Hertz Car Rental
Newark

The Hertz rental car facility at Newark Airport is conveniently located in the consolidated rental car center. To reach it, you will not need a traditional shuttle bus from the curb. Instead, after collecting your luggage, follow the signs in your terminal for the AirTrain. The AirTrain is a free monorail service that connects all terminals, parking lots, and the rental car center. You will take the AirTrain to Station P3, where the Hertz counter and vehicle pickup area are located.

Returning a rental car for an early morning flight at EWR is typically a streamlined process, but planning is key. The rental car return area is open 24/7, accommodating all flight schedules. Upon arrival, follow the signs for "Rental Car Return" to the Hertz area. An agent will quickly inspect the vehicle and finalize your rental agreement. Since early mornings can be a peak time for returns, it's wise to budget extra time for this process and for the subsequent AirTrain ride back to your departure terminal.

After you have completed the vehicle return process at the Hertz facility, you will need to take the AirTrain back to your terminal. The AirTrain runs frequently, typically every few minutes during peak hours. The ride itself from Station P3 (the rental car center) to any of the terminals (A, B, or C) usually takes between 5 to 10 minutes. Factoring in the walk to the AirTrain platform and potential wait times, it is advisable to allow at least 20 to 30 minutes to get from your car to the terminal check-in desks.

All terminals at Newark Airport (A, B, and C) are connected to the Hertz rental counter via the AirTrain system, making access equally convenient regardless of where you land. No single terminal has a significant advantage in terms of distance or ease of access. The journey involves taking the AirTrain from any terminal to Station P3, which is a short and direct ride. Simply follow the overhead signs for the AirTrain upon deplaning, and you will be directed to the appropriate platform for your trip to the rental car center.

Picking up a Hertz rental car late at night at Newark Airport is a straightforward experience, as the location operates 24 hours a day. The process remains the same regardless of the hour. After your flight arrives, you will proceed to the AirTrain and travel to Station P3 to find the Hertz counter. Staff will be available to assist you with your reservation and get you on your way. Having your reservation details handy can help expedite the process during late-night hours.

To ensure a smooth and efficient pickup experience at the Hertz counter, it is essential to have your standard travel and driving documents ready. Generally, you should be prepared to present a valid driver's license and your reservation confirmation. Having these items easily accessible when you approach the counter will help the agent process your rental quickly. For any specific inquiries about documentation, it's always a good idea to confirm requirements directly with the rental provider ahead of your travel date.

For travelers looking to expedite their pickup experience, certain loyalty programs and check-in options may allow you to bypass the main counter. This service typically lets you proceed directly to the car lot after arriving at the rental facility via the AirTrain. Your assigned vehicle and stall number are often communicated through a mobile app or an electronic board in the garage. This allows you to locate your car, load your luggage, and proceed to the exit gate, making for a much faster getaway from the airport.

The most direct route from the EWR rental car facility to Manhattan is via the I-78 East extension and the Holland Tunnel. After exiting the airport, follow signs for I-78 East toward the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95). You will then take the exit for the Holland Tunnel, which leads directly into Lower Manhattan. Alternatively, for access to Midtown or Uptown, you can take the New Jersey Turnpike North to the Lincoln Tunnel. Using a GPS is highly recommended to navigate the complex interchanges around the airport and tunnels.

First-time visitors driving from EWR often find the complex highway interchanges and heavy traffic to be the biggest challenges. The area where I-78, the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95), and US Routes 1 & 9 converge can be confusing, with many lanes merging and splitting abruptly. Additionally, drivers should be prepared for aggressive local driving styles and the prevalence of electronic, cashless tolls. Using a GPS and reviewing your route before you start driving can significantly reduce stress and help you navigate the initial part of your journey with more confidence.

From the EWR rental car center, reaching nearby cities is quite direct. For downtown Newark, the simplest route is to follow signs for US Route 1/9 North, which will take you into the heart of the city in just a few minutes. To get to Jersey City or Hoboken, you will want to take I-78 East. This highway leads directly toward the Holland Tunnel, and you can take local exits for either city just before the tunnel entrance. These routes are well-signed, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Navigating tolls in the New Jersey and New York area is simplified with a rental car, as most vehicles are equipped with an electronic tolling transponder. This device allows you to drive through designated express lanes without needing to stop and pay with cash, as many toll plazas are now cashless. The system automatically records the tolls you incur during your rental period. This convenience is particularly useful for crossing bridges and tunnels into New York City, ensuring a smoother and faster journey through the region's extensive toll road network.

When planning a weekend trip from EWR to the Jersey Shore, your primary route will be the Garden State Parkway South. Be prepared for significant traffic, especially on Friday afternoons heading south and Sunday evenings heading north, particularly during the summer months. The Parkway is a toll road, so having a vehicle equipped for electronic tolling will be convenient. Pack for variable weather and remember that parking at popular shore towns can be limited and may require payment, so it's wise to look into parking options at your destination ahead of time.

Renting a car at Newark Airport is an excellent choice for a multi-stop itinerary in New Jersey and the surrounding area. It provides the flexibility to travel on your own schedule without relying on public transportation timetables. For destinations like Princeton and New Brunswick, a car allows you to easily navigate between campuses, downtown areas, and other points of interest. The freedom to explore suburban and rural locations that are less accessible by train makes a rental car a highly practical option for a comprehensive day trip.

Using a reliable GPS is crucial when departing from EWR due to the complex network of highways. The most convenient option is to use a smartphone navigation app like Google Maps or Waze, which provides real-time traffic updates. It's a good idea to mount your phone securely on the dashboard or windshield before you start driving. Many modern rental cars are also equipped with built-in navigation systems or support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to display your phone's map directly on the car's infotainment screen for easier viewing.

The ideal vehicle type depends heavily on your itinerary. If your plans involve significant driving and parking within New York City, a compact or mid-size sedan is often the most practical choice. Smaller cars are easier to maneuver on congested streets and fit into tight parking spaces. Conversely, if your travel is primarily within New Jersey or includes trips to more spacious suburban or rural areas, a larger sedan or an SUV might provide more comfort and luggage capacity, making it a better fit for those journeys.

For an international flight, it is crucial to allow ample time for the car rental return process at EWR. A good rule of thumb is to arrive at the Hertz return lot at least four hours before your flight's departure time. This buffer accounts for the vehicle inspection, closing out your contract, and the AirTrain ride back to your terminal. It also provides plenty of time for the airline check-in, security screening, and any potential delays, ensuring a stress-free start to your international journey.

To ensure a quick and smooth return process, there are a few key steps to take before you arrive at the Hertz facility. First, make sure you have refueled the vehicle according to your rental agreement to avoid any last-minute stops. Second, gather all your personal belongings from the car, checking the glove compartment, trunk, and under the seats. Finally, have your rental agreement accessible. Following these simple steps will help prevent delays and allow the return agent to check you in efficiently.

The rental car return process at EWR is centralized, so it is not tied to a specific airline terminal. All returns for Hertz are handled at the same consolidated rental car facility located at Station P3. You will follow the airport signs for "Rental Car Return" as you approach EWR, which will guide you to the correct location. After dropping off your vehicle, you can take the AirTrain to any of the three terminals (A, B, or C) for your departure, regardless of which one you originally arrived at.

Flight delays are a common part of travel, and rental car companies are accustomed to handling them. When you make your reservation, it is highly recommended to include your flight number. This allows the rental staff to track your flight's status and hold your reserved vehicle for you in case of a delay. If your flight is significantly delayed or you miss a connection, it is always a good practice to contact the Hertz location at EWR directly to inform them of your new estimated arrival time.

Yes, one-way rentals are a common and convenient option for travelers in the New York metropolitan area. You can easily pick up your Hertz vehicle at Newark Airport and arrange to return it at a different location, such as one in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or another borough. This provides great flexibility, allowing you to drive into the city without needing to drive back to the airport for your return. Be sure to select your desired drop-off location when you book your reservation to see all available options.

For the most straightforward drive to Times Square, the Lincoln Tunnel is your best bet. From the EWR rental facility, take the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) North and follow the clear signage for the Lincoln Tunnel (Route 495 East). To avoid confusion, stay in the middle or left lanes as you approach the tunnel, as the right lanes often exit. Once you emerge from the tunnel in Manhattan, you will be on Dyer Avenue, which provides direct access to the streets leading to the Times Square area. Using a GPS is essential for navigating the final city blocks.

The drive from Newark Airport to MetLife Stadium is a relatively short and simple one. From the rental car center, you will get on the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) North. You will only need to travel a few miles before taking Exit 16W, which is specifically designated for the Sports Complex, including MetLife Stadium. The route is very well-marked with large signs, making it easy to follow even for first-time visitors. On event days, be sure to allow extra time for heavy traffic near the stadium.

Driving in suburban New Jersey is generally much more relaxed than in the areas immediately surrounding the airport and New York City. Most suburban towns feature residential street parking, though you should always check for signs indicating any restrictions or permit requirements. Local driving often involves a mix of county roads and smaller highways. Be mindful of "jughandles," which are common in New Jersey for making left turns from multi-lane roads; you'll exit to the right to loop around and cross the highway.

A common mistake travelers make is not getting into the correct lane early enough as they approach the airport. The signage for "Rental Car Return" is distinct from the signs for terminal drop-offs and parking, but the exits can come up quickly. Another frequent error is accidentally following signs for a different rental company. As you get closer to the airport complex, pay close attention and follow the specific signs for Hertz return to avoid taking a wrong turn and having to loop around the airport.

During peak travel periods like major holidays and summer weekends, the Hertz pickup area at Newark Airport can become quite busy. You should anticipate longer lines at the rental counter and potentially a greater wait for vehicle preparation. To minimize your wait time, consider joining the company's loyalty program, which may offer expedited service or the ability to bypass the counter. Arriving with all your documentation in order will also help ensure your personal transaction at the counter is as swift as possible.

After a long flight with children, a smooth rental car pickup is a priority. The journey from the terminal to the rental car center involves a ride on the AirTrain, which can be a fun distraction for kids. To make the process easier, it can be helpful for one adult to manage the luggage while the other keeps an eye on the children. Once at the Hertz counter, having your reservation and documents ready will speed things up, getting your family on the road to your destination more quickly.

For travelers with a large amount of luggage, using the baggage carts available in the terminal is the best strategy. You can take these carts all the way from the baggage claim area to the AirTrain platform. The AirTrain cars have ample space to accommodate both passengers and their luggage carts for the ride to Station P3. Once you arrive at the rental car center, you can take the cart with you to the Hertz counter, making the entire process much more manageable than carrying multiple bags by hand.

Coordinating a pickup with a group arriving on separate flights requires a clear plan. The best approach is to have everyone meet at a designated spot at the Hertz rental facility at Station P3, rather than at their individual terminals. The primary driver on the reservation can proceed to the counter to complete the paperwork while waiting for the rest of the group to arrive via the AirTrain. This avoids confusion and ensures everyone is together before you collect the vehicle and load the luggage.

Driving from Newark Airport to Philadelphia is a very straightforward and common trip, typically taking about 90 minutes to two hours without heavy traffic. The most direct route is to take the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) South for nearly the entire journey. The drive is almost exclusively on this major highway, making navigation simple. As you approach Philadelphia, you will cross the Delaware River via one of several bridges, such as the Walt Whitman or Benjamin Franklin Bridge, which will lead you directly into the city.

To cross into New York State from EWR, your route will depend on your final destination. For destinations north of NYC, like Westchester or Rockland County, the best route is the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) North, which becomes I-87 after crossing the George Washington Bridge. For a more scenic route into upstate New York, you could take I-287 North to the New York State Thruway (I-87). The key is to use a GPS and pay close attention to the overhead signs, as the interchanges can be complex and require you to be in the correct lane well in advance of your exit.

The prevalence of EZ-Pass lanes and cashless tolling in the region greatly simplifies driving for visitors in a rental car. Most rental vehicles are equipped with a toll transponder, which allows you to use the dedicated electronic lanes without stopping. This is especially helpful as many major crossings, like the bridges and tunnels into New York City, no longer accept cash. The system provides a seamless experience, automatically logging any tolls incurred so you can focus on navigating the roads rather than fumbling for change.

Rush-hour traffic around Newark Airport can be intense and significantly impact your travel time. Morning rush hour typically runs from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM, while the evening rush is from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays. During these times, the highways surrounding the airport, including the NJ Turnpike, I-78, and Routes 1 & 9, become heavily congested. If possible, schedule your pickup or return outside of these peak windows. If you must travel during rush hour, allow at least double the normal travel time to avoid being late.

Newark Airport is a great starting point for exploring popular regional destinations. The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania are about a 90-minute to two-hour drive west, offering outdoor recreation. The scenic Hudson Valley in New York is a similar distance, roughly a two-hour drive north, known for its historic towns and wineries. For a longer escape, the Catskill Mountains are about two and a half to three hours away. A rental car provides the freedom to explore these beautiful areas at your own pace.

Driving from the Hertz pickup at EWR to the Newark Penn Station area is a very short and direct trip. After exiting the rental facility, you will follow signs for US Route 1/9 North. This major roadway will take you directly into downtown Newark. From there, you will take local streets like Raymond Boulevard, which runs right past Penn Station. The entire drive typically takes only 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions in the downtown area.

Parking in Manhattan requires some advance planning to manage costs and find availability. It is highly recommended to research and pre-book a spot in a public parking garage using a parking app or website, which can often provide significant discounts compared to drive-up rates. Hotel parking is usually available but is often the most expensive option. Be prepared for narrow spaces and high demand, especially in popular areas like Midtown and the Theater District. Choosing a garage slightly further from your hotel can sometimes result in lower costs.

For international travelers, driving in New Jersey and New York requires adapting to a few local norms. All driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and distances and speed limits are posted in miles per hour. Highway signage can be complex, so relying on a GPS is highly advisable. Be aware that turning right at a red light is permitted in New Jersey after a full stop, unless a sign explicitly prohibits it. Understanding the function of electronic tolling systems is also important for a smooth journey.

A one-day driving loop through NYC from EWR is ambitious and requires careful planning. For the Statue of Liberty, it's best to park in a garage in Lower Manhattan near Battery Park and take the ferry. Driving from there to Brooklyn via the Brooklyn Bridge or Manhattan Bridge can offer iconic views, but traffic is often heavy. Finding street parking in popular Brooklyn neighborhoods like Dumbo or Williamsburg is very difficult, so locating a public garage in advance is key. Allow ample time for traffic between each stop and for the return trip to Newark.

Driving to the American Dream mall from Newark Airport is a quick and easy trip. The most direct route is to take the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95) North from the airport. You will travel for just a few miles before taking Exit 16W, which leads to the Meadowlands Sports Complex where the mall is located. The entire journey is typically under 20 minutes without traffic. The route is exceptionally well-signed, making it a simple drive for visitors.

The primary difference is convenience and accessibility. Renting directly at EWR means you can proceed from your flight to the rental car center via the AirTrain without needing an additional shuttle bus. This integrated process is often faster and more efficient. Off-airport locations, while sometimes offering different vehicle selections or rates, require you to take a company-specific shuttle from the terminal to their facility. This can add extra time to your journey, especially during peak hours when shuttles may be crowded or less frequent.

For the most efficient sequence, you should first drop off your passenger at their departure terminal. Follow the airport signs for "Departures" and the specific terminal (A, B, or C). After the drop-off, instead of leaving the airport, immediately follow the signs for "Rental Car Return." Even though you are picking up, this route will lead you directly to the consolidated rental car center at Station P3 where the Hertz pickup counter is located. This avoids exiting and re-entering the airport complex, saving you considerable time and confusion.