The main rental companies operating in Anchorage
Anchorage has rental desks at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) and in the downtown area. The largest national chains — Enterprise, Hertz, Budget, Avis, and National — all operate here, along with some regional and local companies. Most travelers rent at the airport because the desks are in the baggage claim area, but downtown locations exist if you need a car after arriving or prefer to rent from your hotel.
Airport rentals typically cost more than downtown locations because of facility fees the airport charges. If you're staying in a hotel, ask whether they have a preferred rental partner or can arrange a shuttle to a downtown office, which may save you money. Some hotels also have rental desks on-site.
Local companies like Arctic Rent A Car and Denali Car Rental operate in Anchorage and sometimes offer lower rates than national chains, especially for longer rentals. These companies may have fewer vehicle options and stricter cancellation policies, so read the terms carefully before booking.
Key Takeaways
- National rental chains operate at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and downtown, with airport locations charging higher fees than city locations.
- You will need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name, and proof of insurance or the option to purchase the rental company's coverage.
- Anchorage rental rates vary by season, with summer (June through August) being the most expensive time to rent a vehicle.
- Local companies sometimes offer lower rates than national chains but may have fewer vehicles and stricter policies on changes or cancellations.
- One-way rentals to other Alaska cities are possible but typically cost significantly more than returning the car to your rental location.
What documents and payment you need to bring
You must have a valid driver's license issued by your state or country. If your license is not in English, bring an International Driving Permit as well. The rental company will photocopy or scan your license before you leave the counter.
A credit card in your name is required to hold the reservation and cover the rental charge. Debit cards are sometimes accepted but usually require a larger deposit and proof of return travel. The credit card does not need to be the same card you used to book online — you can pay with a different card at pickup, but it must be in your name.
You must show proof of insurance. This can be your personal auto insurance card, your credit card's rental car coverage (if your card offers it), or the rental company's insurance, which you can purchase at the counter. If you decline the company's insurance and have no other coverage, you are responsible for any damage to the vehicle. Ask your insurance company or credit card issuer before you travel whether your coverage extends to rental cars in Alaska.
Seasonal pricing and booking timing
Anchorage rental prices peak during summer months (June, July, and August) when tourists visit for outdoor activities and the midnight sun. Winter rates (November through March) are significantly lower, though some rental companies reduce their fleet size during these months because fewer people rent cars. Spring and fall offer moderate pricing and good vehicle availability.
Booking in advance usually locks in a lower rate than booking at the counter, but Anchorage rental rates can fluctuate based on local events, cruise ship arrivals, and weather. If you book online and find a lower rate later, most companies allow you to rebook at the new price before your rental date. Check your confirmation email for the cancellation and modification policy specific to your reservation.
Weekend rentals (Friday through Sunday) often cost more than weekday rentals at the same location. If your travel dates are flexible, renting Monday through Thursday may reduce your total cost.
Airport versus downtown rental locations
Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport is about 4 miles south of downtown Anchorage. Rental desks are in the baggage claim area on the lower level, making it convenient if you're arriving by plane. However, the airport charges a facility fee (typically 10 to 15 percent of the rental cost) that the rental company passes to you.
Downtown Anchorage rental locations are in the city center and near major hotels. These locations do not charge airport facility fees, so the base rate is lower. If you're staying downtown or arriving by car, train, or bus, a downtown location may be more convenient and cheaper. Some downtown offices have limited hours, so check before you plan to pick up your car.
The rental company's website shows all Anchorage locations and their hours. When you search for a car, you can select which location you want to pick up from and return to — they do not have to be the same location.
One-way rentals and returning to a different city
One-way rentals (picking up in Anchorage and returning in another Alaska city) are possible through national chains but come with a substantial fee. Returning a car to Fairbanks, Juneau, or Ketchikan costs significantly more than a standard rental because the company must either drive the car back or position it for another customer. This fee can equal or exceed the daily rental rate.
If you need a one-way rental, call the rental company directly rather than booking online, because some one-way routes are not available through the website. Ask about the specific drop-off fee for your destination before you commit to the rental.
Local companies rarely offer one-way rentals outside Anchorage, so national chains are your only option for this service. Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz are most likely to have one-way availability to other Alaska cities.
Vehicle types and what to expect in Anchorage
Anchorage rental companies stock economy cars, midsize sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Economy and midsize cars are cheapest and most fuel-efficient for city driving. SUVs and trucks cost more but are useful if you plan to drive unpaved roads (like the Dalton Highway or rough forest roads) or travel during winter when all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive improves traction.
If you rent a standard car and drive on unpaved roads, you may be charged for damage to the undercarriage, suspension, or tires. Check your rental agreement to see whether unpaved roads are prohibited or require additional insurance. Some rental companies do not allow standard vehicles on certain roads at all.
Fuel is your responsibility. Gas stations are common in Anchorage and along major highways, but fuel is more expensive in Alaska than in the lower 48 states. If you're driving to remote areas, fill up in Anchorage or a larger town before heading out, because stations are sparse in rural areas.
Age restrictions and additional driver fees
Most rental companies in Anchorage require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 typically pay a young driver fee (usually $15 to $25 per day) in addition to the base rental rate. Some companies have a minimum age of 25 with no surcharge, so compare policies if you're in this age range.
Additional drivers (people other than the primary renter who will drive the car) must be listed on the rental agreement. Each additional driver usually costs $10 to $15 per day. All drivers must present a valid driver's license at pickup. If an unlisted driver operates the vehicle, the rental company's insurance may not cover accidents or damage.
Drivers over 75 may face restrictions or additional fees at some companies. If you're renting for an older driver, confirm the company's policy before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a car at the airport and return it downtown, or vice versa?
Yes. When you book online or call, select your pickup location and your return location separately. Some companies charge a drop-off fee if you return to a different location than where you picked up, so check the total cost before confirming. Airport-to-downtown returns typically have no extra fee, but downtown-to-airport returns may.
What happens if I return the car late?
Late returns are charged at the daily rate or an hourly rate, depending on how late you are. Most companies allow a grace period (usually 30 minutes to an hour) before charging begins. Check your rental agreement for the specific policy. If you know you'll be late, call the rental company as soon as possible — they may be able to extend your reservation at no extra cost if the car is not already booked for another customer.
Do I need a credit card if I pay with cash?
No, but rental companies require a credit or debit card to hold a security deposit, even if you pay the rental cost with cash. The deposit is refunded when you return the car in good condition. If you have no credit or debit card, ask the rental company whether they accept an alternative form of deposit.
Are winter tires included, or do I need to pay extra?
Winter tires are standard on most vehicles rented during winter months (October through March) in Anchorage, with no extra charge. Summer tires are standard during warmer months. If you're renting in late fall or early spring and want to confirm tire type, ask when you book or call the rental location directly.
Can I rent a car if I have an international driver's license?
Yes, but you must also have your passport or national ID. An International Driving Permit is recommended but not always required. Call the rental company before you travel to confirm what documents they need, because policies vary by company.