Car rental will be more popular than ever in 2026. There's not just one reason for this.

Car prices, loan interest rates, insurance, vehicle tax, maintenance costs… There are endless expenses after buying a vehicle. Now let's be honest: How many days a year do we actively use the car?

For many people, the answer is surprisingly low.

That's precisely why in 2026, "using when needed" is becoming a more sensible option than "owning." Especially for short vacations, business trips, or out-of-town plans, car rental offers significant convenience.

So, the questions on everyone's mind are:
  • How much will car rental prices be in 2026?
  • Will daily car rental prices increase?
  • Is airport car rental more expensive?
  • How to find the best car rental deal?
  • Is car rental really more advantageous in winter?
Let's discuss each point individually, clearly and without exaggeration.

What are the car rental prices in 2026?

First, the most frequently asked question: prices.
It's important to state from the outset that car rental prices vary depending on the season, location, and vehicle type. It's impossible to give a precise figure, but we can discuss average ranges for 2026.

Daily Car Rental Prices (Average Ranges for 2026)

The overall picture is as follows:
  • Economy class (manual transmission)
Daily average: 900 – 1,500 TL
  • Economical cars with automatic transmission.
Daily average: 1,100 – 1,800 TL
  • SUV rental
Daily average: 1,800 – 3,500 TL
  • Premium / luxury segment
3,500 TL and above
These prices may be higher during the summer season, holiday periods, and in tourist cities. More affordable levels may be seen during the winter months or periods of low demand.

Automatic Transmission Difference

Automatic vehicles are particularly preferred for city driving, which can lead to a price difference. During peak season, the daily price difference between manual and automatic can reach 200-400 TL.

SUV Rental Price Difference

SUV rentals are in a more expensive segment due to their large trunk capacity, high driving position, and family comfort. They are especially preferred by families with children and those planning long journeys.

Long-Term Rental Advantages

Renting for 7 days instead of 3 can reduce the daily cost.
Let's consider a scenario:
  • 2-day rental : 1,400 TL per day
  • 7-day rental : 1,050 TL per day
Overall, this can make a significant difference.

Airport Car Rental Price Surcharge

"Is airport car rental more expensive?" is a question I get asked a lot.
Generally yes, it can be a little higher.
Because:
  • Office rents are more expensive.
  • 24/7 service is available.
  • Immediate delivery is available.
  • But there's also a comfortable side to it.
You get off the plane, collect your luggage, and 10 minutes later you're on your way. Saving time is a significant advantage, especially on short vacations.
Alternatively, picking up your order from the city center can sometimes be more economical. However, you should also consider the transfer cost.
Practicality or cost? The decision depends entirely on your plan.

What factors affect car rental prices?

Car rental prices in 2026 are shaped by the following factors:

Season 1

  • summer months
  • Holiday periods
  • Termtime
As demand increases, prices rise. It's that simple.

2. Vehicle Type

There can be a significant difference between renting an economy class vehicle and renting an SUV. This difference becomes even greater in the premium segment.

3. Rental Period

Shorter duration = higher daily costs
Longer term = lower daily average

4. Delivery and Return Point

Airport car rentals are generally a bit more expensive.
Delivery to a different city may incur an extra charge.

5. Additional Services

  • Additional insurance package
  • Navigation
  • Baby seat
  • Additional driver
These items affect the total amount.
The mistake most of us make is that we only look at the list price. However, the real cost is hidden in the details.

How to Find the Best Car Rental Opportunity?

Now for the most critical part.

✔ Book Early

Especially for the summer season, waiting until the last week will inevitably lead to price increases. Checking 2-4 weeks in advance is advantageous.

✔ Follow Campaign Periods

Car rental campaigns are more common during special occasions, seasonal changes, and the winter months.

✔ Compare Online Car Rentals

Comparing different companies on a single screen significantly simplifies your work.
Online car rental platforms, in particular, allow you to clearly see price differences.
It can be surprising to see a price difference of 400-500 TL for the same vehicle.

✔ Weekday Rental

Demand is higher between Friday and Sunday.
Rentals starting on weekdays can sometimes be more advantageous.

✔ Long-Term Rental

Renting for 7 days instead of 5 can sometimes reduce the total cost. This is especially important to check when planning a vacation.

Is renting a car at the airport a sensible option?

Let's consider a scenario.
You have a flight on Friday evening. You landed in the city at 8:30 PM.
You're looking for a taxi, but it's crowded. Public transportation is limited.
Here, airport car rental offers significant convenience.

Advantages

  • Time saving
  • Instant mobility
  • Freedom on vacation
  • Ending dependency on public transportation

Disadvantages

  • Price varies depending on location.
  • It can be costly for short-term use.

Who is it ideal for?

  • Short vacationers
  • Business travelers
  • Families with children
  • Those who will be visiting multiple locations
It's a sensible option if your schedule is busy and time is limited.

The Most Advantageous Car Rental Periods of 2026

Now for the opportunity.

The Advantage of Renting a Car in Winter

Demand is generally low between January and March.
Car rental prices in winter may be more affordable than in the summer season.
It's a particularly good time for city driving and business trips.

Months of Low Demand

  • November
  • February
  • Early March
The best car rental deals may be more frequently found during these periods.

Campaign Periods

Many platforms are offering significant discounts, especially during the winter of 2026. Prices can become more advantageous compared to the normal season during periods like Bilet.com's Legendary Winter Campaign.
Of course, campaigns are seasonal. But if you have a plan, it might make sense to consider it.

5 Biggest Mistakes People Make When Renting a Car

  1. Making a last-minute reservation
  2. Not reading the insurance details
  3. Not checking the speed limit
  4. Don't take photos when picking up the vehicle.
  5. Just looking at the price
Insurance is particularly important. A small difference in cost can prevent a major expense.

Car Rental or Taxi? A Simple, Factual Calculation.

Let's think about it this way:
You will be actively exploring the city for 3 days.

If you take a taxi;
  • Average of 6-8 taxi uses per day.
  • Average daily taxi fare: 1,500 – 2,000 TL
  • Total for 3 days: 4,500 – 6,000 TL
If you rent a car;
  • Let's assume the average daily price for economy class car rentals on the same date is 1,200 TL.
  • Total for 3 days: 3,600 TL
  • A significant difference can emerge.
  • Moreover, there's the added advantage of freedom and time savings.
Of course, parking and fuel costs also need to be considered. But for busy, planned trips, renting a car often makes more sense.

Conclusion: Is Renting a Car a Sensible Plan in 2026?

In short: Yes, it makes sense in many scenarios.
  • Purchase costs are high.
  • It provides flexibility.
  • It gives you freedom on vacation.
  • It offers significant advantages when booking in advance.
If you have a travel plan, booking early and comparing prices can give you a significant advantage.
Car rental is no longer a luxury; it's a smart choice when done at the right time.