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Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 533014
Location Pros Cons Notes
Dayton International Airport (DAY)
  • All major rental companies on-site
  • Adjacent to terminal garage
  • 24/7 returns available
  • Airport fees (around 10%)
  • Higher base rates than city locations
  • Free shuttle runs from terminal to rental lot
  • Many counters are walkable from terminal
  • Quieter than larger airports and shorter lines
Downtown Dayton
  • Lower base rates
  • No airport fees
  • Convenient if staying downtown
  • Limited hours
  • Often closed Sundays
  • Transportation needed from airport
  • About 15 minutes south of the airport
  • Rideshare costs around $20
  • Multiple locations on major streets

At Dayton Airport: Alamo/National, Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis and Dollar/Thrifty

Car Rental Prices

How much does it cost to rent a car in Dayton?

On average, car rentals in Dayton cost around $62 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $21 per day.

How to save?
  • Compare pick-up spots: downtown branches skip the ~10 % airport surcharge. Even with a $20 rideshare from DAY, anything longer than a weekend can come out cheaper.

  • Shift your dates: Tuesday–Thursday pickups often beat weekend rates in Dayton. A one-day slide can knock off several bucks.

  • Avoid local surges: prices spike during the July Air Show and university move-in or graduation weekends. Travel a week earlier/later if you can.

  • Go small, pay small: a compact handles Dayton's streets just fine, rents for less, and sips fuel on drives to Cincinnati or Columbus.

  • Refuel near the airport: stations on Dixie Dr. and Miller Ln. are minutes from the return lot, so you skip the rental company's pricey fill-up charge.

Local Parking and Driving

  • Downtown garages and lots: daily and hourly rates apply
  • Street meters: generally free on weekends and after 6 pm
  • Free parking: available at many attractions including the National Museum of USAF
  • Event parking: rates may increase during special events at Dayton Convention Center or UD Arena

  • Speed limits:

    • City streets: 25–35 mph
    • Interstate highways: 65 mph in urban areas, 70 mph outside metro areas
    • School zones: 20 mph when lights flashing
  • Speed cameras: active in school zones and some high-crash areas
  • Right turn on red: allowed after a complete stop unless signed otherwise
  • Highway design: watch for left-side exit ramps on I-75 through downtown
  • Rush hours: 7–9 am and 4–6 pm weekdays have moderate congestion
Why rent a car in Dayton

Rent a car so you can visit:

  • National Museum of the United States Air Force – 8 miles (13 km) east

  • Carillon Historical Park – 4 miles (6 km) south

  • Wright-Patterson Air Force Base – 10 miles (16 km) northeast

  • Cincinnati – 54 miles (87 km) south via I-75

  • Hocking Hills State Park – 105 miles (169 km) southeast via US-33

Driving Distances from Dayton

FAQs

Does Dayton have toll roads?

No, Dayton and southern Ohio do not have any toll roads. You can drive to Cincinnati, Columbus and other nearby cities without paying tolls.

Are there any driving restrictions for rental cars in Dayton?

Most rental companies give you unlimited mileage in Ohio and neighboring states. You can usually cross state lines to places like Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan. But you should always check the company's policy when you book.

What fuel type do rental cars in Dayton use?

Most rental cars use regular unleaded gasoline (87 octane). You should always check the sticker on the fuel door to be sure. It's rare to find a diesel rental, but some locations can get one for you if you ask in advance.

Can I pick up a car in Dayton and return it in another city?

Yes. All major rental companies in Dayton let you rent a car one-way to Cincinnati, Columbus or other cities. If you return the car somewhere else in Ohio, the company often lowers or waives the one-way fee. Be sure to check the cost before you confirm your booking.

What documentation do I need to rent a car in Dayton?

If you live in the U.S., you'll need a valid driver's license and a major credit or debit card. It's a good idea to have proof of your own auto insurance, but it's not always required. You can buy coverage at the counter or use insurance from your credit card if you have it. Visitors from other countries need to show a valid passport and either an International Driving Permit or a driver's license from their home country (if it's in English or comes with a certified translation).