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| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| FAY Airport Terminal | • All major rental companies on lower level (Avis, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, National, etc.) • Counters directly across from baggage claim • Short walk to pickup lot outside terminal doors • Military discounts often available • Some companies open until last flight arrives |
• Slightly higher rates due to airport fees • Limited flight schedule may affect counter hours • Smaller airport means fewer vehicle options • Can be busy after multiple flights arrive |
| Fayetteville City Locations | • Often lower rates (no airport surcharges) • Multiple locations, including Skibo Road and Raeford Road • Enterprise offers free pickup service • Better weekly rate options for longer rentals |
• Transportation needed to reach rental offices • Limited business hours (usually 8AM-6PM weekdays) • No after-hours pickup • Extra travel time if arriving by air |
On average, car rentals at Fayetteville Airport cost around $62 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.
Compare airport vs city pickups – downtown Fayetteville offices usually dodge airport surcharges and can be 10-15 % cheaper. Factor in a short rideshare or free local pickup many city branches offer.
Avoid military-peak weeks – graduations or large deployment returns push prices way up. If you must be here then, lock something in 3-4 weeks early and use free cancellation to swap if rates drop.
Play with your dates – shifting pickup or drop-off by 24 hours can drop you into a cheaper weekly rate band. Rentals of 5+ days often price out lower as a "weekly" than separate daily charges.
Ask for any military or government rate – discounts often apply to service members, family, and even civilian contractors with ID, shaving 5-10 % off the quote.
Finding a Spot:
Local Driving Rules:
Military Area Considerations:
Book a car rental to get to:
Downtown Fayetteville – museums, Hay Street eateries
Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg) – graduation ceremonies, base museum
Carvers Creek State Park – trails, Rockefeller House
Cape Fear River Trail – bicycle path, parks
Raven Rock State Park – cliffs, river overlook
Carolina Beach & Fort Fisher – beach, fort

Do I need special permission to drive a rental car onto Fort Liberty (Fort Bragg)?
No, you don't need special permission for the rental car itself, but everyone in the car will need the right ID to get on the base. You'll need a Military ID, a government ID or a visitor pass, which you can get at the visitor center.
Can I pick up a rental car at Fayetteville Airport and return it in Raleigh?
Yes, most major rental companies will let you rent a car one-way between FAY and RDU, though they might charge an extra fee for this. It's a popular route for people in the military.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Fayetteville?
Most rental companies ask that drivers be at least 21 years old and they charge an extra fee for drivers under 25. However, some companies won't charge this fee for military members if they show a valid military ID.
Is public transportation an option from the airport to downtown?
There is a public bus, but the schedule might not line up with your flight. We recommend you rent a car to make your trip easier and more flexible.
Are there any scenic drives near Fayetteville worth taking?
Yes, you can drive on NC-87 south toward Elizabethtown for pleasant countryside views. You can also drive to Raven Rock State Park along the Cape Fear River. It's a beautiful trip and only about 30 minutes from Fayetteville.
How early should I arrive at FAY Airport when returning my rental car?
For flights within the US, you should get to the airport at least 1.5 hours before your flight leaves. Returning your rental car at FAY is quick because the airport is small. It usually only takes 10 to 15 minutes.