Quick Summary
- You can return in town only if your contract is booked as a one way to a downtown location.
- Standard airport bookings must go back to BOS unless a downtown return is pre authorised.
- Change the return point in advance to avoid extra fees or penalties.
Arriving by train and leaving by plane, or vice versa, can make Boston logistics tricky. If you picked up at the airport, the default rule is simple. Return to BOS unless your agreement says otherwise. To view options and opening hours, compare car rental desks that serve the airport campus.
Downtown returns at places like South Station are possible only when booked as a one way with that location selected in your reservation. Do not park at a rail garage and drop the keys. Unauthorised returns can trigger recovery charges and extra day fees if the car is not checked in correctly.
If you need to switch from an airport return to a city return, re quote the booking. Start with airport desk listings to confirm operating times on your date, then pick an eligible downtown site. Drivers who prefer specific brands can check queues at the Dollar counter or fleet depth on Enterprise at BOS. Families that need easy loading can eye up minivan categories at the airport.
Pricing wise, city returns usually carry a one way fee. The size varies by date and route. Weekend traffic near the station can also slow the final approach, so plan buffer time for refuelling and inspection. Some city branches close earlier than the airport on Sundays and holidays.
Hola Car Rentals keeps changes straightforward. Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup means you can rebook if a downtown return suits you better. Our All Inclusive Plus rate displays protections clearly, and selected plans include Maximum liability coverage of US$300,000 for your US driving.
For more context on Boston locations, read our guide on Logan versus off airport rentals and our round up of the best airport companies if you value quick shuttles and fast return lanes.
Here is a simple way to decide. If your last stop is in the Financial District or Seaport and you will head straight to a train, a downtown one way can be worth the fee. If you are returning from Cape Cod or New Hampshire on I 93, staying with an airport return may be quicker thanks to later hours and multiple lanes. Either way, check your fuel option and allow time to top up before you hit the drop lane.
Remember that Boston has a central Rental Car Center at the airport served by a frequent blue shuttle. If you booked an airport return and your flight changes, you can usually still return there outside normal city branch hours. For city returns, look at closing times around South Station, especially on Sundays and holidays.
Finally, read the equipment rules. Child seats, toll devices and ski racks follow the same return rules as the car. If a downtown return is permitted, the accessories must go back with it. Lost equipment may be billed, so check the boot before you hand over the keys.
FAQs
- Can I change the return point on the day? You must call to amend and receive written confirmation. Otherwise return to BOS as booked.
- Is there a grace period on returns? Most partners allow a short grace window, but late returns can bill another day. Check your agreement for the minutes allowed.
- Which companies have big airport fleets? Allied brands like Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, Dollar, Thrifty, Payless, Avis, National and Budget staff multiple lanes at BOS.
Need a different return point? Re quote today and book with Hola Car Rentals so your contract matches your route.
