Car rental services at BWI Airport

🚗 What to expect

Renting a car at the airport is a good idea, especially if your final destination is Washington DC, due to the long distances in the metropolitan area. The car rental facilities at BWI Marshall are located at 7432 New Ridge Road, on the west side of the airport grounds.

However, the experience can vary depending on the company you choose. The following summary of traveler experiences with different car rental services at this airport can help you, highlighting both positive aspects and areas where there is room for improvement.

1. Alamo

• Positive experiences: Alamo’s service is generally fast and efficient, with many customers highlighting the friendliness of the staff and the ease of picking up and returning cars. Free upgrades to higher-category vehicles, when the requested models were not available, are also seen as a plus.
• Negative experiences: Some users reported that the reserved cars were not always available, which forced them to accept less comfortable vehicles or cars in poorer condition, sometimes with mechanical issues.

2. Avis

• Positive experiences: Despite the complaints, some customers noted that the pickup process and the ease of booking online are fast and effective in most cases, with good rates when booking in advance.
• Negative experiences: However, negative reviews predominate, mainly due to a lack of available vehicles despite reservations and cleanliness issues with cars. There are also complaints about long waits and poor customer service.

3. Budget

• Positive experiences: Some customers found that Budget offers good prices compared with other companies, especially when booking in advance. Staff helpfulness in resolving problems has also been highlighted in some situations.
• Negative experiences: However, the company has received many complaints about a lack of vehicles at pickup time, as well as cars in poor condition. Long waits and poor customer service are also frequently mentioned.

4. Dollar

• Positive experiences: Users with positive experiences mentioned that Dollar offers competitive rates and an easy car return process. In some cases, staff were described as fast and efficient.
• Negative experiences: However, complaints dominate regarding lack of available cars, long waits and problems with vehicle quality and cleanliness.

5. Enterprise

• Positive experiences: Enterprise is praised for its customer service and the speed of pickup and return. Cars are usually clean and in good condition, and the company is known for offering quick solutions in unforeseen situations.
• Negative experiences: Although generally well rated, some customers mentioned vehicles not being fully ready to use, with minor maintenance issues such as faulty entertainment systems.

6. Hertz

• Positive experiences: Some customers highlighted that Hertz offers a good variety of vehicles, with options adapted to different travel needs, from economy cars to larger vehicles. The Hertz loyalty program is also valued by frequent customers.
• Negative experiences: Nevertheless, Hertz has faced many complaints, mainly due to a lack of cars and poor vehicle condition. Users also reported long waits and difficulties in getting customer support.

7. National

• Positive experiences: National is consistently praised for its Emerald Club program, which allows users to choose cars quickly without going to the counter. Staff are described as efficient and friendly, and cars are usually in good condition.
• Negative experiences: Some users mentioned a lack of clarity in the billing of certain charges, which caused confusion when returning the vehicle.

8. NextCar

• Positive experiences: NextCar receives positive feedback for its value for money, with affordable rates and a varied fleet. Some customers highlighted the quick return process and the helpful attitude of staff.
• Negative experiences: However, some users reported long waiting times at the counter and communication issues between the booking platform and the company, resulting in inconveniences when picking up the car.

9. Sixt

• Positive experiences: Sixt has some positive reviews, especially for the quality of premium vehicles and the availability of luxury cars. Some customers noted that the pickup process is fast and efficient.
• Negative experiences: However, the company has been criticized for attempting to charge additional fees and delivering cars in poor condition, such as dirty vehicles or cars with unresolved mechanical issues.

10. Thrifty

• Positive experiences: Thrifty is praised for fast service and good vehicle condition when customers receive the reserved car without issues. Competitive rates are also a plus.
• Negative experiences: However, some users mentioned a lack of vehicles and poor reservation management, leading to long waits. Problems with car cleanliness were also reported.

Passengers can reach the car rental counters using the courtesy bus that runs between the main terminal and the car rental facilities every 8–10 minutes. The bus can be boarded from the inner curb of the lower level, near doors 1, 11 and 16.

Advance booking is recommended. Check availability HERE.

Contact details and opening hours

• Alamo – Tel +1 410 859 8092 – 24 hours
• Avis – Tel +1 410 859 1680 – 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Budget – Tel +1 410 691 2913 – 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Dollar – Tel +1 410 850 7112 – 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Enterprise – Tel +1 800 325 8007 – 24 hours
• Hertz – Tel +1 410 850 7400 – 6:00 am to 12:00 am
• National – Tel +1 410 859 8092 – 24 hours
• NextCar Rental – Tel +1 410 461 1500 – 6:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Sixt – Tel +1 888 749 8227 – 7:00 am to 12:00 am
• Thrifty – Tel +1 410 850 7112 – 7:00 am to 10:00 pm

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⚠️ What to keep in mind before renting a car

Having a vehicle offers comfort and advantages. Although the Washington/Baltimore area is well connected by public transport, there are many places worth visiting and long distances are common.

However, as in any metropolitan area, especially on routes into downtown Washington, you should keep in mind that traffic is often heavy at peak times and congestion is common. You should also consider additional costs when renting a car. Besides the fuel you will need to replace before returning the car, remember that many access roads to different parts of the metropolitan area have tolls.

In addition to a valid driver’s license (either national or international), make sure you rent a vehicle with full coverage insurance from an authorized company present at the airport, and have a GPS handy (if the vehicle does not have its own navigation system).

It is essential to respect all traffic signs and speed limits and not drink alcohol if you are going to drive. Authorities in the United States tend to be very strict about regulations, and penalties can be severe in the event of any violation.

In central areas, try to use private parking lots, especially during business hours, because street parking is often scarce. This will also help you avoid unexpected fines.