Car Rental

Question

Traveling in and out of BNZ and need a vehicle (jeep or minivan) for 14 dyas, is it best to rent at airport or in town? Arrival on Tue 5/30, depart on Monday 6/12.

Thank you

Answer

When renting a car for your 14-day trip to Bozeman, MT, you have two main options: renting directly at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BNZ) or renting from an off-airport location in town. Both have advantages and potential drawbacks depending on your priorities.

Airport Rental: Renting at BNZ is very convenient, especially if you want to pick up the vehicle immediately upon arrival without needing transportation into town. Most major car rental companies operate at the airport, and you'll have access to a wide selection of vehicles, including jeeps and minivans. However, airport rentals often include additional fees such as airport surcharges and higher insurance rates.

In-town Rental: Renting from a downtown Bozeman location can sometimes save you money, as off-airport rentals often have lower fees and taxes. The selection may be slightly smaller, and you will need to arrange transportation from the airport to the rental location (taxi, rideshare, or shuttle), but for a 14-day rental, the savings could be significant.

Check for availability of larger vehicles like SUVs or minivans at both airport and town locations; sometimes airport locations carry more options.
Compare total cost including taxes, fees, and insurance rather than just the base rate — airport fees can add $30–50/day depending on company and vehicle type.
Consider rental company loyalty programs or credit card benefits, which can sometimes waive airport surcharges or provide free upgrades.
Book in advance, especially for a summer trip starting May 30, as Montana sees high demand for larger vehicles in late spring and early summer.

Recommendation: If convenience and saving travel time is your priority, airport rental is best. If cost savings are more important and you don’t mind a short trip from the airport into town, check in-town rental locations. Make sure to compare total rental costs for your 14-day period and vehicle type to determine the best option.