Renting a car near the airport is one of the most convenient ways to get around when traveling. Whether for business, leisure, or emergencies, having a rental car immediately available upon landing saves time and offers flexibility. However, airport car rentals come with unique costs, policies, and potential fees that travelers should be aware of.
This guide covers everything you need to know about renting a car near the airport, including the pros and cons, booking strategies, cost-saving tips, insurance options, and common pitfalls to avoid.
1. Pros and Cons of Renting a Car at the Airport
✅ Pros:
✔ Convenience – Pick up and drop off directly at the airport, avoiding public transportation.
✔ Wide Selection – Airport rental locations typically have more vehicle choices, including luxury and specialty cars.
✔ 24/7 Availability – Most airport rental agencies operate round the clock to accommodate flights at any time.
✔ Loyalty Rewards – Frequent travelers can benefit from rental rewards programs.
❌ Cons:
✘ Higher Prices – Airport rentals often include extra fees and surcharges.
✘ Longer Wait Times – High demand can result in long lines at rental counters.
✘ Limited Price Flexibility – Less opportunity to negotiate prices compared to off-airport locations.
2. How to Rent a Car Near the Airport
Step 1: Compare Rental Companies
Most major rental agencies operate at airports, including:
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- Avis
- Budget
- Alamo
- National
- Sixt
- Thrifty/Dollar
Use online comparison sites like Kayak, Expedia, or Rentalcars.com to compare rates.
Step 2: Choose the Right Rental Location
- On-Airport Rentals – Rental counters located inside the terminal or at a dedicated rental facility. More convenient but often higher priced.
- Off-Airport Rentals – Car rental offices a short shuttle ride away from the airport. Often cheaper than on-site locations.
Step 3: Reserve Your Car in Advance
- Early booking offers the best selection and lower prices.
- Consider using membership discounts (AAA, Costco, or travel credit cards).
- Prepaying often provides a discount but limits flexibility for cancellations.
Step 4: Pick Up the Rental Car
Upon arrival, follow these steps:
- Go to the rental counter or shuttle pickup area – Signs at the airport will direct you.
- Show your reservation, driver’s license, and payment method – Some locations require a credit card for security deposits.
- Inspect the vehicle – Check for scratches, dents, and fuel levels before leaving.
Step 5: Return the Car
- Refuel before returning (airport gas stations charge premium prices).
- Return on time to avoid late fees.
- Get a receipt and confirmation of return to prevent unexpected charges.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Car Near the Airport?
The cost of renting a car varies by location, demand, and duration. Below are estimated daily rates for different vehicle categories:
| Car Type | Estimated Cost Per Day |
|---|---|
| Economy (Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa) | $30 – $60 |
| Midsize (Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic) | $40 – $80 |
| Full-Size (Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima) | $50 – $100 |
| SUV (Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4) | $70 – $150 |
| Luxury (BMW, Mercedes-Benz) | $100 – $300 |
| Minivan (Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey) | $80 – $160 |
4. Airport Rental Fees and Extra Charges
Common Airport Fees
- Airport Concession Fee – Charged by the airport for operating a rental business on-site. Usually 10-15% of the rental cost.
- Facility Charge – Some airports charge an additional fee for rental facility maintenance.
- Tourism or State Taxes – Varies by location, can add 10-20% to the total cost.
Extra Charges You Might Encounter
- Young Driver Fee – Drivers under 25 years old may pay $20-$50 per day extra.
- Additional Driver Fee – Adding a second driver may cost $10-$15 per day unless included in a membership plan.
- GPS Rental – Many companies charge $10-$15 per day for a navigation system (using your smartphone can save money).
- Toll Fees – Some rental agencies charge service fees on top of toll road costs.
5. How to Save Money on an Airport Car Rental
1. Compare Off-Airport vs. On-Airport Rates
- Off-airport locations are often cheaper, even after factoring in a short ride from the terminal.
- Some hotels near the airport offer free shuttle service to off-site rental locations.
2. Use Discount Codes and Memberships
- AAA, AARP, Costco, and travel credit cards offer rental discounts.
- Corporate or student discounts may apply.
3. Avoid Extra Insurance If You’re Already Covered
- Credit cards with rental coverage (e.g., Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum) eliminate the need for rental insurance.
- Check your personal car insurance policy—many already cover rental cars.
4. Prepay for Fuel or Fill Up Yourself?
- Prepaying for fuel is often overpriced.
- Filling up before returning the car is usually cheaper.
5. Book Early and Monitor Price Drops
- Car rental rates fluctuate based on demand.
- Some booking platforms allow free cancellations, so you can rebook if prices drop.
6. Should You Get Rental Car Insurance?
Types of Rental Insurance
| Insurance Type | What It Covers | Cost Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) | Covers damage to rental car | $10 – $30 |
| Liability Insurance | Covers injuries/damage to others | $10 – $20 |
| Personal Accident Insurance | Covers medical expenses | $5 – $15 |
| Roadside Assistance | Covers towing, lockouts, flat tires | $5 – $10 |
Do You Need It?
- You may already be covered by your personal car insurance or credit card benefits.
- If traveling abroad, rental insurance may be required.
- If you lack coverage, purchasing a policy is recommended.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Not Inspecting the Car Before Leaving – Take photos of any damage before driving off.
🚫 Skipping the Fine Print – Hidden fees like extra mileage or early return fees can add up.
🚫 Returning the Car Late – Even a one-hour delay may result in an extra full-day charge.
🚫 Ignoring Toll Policies – Some rental companies charge extra fees for using toll roads.
Conclusion
Renting a car near the airport offers convenience and flexibility, but it’s important to be aware of extra costs, rental policies, and potential savings strategies. By booking early, comparing prices, understanding insurance options, and avoiding common pitfalls, travelers can get the best value on their rental experience.
For more travel and automotive insights, visit CarValor.
