Avis Car Hire
New Hampshire

For late-evening arrivals your most reliable option is typically Manchester–Boston Regional Airport (MHT), as it's the state's largest and busiest hub. Major airports like this generally have rental car desks with extended hours to accommodate a wider range of flight schedules. Smaller regional airports also offer rental services, but their opening hours can be more limited. It's a sensible travel habit to verify the specific location's operating hours when you book your vehicle to ensure a smooth collection, no matter how late your flight arrives.

Most visitors staying in downtown Portsmouth use the city's public parking garages for convenient and secure overnight parking. The Hanover Street Garage is centrally located and a popular choice, allowing you to leave your car and explore the historic centre, shops and waterfront on foot. Using a garage removes the worry about on-street time limits or having to move your vehicle early in the morning. This approach is generally the least stressful way to manage a car while enjoying the walkability of the town centre.

The most straightforward and least stressful route for a first-time visitor is to take Interstate 93 North directly from the Manchester area. This major motorway is well maintained, clearly signed and offers a direct path into the heart of the White Mountains, bringing you to Lincoln and the Franconia Notch region. You'll avoid complex urban interchanges and winding back roads, allowing you to relax and enjoy the increasingly scenic landscape. It's a beautiful drive and a perfect introduction to the mountains.

To secure a parking spot for a popular hike in Franconia Notch, especially at a weekend or during peak season, it's wise to leave southern New Hampshire very early. Aim to arrive at the trailhead car park no later than 08:00, and even earlier for highly sought-after trails like the Franconia Ridge Loop. That often means departing from places like Manchester or Nashua well before 06:30. An early start not only guarantees parking but also lets you enjoy the trails with fewer people and in the cooler morning air.

A practical approach for a split trip is to use public transport or rideshares while in Boston, where parking is challenging and a car is often unnecessary. You can then pick up your rental car on the day you plan to leave for New Hampshire, saving on rental days and parking hassles. Many travellers choose a rental location in the Boston suburbs or at Logan Airport for a quick getaway onto the highway. This strategy gives you the freedom of a car to explore New Hampshire's scenic roads while avoiding the complications of having one in a dense urban centre.

A common and convenient stopping point for provisions is the town of Hooksett, just north of Manchester, which has several large supermarkets right off the highway. Further north, many travellers stop in Concord or Tilton, as these areas offer major supermarkets and stores for last-minute supplies before services become more spread out. Once you get closer to the White Mountains, Conway itself has plenty of grocery options to stock up for your stay in the North Conway area. Planning a stop in one of these larger towns ensures you have everything you need for your mountain adventure.

When driving the Kancamagus Highway (Route 112), you should plan for a near-total lack of mobile signal for the majority of the 34-mile scenic stretch. Before you begin the drive from either Lincoln or Conway, download maps of the area for offline use in your navigation app and make sure your devices are fully charged. While the road is well travelled and has clearly marked scenic overlooks, you won't be able to rely on your phone for calls, texts or live mapping, so preparation is key to a stress-free journey.

A classic and highly recommended one-day scenic loop from North Conway involves driving north on Route 16 through Pinkham Notch, past the Mount Washington Auto Road. You can then head west on Route 2 to Gorham and continue on to Route 115, which connects you to Route 3. From there, drive south through Crawford Notch State Park on Route 302, which brings you back toward North Conway via Bartlett. This popular route creates a spectacular circular tour of the Presidential Range, offering numerous waterfalls, viewpoints and short walks without backtracking.

During New Hampshire's mud season, typically from late March through May, you should be extremely cautious of any unpaved roads, even if they appear as shortcuts on a map. The thawing ground makes these dirt and gravel roads incredibly soft, muddy and prone to deep ruts, which can easily trap a vehicle. It's best to stick to paved state highways and main roads during this period. A route that looks short could turn into a significant delay or require a lengthy detour if it becomes impassable.

While most of New Hampshire's main roads are suitable for any standard vehicle, some specific mountain passes can be challenging for a smaller car, particularly if it has lower horsepower. The Mount Washington Auto Road, for example, involves a very steep and continuous climb that can strain smaller engines. Similarly, some of the tighter, winding roads like parts of Route 112 (Kancamagus Highway) or the narrow sections in Franconia Notch might feel more secure in a vehicle with a bit more power and stability. However, for general touring on paved highways, a compact car is typically sufficient.

To avoid the worst of the peak fall foliage traffic, especially at weekends, plan to be on the road and heading into the White Mountains very early in the morning. Aim to be past the main entry points like Lincoln or Conway before 09:00. Alternatively, consider arriving on a weekday, as traffic is significantly lighter than on Saturdays and Sundays. Another strategy is to plan your arrival for later in the afternoon, after the morning rush has subsided, although this may limit your daylight hours for activities.

In Lincoln you can generally find reliable parking at your accommodation, as most hotels, motels and rental properties provide dedicated spots for guests. For day-trippers or those needing extra space, there are several public lots in the town centre, often near the visitor centre or main commercial areas. When heading to trailheads in Franconia Notch State Park, be aware that those lots fill up extremely early. Many visitors park in designated lots in Lincoln and use the park's seasonal shuttle service to access popular trailheads without the stress of finding a spot.

Driving Route 1A along the New Hampshire seacoast in summer is incredibly scenic but can become very congested, especially on sunny weekends. The traffic is typically heaviest between 10:00 and 16:00 as beachgoers arrive and depart. The stretch through Hampton Beach and Rye is particularly prone to slow-moving, bumper-to-bumper traffic. To enjoy the drive with less stress, consider travelling early in the morning or later in the evening, or visit on a weekday if your schedule allows.

The easiest plan is to start your day early to secure parking in your first destination before the crowds arrive. In Portsmouth, head directly to a public garage like the Hanover Street Garage, which offers all-day rates. When you drive to Ogunquit, be prepared for paid lots, as on-street parking is scarce; the municipal lots near the beach or in Perkins Cove are your best bet. Arriving in Ogunquit either before 10:00 or after 15:00 can make finding a spot in these lots much easier during the busy summer season.

Travellers heading to Hampton Beach with a car full of gear typically aim to arrive early to secure a spot in one of the large state park car parks or private lots close to the sand. Many visitors use a beach cart or wagon to transport chairs, coolers and umbrellas from the car to their spot on the beach in one trip. After unloading, it's sensible to ensure all valuables are out of sight and the vehicle is securely locked. Planning to park for the entire day is the most common strategy to avoid losing a prime spot.

The smoothest plan is to remain flexible and check the Mount Washington Observatory's Higher Summits Forecast on the morning of your trip before you even get in the car. This forecast is the most reliable source for the mountain's notoriously volatile weather. If conditions look favourable, proceed with your plan to either drive the Auto Road or take the Cog Railway. If the forecast is poor, have a backup plan ready, such as exploring the lower-elevation attractions in Pinkham or Crawford Notch, which are often less affected by summit weather.

Portsmouth is an excellent choice for a 'park it and walk' base, with its compact, historic town centre full of shops, restaurants and waterfront parks. In the White Mountains, North Conway's main village offers a walkable strip of outlets, local stores and eateries, with many accommodation options nearby. For a quieter, more quintessential New England experience, towns like Hanover or Littleton also have charming and walkable centres where you can enjoy a day without needing to get back in the car.

A common surprise for visitors is the prevalence of rotaries, or traffic circles, which are used instead of traditional intersections in many towns; the key is to yield to traffic already inside the circle. Another confusing element can be the flashing yellow arrow at a traffic light, which indicates you may make a left turn but must yield to oncoming traffic. In rural areas you'll encounter many intersections that are simply two-way or four-way stops without lights, requiring careful attention to signs to determine who has the right of way.

When planning this drive, it's important to recognise that the route consists primarily of state highways and local roads rather than a direct interstate. While the distance may not look vast on a map, you should budget more time than a standard motorway trip would suggest. Plan for an average speed of around 45–50 mph, and factor in potential slowdowns through the numerous small towns you'll pass. A drive that might look like two hours could easily take closer to three, so building in a buffer is a smart approach.

An easy strategy is to focus on the less-congested towns and state parks around the lake. For example, driving along Route 11 on the lake's southwest side offers several scenic turnouts with easy parking. Ellacoya State Park in Gilford provides a beautiful beach and views with a large, dedicated car park. Visiting on a weekday or early in the morning will dramatically reduce parking competition in popular towns like Wolfeboro or Meredith, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Visitors typically add at least 45 to 60 minutes of buffer time, especially for a weekend or summer afternoon cruise. Traffic in popular port towns like Weirs Beach or Meredith can be surprisingly heavy, and finding a spot in the designated cruise car parks can take time. Arriving early allows you to park without stress, check in for your cruise, and perhaps enjoy a brief walk along the docks. This extra time is crucial for ensuring a relaxed start to your lake adventure.

The best way to avoid slow traffic is to travel during off-peak times, such as early in the morning or on weekdays. When you do encounter a slower vehicle, be patient and wait for a designated, safe passing zone with clear visibility, as these are infrequent on winding roads. Another effective strategy is to pull over at a scenic viewpoint for a few minutes; this allows you to take a break and lets the traffic ahead disperse, often giving you a clear road when you resume your drive.

An efficient plan often involves focusing on a specific cluster of bridges, such as those in the Contoocook River Valley or the Ashuelot River area near Keene and Swanzey. Many local tourism websites offer downloadable maps or suggested driving tours that link several bridges in a logical loop. Before you go, plot the bridge locations on a digital map to create a route that minimises backtracking. This preparation allows you to see more bridges and enjoy the scenic back roads without wasting time.

For an early-morning drive to New Hampshire's ski areas, you should always plan for potential winter road conditions, even if the forecast seems clear. Main highways like I-93 are well maintained, but temperatures can drop overnight, leading to icy patches, especially on exit ramps and secondary roads leading to the resorts. Always allow for extra travel time, drive at a reduced speed, and ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter weather. Checking the state's real-time road condition reports before you leave is also a highly recommended practice.

The most practical plan is to either leave the mountains very early on Sunday morning, before 10:00, or to wait until after 19:00 to begin your drive south. The southbound traffic on I-93 can be extremely heavy from midday through the late afternoon. Another excellent strategy, if your flight schedule allows, is to extend your stay until Monday morning. This completely avoids the weekend traffic jam and makes for a much more pleasant and predictable return journey to the airport.

Many of New Hampshire's most scenic spots are surprisingly accessible. The Kancamagus Highway has numerous roadside scenic overlooks with parking just feet from stunning vistas. In Franconia Notch, the Flume Gorge has a visitor centre with nearby parking, and while the full trail has steps, the initial views are easy to reach. Additionally, the Mount Washington Cog Railway and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway both provide spectacular mountain experiences with minimal walking required from the car park to the ride itself.

For a mixed-terrain New Hampshire trip, an SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance is often a great choice. This provides extra confidence and comfort on the gravel or uneven dirt roads that often lead to trailheads and more remote natural sights. While a standard saloon is perfectly fine for city and motorway driving, an SUV can handle variable road quality with ease. For trips during spring, autumn or winter, considering a vehicle with all-wheel drive can also add a significant layer of stability and safety in unpredictable weather.

During peak weekends, the most effective strategy is to find a single parking spot for the day and explore the town on foot. North Conway has several large public lots behind the main street shops. For quick drop-offs, it's best to have one person run into a store while the driver circles the block, as stopping on the main road can cause significant traffic backups. Arriving in town early in the morning or later in the afternoon is the best way to secure a spot without circling endlessly.

Driving at dusk in rural New Hampshire requires heightened awareness, as this is a prime time for wildlife, particularly deer and moose, to be active near roadways. Visibility decreases quickly on unlit back roads, so it's crucial to reduce your speed and use your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic. Experienced travellers actively scan the sides of the road, not just the carriageway ahead. Planning to complete most of your rural driving before nightfall is the safest strategy to minimise the risk of a sudden wildlife encounter.

For a road trip heading west into Vermont, Hanover makes a smart first-night stop, offering a vibrant college town atmosphere and easy access to the I-89. If your journey is taking you east into Maine, Portsmouth is an ideal choice, with its historic charm, excellent dining and direct access to the I-95. For those heading north toward Maine's mountains or Canada, North Conway provides a scenic base in the White Mountains before you continue your travels the next day.

The most straightforward route is to take Route 4 East from Hanover towards Canaan, then connect with Route 118 North. This scenic road will take you through Dorchester and eventually connect you to Route 112 near Woodstock and Lincoln, at the western end of the Kancamagus Highway. While it involves state roads rather than a motorway, this path is well signed and offers a direct connection between the two regions without the need for complex navigation or significant detours through winding back roads.

The best approach for a day in Concord is to park your car once and explore on foot. The city offers several public parking garages, such as the School Street Garage or the Storrs Street Garage, which are centrally located and provide affordable all-day rates. From these garages you can easily walk to the State House, the McAuliffe–Shepard Discovery Center and the many shops and restaurants on Main Street. This strategy allows you to enjoy the city's attractions without the hassle of finding new parking at every stop.

To make your exit easier after an event, many visitors choose to park in a garage or lot that is a few blocks away from the arena itself. While the closest garages are convenient for arrival, they can be very slow to empty out afterwards. Parking a bit further, perhaps north of Bridge Street or east of Elm Street, allows you to walk a short distance and access less congested roads when leaving. This strategy often saves considerable time compared with waiting in the long lines of cars exiting the nearest facilities.

During a winter storm you should expect challenging driving conditions and potential delays, and prioritise safety above all else. Roads may be snow-covered or icy, and visibility can be poor. It is critical to check the official New Hampshire road conditions report before you leave and allow for significant extra travel time. Be prepared to alter or cancel your plans, as ski areas may have wind holds and hiking in severe weather is not advisable. Having a vehicle equipped for winter is essential.

Travellers planning a sunrise mission typically research their chosen viewpoint well in advance to confirm that overnight parking is permitted or that the car park opens early. For popular spots like Artist's Bluff this means arriving in the dark and using the designated lots, which are generally accessible 24/7. It's crucial to park only in marked spaces, use a headtorch for safety, and be quiet and respectful of any nearby residents or campers. The key is to arrive well before sunrise to secure one of the limited spaces available.

For multi-venue weddings groups often designate drivers for each car to ensure everyone has a safe ride. Hiring a larger vehicle like a minivan or full-size SUV can also be a smart way to consolidate transport and keep a group together. Many groups use shared digital maps with pinned locations for the ceremony, reception and hotels to ensure everyone navigates correctly. Planning rendezvous points and times in advance helps coordinate arrivals and makes the logistics of a late-night return much smoother for everyone involved.

An easy and rewarding day trip is a drive to the Lake Winnipesaukee area, stopping in a charming town like Wolfeboro, which is about an hour away. This offers a complete change of scenery from the seacoast to the lakes. Another great option is to explore the country roads around Exeter and Stratham, visiting local farms, orchards and the quintessential New England town centres. These shorter trips provide a strong sense of place without spending the entire day on major motorways.

Savvy travellers often dedicate a specific area of the rental car, usually the boot, as the 'gear zone.' Using a collapsible laundry basket or a large, sturdy plastic bin is an excellent way to contain muddy boots and prevent dirt from spreading throughout the vehicle. Keeping a few extra plastic bags on hand is useful for isolating wet rain jackets or dirty clothes. This system keeps the main cabin clean and comfortable for scenic drives between your outdoor adventures.

The simplest and least stressful plan is to allow for much more travel time than you think you need. Check for any local traffic or road works advisories before you depart. It's also wise to have your car fully packed the night before and to fill up the petrol tank so you don't have to make extra stops. Many travellers staying in a distant town like North Conway or Keene will plan to leave at least an hour earlier than satnav estimates suggest for a flight out of Manchester (MHT), ensuring a relaxed and timely airport arrival.