Avis Car Rental
Burlington

Upon arriving late at BTV, the process is designed to be quite streamlined. After collecting your bags from the lower-level baggage claim, you'll proceed to the rental car counters located conveniently within the main terminal building. Once you've completed the necessary paperwork with the agent, you will be directed to the adjacent parking garage where the rental vehicles are staged. The walk is short and well-lit, allowing you to quickly locate your car, get settled, and begin your journey into Burlington.

The Avis rental counter at Burlington International Airport is conveniently located inside the main terminal. You do not need to take a shuttle or go to a separate building to start the rental process. After you deplane and head toward baggage claim, simply follow the overhead signs for "Rental Cars." The counters are situated in a dedicated area that is easy to find, and the rental vehicles are parked just a short walk away in the connected garage.

During a typical afternoon, the time from deplaning to driving away can vary based on passenger volume and how many flights arrive at once. Generally, you should plan for a smooth and efficient process at BTV. Walking from the gate to baggage claim is quick in this compact airport. After retrieving your luggage, completing the rental agreement at the counter and walking to your car in the garage is a straightforward affair, allowing you to be on your way without significant delay.

For a smooth group pickup, the designated driver can proceed directly to the rental car counter while the rest of the group waits with the luggage. A comfortable spot is the main seating area on the second floor near the security checkpoint, which is quieter than the baggage claim area. Alternatively, there are benches just outside the terminal doors. Once the driver has the car, they can loop back around to the passenger pickup curb to load everyone and their bags.

When traveling with bulky gear like skis or snowboards, the best approach is to first locate your assigned vehicle in the parking garage. Before pulling out of the parking space, take a moment to assess the vehicle and plan how you'll load your equipment. This allows you to organize everything without the pressure of holding up traffic in the rental return or pickup lanes. Most travelers find it easiest to load long items from the rear of the vehicle while it's still safely in its spot.

A common navigation mistake when leaving BTV is confusion around the initial turns onto Airport Drive and whether to take Route 2 or get on Interstate 89. To avoid this, it's highly recommended to set your GPS destination to downtown Burlington before you even start the car. Pay close attention to the signs for I-89 South if you're taking the highway, or for Williston Road/Route 2 if you're taking the more direct local route. Knowing your intended route beforehand prevents last-second lane changes.

For a calm first stop after leaving the airport, consider pulling into one of the large shopping plazas located just a few minutes away on Williston Road (Route 2). These centers, such as University Mall, offer expansive parking lots where you can safely pull into a space away from traffic. This gives you ample time and room to adjust your mirrors and seats, program your navigation system, secure any child seats, and organize your luggage without feeling rushed.

The most straightforward route from BTV to a garage near Church Street is to take Route 2 (Williston Road) west, which becomes Main Street as you enter downtown Burlington. To avoid the most complex one-way streets, aim for the Marketplace Garage or the Corporate Plaza Garage, both of which have well-marked entrances off Main Street or South Winooski Avenue. Using your GPS and setting the specific garage as your destination will provide the clearest turn-by-turn directions for a stress-free arrival.

Driving near the University of Vermont (UVM) campus requires extra awareness, especially during class changes, which typically occur on the hour. Expect a significant increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic crossing main roads like University Place and Colchester Avenue. During major events such as move-in weekend, graduation, or hockey games, traffic can become heavily congested. It's wise to allow extra travel time or, if possible, plan a route that bypasses the central campus area during these peak periods.

Parking near the Burlington waterfront on a summer weekend can be challenging, as it's a very popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The lots closest to Waterfront Park and the ECHO Leahy Center often fill up quickly, especially in the afternoon. To make it easier, try arriving earlier in the morning, typically before 10 a.m., to secure a spot. Alternatively, consider using one of the downtown parking garages, which are just a short, pleasant walk from the waterfront.

Visiting the Shelburne Museum by car is very convenient due to its location directly on Route 7, south of Burlington. The museum provides ample free parking in a large, dedicated lot right on its grounds, so finding a space is rarely an issue. When you're ready to leave, exiting the parking lot puts you directly back onto Route 7. This makes for a simple departure, whether you're heading north back to Burlington or continuing south to explore more of the Champlain Valley.

The most direct and straightforward route from Burlington to Stowe is to take Interstate 89 South. You'll follow I-89 for about 25 miles to Exit 10 for Waterbury/Stowe. From the exit, you'll turn onto Route 100 North, which leads you directly into Stowe village. This route primarily uses the highway, allowing you to bypass the traffic and stoplights of smaller town centers for a more efficient and relaxing drive to the mountains.

When driving to Stowe in winter, the most significant change in road conditions occurs after you exit the interstate. While I-89 is usually well-maintained, Route 100 and especially the Mountain Road (Route 108) can become snow-covered or icy much more quickly due to elevation changes and shading from trees. Visitors are often surprised by how rapidly a clear highway drive can transition to challenging mountain conditions, so it's crucial to slow down and drive with caution as you get closer to the resort.

The most reliable way to plan your drive to Sugarbush or Mad River Glen is to check a trusted weather forecast specifically for the mountain area, not just the general region. Also, consult the Vermont Agency of Transportation's road conditions map (New England 511) before you depart. Always add a significant buffer to your estimated travel time, as mountain passes like Route 17 can be slow-going or even temporarily closed during heavy snowfall. Planning to travel during daylight hours can also greatly reduce stress.

Driving through the Lake Champlain Islands on Route 2 in the summer is incredibly scenic but can have some choke points. The causeways and bridges connecting the islands can become bottlenecks, especially on weekends, so a relaxed pace is key. If your trip involves the ferry between Grand Isle, VT, and Plattsburgh, NY, be sure to check the ferry's schedule and current wait times online in advance. During peak summer weekends, it's wise to build extra time into your schedule to account for potential ferry lines.

A great loop trip from Burlington involves heading south on Route 7 along Lake Champlain. You can stop at Shelburne Farms or Charlotte Town Beach for beautiful lake views. Continue south to the Shelburne Museum area, where you can find the picturesque Shelburne Covered Bridge. To complete the loop without backtracking, you can then take smaller country roads like Hinesburg Road or Route 116 northbound, which offer a different, more rural Vermont landscape on your return to Burlington.

For a sunrise hike, planning your drive the night before is essential. First, confirm the trailhead location on your map and get a reliable estimate of the pre-dawn driving time. Research the parking situation for your chosen trail, such as Mount Philo or Camel's Hump, as lots can be small and may fill up. Ensure your vehicle's headlights are working properly and consider that rural roads will be very dark. It's also wise to download the map for offline use, as cell service can be unreliable in mountainous areas.

Immediately after leaving the BTV rental car area, you'll be on Airport Drive, which leads directly to Williston Road (Route 2). By turning right (east) onto Williston Road, away from downtown Burlington, you will find several major grocery stores within a five-minute drive. This direction takes you into South Burlington's main commercial district, offering easy access and large parking lots. This allows you to stock up on supplies without navigating the more congested city streets first.

Most hotels in South Burlington are designed for travelers with vehicles and offer ample, complimentary on-site parking, which makes the experience very low-stress. You can typically park close to an entrance, making it easy to load and unload luggage. For morning departures, these hotels are strategically located near major roads like Route 2, Route 7, and Interstate 89. This allows for quick and straightforward access to the highway or airport without having to navigate downtown traffic.

First-time visitors should be aware that Vermont law requires drivers to stop for pedestrians in a crosswalk, and this is taken very seriously in Burlington. The downtown area, especially around Church Street, has heavy foot traffic. Always be prepared to stop, even if a pedestrian is just waiting at the curb. Drivers are expected to be patient and yield the right-of-way, so maintaining a lower speed and staying alert is key to a safe and courteous driving experience in the city.

When driving in and around Burlington, it's important to be vigilant for changing speed limits, which can drop quickly as you enter town centers or designated school zones. Pay close attention to signage, as these zones are strictly enforced, especially during specific hours on school days. Using a GPS app with speed limit alerts can be very helpful. The best practice is to remain attentive and reduce your speed proactively whenever you see signs of a more populated or residential area ahead.

During a snowstorm, it's crucial to be aware of any municipal parking bans, which are common in Burlington to allow for plowing; parking in a hotel lot or garage is the safest option. Before driving, take the time to completely clear all snow and ice from the windows, roof, and lights of your rental car. When re-entering traffic, do so slowly and deliberately, leaving significantly more following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking to maintain traction on slippery roads.

If you're new to snow driving, the key is to give yourself plenty of extra time and avoid any sense of urgency. After picking up your car at BTV, take a few minutes in the parking garage to familiarize yourself with the controls like wipers and defrosters. Drive slowly, brake gently and early, and stick to major, well-plowed roads like I-89 or Route 2. If possible, plan to arrive at your destination before dark, as visibility can decrease significantly at night during a snowstorm.

In Vermont's cold weather, you should always assume that bridges, overpasses, and roads in heavily shaded areas could be icy, even if other road surfaces appear clear. These spots freeze first and stay frozen longer. Be especially cautious in the early morning or evening when temperatures drop. Look for shiny or wet-looking patches on the pavement, which could be black ice. Reduce your speed significantly before you reach these areas and avoid making sudden steering or braking inputs.

To avoid the heaviest foliage traffic, try to plan your scenic drives for weekdays instead of weekends, if your schedule allows. Starting your day early is another effective strategy to get ahead of the crowds. While popular routes like Route 100 are beautiful, consider exploring less-traveled state highways and local roads for a more peaceful experience. Having a physical map as a backup to your GPS can help you discover these alternate routes and enjoy the scenery without the congestion.

When returning to BTV from the Stowe/Waterbury area on a weekday morning, it's wise to add at least 30 minutes of buffer time to your standard travel estimate. While the drive on I-89 is usually smooth, you can encounter commuter traffic as you get closer to Burlington and South Burlington. This extra time accounts for potential slowdowns and ensures you have a relaxed experience when returning the car, checking your bags, and getting through security without feeling rushed.

For a seamless return with family and gear, the best approach is to first drive to the departures curb at the main terminal. One adult can stay with the children and luggage while the driver proceeds to the rental car return area alone. After returning the vehicle, which is a very short walk back to the terminal, the driver can rejoin the family at the check-in counters. This strategy avoids the hassle of unloading everything in the rental return garage.

As you approach Burlington International Airport, stay in the left lane and pay close attention to the large overhead signs. The airport access road splits, with lanes for Departures/Arrivals on the right and a dedicated lane for "Rental Car Return" on the left. Following the specific signs for rental returns will guide you directly into the parking garage entrance, completely bypassing the main passenger drop-off and pick-up loops. The signage is clear and designed to prevent confusion.

Returning a car for a very early flight at BTV is typically a quick and easy process. Follow the signs to the rental car return in the parking garage, park in the designated area for your rental company, and follow the instructions for an after-hours or early-bird drop-off. The walk from the rental return area to the terminal entrance is short and indoors for much of the way. Be aware that airline check-in counters and the TSA security checkpoint may not open until a specific time, so you might have a short wait in the main terminal.

A great spot for a final clean-out is the cell phone waiting lot at BTV, located just before the main terminal entrance. This lot provides a convenient and out-of-the-way place to park for a few minutes. Here, you can gather any trash, check for personal belongings, and make final adjustments to your luggage before proceeding to the rental return. This avoids the feeling of being rushed once you are in the designated return lane in the garage.

When planning a trip to Montréal, it is essential to discuss your cross-border travel plans with the rental agent at the time of pickup. They can advise you on any specific permissions or paperwork related to taking the vehicle into Canada. Independently, you should always verify the latest entry requirements with official government sources for both the U.S. and Canada to ensure you have the correct personal identification and travel documents for everyone in your party. Proper preparation ensures a smooth border crossing experience.

The most direct and least stressful route from Burlington to the Canadian border is to take Interstate 89 North. This major highway leads directly to the Highgate Springs–St. Armand/Philipsburg border crossing, which is one of the largest and most efficient ports of entry in the region. Sticking to the interstate allows you to maintain a consistent speed and avoid the traffic lights and lower speed limits you would encounter on smaller state routes. The signage is clear and guides you right to the customs plaza.

It's critical to know that the section of Route 108 that goes through Smugglers' Notch pass is completely closed in the winter. Your GPS may not always reflect this closure, so you must plan an alternate route. The recommended winter route from BTV is to drive north to Route 15 and then approach the resort from the Jeffersonville side. Even in summer, the pass is extremely narrow and winding, so a larger vehicle may be challenging to maneuver. Always check road status before you go.

To best plan a brewery trail day, group your stops geographically to minimize driving time between locations. For breweries in Burlington's South End, like Foam Brewers or Zero Gravity, consider parking once in a central spot and walking between them. For breweries further afield, try to visit during off-peak hours, such as a weekday afternoon, when parking is more readily available. Having a designated driver is essential for safety and also simplifies the logistics of moving from one popular spot to the next.

During major events like the Discover Jazz Festival or on holiday weekends, expect significant traffic congestion and limited parking in downtown Burlington. The areas around Church Street, Main Street, and the waterfront become particularly slow-moving, with increased pedestrian traffic as well. It's often best to park your car at a hotel or in a garage on the edge of downtown and explore the event on foot. Planning ahead and allowing a great deal of extra time for any driving you must do is highly recommended.

When staying at a historic property with potentially tight access, it's helpful to consider the size of your rental vehicle. A compact or mid-size sedan will be much easier to maneuver in narrow driveways and small parking areas than a large SUV or truck. When you pick up your car, take a moment to get a feel for its turning radius in the rental lot. Being comfortable with the vehicle's dimensions before you arrive at the inn can make navigating those charming but compact spaces much less stressful.

Driving on rural Vermont roads at night requires heightened caution. These roads are often unlit, narrow, and winding, so reducing your speed is paramount. Be extremely vigilant for wildlife, particularly deer, which are most active at dusk and dawn and can appear on the road suddenly. Using your high beams when there is no oncoming traffic can help you spot animals or road hazards earlier, but be sure to dim them for other drivers. Staying alert is the key to a safe nighttime drive.

A perfect scenic loop for a half-day trip is to drive south from Burlington on Route 7. This route offers beautiful views of the lake and farmland. You can drive as far as Vergennes, one of the oldest cities in the U.S., for a brief stop. For your return, take a smaller road like Route 22A or local roads through Charlotte and Shelburne for a different perspective. This loop can easily be completed in a few hours, getting you back to Burlington with plenty of time for dinner.

Before leaving BTV for a mountain destination, do a quick but important check of your rental vehicle. Ensure you know how to operate the headlights, windshield wipers, and especially the front and rear defrosters. If visiting in winter, a visual check of the tires for adequate tread is a good practice. It's also wise to plug in your phone and confirm your navigation is working before you pull out, as cell service can be spotty once you leave the Burlington area.