Car Hire Washington

Guide

Filled with mountains, beaches, volcanoes and forests, this has always been a popular state to explore with car rental in Washington. Its rugged coast is filled with beaches and rain forest that boast a stunning mountainous backdrop, and its islands are famous for spotting whales. Puget Sound is the most populous and most visited area and is where the beautiful coastal city of Seattle can be found as well as Olympia, the lively state capital.

Hiring a Vehicle

It is easy to organise a vehicle, as known suppliers such as Budget, Thrifty and Avis operate in cities such as Seattle, Bellingham, Spokane and Walla Walla, and from Seattle-Tacoma Airport. To ensure the best possible rates compare car hire before arrival.

Transport Options

Seattle-Tacoma Airport, a 25-minute drive from Seattle, is the main air hub of the state and receives flights from within the US as well as from Mexico, Canada, Europe and Asia. Domestic flights are also available at Spokane International Airport, which serves the western region of the state. Amtrak trains from Los Angeles to Vancouver, Canada, stop in Olympia and Seattle. Interstate 90 cuts through Washington in an easterly direction and the I-5 runs along the states coast.

Car Hire Driving Tips in Washington

Driving in Washington is on the right and self-drive is the recommended way to get around. The I-90, which passes through the Cascade Mountains, has a maximum speed limit of 70mph in rural areas and 60mph in urban areas. The I-5 that starts at the Canadian border and runs south along the coast has the same posted limits.

Not to be Missed!

Seattle is the main entry point of the state and it is easy to tour the rest of the state’s attractions from this city with car hire in Washington. Head to Yakima to tour the state’s best wineries or spend the day hiking through the rainforest at the Olympic National Park. Mount Rainer National Park is ideal for hiking and mountaineering, while Pullman offers lovely strolls through the Washington State University campus.

Weather & Tourist Seasons

Winters in Washington are wet and cold, while summers are sunny and dry. The temperature can get as cold as -1°C in winter and in the summer it can reach 25°C. The dry months are the best times to visit; these run from May to September.