Compare car rental prices from top suppliers in Hudson with Road Genius. From affordable cars to large SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Pick up your ride in downtown Hudson or at Albany International Airport and head straight to the Hudson Valley, Catskills or even New York City in under three hours. Reserve early for a wider choice during busy summer and fall foliage weekends.
Location | Advantages | Considerations |
---|---|---|
Hudson Local Offices | Lower rates than airports, Personalized service, No airport fees | Limited hours (weekdays and some weekend hours), Smaller vehicle selection |
Albany International Airport (ALB) | Wider vehicle selection, Major rental companies present, Extended hours | About 45 miles (72 km) from Hudson, Higher rates due to airport fees, Longer transit time to Hudson |
On average, car rentals in Hudson (NY) cost around $78 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $33 per day.
Compare pick-up locations: Hudson in-town desks usually beat Albany Airport by avoiding airport taxes. Add up transit costs from ALB vs the lower daily rate to see which wins for you.
Time it right: Rates jump on summer weekends and during fall foliage. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for those periods, but keep checking—many reservations can be canceled and rebooked if a last-minute deal pops up.
Tweak your dates: Shifting pick-up or drop-off to a Monday–Thursday window often shaves dollars off the total and may unlock cheaper "weekday" pricing tiers.
Look at weekly pricing: In Hudson a 7-day "weekly" can cost less than 5 individual days. Always run the numbers for both before clicking confirm.
Finding a Spot:
Local Driving Rules:
Get a rental car to easily:
Catskill Mountains – trailheads, waterfalls
Berkshires (Great Barrington, Lenox) – museums, music venue
Olana State Historic Site & Clermont Estate – river views, art collection
Rhinebeck & Kingston – aerodrome, restaurants
What documents do I need to rent a car in Hudson?
You will need a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name. If you don't buy the rental company's insurance, you will need to show proof of your own car insurance. If you're visiting from another country, you need a valid driver's license and a passport. We also strongly recommend an International Driving Permit if your license is not in English.
Is it possible to rent a car in Hudson and return it elsewhere?
Yes, you can rent a car one-way, but the company may charge you extra fees. If you return the car within the Capital Region like Albany, Troy or Schenectady, the drop fee is often small. Returning the car to NYC or other states usually costs more. You should always check the company's one-way policy before you book.
Are there special considerations for winter rentals in the Hudson Valley?
Winter in the Hudson Valley can bring snow and ice. Rental cars have all-season tires. For winter driving between December and March, you might want to ask for a car that has AWD or 4WD, especially if you plan to visit mountainous areas. You should also be aware of parking rules during snow emergencies.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring the Hudson Valley?
A standard sedan works well for most trips in the Hudson Valley because the roads are usually in good shape. To access more remote areas in the Catskills or Berkshires or for driving during winter, an SUV that has AWD can give you more confidence on the road. For antique shopping, you might want a car that has plenty of cargo space.
How does the security deposit process work?
When you pick up the car, most rental companies will place a hold on your credit card. This hold is usually for $200 to $300 more than the rental price. The company removes the hold after you return the car in good condition. They might accept a debit card, but you'll need to provide other documents, like your return flight plan or an extra ID.