Rental cars at BGR airport

Question

Every time we've flown into Bangor Airport there have been long lines for rental cars and often low stock. Once being part of the rental company's skip-the-counter programs helped because the agents prioritized those reservations (even though they didn't have the usual pick up keys without delay area).

We're planning to travel in May before Memorial Day, if that matters.

Any suggestions for avoiding long waits for a rental car at the airport?

Answer

Rental car availability and long wait times at Bangor International Airport (BGR) can be frustrating, especially during peak travel times. Since you’re traveling in May before Memorial Day, you’ll want to plan ahead to minimize the chances of facing long waits or low stock. Here are some suggestions to help avoid delays and ensure a smoother car rental experience:

1. Reserve Your Rental Car in Advance

The most effective way to avoid long waits or the risk of not finding a car is to book your rental as early as possible. Many rental car companies allow you to reserve a car months in advance. The earlier you book, the better your chances of securing a vehicle. Additionally, having a confirmed reservation will help you bypass the "walk-up" line at the counter, as your rental will already be assigned to you.

2. Consider Skip-the-Counter Programs

Since you mentioned that using skip-the-counter programs helped in the past, I highly recommend utilizing these programs. Services like Enterprise's "Enterprise Plus," Hertz's "Gold Plus Rewards," and National’s "Emerald Club" provide benefits such as faster pick-up and priority service. With these memberships, you can often go straight to the car lot and pick up your rental without needing to wait in line at the counter. These programs can make a significant difference in saving time.

3. Check Availability and Flexible Pickup Times

If possible, try to be flexible with your rental car pick-up times. Arriving either earlier in the morning or later in the evening might reduce the chances of encountering long lines. The busiest times at BGR are typically midday and in the evening, especially on weekends. If you have the option to pick up your car during off-peak hours, this may help avoid some of the crowds.

4. Use Off-Airport Rental Locations

Consider renting from an off-airport location in Bangor, if feasible. Although this means you’ll need to arrange transportation to and from the rental office, off-airport locations often have shorter lines and better availability. Some local companies or services may offer free shuttle service to their offices, which can be a more efficient option than waiting at the airport rental desks.

5. Sign Up for Car Rental Loyalty Programs

If you plan to rent cars frequently, consider joining the loyalty programs of rental companies. These programs often provide benefits like priority service, upgrades, and waived fees. Major rental companies such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise offer loyalty memberships that can expedite the rental process, especially during busy times.

6. Consider Rental Alternatives

Turo: Turo is a car-sharing service that allows you to rent a car directly from a local owner. This can be a great alternative to traditional rental agencies, and you may find better availability and rates, especially during busy periods.
Zipcar or Car2Go: If you need a car for a few hours or a day, services like Zipcar or Car2Go may be an option. While these are more ideal for shorter trips, they can sometimes offer greater convenience and availability than traditional rental car services.

7. Contact the Rental Company Before Your Arrival

It can be helpful to contact your rental company in advance, especially if you have specific vehicle preferences or requirements. This gives you a chance to confirm the availability of your reservation and may help address any concerns about long wait times. Some rental offices may be able to accommodate special requests or offer advice on the best times to pick up your car.

8. Consider Using a Rental Car Aggregator

Use rental car aggregator websites or apps (like Kayak, Expedia, or AutoSlash) to compare prices and availability. These platforms often show availability across multiple rental agencies, and you can sometimes find better deals or alternative vehicles that aren’t listed directly with a single company.

Conclusion

By reserving early, using skip-the-counter services, and considering off-airport options, you can minimize long waits at BGR and make the most of your trip. Since you’ll be traveling in May before Memorial Day, this should be an ideal time to visit without the extreme summer rush. Good luck, and have a great trip!