National Car Hire
Bellingham

The National Car Rental desk at Bellingham International Airport is conveniently located inside the main terminal building. Once you have collected your luggage from the baggage reclaim carousel, you will find the rental car counters a short walk away in the arrivals area. BLI is a compact, easy-to-navigate airport, so you can expect to reach the desk in a minute or two. The vehicles are parked in a designated car park directly outside the terminal, making the whole process from plane to car very efficient.

Bellingham International Airport is a smaller, user-friendly facility, so navigating it late at night is typically straightforward. The walk from your gate through the terminal to the rental car counters and then out to the car park is short and well lit. It's always good practice to include your flight number in your reservation so the local staff can be aware of potential delays. If you expect to arrive after the desk's scheduled closing time, it's best to call the location directly to confirm their after-hours pickup procedures.

For a morning flight out of Bellingham, it's wise to plan to arrive at the airport about two hours before your scheduled departure. This provides a comfortable buffer to return your rental car, which is a quick process with the car park adjacent to the terminal. This timing allows you to complete the vehicle return, walk to the check-in desk, and clear security without feeling rushed. While BLI is known for its efficiency, allocating this amount of time helps account for any unexpected queues or delays.

The most direct route from the airport to downtown Bellingham is to take Airport Way onto I-5 South. During weekday commute hours, typically from 07:30–09:00 and 16:00–18:00, you may encounter some congestion on the motorway, but it is generally manageable compared with larger cities. Once on I-5 you'll drive a few miles before taking one of the downtown exits, such as Lakeway Drive or State Street/Ohio Street. Following the signs for the City Centre will guide you into the heart of downtown.

Getting to the historic Fairhaven neighbourhood from the airport is very simple. Leave the airport and merge onto I-5 South, staying on the motorway for about five miles. Look for Exit 250, which is clearly signed for Old Fairhaven Parkway and Chuckanut Drive (WA-11). Take this exit and turn right onto Old Fairhaven Parkway, which will take you directly into the centre of the neighbourhood. This route avoids any complex city street navigation, making it an easy and stress-free drive.

When WWU is in session you'll notice increased traffic, particularly around the campus on Sehome Hill. Key areas that get congested include Bill McDonald Parkway, Samish Way, and the streets bordering the south end of downtown. Traffic is heaviest during class-change times and at the beginning and end of the academic day. You may also find more pedestrian activity in these areas, so it's important to drive with extra awareness. However, the impact is mostly localised and doesn't typically cause major gridlock across the whole city.

The most challenging areas for parking are typically the downtown core and the historic Fairhaven district, especially at weekends. In these areas, on-street parking is often metered and subject to time limits, making it tricky to find an open spot during peak hours. For longer stays of a few hours, visitors often use the Commercial Street Parking Garage in the city centre or one of the paid public lots in Fairhaven. These options provide a more reliable and less stressful way to park while you explore shops and restaurants on foot.

For a great 'park once' experience, the downtown area is an excellent choice. You can find a spot in the Commercial Street Parking Garage or a nearby surface lot and easily spend hours exploring. From there, numerous restaurants, shops and a high concentration of breweries are within comfortable walking distance. Another fantastic option is the Fairhaven district, where you can park and then stroll through the historic streets, visit cafés, and walk down to the Taylor Dock boardwalk on the waterfront.

From Bellingham International Airport it takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes to reach the start of the Mount Baker Highway (WA-542). The most common route is to take Guide Meridian (WA-539) north to W Axton Road, then head east until it meets the highway. Many travellers make a preparatory stop in the small town of Maple Falls, which is located along the highway. There you can find a grocery store for snacks and supplies, as well as a petrol station to ensure you have a full tank before heading up into the mountains.

Driving the Mount Baker Highway (WA-542) is a beautiful experience but it requires your full attention. The road is well maintained but features sharp bends, steep gradients and narrow sections, especially on the final ascent to Artist Point. It's important to drive at a moderate speed, be aware of cyclists sharing the road, and use designated pullouts to enjoy the scenery or let faster traffic pass. Weather can change rapidly at high elevations, so be prepared for cooler temperatures and variable conditions even on a sunny day.

The most frequent weather challenge in the Bellingham area is rain, which is common from autumn through late spring. Heavy rain can reduce visibility and make roads slick, so increasing your following distance is key. Morning fog can also be an issue, particularly in low-lying areas near water or rivers. Additionally, strong winds can occur during storms, especially along the coast and on exposed bridges, requiring a firm grip on the steering wheel. Always check the local forecast before heading out on a longer drive.

When driving the Mount Baker Highway in the dark, safety is paramount. The road is unlit and winds through dense forest, so wildlife on the roadway is a significant concern. Drive at a slower speed than during the day and use your main beams when there is no oncoming traffic to maximise visibility. Be sure to tell someone your travel plans and expected return time. It's also wise to have offline maps downloaded, as mobile coverage is unreliable in the mountains.

Whatcom Falls Park has several parking areas, with the two main lots located off Silver Beach Road near the fish hatchery and off Electric Avenue near the stone bridge. During sunny weekends and summer afternoons these lots can become quite full. However, parking spots tend to open up regularly as visitors come and go. If the main lots are at capacity, you can often find additional on-street parking in the surrounding residential neighbourhoods, just be sure to check for any posted restrictions.

The most convenient place to park for Boulevard Park and the Taylor Dock is the main car park located at the south end of the park, accessible from Bayview Drive. This lot provides direct access to the park's main lawn, coffee shop and the start of the boardwalk that connects to the Fairhaven district. On fine days this lot fills up quickly, so arriving earlier is recommended. Additional on-street parking is available along South State Street and in the nearby Fairhaven neighbourhood, just a short walk away.

On warm summer weekends, Larrabee State Park is a very popular destination and parking can be competitive. The main lots for Clayton Beach and the primary picnic areas can fill up by late morning. To secure a spot, it's best to arrive early in the day. The scenic drive to the park along Chuckanut Drive can also be slow-moving with visitor and cyclist traffic. Be prepared for a leisurely drive and have patience when looking for a parking space, as it's well worth the effort.

To ensure a stress-free trip to the Anacortes ferry terminal, it's best to leave Bellingham at least 90 minutes before your planned ferry departure. The drive itself takes about 45 minutes without traffic, but this buffer accounts for potential slowdowns and the time needed to navigate the ferry holding lanes. During peak summer season or on bank holiday weekends, consider adding an extra 30 minutes to your travel time. Arriving early allows you to get in line and relax before your island adventure begins.

Wait times at the Peace Arch border crossing can be highly variable, ranging from just a few minutes to over an hour. Weekday mornings and weekend afternoons are typically the busiest times for northbound travel. Before you leave Bellingham, it's essential to check a real-time border wait time app or the WSDOT website. This will help you decide if you should budget extra time for the crossing or consider using an alternative like the Pacific Highway (Truck Crossing) port of entry a few miles east.

The best choice between the Peace Arch (I-5) and Pacific Highway (SR 543) crossings depends entirely on real-time traffic. Peace Arch is the most direct route for travellers heading to Vancouver, but it often has longer lines. The Pacific Highway crossing, also known as the Truck Crossing, is just a short drive east and can sometimes be faster for passenger vehicles. The best strategy is to check a border wait time app right before you depart, as conditions can change quickly, and choose the crossing with the shorter wait.

When planning to drive a rental vehicle across the US–Canada border, it is essential to be thoroughly prepared. Travellers are responsible for ensuring they have all the required personal identification and travel authorisations mandated by both countries. It is also a critical step to discuss your cross-border travel plans with the rental car agency at the time of pickup. They can provide guidance on their specific policies and confirm that the vehicle is permitted to enter Canada, ensuring a smooth and compliant journey.

The most straightforward way to begin a journey on the North Cascades Highway is to drive south from Bellingham on I-5. You will travel for about 20 minutes to the town of Burlington and take Exit 230 for WA-20 East. This exit is clearly signed for the North Cascades Highway. From there, simply follow WA-20 eastward, which will take you through scenic farmland before climbing into the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the national park.

Yes, you should expect to lose mobile coverage for a significant portion of the North Cascades Highway (WA-20). Coverage is generally reliable until Marblemount but becomes spotty to non-existent as you enter the national park, often not returning until you approach the Methow Valley on the eastern side. To handle navigation, it is highly recommended that you download maps of the region for offline use on your phone before you leave. A traditional paper map is also an excellent and reliable backup to have in the car.

During a winter visit, the first routes to be affected by snow and ice are those at higher elevations. The Mount Baker Highway (WA-542) is the most prominent example, as it climbs into the mountains and often requires traction devices. Chuckanut Drive (WA-11) can also become slick due to its shaded corners and proximity to the coast. Additionally, be cautious on any bridges, overpasses and rural backroads throughout Whatcom County, as these surfaces can freeze faster than primary roads.

Driving on I-5 during a heavy downpour requires increased caution. The biggest hazard is the significant spray kicked up by lorries and other vehicles, which can momentarily blind you. To stay safe, switch on your headlights to increase your visibility to others and maintain a much larger following distance than you would in dry conditions. Be mindful of pooling water on the carriageway, which can cause aquaplaning, and reduce your speed to maintain better control of the vehicle.

For travellers with ski or snowboard equipment, hiring an SUV often provides the most flexibility. Many models feature 60/40 split-folding rear seats, allowing you to fold down one side to create a long cargo space while still keeping a seat or two available for passengers. To prevent gear from sliding, you can use the remaining seat belts or a few bungee cords to secure the equipment. Placing a towel or blanket down first can also help protect the vehicle's interior from sharp edges and melting snow.

A mid-size or full-size SUV is typically the ideal choice for a family trip requiring space for both passengers and gear. These vehicles offer generous cargo areas behind the second row, easily accommodating a stroller, cooler and multiple bags. A minivan is another excellent option, providing maximum interior space and the convenience of sliding doors. Both vehicle types ensure that you won't have to sacrifice passenger comfort or legroom to fit all of your family's essentials for a day of exploring.

Bellingham's brewery scene is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown and Sunnyland neighbourhoods. A great strategy is to park once in a central location, such as the Commercial Street Parking Garage or on a side street in the Sunnyland area. From there you can easily walk to a cluster of several renowned breweries. This approach not only saves the hassle of finding parking at each stop but also allows everyone in your group to enjoy the craft beer responsibly.

The drive from the airport to the Alaska Marine Highway terminal in Fairhaven is simple and takes about 15–20 minutes. You'll take I-5 South to Exit 250 and follow signs for the ferry terminal. The terminal has a large, designated long-term car park for ferry passengers, making it very straightforward. The process is well signed and designed to accommodate travellers leaving their vehicles for extended periods. Just be sure to arrive with enough time to park and carry your luggage to the terminal.

Parking for events at the Bellingham Cruise Terminal and adjacent waterfront venues is generally well organised. There are several large, paid car parks located right at the terminal and within a short walking distance. These lots are designed to handle the influx of visitors for cruises, events and concerts. Follow the signs as you approach the waterfront area and you will be directed to the most convenient available parking for your specific event, making the process quite simple.

On sunny summer weekends the areas around Lake Whatcom can become very busy, especially at popular spots like Bloedel Donovan Park. Traffic along Northshore Drive can be heavy with boat trailers and beachgoers. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday or exploring the less-developed south shore of the lake. Access points along Lake Whatcom Boulevard on the south side tend to be quieter and offer a more peaceful way to enjoy the scenery without the crowds.

To bypass potential I-5 congestion through Bellingham when travelling from Lynden or Ferndale, using the Guide Meridian Road (WA-539) is an excellent local alternative. This major north–south arterial road runs parallel to the motorway and can often provide a more consistent travel time during peak commute hours. From Ferndale you can also use Hannegan Road as another reliable option to travel south while avoiding the main motorway traffic. Both routes offer access to key east–west roads for getting around the greater Bellingham area.

For the most part, driving in Bellingham at night is straightforward as the city is well lit. However, some of the interchanges on I-5 can be confusing for first-time visitors. The exits for Lakeway Drive (Exit 253) and Samish Way/WWU (Exit 252) involve some quick merges and lane choices, so it's helpful to review your route beforehand. Within the city, the unique five-way junction in Fairhaven's historic district can also require extra attention after dark. Generally, driving defensively and paying close attention to signs will ensure easy navigation.

Immediately after leaving the airport you'll find numerous convenient options for groceries and supplies. A short drive down Airport Way to Meridian Street will put you in a major retail corridor. Here you'll find several large supermarkets, such as Fred Meyer and Costco, as well as a Target and other stores. This area is perfect for stocking up on snacks, drinks and any other provisions you need before heading to your final destination.

Chuckanut Drive is famous for its views, and there are numerous designated gravel pull-outs along the route for you to stop safely and take photos. The etiquette for this scenic road is to drive at a relaxed pace but be mindful of local traffic behind you. If you notice a line of cars forming, it is courteous to use the next available pull-out to let them pass. This ensures a pleasant and safe experience for everyone, from sightseers to daily commuters and cyclists.

Under ideal conditions with no traffic, the drive from Bellingham to Sea–Tac Airport takes about 90 minutes to two hours. However, the trip can be highly unpredictable due to I-5 traffic. The most significant slowdowns occur on weekday mornings heading south through Everett and north Seattle, and on weekday afternoons heading north. To be safe, you should budget at least three to four hours for the drive during these peak periods, and always check a real-time traffic map before you depart.

Reaching the Amtrak station, located within the Bellingham Cruise Terminal in Fairhaven, is very easy by car. The most direct route is to follow I-5 to Exit 250 and then follow the clear signage for the Cruise and Ferry Terminal. As you approach the main building there is a designated passenger drop-off lane directly in front of the entrance. This area is perfect for brief stops to unload passengers and luggage before proceeding to a parking spot if you plan to stay longer.

Trailheads for popular hikes like Oyster Dome and Fragrance Lake along Chuckanut Drive are notorious for filling up very early, especially at weekends. For more reliable parking, consider larger recreation areas like Lake Padden or Whatcom Falls Park, which have extensive lots and multiple trail options. The Galbraith Mountain trail system also offers several large parking areas for mountain bikers and hikers. Arriving at any popular trailhead before 09:00 on a weekend is always the best strategy to secure a spot.

As with any popular travel destination, vehicle break-ins can occur, particularly at trailheads and public car parks. The most important preventative measure is to never leave valuables, including luggage, electronics or wallets, visible inside your car. Always store your belongings in the boot or cargo area, preferably before you arrive at your destination. Whenever possible, try to park in well-lit, high-traffic areas and always ensure your vehicle is locked.

For a loop trip involving Vancouver and Whistler, an efficient border strategy is to use two different crossings. On your way north from Bellingham, consider using the Sumas/Abbotsford crossing (WA-9/BC-11). This positions you well for a direct drive to the Trans-Canada Highway (BC-1) towards Whistler. On your return journey from Vancouver, the more direct route back to Bellingham is via the Peace Arch (I-5) or Pacific Highway (SR 543) crossings. This approach minimises backtracking and aligns with the most logical travel routes.

For drivers new to Bellingham, the series of interchanges around Lakeway Drive (Exit 253) and Samish Way (Exit 252) off I-5 can be challenging. These exits have several lanes that merge and split in quick succession. Another area that requires extra focus is the five-way intersection in the heart of the Fairhaven historic district, where several streets converge at odd angles. Approaching these areas slowly and paying close attention to the road signs will help you navigate them successfully.

For a memorable and easy scenic drive, Chuckanut Drive (WA-11) is the top recommendation. This 21-mile route winds along the coast between Burlington and Bellingham, offering stunning views of the San Juan Islands and lush forests, and can be enjoyed in just a couple of hours. Another excellent option is a drive partway up the Mount Baker Highway (WA-542) to Nooksack Falls. This gives you a spectacular taste of the Cascade Mountains' beauty without committing to the full day-long trip to the end of the road.