Dollar Car Hire
Vermont

The Dollar hire car counter at Burlington International Airport is conveniently located inside the main terminal building. After you collect your luggage from the baggage reclaim carousel, simply walk across the main arrivals hall towards the dedicated hire car desk area. Once you have completed your paperwork at the counter, you will be directed to the adjacent covered car park where the hire vehicles are staged. The entire process is indoors and requires only a very short walk, making it easy to manage even with luggage.

To ensure a smooth pickup after a late-night arrival, it’s good practice to include your flight number in your reservation details when you book. This allows local staff to track your flight status and anticipate potential delays. While hire counters typically align their hours with the airport's flight schedule, directly confirming the location’s specific opening hours is the most reliable way to plan. Having your reservation details handy will help staff expedite your pickup process, getting you on your way quickly.

For a streamlined experience at the hire counter, it’s best to have your essential items ready. Typically, you will need to present a valid driving licence to the rental agent. It is also standard practice to have the primary form of payment you used for the booking available for the agent to verify. Keeping these items easily accessible in your carry-on will help ensure a quick and efficient check-in process, allowing you to start your Vermont journey without unnecessary delays.

A convenient meeting point is the passenger pickup area located on the main arrivals level, just outside the baggage reclaim doors. While one person finalises the rental paperwork and retrieves the car from the car park, the rest of the group can wait comfortably with the luggage. The driver can then circle around to the well-marked pickup kerb. This approach avoids the need for everyone to navigate the rental process and keeps the kerb area clear for traffic flow.

During peak travel times like summer weekends, it’s wise to budget a bit of extra time for the whole arrival process. Factoring in deplaning, walking to baggage reclaim, and waiting for your luggage can take around 30 to 45 minutes. The car hire process itself can vary, but allocating another 30 to 45 minutes for potential queues at the counter and getting settled in your vehicle is a reasonable estimate. In total, planning for approximately 60 to 90 minutes from landing to driving away provides a comfortable buffer.

Navigating from BTV to downtown Burlington is straightforward. As you exit the airport car park, follow the signs for Airport Drive. You will then turn right onto US Route 2, also known as Williston Road, heading west. Continue on this road for about two miles and it will lead you directly into the heart of downtown Burlington. This route is well signed and avoids complex motorway interchanges, making it a low-stress drive for visitors new to the area.

Before heading out into a Vermont winter, take a moment to familiarise yourself with the vehicle’s cold-weather features. Locate the controls for the front and rear demisters and ensure you know how to operate them effectively. It’s also a good idea to check for an ice scraper and snow brush, which are essential tools for winter driving. Finally, confirm that the windscreen washer fluid reservoir is full, as clear visibility is critical when driving on roads treated for ice and snow.

When planning a Vermont ski trip, selecting the right vehicle class is key for both safety and convenience. Many travellers prefer an SUV or a vehicle equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction on snowy mountain roads. Consider the size of your group and the amount of kit you’ll be carrying; a mid-size or full-size SUV often provides ample cargo space for skis, snowboards and luggage. Booking a vehicle in a category that balances passenger room with gear capacity will ensure a more comfortable and secure journey to the slopes.

Driving from Burlington to Stowe in a snowstorm requires patience and caution, as conditions can change quickly. The most direct and generally best-maintained route is taking Interstate 89 South to Exit 10 for Waterbury/Stowe, then following Route 100 North. This drive, normally under an hour, can take significantly longer in heavy snow. Main roads like I-89 and Route 100 are priorities for snowploughs, making them the least stressful option compared with smaller back roads which may not be cleared as quickly.

Just a few minutes after leaving the airport on Williston Road, you’ll find several large shopping plazas with spacious car parks. Pulling into a car park for a store like Target or the University Mall provides a safe, low-traffic area to get organised. Here you can take your time to adjust mirrors and seats, connect your phone to the car’s Bluetooth, and program your satnav for your first destination. This quick stop allows you to get fully comfortable with the vehicle before merging into heavier traffic.

Fortunately, both Williston and South Burlington are very close to the airport, making the drive simple even during evening traffic. For most locations in South Burlington you’ll use Williston Road (US Route 2) or Dorset Street. To reach Williston, head east on Williston Road, away from Burlington, which is often against the main flow of commuter traffic. These surface streets are direct and well signed, allowing you to avoid the interstate for a less complex and generally quick trip to your accommodation.

Visitors new to Burlington often get tripped up by the grid of one-way streets downtown, particularly around the Church Street Marketplace. A common mistake is attempting to turn left from Main Street onto Church Street, which is restricted. Another frequent issue is navigating the parallel one-way streets like St. Paul Street and Pine Street; drivers sometimes turn the wrong way, especially when trying to find parking. Using a satnav with up-to-date information and paying close attention to street signs is the best way to avoid these simple errors.

A practical approach is to have one person temporarily pull into the hotel’s designated loading zone or briefly stop at the kerb while the other unloads the luggage. Most hotels in the area are used to this and have a system in place. After the bags are with the bell staff or inside the lobby, the driver can then proceed to a nearby car park, such as the Marketplace Garage or the Corporate Plaza Garage. This strategy separates unloading from parking, making the arrival process much smoother.

If you’re driving a larger vehicle and prefer to avoid tight car parks, focus on surface lots and on-street parking just outside the immediate downtown core. The waterfront area often has more spacious surface lots that are easier to navigate with an SUV or people carrier. Additionally, exploring the streets in the South End Arts District can yield on-street spots with more room to manoeuvre. These areas are typically a short, pleasant walk from the main downtown attractions and offer a less confined parking experience.

To ensure a stress-free trip to the Lake Champlain ferry, it’s wise to leave Burlington about 45 to 60 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This provides a comfortable buffer for morning traffic, especially when heading to the Charlotte ferry terminal. During peak tourist seasons like summer and autumn leaf season, adding an extra 15 minutes is a good idea as the queues to board the ferry can be longer. Arriving early allows you to get in line and relax before the crossing.

Driving a hire car onto the Lake Champlain ferry is a common and straightforward process. Ferry staff are excellent at directing vehicles of all sizes, so simply follow their hand signals for where to position your car on the deck. During peak foliage season, be prepared for longer wait times and consider arriving well in advance of your desired departure. It’s also a good idea to book your ticket online ahead of time if the option is available, as this can sometimes expedite the boarding process.

The most straightforward route for a day trip to Montpelier is to take Interstate 89 South directly from Burlington. The drive is scenic and typically takes about 45 minutes without traffic. Once you arrive in Montpelier, a simple parking plan is to use the public car park on State Street or look for metered spots along the main streets. The city is very compact and walkable, so once you park you can easily explore the State House, shops and restaurants on foot.

For drivers unfamiliar with the area, the roundabouts in and around Burlington can be a point of confusion. The key is to give way to traffic already circulating within the roundabout and use your indicator when exiting. Additionally, some on-ramps for Interstate 89 have very short merge lanes, requiring drivers to be decisive and match the speed of traffic quickly. It’s best to be alert, anticipate these features by looking at signs, and avoid last-minute lane changes to navigate them smoothly.

A great way to structure this day trip is to first drive south from Burlington on Route 7 to the Shelburne Museum. After your visit, continue just a bit further south to Shelburne Farms or Shelburne Vineyard for beautiful lake views and local flavour. From there, you can head to Shelburne Bay Park or the Charlotte Town Beach for a closer experience with the lake. This north-to-south progression allows you to see multiple key sights along the same corridor, minimising backtracking and maximising your time.

For a relaxing and scenic drive, consider exploring the roads through the Lake Champlain Islands, just north of Burlington. Take US Route 2, which travels over a causeway and through charming towns like South Hero and Grand Isle. The traffic is generally light, the speed limits are lower, and there are numerous places to pull over and enjoy the lake views. Another excellent option is Spear Street, which runs south from Burlington and offers beautiful vistas of the Green Mountains and rolling farmland.

To make the most of a fall foliage drive, start your day early to maximise daylight and beat the heaviest traffic. A popular and manageable loop is to drive south on I-89 to Waterbury, then take the scenic Route 100 through Stowe, and finally head west on Route 108 through Smugglers' Notch if it’s open. Plan your main scenic stops for the middle of the day and aim to be heading back towards Burlington before dusk. Having a few planned stops but remaining flexible is key to a low-stress day.

When venturing into Vermont’s more rural areas, it’s sensible to anticipate inconsistent mobile signal. Before you leave Burlington, download offline maps of the regions you plan to visit using your preferred navigation app. It’s also good practice to input your final destination and any key waypoints while you still have a strong signal at your hotel or in the city. This ensures your satnav will continue to guide you even if you lose service in the mountains or valleys.

A safe and enjoyable way to explore Vermont’s craft beverage scene is to designate a driver for the day. Plan your route in advance, grouping together a few locations that are geographically close to minimise driving time between stops. Many visitors choose to focus on a specific area, like the breweries around Stowe or the cideries in Addison County. It’s also wise to enjoy tastings in moderation, stay hydrated with water, and plan for a meal during your tour to ensure the driver remains alert and focused.

Mud season, typically in late March and April, can make driving on Vermont’s unpaved roads challenging. Expect dirt roads to be soft, deeply rutted and very muddy as the ground thaws. It’s highly advisable to stick to paved main roads during this time, as even vehicles with all-wheel drive can get stuck. If your satnav suggests a route on a dirt road, it’s often best to find an alternative paved route, as conditions can be unpredictable and some roads may even be temporarily closed.

If your navigation app directs you onto a street that seems unusually narrow or steep, it’s a good idea to pause and double-check. A quick sanity check is to zoom out on your map to see if there’s a larger, more conventional road running parallel to the suggested route. Often, main thoroughfares like Pearl Street, College Street or Main Street are better options than cutting through tight residential neighbourhoods. Trust your instincts; if a road doesn’t look right for a primary route, it probably isn’t.

The most common wildlife risk when driving near Burlington, especially at dawn and dusk, is deer crossing the road. These encounters are most likely on roads that pass through wooded areas or farmland, such as Spear Street, Route 7 south of Shelburne, or along the interstate corridors outside the city. It is crucial to be extra vigilant during these low-light hours, reduce your speed, and use your full beams when appropriate on unlit roads. Staying alert is the best defence against a sudden animal encounter.

The simplest and most direct way to drive from Burlington to Waterbury is by taking Interstate 89 South. It’s a well-maintained motorway with clear signage, and the drive typically takes only about 25–30 minutes. You will take Exit 10, which is clearly marked for Waterbury and Stowe. This route allows you to avoid navigating smaller back roads and provides a scenic, stress-free journey to one of Vermont’s most popular visitor hubs.

The journey from Burlington to Lake Placid involves crossing Lake Champlain into New York. The most common method is taking the ferry from either Burlington or Charlotte. Be sure to check the ferry schedule in advance, especially outside of the peak summer season, as crossing times can be limited. Once in New York, the drive is on state roads. While there is no international border, it’s always good practice to have your driving licence and rental agreement accessible in the vehicle.

Driving on US Route 2 through the Lake Champlain Islands is a beautiful and relaxing experience, known for its stunning water views. The road is mostly two lanes with reasonable speed limits, making it a low-stress drive. There are numerous designated pull-offs and small parks along the causeway and throughout the islands that are specifically designed for safely stopping to take photos. These spots are well signed and provide ample space to get out of the flow of traffic and enjoy the scenery.

When travelling with children, having planned stops is essential. On the way to Stowe or Waterbury via I-89, the Richmond exit has petrol stations and a classic Vermont country store that are perfect for a quick snack and restroom break. If you’re heading south towards Shelburne or Middlebury on Route 7, the town of Shelburne offers several cafés and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, which is a fun stop for all ages. These locations are easy to access and provide a welcome pause during a day of exploring.

Parking in Burlington’s residential neighbourhoods requires careful attention to signage. Many streets have restrictions such as resident-only permit parking or time limits, which are strictly enforced. A common mistake visitors make is misinterpreting signs related to winter parking bans, which prohibit on-street parking overnight during snow clearance season. Always read all the text on a parking sign carefully, and if you are unsure, it is safest to use a public car park or a designated lot to avoid a ticket.

An excellent strategy is to choose accommodation that offers guest parking and is located within walking distance of the downtown area. You can park your hire car at your hotel upon arrival and explore Burlington’s waterfront and the Church Street Marketplace on foot. This approach saves you the hassle of finding and paying for parking each time you want to go out in the city. The car remains conveniently available for your planned day trips to explore the surrounding Vermont countryside.

When arriving during a large event like the Burlington Marathon or a festival, it’s wise to plan your route in advance. Check the event’s official website for maps of road closures and recommended alternate routes. It can also be very helpful to call your hotel on the day of your arrival; the front desk staff will have the most current information on local traffic patterns and can provide the best directions to reach their parking area despite the congestion. Allowing extra travel time is also crucial.

Winter conditions at Vermont hotels and inns can present unique driving challenges. Many properties, especially those with mountain views, have steep driveways that can become icy. When parking, try to choose a level spot if possible and be mindful of your footing when getting out of the car. When leaving, be prepared to handle a hill start on a potentially slippery surface by accelerating gently and steadily. Taking your time and assessing the conditions before you manoeuvre the vehicle is the key to a safe experience.

For an early-morning flight in winter, it is critical to allow significant extra time for your drive to BTV. Check the weather forecast and road conditions the night before. A good rule of thumb is to double your normal estimated driving time to the airport if there is active snowfall or if roads are reported to be icy. This buffer accounts for slower driving speeds, potential delays from snowploughs, and gives you time to clear any snow off your hire car before you leave.

The most efficient method for returns is to first drive to the departures kerb on the upper level of the airport. Here you can drop off your passengers and all the luggage, leaving only the driver in the car. This allows your group to proceed directly to check-in without having to manage bags on the walk from the rental return area. The driver can then follow the signs for 'Rental Car Return' and complete the vehicle drop-off process unencumbered.

To tidy up your hire car before returning it, you can find several petrol stations with car wash facilities and vacuums within a few miles of the airport. Look for locations along Williston Road (US Route 2) or Dorset Street in South Burlington. Using a self-service vacuum is a quick and easy way to remove sand from a summer beach trip or salt and dirt from winter excursions. A quick stop at one of these locations on your way back to BTV can help ensure a smooth return process.

As you approach Burlington International Airport on Airport Drive, stay in the left lane. The airport road system splits, with the right lanes heading toward departures and arrivals. The entrance for 'Rental Car Return' is a dedicated left-hand turn that leads directly into the car park. The signage is prominent, so watching for those specific signs as you get close to the terminal will guide you correctly and help you avoid having to circle the airport loop again.

A great multi-day loop is to start by driving east from Burlington on US Route 2 to Montpelier, then continue on to St. Johnsbury. From there, head east into New Hampshire’s White Mountains, exploring areas around Littleton and Franconia Notch State Park. You can then drive south on I-93 before heading west on a road like the Kancamagus Highway or Route 4 toward the Connecticut River. Cross back into Vermont and take I-89 or scenic Route 100 north to return to Burlington.

For international visitors, it’s helpful to know that on motorways the left lane is generally reserved for passing slower vehicles. In Vermont, school zones have strictly enforced lower speed limits during specific hours, indicated by flashing lights or signs. At four-way stops, the rule is that the first vehicle to arrive has the right of way; if two cars arrive simultaneously, the driver on the right proceeds first. Also, it is mandatory to stop for school buses with flashing red lights in both directions.