jim’s or Dalessandro’s for local favorites). After soaking in some urban history, get back on the road and head further west into Lancaster County, Pennsylvania this is Amish Country, about a 1.5-hour drive from Philly through rolling farmland. As you enter Lancaster County, you’ll notice horse-drawn buggies on the road and a slower pace of life. Stop in the town of Intercourse, PA (yes, that’s the real name!) for Amish crafts and possibly a tour of an Amish farm. Nearby Bird-in-Hand or Strasburg offer farmer’s markets and perhaps a ride on a historic steam train at the Strasburg Rail Road. It’s like stepping back in time.

Pro Tip: If visiting Philly on a weekday, try to arrive after 9:30 AM to avoid morning rush hour on I-95 around the city (and note that I-95 through Philly can have construction, so plan some buffer time). In Lancaster County, be respectful of the local Amish community: you can share the roads with buggies (give them plenty of space when passing, and never honk it can spook the horses). Also, many Amish-owned shops close by early evening and are closed on Sundays. This road trip offers a great contrast from big-city U.S. history in Philadelphia to the peaceful countryside of Amish communities, all in one day.

• Hudson Valley & Catskills Scenic Drive (Newark ➜ Bear Mountain ➜ Woodstock/Catskill Mountains) Route: Newark to Bear Mountain State Park via I-80 and Palisades Parkway (~50 miles), then up Route 9W/NY-32 toward Woodstock, NY (~70 miles).

Highlights: Head north from Newark, skirting New York City, and in about an hour you’ll reach the Bear Mountain State Park area in New York’s Hudson Valley. Drive across the Bear Mountain Bridge for stunning views of the Hudson River. The park itself has twisty mountain roads (like Perkins Memorial Drive) that lead to viewpoints where, on a clear day, you can see the NYC skyline far in the distance. There’s also a lakeside recreation area and trails if you fancy a short hike. Next, continue north along the Hudson River’s west bank or hop over to the east side either way, you’ll find charming river towns like Cold Spring or Rhinebeck that are perfect pit stops for lunch (think antique shops, cafes, and riverfront promenades). As you drive into the Catskill Mountains region, aim for the town of Woodstock, NY (yes, near the famous 1969 festival site). Woodstock is an artsy, laid-back town in the foothills of the Catskills browse galleries, unique shops, and maybe catch some live music. From there, you can venture into Catskill Park for nature galore: winding roads through forests, waterfalls like Kaaterskill Falls (a short hike from the road), and mountain views. The Catskills are especially beautiful in autumn, when the fall foliage turns brilliant shades of orange and red.

Pro Tip: The Hudson Valley drive is full of potential detours. If time permits, consider stopping at Storm King Art Center, an outdoor sculpture park near Bear Mountain that’s truly unique (open seasonally). In fall (late September through October), this entire route is a leaf-peeper’s dream but also popular, so expect more traffic on weekends. Start early to enjoy crisp morning views (and snag parking at popular trailheads). Also, be aware of tolls: the Bear Mountain Bridge has a small toll (paid eastbound only), and if you use the New York State Thruway (I-87) at any point, that’s cashless tolling as well (your rental will be billed if you don’t have E-ZPass). This loop is a fantastic way to experience New York’s natural side, far from the city bustle.

Each of these road trips offers a unique taste of what’s reachable from Newark with a car from sunny beaches and casinos to historic cities and mountain villages. Feel free to mix and match stops or extend the trips into multi-day adventures. With unlimited mileage on your rental and the open road ahead, the possibilities are endless!