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Compare rental car prices from leading suppliers in Smithtown, New York with Road Genius. From small economy cars to large SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at great prices in convenient locations. Picking up in town skips airport fees and puts you minutes from the Long Island Expressway for easy drives to NYC, Fire Island or the Hamptons, so lock in your ride early if you're visiting during busy summer weekends.

Car Rental Locations & Options

Map of campervan rental depots near 571804
Location Advantages Considerations
Smithtown Local Offices Lower rates than airports, No airport surcharges, Personalized service Limited hours (business hours only), Smaller selection of vehicles
Islip MacArthur Airport (ISP) Closest airport (approximately 15 miles/24 km), Several major rental companies More limited selection than larger airports, Still requires transportation to reach Smithtown
JFK((cars/rental/usa/new-york/jfk-airport))/LaGuardia((cars/rental/usa/new-york/lga-airport)) Airports Largest selection of vehicles and companies, Extended hours 45-50 miles (72-80 km) from Smithtown, Traffic can be heavy when traveling east, Higher rates and airport fees

Car Rental Prices

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

On average, car rentals in Smithtown cost around $104 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $28 per day.

Saving Tips
  • Pick up in Smithtown, not the airport – local desks skip airport surcharges and can be $15-25 a day cheaper. Just double-check their shorter hours before you hit "Book".

  • Time your booking to the season – for summer or holiday weekends on Long Island, locking in a rate 2-3 weeks out usually beats last-minute prices. In winter you can often score better deals closer to travel.

  • Shift your rental dates by a day – our comparison tool often shows lower midweek rates; starting Tuesday instead of Friday can slash the cost.

  • Compare daily vs. weekly pricing – trips of 5+ days often flip to a cheaper weekly rate, even if you return the car early.

  • Skip paid add-ons – bring your own phone mount and charger instead of paying for GPS or satellite radio.

  • Refuel off Jericho Turnpike or Route 347 before dropping the car; local pump prices beat the rental company's refill fee by a mile.

Driving and Parking Tips

Where to Park:

  • Downtown Smithtown offers a mix of free and time-limited street spots
  • Shopping centers and strip malls provide free lots
  • Smith Haven Mall (nearby) offers extensive free parking
  • Beach areas usually require resident permits during summer (non-resident passes may be available)
  • Train station lots require permits for residents; limited daily spots available for non-residents

Local Driving Rules:

  • New York State speed limits: 55 mph on highways unless posted otherwise
  • 30 – 40 mph on main roads, 25 – 30 mph in residential areas
  • School zones strictly enforced when lights are flashing
  • Right turn on red allowed after a complete stop unless posted otherwise
  • Seat belts required for all passengers
  • No handheld phone use while driving
  • Winter restrictions may apply during snow emergencies
  • Red light cameras in operation at many major intersections
Why rent a car in Smithtown

A rental lets you explore Long Island's coasts, villages and day-trip hotspots on your own schedule.

  • North Shore beaches – Sunken Meadow State Park

  • North Fork wine country – NY-25 vineyards

  • The Hamptons – Southampton((cars/rental/usa/southampton-ny)), East Hampton

  • Fire Island ferry terminals – Bay Shore, Sayville

  • New York City day trips – Manhattan museums, stadiums

Driving Distances from Smithtown

FAQs

What documents do I need to rent a car in Smithtown? You'll need a valid driver's license and a major credit card in your name. Most companies won't ask you for proof of your personal car insurance. But if you turn down the rental company's coverage, they may ask for your insurance policy. International visitors need a valid foreign license from their home country and a passport. We strongly recommend getting an International Driving Permit if your license isn't in English.

Can I rent a car in Smithtown and return it at an airport or in NYC? Yes, companies offer one-way rentals, but they might charge extra fees. Returning the car within the NY metro area, including at airports, often has a small drop-off charge compared to returning it to another state. Always check the rental agreement and confirm any drop-off fees before you book.

What type of vehicle is best for exploring Long Island? A standard sedan works well for exploring most of Long Island. For beach trips when you have equipment or for family travel, you might want an SUV or minivan for more space. You'll find it's easier to park a compact car in crowded areas like downtown villages and beach parking lots.

How does the security deposit process work? When you pick up the car, the rental company usually places a hold on your credit card. The hold is for the estimated rental cost plus an extra $200–$300. The company releases this hold after you return the vehicle in good shape. They may accept a debit card, but you'll need to provide other documents, like proof of return travel or a utility bill.

Are there age restrictions for renting in Smithtown? Most companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. They add a surcharge for drivers under 25, which is usually about $25–$30 per day. New York state is unique and allows rentals for drivers 18 and older. However, drivers under 21 pay a much higher young-driver fee, around $70 per day. Some memberships, like USAA or AAA, can help lower these fees at certain companies.