The Ultimate Guide to Car Rentals at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Ranked and Reviewed

When traveling to or from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), renting a car can be one of the most convenient ways to get around. PHL offers a wide range of rental car companies, each with its own strengths in terms of price, customer service, and vehicle options.

In this guide, we’ll rank and review the top car rental companies at PHL, helping you make an informed choice for your next trip.

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car

• Rank: #1
• Why It’s Great: Known for its excellent customer service, Enterprise consistently ranks at the top for overall satisfaction. Whether you need an economy car or a luxury vehicle, Enterprise has a wide selection, and their on-site support at PHL is highly rated.
• Price Range: Moderate to high, but they often run discounts for frequent travelers and corporate clients.
• Perks: Their customer service stands out for its ease of pickup and return, plus they offer a generous rewards program for regular renters.
• Best for: Travelers looking for dependable customer service and a variety of vehicle options.

2. National Car Rental

• Rank: #2
• Why It’s Great: National is a great choice for business travelers, particularly those who are members of their Emerald Club loyalty program. This allows for quick, seamless service and access to a wide range of premium vehicles.
• Price Range: Moderate, but tends to be more expensive if you’re renting luxury or premium cars.
• Perks: Priority service and free upgrades for loyalty members, as well as easy access to high-end cars.
• Best for: Frequent business travelers who want quick service and premium vehicle options.

3. Hertz

• Rank: #3
• Why It’s Great: Hertz is one of the most widely recognized names in car rentals, known for its large inventory of vehicles and multiple pricing options. Their Gold Plus Rewards program also makes renting and returning fast and easy.
• Price Range: Moderate to high, depending on the vehicle class. Hertz often offers deals and discounts for AAA members and frequent renters.
• Perks: With the Gold Plus Rewards program, you can skip the lines and go straight to your car. Their selection is particularly good for those looking for SUVs and luxury vehicles.
• Best for: Travelers seeking a well-established company with a vast selection of vehicles and loyalty perks.

4. Alamo Rent A Car

• Rank: #4
• Why It’s Great: Alamo is a popular choice among families and vacationers due to its affordable pricing and straightforward service. Their customer satisfaction ratings are generally positive, and they provide a good balance of price and quality.
• Price Range: Low to moderate, making it one of the more budget-friendly options at PHL.
• Perks: Easy-to-use online booking system, great for families and leisure travelers. Their vehicle selection is vast, particularly for those seeking standard and midsize cars.
• Best for: Families and budget-conscious travelers looking for a reliable car at an affordable price.

5. Avis Car Rental

• Rank: #5
• Why It’s Great: Avis is another well-known name, offering a good balance of cost and quality. While their pricing tends to be on the higher end for some vehicles, their fleet includes a mix of economy and premium options. Avis is also popular with business travelers.
• Price Range: Moderate to high, with luxury and premium cars often costing more than average.
• Perks: Avis Preferred loyalty program helps renters earn points for free rentals and upgrades. Their mobile app makes the process smooth and convenient.
• Best for: Business travelers and frequent flyers who prefer an established brand with a solid rewards program.

6. Budget Car Rental

• Rank: #6
• Why It’s Great: As the name suggests, Budget offers some of the most affordable rates at PHL, making it a great option for those on a tight budget. Despite its lower prices, Budget maintains a decent selection of vehicles.
• Price Range: Low to moderate, typically offering cheaper rates than most competitors.
• Perks: No-frills service, but you get what you pay for. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an inexpensive option without extra perks.
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who want to save on rental costs.

7. Thrifty Car Rental

• Rank: #7
• Why It’s Great: Thrifty is another budget-friendly option, offering competitive prices for economy and midsize vehicles. It’s ideal for those who don’t need luxury or high-end cars but want reliability at a lower cost.
• Price Range: Low to moderate.
• Perks: Basic, no-frills service. Great for short trips or when you need a simple, affordable rental.
• Best for: Travelers on a budget looking for an easy, no-fuss rental experience.

8. Dollar Rent A Car

• Rank: #8
• Why It’s Great: Like Thrifty, Dollar focuses on affordability. They often have promotions for weekend rentals and discounts for longer stays. While not the most premium service, they’re reliable for budget travelers.
• Price Range: Low.
• Perks: Simple online booking process and affordable rates. Not as many premium options, but great for basic travel needs.
• Best for: Travelers who prioritize cost savings over luxury or added amenities.

9. Payless Car Rental

• Rank: #9
• Why It’s Great: Payless is a value-oriented option with lower rates compared to other competitors at PHL. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t need a wide selection or luxury service but are looking to save.
• Price Range: Low.
• Perks: Extremely affordable but with fewer vehicle choices and services. However, it’s reliable for basic rentals.
• Best for: Budget travelers who need the absolute cheapest option available.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Car Rental at PHL

When it comes to choosing the right car rental company at Philadelphia International Airport, the key factors are price, customer service, and vehicle selection. If you prioritize excellent service and a broad selection of cars, Enterpriseand National are top picks. If budget is your primary concern, Budget, Thrifty, and Dollar are solid choices.