Payless Car Hire
Allentown

After collecting your luggage at the baggage claim, look for the overhead signs directing you towards "Rental Cars." The Payless hire counter is conveniently located inside the main terminal building, alongside other major rental agencies. You can complete your paperwork at the counter with an agent. Once you have your keys, you will be directed to the adjacent car park where the hire vehicles are parked, just a short walk from the terminal doors.

The time from landing to driving away can vary based on a few factors. After disembarking, you should allow time to walk to baggage claim and wait for your luggage. The rental counters are located directly in the terminal, which helps streamline the process. A realistic timeline is typically between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the number of other travellers and flights arriving at the same time.

Collecting your vehicle at Lehigh Valley International Airport is a convenient walk-to-lot arrangement. After completing the hire process at the Payless counter inside the terminal, you will be directed to the rental car area. This area is located in the car park directly attached to the terminal building. No shuttle is required, making it a quick and straightforward process to reach your car and begin your journey.

For a less stressful drive into downtown Allentown during rush hour, consider taking local roads instead of the often-congested Route 22. A straightforward option is to take Airport Road (PA-987 S) and continue as it becomes Union Boulevard. This route leads you directly towards the city centre with predictable traffic lights and fewer high-speed merges. While it may take a few extra minutes, it's often a calmer and more manageable drive for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

The most direct and simplest route for a first-time visitor heading to Bethlehem is to use Route 22 East. From the airport, follow the signs to join Route 22 heading east. You will be on this road only a few miles before you see clearly marked exits for Bethlehem, such as Route 378 or Route 512, depending on which part of the city you need to reach. This path mainly involves motorway driving, helping you avoid navigating complex local streets until you are close to your destination.

Under normal conditions, the drive from ABE to Easton via Route 22 East takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes. However, during the morning commute this travel time can increase significantly due to heavy traffic. It would be sensible to plan for a drive of at least 35 to 45 minutes to be on the safe side. Always check a real-time traffic app on your phone before you leave the airport to get the most accurate estimate for your trip.

Just a few minutes from the airport exit you will find several convenient options for supplies along Airport Road and Catasauqua Road. There are familiar petrol stations with well-stocked convenience stores, fast-food outlets, and even a few supermarkets within a short drive. Making a quick stop at one of these locations is an easy way to grab snacks, drinks and other travel essentials. This allows you to get everything you need before getting onto major routes like Route 22 or the I-78.

To avoid circling downtown, the best strategy is to input the specific address of a parking garage into your satnav, such as the Arena Deck Garage on Linden Street. Approaching from the north or west via streets like Linden or Turner can be simpler than navigating the one-way streets directly around Hamilton Street. This allows you to enter a garage directly without getting caught in the most congested part of the entertainment district. Planning your parking destination in advance makes arrival much smoother.

The downtown core, particularly the grid of streets surrounding the PPL Center and the Hamilton District, is where you'll encounter the most one-way streets. This area requires careful attention to signage and GPS directions. Additionally, some of the older residential neighbourhoods, like the West End, feature narrower streets and tighter corners than modern suburbs. Relying on your navigation system and driving attentively will help you manage these areas without any issues.

The most direct route to Dorney Park from the Allentown area is typically via I-78 West to the Hamilton Boulevard exit (Route 222). The motorway section of the drive is usually smooth, but the primary bottleneck occurs on Hamilton Boulevard itself, leading directly to the park's entrance. On busy summer weekends, traffic can back up significantly on this final stretch, so arriving early in the morning before the park opens is the best way to avoid the longest waits.

For a major event at the PPL Center on a weekday, it's wise to plan your arrival downtown at least 90 minutes before the start time. This buffer helps you avoid the peak of post-work rush hour traffic, which is typically heaviest between 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm on routes leading into the city. Arriving early provides ample time to find parking in a nearby garage, walk to the venue and get settled without feeling rushed by traffic delays.

Driving within The Promenade Shops at weekends can be slow-paced, especially during peak afternoon hours. The main loop road that circles the complex is where most of the congestion occurs, particularly near the main entrance off Center Valley Parkway and around the popular restaurant cluster. Be prepared for slow speeds, frequent stops for pedestrians at crossings and competition for prime parking spots. Patience is key to a pleasant visit.

To simplify trips from the Hamilton District, try using the larger arterial roads on the edge of the downtown grid to access motorways. For instance, use 15th Street or 7th Street (Route 145) to quickly get north to Route 22, or head south to connect with the I-78. This strategy allows you to bypass the dense network of one-way streets in the city centre when you're heading out for regional travel. It's an efficient way to get to your destination with fewer turns and less city traffic.

The interchange where Route 22, I-78 and Route 309 all converge south of Allentown can be challenging for first-time visitors. The signs are frequent and lane changes must be made decisively, so it's easy to find yourself in the wrong lane if you're not prepared. It's highly recommended to review your satnav route beforehand and pay close attention to lane guidance. The exits for MacArthur Road (Route 145) off Route 22 can also be very busy and require attentive driving.

Route 22, often called the Lehigh Valley Thruway, is a busy local highway known for its short on-ramps and off-ramps. This design requires drivers to be assertive yet cautious when merging into traffic. Common bottlenecks frequently occur around the MacArthur Road (Route 145) exit in Whitehall and near the point where Route 22 merges with the I-78. During rush hours, expect slowdowns along the entire stretch through Allentown, Bethlehem and Easton.

I-78 generally flows more smoothly than Route 22, as it serves more long-distance and commercial truck traffic. However, it does experience congestion during standard morning and evening commutes, particularly around the Route 309 and Route 100 interchanges. For the least stressful drive, aim for mid-day hours, roughly between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, or later in the evening after 7:00 pm. Always be mindful of the significant number of large lorries on this interstate.

The most straightforward route to the Lehigh Gorge State Park area is to take the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476 North). Depending on your destination within the gorge, you can use either the Mahoning Valley exit (Exit 74) or the White Haven exit (Exit 95). The nearby town of Jim Thorpe serves as an excellent stop for a break, offering charming shops, restaurants and historical sights before or after you explore the gorge.

The final approach to Jim Thorpe involves scenic but winding two-lane roads that require your full attention. Once you arrive, parking is the primary challenge, as the historic town is very compact. The main county car park is located by the train station at the entrance to town, but it fills up very early, especially at weekends. Plan to arrive before mid-morning to secure a spot and be prepared for a bit of an uphill walk to reach the main shopping and dining areas.

A same-day round trip to Hershey from Allentown is very realistic and a popular choice for visitors. The drive typically takes about 90 minutes each way without significant traffic. To maximise your time, it's best to leave Allentown early in the morning, ideally before 8:00 am, to arrive as the attractions are opening. For the return trip, leaving Hershey after the evening commuter rush has subsided will usually ensure a smooth and easy drive back.

To enjoy a Philadelphia day trip without the stress of city driving, take the PA Turnpike's Northeast Extension (I-476 South) toward the city's suburbs. A great strategy is to drive to a regional rail station, such as Conshohocken or Fort Washington, which offer ample parking. From there, you can take a relaxing train ride directly into Centre City. This approach allows you to avoid navigating Philadelphia's narrow streets, complex traffic patterns and expensive parking.

A common and highly recommended strategy for a New York City day trip is to drive to a major transit hub in New Jersey and take the train into Manhattan. Popular choices include Secaucus Junction or Metropark, both of which are easily accessible from I-78 East. These stations have large car parks and offer frequent NJ Transit train services directly to Penn Station in Midtown. This method saves you from the extreme traffic, tolls and high parking costs associated with driving into the city.

When visiting the Crayola Experience, plan to drive to Easton via Route 22 East. Since the attraction is in the heart of the town centre, on-street parking is scarce. The easiest approach is to navigate directly to one of the municipal car parks, which are just a short walk away. To avoid the biggest crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or arriving right at opening time at the weekend. Afternoons tend to be the busiest period for family visits.

Both universities are in Bethlehem, a straightforward drive from ABE via Route 22 East. For Lehigh University, use the Route 378 South exit, which will take you across the Lehigh River to the South Side campus. For Moravian University, the Center Street exit is often more direct. During peak campus times like student move-in, graduation or major sporting events, be sure to allow at least 30 extra minutes for local traffic congestion and to find parking near campus.

During large events like the Great Allentown Fair, expect significant traffic delays and road closures on the streets immediately surrounding the fairgrounds, such as 17th Street, Liberty Street and Chew Street. Police will be directing traffic, and your satnav may not reflect the temporary patterns. It is best to follow the official event signs for designated parking areas, which are often located a short walk away. Arriving at least an hour early is crucial to navigate the congestion.

One local driving habit that can surprise visitors is the prevalence of short on-ramps and off-ramps on Route 22, which require you to get up to speed quickly and merge confidently. Some older junctions may have confusing turn signals or lanes, so always watch for specific green arrows. Additionally, be aware that some drivers may make quick left turns at a light change. Staying alert and driving defensively is the best approach when navigating the area for the first time.

A great place to organise your group and luggage is the airport's cell phone lot. The driver can complete the hire paperwork and bring the car to the lot, which is a designated waiting area away from the terminal's congestion. This gives your group space and time to load luggage and get settled without feeling rushed. It's a calm spot to programme your satnav and prepare for your drive before merging into traffic.

On autumn weekends, the primary routes north to the Poconos, including the PA Turnpike (I-476) and Route 33, experience heavy traffic. Congestion is typically worst on Friday afternoons heading north and Sunday afternoons heading south as visitors return home. To avoid the peak delays, try to begin your drive from Allentown on Friday morning or early afternoon. For your return trip, leaving the Poconos early Sunday morning or after 7:00 pm can help you miss the heaviest traffic.

When planning drives from Allentown, be aware that routes to Philadelphia and the Poconos often involve the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476), which is a toll road. Most tolling in the region is electronic and cashless, using either an E‑ZPass transponder or a toll-by-plate system. It is good practice to ask the hire agent at the counter about their specific programme for handling tolls. This will help you understand how any charges will be processed and allow you to plan your routes accordingly.

Having a hire car is ideal for an itinerary that includes both Allentown and New Jersey. The drive between the two is straightforward, primarily using Interstate 78 East, which directly connects the Lehigh Valley to central and northern New Jersey. This major motorway is easy to navigate and provides a seamless link between the regions. Just be mindful that some bridges connecting New Jersey and New York are tolled, so plan your route accordingly.

To visit all three towns efficiently, it's best to travel in a linear east‑to‑west or west‑to‑east direction to minimise backtracking. A logical plan is to start in one town and use Route 22 as your main connector to the next. For example, you could explore Allentown in the morning, drive east to Bethlehem for lunch, and then continue east to Easton for the afternoon. This approach creates a smooth, progressive journey and feels much less hectic than criss-crossing the valley.

Visitors often find navigating Bethlehem's Historic District challenging due to its compact grid of narrow, one-way streets. Satnav systems can sometimes lag in the dense area, causing missed turns around Main Street and Broad Street. The best strategy is to choose a public car park as your destination beforehand and navigate directly to it. Once you are parked, the entire historic area is wonderfully walkable, which is the ideal way to explore its charm.

For a convenient break with children, several parks are located just a few minutes off the main routes. Covered Bridge Park in South Whitehall is a short drive from Route 22 and offers a playground and open space to run around. If you're on the I-78 near Easton, the Pennsylvania Welcome Centre provides safe parking, toilets and picnic tables. These spots are perfect for a quick stop to let kids stretch their legs without a major detour from your route.

If you're arriving during winter weather, be prepared for potentially slick road conditions. While major motorways like Route 22 and I-78 are a top priority for ploughing and salting, secondary roads may take longer to clear. A key hazard to watch for is refreeze, where melted snow turns to black ice overnight, especially on bridges and overpasses. Always allow significant extra travel time, drive at a reduced speed and maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles.

The Lehigh Valley is prone to dense fog, especially during spring and autumn, often occurring in the early morning or late evening. The fog can significantly reduce visibility, sometimes quite suddenly. Areas in lower elevations and near the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers tend to experience the thickest fog. When you encounter these conditions, it is crucial to use your dipped headlights, slow down considerably and increase the distance between you and the vehicle ahead.

As you drive towards Lehigh Valley International Airport, you will see large, clear signs for "Rental Car Return." The entrance to the return lot is a well-marked, dedicated turn-off from the main airport roadway. To avoid missing it, make sure you are in the correct lane as you approach the terminal complex. The airport's signage is designed to be intuitive, guiding you directly to the drop-off area for all rental agencies without confusion.

The most efficient process is to handle passenger drop-off first. Follow the signs for "Departures" and pull up to the terminal curbside to let your passengers and their luggage out. After they are on their way, simply get back on the main airport loop road. From there, you can easily follow the separate signs for "Rental Car Return," which will direct you to the correct entrance without having to circle the airport again.

For a convenient last-minute stop, there are several petrol stations and convenience stores located on Airport Road, just a minute or two south of the main airport entrance. These are perfectly positioned for you to refuel the car according to your hire agreement and grab a quick snack or drink. Making this your final stop ensures a quick and hassle-free return process, as you can then drive directly into the rental return lot.

If a closure on Route 22 forces a detour, your satnav will likely guide you to one of the main parallel surface streets. The most common alternates are Tilghman Street to the north and Union Boulevard to the south. Both are major east‑west roads that run through Allentown and Bethlehem. While they have traffic lights and lower speed limits, they are wide, well-marked and generally easy to navigate, providing a reliable way to bypass motorway incidents.

Driving in Allentown at night is generally straightforward, as the main roads like Hamilton Street, Cedar Crest Boulevard and Tilghman Street are well-lit. However, in some older residential or industrial sections of the city, lighting can be less consistent. Some roads may have worn lane markings that are harder to see at night. As with any unfamiliar city, it's always good practice to stick to major, well-travelled routes after dark for the best visibility and easiest navigation.

For travellers focused on regional day trips, staying in the suburbs just west or south of Allentown is often most convenient. Areas like Fogelsville or Center Valley, located near the junctions for I-78, Route 309 and the PA Turnpike, are excellent choices. Hotels in these locations typically offer ample free parking and provide immediate access to the motorways. This allows you to head towards Philadelphia, Hershey or the Poconos without having to navigate through city traffic first.