Ruth Haines
Anchorage Airport, also known as Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, is the gateway to Alaska and its most populous city. The airport is surrounded by one of the world's great natural environments, with stunning glaciers, grizzly bears, whales, and North America's highest peak. The best way to get around Anchorage is by renting a car, with several rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and NextCar. These companies offer a range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and pickup trucks, with prices starting from $29/day. To get the best rates, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during the summer months.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Rental Car Providers | Budget, Avis, NextCar, Enterprise, Alaska Airlines |
| Rental Car Types | Economy, Compact, Full-size, SUV, Pickup Truck, Cargo, Minivan |
| Rental Car Uses | Visiting local attractions, travel to and from the airport, hunting trips |
| Age Requirements | 21 years and above |
| Documents Required | Valid driver's license, passport/immigration papers, debit/credit card |
| Additional Information | No congestion charges in Anchorage, only toll is the Whittier Tunnel on the Portage Glacier Highway |
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What You'll Learn
Car rental companies at Anchorage Airport
Renting a car at Anchorage Airport is a great way to get around Alaska's biggest city and the surrounding area. There are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Budget and Avis.
Budget Rent a Car
Budget Rent a Car offers a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to full-size sedans and SUVs. They also offer pickup trucks, which are ideal for hunting trips or exploring the wilderness. Budget has a location right at the airport, with modern and well-equipped cars available at low rates and quick service.
Avis Rent a Car
Avis Rent a Car is located on-site at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, offering a wide variety of cars, excellent deals, and outstanding customer service. They have a range of vehicles, from compact and standard sedans to SUVs, which are perfect for fitting in ski gear or exploring the local wilderness. Avis also offers a convenient monthly rental option for longer stays.
Other Car Rental Options
In addition to Budget and Avis, there are other car rental agencies located at the new Rental Car Center opposite the South Terminal. To reach the center from the South Terminal, take the elevator, escalator, or staircase to the ground level and follow the "Rental Car" signs through a tunnel to the shuttle pickup point. From the North Terminal, you can request a pickup to the rental center using the wall-mounted telephone next to the Terminal Connector.
It is recommended to book your rental car in advance to minimize costs, especially if travelling during the summer. Off-airport rental agencies may also offer discounts, and you can easily return the car to the same location as pickup by following the "Rental Car Return" signs at the airport.
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Requirements for renting a car
To rent a car from Anchorage Airport, you must be over 21 years old. If you are an American or Canadian citizen, you will need to provide a valid, government-issued driver's license, as well as a debit or credit card with sufficient funds to cover the rental agreement. If you are a foreigner, you will need to provide a passport or immigration papers, as well as a driver's license with your full name and photo.
It is recommended that you book your rental car in advance to minimise your budget. Booking at least 8-12 months in advance for summer travel is a good idea, as is negotiating with off-airport rental agencies for a potential discount. You can also save money by booking directly with the rental company online and prepaying.
If you are renting from Enterprise, debit cards are only accepted if accompanied by a ticketed return travel itinerary. The name and address on your driver's license must match your current home address. If you are an active-duty military member, you are exempt from this address requirement.
If you are renting from Avis, you can skip the counter line and get your keys faster by signing up for Avis Preferred membership.
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Pick-up and drop-off locations
Picking up and dropping off your rental car at Anchorage Airport is a straightforward process. The airport has a new Rental Car Center opposite the South Terminal, which is accessible by shuttle bus. The shuttle picks up passengers from outside the South Terminal every 15 minutes. If you arrive at the North Terminal, you can request a pickup to the rental center using the wall-mounted telephone next to the Terminal Connector.
Once you arrive at the Rental Car Center, you can rent a vehicle from any of the reputable car rental agencies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and NextCar. The rental office for each of these agencies is located within the Rental Car Center, and they offer a wide range of vehicles to choose from.
To return your rental car, follow the "Rental Car Return" signs to the parking lot. If you are returning the car during after-hours, you can park the car and place the completed contract and keys in the dropbox. Remember to take all your personal belongings before heading to the departure terminal.
It is worth noting that some agencies, such as Avis, have an on-site rental location at the airport, allowing you to walk to the terminal after dropping off the vehicle. Additionally, agencies like Budget offer convenient pick-up and drop-off locations near key accommodations and attractions in Anchorage, making it easy to explore the area.
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Recommended vehicles for different purposes
If you're looking for basic transportation while staying in the city, a small car may be the best option. Pick from a variety of compact or standard sedans. Alternatively, if you're looking for something more affordable and fuel-efficient, an economy car is a great option.
If you're planning on staying in Anchorage for an extended period, a monthly car rental is perfect. You don't have to worry about any long-term commitments, so your vacation can last as long as you want.
For those who want to explore the outdoors, an SUV is a great option. It's capable of driving through mountain terrain and is ideal for visiting outdoor attractions like the Alyeska ski area and Chugach State Park. If you're planning a hunting trip, consider renting a pickup truck to haul your gear and buddies through the wilderness.
If you're travelling with a large group, you might want to consider renting a van. At Enterprise Rent-A-Car, a 12/15-passenger van can be rented with a major credit card.
Lastly, if you're looking for a more luxurious experience, consider renting a premium or luxury car. These vehicles often come with additional features and amenities that can enhance your driving experience.
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Attractions accessible by car
Renting a car at Anchorage Airport is the best way to get around Alaska's biggest city. You can rent a car from companies such as Avis, Budget, NextCar, and Kayak, with prices starting from $29 per day.
- The Alaska Native Heritage Center and Anchorage Museum: Plan your own driving schedule and make stops at these attractions.
- The Alaska Zoo: Check out the local wildlife displays.
- H2Oasis Indoor Waterpark: Visit this park for rides and attractions.
- Alaska Botanical Garden: Explore informative displays and a gorgeous environment.
- Arctic Valley: An SUV is perfect for fitting in all your ski gear for a trip to this valley.
- Anchorage International Film Festival: An economy car can easily take you to this festival.
- Chugach State Park: An SUV is the best way to get around when visiting this park.
- Eklutna Lake: A stunning lake that is best visited with an SUV.
- Alyeska Ski Area: An SUV rental is capable of driving through mountain terrain and is ideal for visiting this ski area.
- Seward Highway: One of the most scenic drives in the U.S., stretching from Anchorage to the Kenai Peninsula, passing through picturesque mountains, glaciers, and coastal views.
- Glenn Highway: Experience Alaska's rugged terrain, including Matanuska Glacier and stunning mountain landscapes.
- Talkeetna: A charming small town that serves as a launch point for Denali National Park tours, offering picturesque views and local shops.
- Knik River: Explore the stunning views of the Knik Glacier and the surrounding wilderness.
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Frequently asked questions
Some car rental companies at Anchorage Airport include Budget, Avis, NextCar, and Enterprise.
To rent a car at Anchorage Airport, renters must be over the age of 21 and have a valid driver's license. Renters must also provide a major credit or debit card, or a passport/immigration papers if they are a foreigner.
A range of vehicles are available to rent, from compact cars to spacious SUVs. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for Anchorage's snowy and icy conditions.
To get the best rate, it is recommended to book your rental car in advance. Booking at least 8-12 months in advance for summer travel can help secure a lower price. Additionally, consider using off-airport rental agencies, which may offer discounts.
There are several attractions near Anchorage Airport that can be easily accessed with a rental car. These include Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, and the Anchorage Museum.
