Hertz Car Hire
Bellingham

The process at Bellingham International Airport is designed to be straightforward, even for late arrivals. After collecting your luggage from the baggage reclaim carousels, you can proceed directly to the hire car desks located within the main terminal. The Hertz desk is conveniently situated with the other agencies, making it easy to find. Once you complete the hire agreement, an agent will direct you to the adjacent car park where your vehicle will be waiting, allowing for a quick and seamless transition from the terminal to the road.

For an early departure from BLI, it's wise to build a comfortable time cushion into your schedule for the car return. A good rule of thumb is to arrive at the airport hire car lot about 30 to 45 minutes earlier than you would if you were being dropped off. This allows ample time for the vehicle return process, gathering your luggage, and the short walk back to the terminal. Factoring in this extra buffer ensures you can proceed to airline check-in and security without feeling rushed.

For the most direct and simple route to the historic Fairhaven district, start by heading out of the airport and taking the I-5 South. This is a very short drive on the motorway, typically just one junction. Take Exit 250 for Old Fairhaven Parkway and head west. This parkway leads you directly into the heart of Fairhaven, minimising complex turns on town streets. Following the clear motorway signage is the most reliable way for a newcomer to navigate this trip.

If your hotel has limited parking, several neighbourhoods in Bellingham offer more manageable overnight options. The downtown area has a public parking garage, the Commercial Street Garage, which is a secure and centrally located choice. In residential-heavy areas like the Lettered Streets or near WWU, on-street parking is common, but it's crucial to carefully read all posted signs for any time restrictions or permit requirements. The Fairhaven district also has public lots that can be a good option, though they can be busy.

Driving the Mount Baker Highway (WA-542) in winter demands preparation and caution. Before you leave Bellingham, always check the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) website for the latest road conditions and any active traction advisories. Mountain weather can change in an instant, so be prepared for snow, ice, and reduced visibility even if it's clear in town. It's essential to drive at a reduced speed, maintain extra following distance, and be comfortable with the possibility of needing to use tyre chains.

Navigating the area around Western Washington University can be tricky due to its hilly terrain and specific parking regulations. Visitors often get confused by the one-way streets and steep grades on the south side of campus, such as Bill McDonald Parkway. Parking is another key challenge, as most lots require specific permits, and enforcement is strict. For the smoothest experience, plan to use the designated visitor car parks and pay close attention to signage indicating which permits are valid and where.

Mobile service is generally reliable within Bellingham and along the main I-5 corridor. However, on scenic drives away from the city, you should anticipate losing signal. The Mount Baker Highway (WA-542) is notorious for spotty to non-existent coverage, especially after the town of Glacier. Similarly, sections of the scenic Chuckanut Drive can have weak signals. It's a wise practice to download maps for offline use before you begin your journey to ensure your navigation continues to work without a mobile connection.

The drive to the Bellingham Cruise Terminal, which serves the Alaska Marine Highway, is quite simple from the airport. The most direct path is to take the I-5 South to Exit 250 for Old Fairhaven Parkway. Head west on the parkway, following the signs for the ferry terminal. The parkway will eventually become Harris Avenue as you enter Fairhaven; continue following it downhill toward the water. The route is well-marked with ferry symbols, guiding you directly to the terminal entrance for an easy drop-off.

To avoid stress when catching a ferry from Anacortes, planning is key, especially during peak season or on weekends. The drive from Bellingham typically takes about 45 minutes without traffic. It is highly recommended to make a vehicle reservation online in advance with Washington State Ferries. Your reservation requires you to arrive at the terminal booth within a specific window, usually 30 to 90 minutes before your scheduled sailing, which helps manage the queue and guarantees your spot on board.

When approaching the border crossing into Canada, it's essential to have your travel documents ready for a smooth inspection. Each passenger in the vehicle should have their passport or other approved travel document easily accessible. As the driver of a hire car, you should also have your driving licence and the hire agreement within reach. Border officers may ask to see the rental contract to confirm you have permission to take the vehicle into another country.

To ensure a smooth start to a road trip south to Seattle, it's best to avoid Bellingham's weekday commuter traffic on the I-5. The heaviest southbound congestion typically occurs between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM as local residents head to work. Traffic can also build up in the afternoon, from about 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. For the most pleasant drive, plan to depart either mid-morning, after 9:30 AM, or in the early afternoon before the evening rush begins.

A driving trip from Bellingham to Whistler is best done by starting early to allow for a relaxed pace. Plan to cross the border into Canada before 9:00 AM on a weekday to avoid peak wait times. Once across, the drive to Whistler via the Sea-to-Sky Highway (BC-99) is stunning, so you'll want time for stops. Consider a break in Squamish for coffee or a walk to see the Stawamus Chief. This breaks up the roughly three-hour post-border drive and lets you enjoy the incredible scenery without rushing.

During winter in Bellingham, drivers should be most cautious of black ice, especially during early mornings on bridges, overpasses, and shaded roads. Certain neighbourhoods built on hills, like Sehome or parts of Fairhaven, have steep streets that can become very slick and challenging to navigate after a frost or light snowfall. Additionally, be aware of sudden fog patches that can greatly reduce visibility, particularly in areas closer to the water. Driving with extra care and slower speeds is the best defence against these winter surprises.

Refuelling your hire car before returning it to Bellingham International Airport is very convenient. Several major petrol stations are located along Bakerview Road and Airport Way, the main thoroughfares leading directly to the airport entrance. You can easily exit the I-5 at Bakerview Road (Exit 258), find a station, and then proceed directly to the airport without any significant detours. This allows for a quick and efficient final stop before you complete your hire return.

Bellingham has several multi-lane roundabouts that can be unfamiliar to visitors. The key is to choose your lane before entering: use the right lane to turn right or go straight, and the left lane to go straight, turn left, or make a U-turn. Always yield to traffic already in the roundabout. A common point of confusion is the roundabout on Old Fairhaven Parkway near the I-5, where drivers must navigate correctly to access the motorway or head into Fairhaven. Pay close attention to the overhead signs as you approach to ensure you're in the proper lane.

After picking up your hire car at BLI, it's best to find a spot in the hire lot with ample space around the vehicle to organise your gear. Before leaving the airport, take a few minutes to strategically load your equipment. If you have an SUV, folding down a portion of the rear seats can create a long space for skis or snowboards. Pack softer items like bags around the bulky gear to prevent it from shifting during the drive. This initial organisation makes the rest of your trip much more manageable.

Driving Chuckanut Drive (WA-11) is a memorable experience, but it requires your full attention. The road is narrow and winding, with tight curves that hug the coastline and forest. For a first-time driver, the key is to go slowly and enjoy the journey rather than rushing. There are numerous designated viewpoints and pullouts along the route, perfect for safely stopping to take photos of the San Juan Islands. Plan for the drive to take significantly longer than a direct route on the I-5, and be courteous to local drivers by using pullouts to let faster traffic pass.

A realistic day trip into the North Cascades National Park from Bellingham focuses on the scenic North Cascades Highway (WA-20), which is open seasonally. Plan for an early start, as the drive to the Diablo Lake overlook, a popular turnaround point, takes about 90 minutes one-way. This allows plenty of time for stops at the Gorge Creek Falls and the iconic overlook itself. To make the most of your day, pack a lunch and plan to be heading back toward Bellingham by mid-afternoon to ensure you're not driving the winding roads after dark.

To enjoy a smooth trip to Deception Pass Bridge, timing is everything. The drive south from Bellingham is best done on a weekday or by starting early, before 10:00 AM, on a weekend to beat the crowds. The parking lots right at the bridge are small and fill up quickly. A great strategy is to park at a larger lot within Deception Pass State Park, such as the one at North Beach, and then walk the scenic trail to the bridge. This avoids the stress of circling for a spot and lets you experience more of the park's beauty.

Boulevard Park is extremely popular, and its main parking lot fills very quickly on sunny weekends. To avoid frustration, consider parking in the Fairhaven district and enjoying the scenic half-mile walk along the waterfront trail to reach the park and the Taylor Dock boardwalk. Alternatively, there is another parking area on the north side of the park, accessible from Bayview Drive, which is sometimes overlooked. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon is your best bet for finding a spot in the main lot.

When staying in the historic Fairhaven district, unloading luggage can be tricky on the main thoroughfares like Harris Avenue. For a less stressful experience, check if your B&B has a designated loading zone or alley access. If not, quieter side streets like McKenzie Avenue or 10th Street often have less traffic, providing a better opportunity to pull over safely for a few minutes. It's always a good idea to coordinate with your host beforehand, as they can provide the best advice for their specific location.

The most scenic and direct route from the airport to Larrabee State Park is via the famous Chuckanut Drive (WA-11). From BLI, you can connect to Chuckanut Drive via the I-5 South to Exit 250 and then following Old Fairhaven Parkway. On peak days, especially sunny summer weekends, expect a queue of cars at the park's main entrance. You will need a Discover Pass for vehicle entry; there is an automated pay station available if you don't already have one. Arriving earlier in the day can help you avoid the longest lines and secure a better parking spot.

Driving in Bellingham has a more relaxed pace compared to larger cities, but it requires heightened awareness of pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers here are generally expected to stop for pedestrians at all crosswalks, marked or unmarked. The city has an extensive network of bike lanes, so always check for cyclists before turning or opening your car door. Pay close attention to speed limits, as they can change quickly when transitioning from main roads to quieter residential streets or designated school zones.

When visiting Bellingham during a major event like Ski to Sea or a Western Washington University graduation, proactive planning is essential. Check the event's official website and the City of Bellingham's website for maps of road closures and parking recommendations beforehand. It's often best to park your hire car on the periphery of the event area and walk or use public transport to get closer. Arriving with a flexible mindset and allowing significant extra travel time will help you navigate the congestion with less stress.

For a trip to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, the most practical approach is to drive south on the I-5 and take Exit 226 (Kincaid Street) in Mount Vernon. From there, follow the festival signs that direct you along the scenic country roads where the flower fields are located. The biggest traffic bottleneck typically occurs on the small, two-lane roads connecting the various farms, especially on weekends. To minimise wait times, plan your visit for a weekday if possible, or arrive very early in the morning on a Saturday or Sunday.

When travelling the Mount Baker Highway (WA-542) with family, it's smart to plan your stops in advance as services become sparse. The last town with multiple restaurants and reliable facilities is Maple Falls, located about 30 miles from Bellingham. The small community of Glacier, about 10 miles further, offers a few more limited options. Beyond Glacier, there are virtually no services. It's best to make sure everyone has used the restroom and has snacks before passing through Maple Falls for a comfortable trip up the mountain.

For a logical multi-day loop, a great route is to start in Bellingham and drive south to the Olympic Peninsula first. You can take the Coupeville–Port Townsend ferry or drive further south via Tacoma to access the peninsula. After exploring, you can take a ferry from Bainbridge Island or Bremerton directly to downtown Seattle. This places Seattle as your last major stop before the straightforward, all‑motorway drive back north on the I-5 to Bellingham, effectively minimising any backtracking on your journey.

Bellingham offers several excellent options for quick, low-effort scenic stops. A drive along Chuckanut Drive provides numerous designated pull-outs with stunning views of the San Juan Islands, requiring no walking at all. For a short, flat walk, head to Zuanich Point Park at Squalicum Harbour, which offers beautiful views of the bay and marina. Another great choice is Boulevard Park, where you can park and immediately access the waterfront path and the iconic Taylor Dock boardwalk over the water.

For easy parking near the Bellingham waterfront, the large lot at Zuanich Point Park is a reliable option, especially if you're dining at a restaurant in the Squalicum Harbour area. If your destination is closer to the town centre, there are several paid lots near Cornwall Avenue and Railroad Avenue that provide convenient access to waterfront businesses. For the southern waterfront near Fairhaven, the Bellingham Cruise Terminal offers ample parking, which is just a short walk from nearby restaurants and parks.

Navigating downtown Bellingham can be managed easily with a little planning. Before you go, look at a map to familiarise yourself with the pattern of one-way streets like Holly, Magnolia, and Chestnut. For less stressful parking, consider using surface lots instead of the multi-level Commercial Street Garage. There are several paid surface lots, particularly around Railroad Avenue, that are easy to enter and exit. Arriving outside of peak lunch or dinner hours can also make finding a convenient on-street spot much simpler.

The most straightforward route from Bellingham to Leavenworth for a first-time driver is to take the I-5 South to Everett, then head east on Highway 2. This scenic highway takes you over Stevens Pass and directly to Leavenworth. It's a beautiful but mountainous drive, so plan for breaks. The towns of Monroe or Sultan are good places for an early stop. Further on, the small town of Skykomish is a perfect spot to rest right before you begin the main ascent over the pass.

When driving in and around Bellingham, especially on rural roads and the Mount Baker Highway, it's crucial to be vigilant for wildlife. Deer are very common and can appear on the road with little warning, particularly during the low-light hours of dawn and dusk. As you get further into the mountains, the possibility of encountering other animals increases. The best practice is to scan the sides of the road as you drive and maintain a safe speed that allows you ample time to brake if an animal darts out.

To create a realistic timeline, plan for the entire airport process to take about 30 to 45 minutes from the moment you deplane. This includes walking to baggage reclaim, waiting for your luggage, and completing the hire car paperwork at the Hertz desk. Once you have your keys, add the driving time to your destination in Bellingham, which is typically 15 to 20 minutes for most locations in the town. Factoring in these steps will give you a much more accurate arrival estimate for your scheduled activity.

For the most efficient drop-off experience, it's best to go to the main terminal departures curb first. You can unload all your passengers and luggage there, which allows them to proceed to check-in while you handle the vehicle return. After they are safely on their way, you can drive the short distance to the designated hire car return area by yourself. This splits up the tasks and prevents the hassle of managing bags and family members in the hire lot.

To maximise your time on a cross-border day trip, check the border wait times online before you leave Bellingham. Weekday mornings before 8:00 AM and mid-afternoons often have shorter waits than peak commuter hours or weekends. For your return trip, be aware that southbound traffic into the U.S. can be heavy on Sunday afternoons and evenings as weekend travellers head home. Building flexibility into your schedule and using a less-congested crossing like Sumas can make for a much smoother and more enjoyable day.

Bellingham is perfectly positioned for fantastic, low-effort day trips. A short 30-minute drive south takes you to the charming towns of La Conner or Edison in the Skagit Valley, known for their art galleries, antique shops, and farm-to-table restaurants. For a coastal experience, drive 45 minutes to Anacortes, the gateway to the San Juan Islands, which has a lovely old town and waterfront parks. Another great option is the scenic drive to the village of Lynden, about 25 minutes north, with its unique Dutch-themed architecture and bakeries.

Before leaving the hire car lot for a rural destination, it's crucial to have clear directions and a plan. Confirm the full address and, if possible, get GPS coordinates, as rural addresses can sometimes be mapped incorrectly. Download the route map for offline use, since mobile service can be unreliable outside of town. It's also wise to ask your host for any specific landmarks or tricky turns to watch for, and to confirm details about the driveway or access road, especially if it's unpaved or steep.