Avis Car Hire
Harrisburg

Harrisburg International Airport is laid out for straightforward navigation, even late at night. After collecting your luggage from the baggage carousels on the lower level, follow the prominent signs to "Rental Cars." The Avis desk is located in this ground transport area, just a short walk away. Once you have completed the paperwork, you will be directed to the adjoining parking garage where the vehicles are staged, making the whole process from baggage to driver’s seat seamless and efficient.

On a busy weekday it's sensible to budget around 45 to 60 minutes from the moment your plane lands to when you drive away. That allows for deplaning, walking to baggage claim, waiting for luggage and completing the rental process at the desk. While MDT is a relatively efficient airport, weekday afternoons can see heavier passenger volumes. Having your reservation details and driving licence ready will help speed things up at the rental desk and get you on the road sooner.

The terminal at Harrisburg International Airport is a single, manageable building, so getting lost is unlikely. All gates lead to the same central concourse. From there, simply follow the overhead signs for "Baggage Claim" and "Ground Transportation," which will take you downstairs to the lower level. The rental car counters, including Avis, are consolidated in one easy-to-find location directly opposite the baggage carousels, avoiding any confusion.

For the most direct route to downtown Harrisburg, follow the airport signs for PA-283 West towards Harrisburg. You will merge onto this highway for a few miles before taking the exit for I-283 North. From there, stay left to merge onto I-83 South, which will take you across the Susquehanna River into the city. Using a sat-nav is always recommended, but watching for these key highway numbers will reassure you that you are on the right route.

A practical approach is for the person from the first flight to collect the rental car while waiting for the others to arrive. After securing the vehicle, you can wait in the airport’s mobile phone lot, a free and convenient place to park until your family calls to say they have their bags. Once they are ready, drive to the arrivals curb for a quick pickup. This avoids circling the terminal and ensures everyone can leave together without long waits.

Before heading into rural areas, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the vehicle’s features. Adjust your mirrors, seat and steering wheel for comfort and clear visibility. It’s also a good idea to pair your phone with the car’s Bluetooth and set your navigation before you start driving. A quick walk-round to note the vehicle’s condition is standard, and you should check that the headlights and windscreen wipers are working properly, as country roads can be dark and the weather can change unexpectedly.

For travellers with ski equipment or several large suitcases, a standard or full-size SUV is usually the best choice. These vehicles offer ample cargo space behind the rear seats, allowing you to load gear without folding seats down and obstructing the rear view. The higher roofline and wider tailgate opening also make loading and unloading bulky items much easier than with a saloon. This provides a safer and more comfortable drive to your destination.

A frequent mistake for drivers unfamiliar with the area is getting into the wrong lane immediately after leaving the airport. The road quickly splits to direct traffic toward different highways such as PA-283 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). To avoid accidentally heading east towards Lancaster when you want to go west to Harrisburg, pay close attention to the overhead signs. Programming your sat-nav before you leave the rental lot is the most effective way to ensure you are in the correct lane for your intended route.

Under normal conditions the drive from Harrisburg International Airport to Hersheypark is a quick 15 to 20 minutes. However, on a summer weekend traffic can build significantly. Backups often begin forming on Route 322 and Hersheypark Drive by mid-morning, usually around 10:00, as visitors head to the park. To avoid the heaviest congestion, plan to leave the airport either early in the morning or later in the afternoon after the initial rush has eased.

A very convenient and low-stress option is to stop at one of the major supermarkets just off Route 322 in Hummelstown, the town right before Hershey. As you drive from the airport towards Hershey, you’ll see signs for shopping centres that are easily accessible from the highway. This lets you pull off quickly, grab your supplies and get back on the road without navigating unfamiliar side streets, making for an efficient start to your trip.

The most straightforward approach is to follow the large, clear signs for general parking as you approach the complex. The park is well equipped to handle large crowds, with attendants directing cars into the expansive lots in an organised fashion. It’s helpful to take a photo of your row number or a nearby landmark to find your rental car later. Arriving earlier in the day generally gets you a spot closer to the entrance, reducing your walk time.

To minimise time spent in parking queues for an event at Giant Center, plan to arrive about 60 to 90 minutes before the scheduled start. Traffic on Hersheypark Drive can become very congested in the hour leading up to a major concert or hockey game. Arriving early allows you to park with less stress, walk to the venue at a relaxed pace and find your seats without rushing. This buffer also gives you time to allow for any unexpected delays on the road.

When a major event is on at the Farm Show Complex, expect significant traffic congestion on Cameron Street and the surrounding sections of I-81 and I-83. Event staff and police typically direct traffic flow, so follow their instructions carefully. Parking is available in large on-site lots, but they can fill quickly. It’s often wise to approach the complex from a less-travelled direction if possible and to budget at least 30–45 extra minutes of travel time to navigate the area and find parking.

A good option for all-day parking in downtown Harrisburg is one of the public parking garages, such as the River Street Garage or the Walnut Street Garage. These facilities offer central locations that are just a short walk from key attractions like the State Capitol Complex, the State Museum and the Riverfront Park. Parking in a garage for the day is typically more convenient than hunting for on-street metered spots, allowing you to explore the city on foot without worrying about time limits.

Driving onto City Island is straightforward, as it’s accessed by a single bridge — the Market Street Bridge. The key is to anticipate traffic, especially on game nights. For a stress-free experience, aim to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before the first pitch. Follow the signs for game-day parking; attendants will guide you to available spots on the grass lots. The process is generally well organised, but arriving early ensures you get a better spot and time for a relaxed walk to the stadium.

To reach West Shore communities like Camp Hill or Mechanicsburg, the most direct route from the Harrisburg side is via the Harvey Taylor Bridge (Forster Street) or the Market Street Bridge. These bridges lead you into the local road network of Lemoyne and Camp Hill. For highway travel, taking I-83 South across the John Harris Bridge and then connecting to Route 581 West is the most reliable option. Following your sat-nav and watching for signs for Route 581 will keep you on the correct path.

For a pleasant, easy scenic drive head north on River Road (Front Street), which runs parallel to the Susquehanna River. This route offers lovely views of the water and the historic mansions along the road. You can drive up to the Rockville Bridge, a notable stone-arch railway bridge, for a good photo opportunity. Another option is to drive east towards Hershey on Route 322, which takes you through rolling hills and picturesque Pennsylvania farmland for a relaxing countryside experience.

A day trip to Gettysburg is very manageable. The drive from Harrisburg takes about an hour. Plan to leave by 09:00 to arrive with plenty of time. Budget at least four to five hours for your visit; this allows you to explore the Museum and Visitor Centre, watch the film, see the Cyclorama painting and take a self-guided auto tour of the battlefield. Parking is plentiful at the Visitor Centre, making it a convenient base for your visit before you drive back in the late afternoon.

The primary route, US-15 South, is a well-maintained highway, but conditions can change with the weather. On foggy mornings visibility can be significantly reduced, especially in low-lying areas and rolling hills, so use your dipped headlights and reduce speed. After heavy rain, be mindful of potential water pooling on the roadway. Always allow extra travel time and increase the following distance from other vehicles in these conditions to ensure a safe journey.

For a low-stress trip start on major roads like PA-283 East from the Harrisburg area to Lancaster. Once there, stick to main routes such as US-30 (Lincoln Highway) and PA-340 (Old Philadelphia Pike) to explore the heart of Amish Country. These roads are well paved and wide enough for comfortable driving while still offering access to farms, markets and shops. Using a sat-nav can help, but focusing on these primary roads will prevent you accidentally turning onto narrow, unpaved farm lanes.

A logical and efficient plan is to visit Hershey first, as it is located between Harrisburg and Lancaster. After enjoying Hershey, continue east on routes like US-322 and US-422, which connect directly to the Lancaster area. This creates a linear path from your starting point near MDT. When your trip is over, take PA-283 West from Lancaster for a direct drive back to Harrisburg airport, completing a simple and effective travel loop.

The drive to Knoebels Amusement Resort from Harrisburg takes about an hour and a half, so plan to leave by 09:00 to arrive shortly after the park opens. This lets you enjoy rides before the biggest crowds arrive in the afternoon. The route involves state roads that pass through several small towns, so allow for a relaxed pace. Knoebels is known for free parking in large grassy fields; follow the parking attendants’ directions for a smooth arrival experience.

The drive to State College on US-322 West will take you through scenic ridges and valleys of central Pennsylvania. Expect a mix of highway driving and stretches with rolling hills and curves, particularly as you near your destination. Weather can change with elevation, so be prepared for cooler temperatures or fog. There are several small towns along the route with petrol stations and fast-food options, with Lewistown a good halfway point to stop for a break.

For a Penn State football game, traffic becomes extremely heavy on US-322 heading into State College. To avoid the worst of it you should plan to be on the road no later than four to five hours before kick-off. That may seem early, but the final 15 miles can take over an hour as you approach the stadium. Leaving early ensures you have ample time to navigate game-day traffic, find your designated parking area and enjoy the pregame atmosphere.

The most convenient place to properly install car seats and get your family settled is right at your assigned spot in the airport’s rental car garage. This area is covered, well lit and generally has less traffic than a public car park, giving you the space and time you need. Before you even leave airport property you can make sure everyone is buckled in safely and comfortably. This avoids the stress of making adjustments at the side of a busy road.

Harrisburg’s rush hour typically runs from 07:00–09:00 and 16:00–18:00. The highways connecting these areas, like I-83, I-81 and US-322, can get very congested. To avoid the worst traffic, plan travel during off-peak hours such as mid-morning or early afternoon. If you must travel during rush hour, allow at least 20–30 minutes of extra travel time, especially for crossing the Susquehanna River bridges, which are major choke points.

The interchange where I-81, I-83 and US-322 converge near downtown Harrisburg can be challenging for first-time visitors. This area features several quick lane changes, left-lane exits and splits that require full attention. It’s highly recommended to use a sat-nav with lane guidance and review your route before you approach this junction. Paying close attention to the overhead signs is crucial to ensure you are in the correct lane well in advance of your exit.

During winter in the Harrisburg area, the biggest concern is often black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses and shaded sections of road that don’t get direct sunlight. Be particularly cautious in the early morning when temperatures are lowest. The region has many rolling hills, and some secondary or rural roads may not be treated as quickly as main highways. Always allow extra stopping distance and reduce your speed when conditions could be icy to ensure a safe driving experience.

For easy and dependable fuelling before your flight there are several petrol stations located in the nearby town of Middletown, just a few minutes from the airport entrance. By setting your sat-nav for a station in Middletown you can refuel without the stress of navigating the immediate airport loop. After refuelling it’s a simple direct drive back to the airport following the signs for "Airport" and then "Rental Car Return", making for a smooth and efficient end to your trip.

To ensure a smooth return, specifically input "Harrisburg Airport Rental Car Return" into your sat-nav rather than just the main airport address. As you approach the airport, ignore signs for "Departures", "Arrivals" or "Long-Term Parking". Instead, stay in the designated lane and follow the large, clear signs that explicitly say "Rental Car Return." These will guide you directly to the correct entrance of the parking garage where all rental companies are located.

If you realise you’ve left an item behind immediately after returning the vehicle, your best course of action is to go directly to the Avis rental desk inside the terminal. Speak with an agent as soon as possible, providing them with the vehicle details and a description of the lost item. Since the car will still be on-site pending inspection, there’s a good chance they can help you retrieve your belongings quickly. Acting fast before the vehicle is moved or cleaned is the most effective strategy.

In the event of a significant flight delay, the least stressful approach is to contact the local Avis office at the airport by phone. Explain the situation regarding your flight delay and ask about their policies for late returns. Communication is key, as it keeps the rental agency informed of your circumstances. This proactive step can provide peace of mind and help you understand any potential adjustments to your rental agreement, allowing you to relax at the airport without worrying about the car.

To avoid the worst traffic on a day trip to Philadelphia, plan to leave Harrisburg by 07:00 at the latest. This allows you to get through the Lancaster area and approach the Philadelphia suburbs before their morning rush peaks. For your return trip, aim to leave Philadelphia either before 15:00 or after 18:30. The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) can become extremely congested during the evening commute, and adjusting your timing can save you considerable time and frustration.

A day trip to Washington, D.C. is ambitious but possible with careful planning. The drive is about two and a half hours each way without traffic. Leave Harrisburg by 06:30 to arrive in D.C. before the heavy morning traffic. To avoid the stress of city driving and parking, consider parking at a Metro station in the Maryland suburbs, like Shady Grove or Greenbelt, and taking the train into the city. Plan to leave D.C. by 19:00 to miss the worst of the evening rush on the return.

The drive to Pittsburgh on the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) offers several convenient service plazas for breaks. The Sideling Hill Service Plaza is a popular stop, known for its impressive views from the pedestrian bridge over the highway. Further west, the Somerset Service Plaza is another excellent option located near the highest point on the turnpike. These plazas have restrooms, food options and fuel, making them perfect, easy-to-access rest points that break up the four-hour drive nicely.

When navigating to a large resort complex like The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge at night, use your sat-nav but also pay close attention to the resort’s own directional signage. These campuses often have multiple entrances and winding internal roads. Before you arrive, review the property map on the hotel’s website to get a general sense of the layout. Drive slowly and look for signs pointing to "Check-In" or "Main Lobby" to find your way without making wrong turns in the dark.

The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is very popular, so expect heavy traffic on the rural roads leading to the venue, particularly on Route 72. From Harrisburg the drive is straightforward, but the last few miles can be slow-moving, especially if you arrive mid-day. Plan to arrive early, ideally close to opening time, to avoid the longest queues. Parking is in large fields and attendants will direct you, so simply follow the flow of traffic and their instructions for a smooth experience.

A great strategy is to dedicate each day to a specific area to minimise driving and parking hassles. For example, spend one full day exploring downtown Harrisburg on foot after parking your car once in a central garage. On another day, drive to Hershey and leave your car at your primary destination, such as Hersheypark or Chocolate World, and use local shuttles or walk between nearby attractions. This "park once, explore many" approach is far more relaxing than driving between individual sites.

When travelling solo with luggage, prioritise stops at well-lit, busy locations like major service plazas or familiar chain restaurants right off the highway. Park in a visible spot, preferably where you can see the car from inside the establishment. Always lock your doors and keep luggage out of sight in the boot or covered in the cargo area. Choosing drive-thru options for meals is also an excellent way to get a quick bite without leaving your vehicle unattended.

A simple and scenic loop starts in Harrisburg. First drive north along Front Street for attractive views of the Susquehanna River, stopping at one of the riverfront parks. From there take I-81 North to I-83 South, then follow signs for US-322 East directly to Hershey. After your visit, take PA-283 West from the Hershey area, which provides a direct, highway-based route back toward Harrisburg and the airport. This loop uses major, well-marked roads and avoids complex city navigation.