Payless Car Rental
Manchester

The Payless car rental counter is conveniently located within the consolidated rental car facility at Manchester–Boston Regional Airport (MHT). Upon your arrival at the airport, simply follow the overhead and wall-mounted signs for "Rental Car Center" or "Rental Car Return." These signs will guide you directly from the terminal to the dedicated building that houses multiple rental agencies. Once inside the facility, you will easily spot the Payless service desk to begin the pickup process.

After collecting your luggage from the baggage claim carousels, look for the airport signs directing you toward "Ground Transportation" and "Rental Car Center." The rental car facility at MHT is connected to the main terminal, making it a short and convenient walk. You will not need to take a shuttle bus, which simplifies the process significantly. Just follow the clearly marked indoor walkway, which will lead you straight to the rental counters, including the Payless desk.

For late-night arrivals, the process remains straightforward, though it's always wise to confirm the location's specific operating hours when you book your vehicle. The rental car center at Manchester's airport is well-lit and designed for easy navigation at any hour. The rental desks are located just a short walk from the vehicle lots, allowing for a quick transition from completing your paperwork to getting on the road. Staff will be on hand during business hours to assist you and direct you to your assigned car.

If you arrive at the Manchester Transportation Center downtown, the most direct way to reach the Payless location at the airport is by using a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. The drive from the downtown bus station to the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is typically short, usually taking about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This method is the most efficient, especially when managing luggage, as it provides door-to-door service directly to the airport's rental car center.

To head north to the White Mountains efficiently, your goal is to get onto Interstate 93 North as quickly as possible. From the airport's rental car facility, follow signs for I-293 North/NH-101 West toward Bedford and Concord. This route will loop you around the busiest parts of the city. In a few miles, I-293 will merge directly into I-93 North, providing a straight shot toward the mountains and bypassing downtown Manchester traffic.

The drive from Manchester to North Conway typically takes about two hours without significant stops or traffic. To secure good parking, especially on a weekend or during peak fall foliage season, you should plan to arrive in town by 9:30 AM. This means departing from the Manchester area no later than 7:30 AM. An early start not only helps with parking but also allows you to enjoy the scenic drive on Route 16 with less congestion.

For a relaxing day trip to Portsmouth, the most direct route is taking NH Route 101 East all the way to the coast. This drive usually takes just under an hour. To avoid navigating the narrow, historic streets downtown, park your rental car at the Hanover Street Parking Garage upon arrival. This centrally located garage offers easy access and allows you to explore Portsmouth's charming shops, restaurants, and waterfront entirely on foot.

A fantastic day-trip loop for a first-time visitor is the classic White Mountains tour. Start by driving north from Manchester on I-93 to Lincoln, the western gateway to the Kancamagus Highway (NH Route 112). Drive the scenic Kancamagus east, stopping at the numerous overlooks. Once you reach Conway, head south on NH Route 16, which will take you through charming towns and eventually connect you back toward Manchester, completing a memorable loop of New Hampshire's best scenery.

During typical weekday rush hours, from about 7:00 to 9:00 AM and 4:00 to 6:00 PM, the major highways around Manchester can experience significant congestion. I-293, which runs through the city, often sees the heaviest traffic, particularly near the downtown exits. The interchange where I-93 and Route 101 meet can also become a bottleneck. If your travel plans are flexible, try to schedule your drives outside of these peak times for a much smoother experience.

A smart strategy for visiting Boston is to drive part of the way and then take public transit. From Manchester, drive south on I-93 to the Anderson/Woburn Regional Transportation Center, located right off the highway at Exit 37A. This station offers ample parking and is a stop on the MBTA Commuter Rail Lowell Line. Alternatively, you can drive to the Alewife station in Cambridge, park in its large garage, and take the Red Line subway directly into downtown Boston.

The drive from Manchester to Portland, Maine, is quite straightforward and typically takes about 90 minutes. You'll take NH Route 101 East to I-95 North, which leads you directly to the Portland area. The drive is generally easy, but you can encounter slowdowns on I-95 around Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and through southern Maine, especially during summer weekends or holiday travel periods. Planning your drive outside of peak Friday afternoon or Sunday evening times can help ensure a smooth trip.

Immediately after leaving the Manchester airport area, one of the most convenient places to stock up is along South Willow Street in Manchester itself. This major commercial corridor is just a few minutes' drive from the airport and features numerous large grocery stores, pharmacies, and big-box retailers. Alternatively, the nearby towns of Bedford and Londonderry also have easily accessible shopping centers with everything you might need to prepare for your New Hampshire road trip.

When traveling with bulky outdoor gear, it's wise to inspect the vehicle's cargo capabilities before you drive away. Check if the rear seats fold down easily and how flat they become, as this maximizes space for skis or snowboards. Confirm the vehicle has enough clearance and interior room for large packs or coolers. If you anticipate challenging weather, you might also inquire if the vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive for better handling on mountain roads.

To maximize your foliage viewing without backtracking, plan a loop route. A great option is to drive north from Manchester on I-93 into the heart of the White Mountains. Then, travel east across the famously scenic Kancamagus Highway (Route 112). From the eastern end in Conway, you can take a different route south, such as Route 16 or Route 25, which will lead you through different towns and landscapes on your way back toward the Manchester area.

A common point of confusion for first-time visitors is the complex interchange where I-293, I-93, and Route 101 converge just south of the city. It's essential to pay close attention to signs and have your GPS ready to navigate the correct lanes for your intended highway. Another mistake is underestimating travel times on rural, two-lane roads outside the city, which can be slower than expected. Always allow extra time when your route takes you off the major interstates.

The most reliable strategy for overnight parking in downtown Manchester is to utilize one of the city's public parking garages. These garages offer secure, covered parking and are often more convenient than searching for a limited street spot, which may have time restrictions. Before you arrive, check with your hotel, as many downtown establishments have arrangements with nearby garages or offer their own dedicated parking for guests, which is the most stress-free option.

Navigating downtown Manchester's one-way streets is manageable if you stay alert and plan ahead. Using a GPS with voice commands is extremely helpful, as it will announce turns in advance. Pay close attention to street signs and painted arrows on the pavement, especially at intersections. It's always a good practice to get into your intended lane well before you need to make a turn to avoid last-minute, stressful maneuvers.

When attending an event at the SNHU Arena, expect significant traffic congestion on the surrounding downtown streets, such as Elm, Canal, and Granite Streets. To minimize stress, plan to arrive in the area at least 45 to 60 minutes before your event begins. The most effective strategy is to pre-purchase parking online for a designated event lot or garage if available. Otherwise, be prepared to use one of the nearby public or private parking garages, as street parking will be extremely limited.

The most direct route to Lake Winnipesaukee is to take I-93 North from Manchester to Exit 20 in Tilton. From there, follow Route 3 and Route 11, which will lead you toward the lake's southern shores and popular towns like Laconia and Weirs Beach. The drive to the lake is usually smooth, but traffic often slows down on the local roads surrounding the lake itself, particularly through the centers of Meredith and Wolfeboro during peak summer weekends.

For an early start in the mountains, factor in about two hours of driving time from Manchester to popular trailheads in the White Mountains. To be on the trail by 6:30 AM, a departure time of 4:30 AM is realistic. Be prepared for limited visibility on unlit rural roads and the potential for fog in valley areas before sunrise. It's also crucial to drive cautiously and watch for wildlife, like deer or moose, which are often active at dawn.

When driving in the early morning or at dusk, especially on roads outside the main city limits, the risk of encountering wildlife like deer and moose increases significantly. These animals are most active during these times and can be difficult to see. It is crucial to reduce your speed, use your high beams when appropriate, and actively scan the sides of the road. If you see one deer, slow down and expect that others may be nearby.

Cell service is notoriously unreliable within Franconia Notch and in many parts of the White Mountains. Before you leave Manchester, it is essential to download the entire route and area maps for offline use on your preferred navigation app. This ensures your GPS will continue to function even without a cellular signal. Relying on your pre-loaded map and paying attention to road signs is the best way to navigate confidently through the region.

When planning a drive from Manchester to the mountains with family, build in time for comfortable breaks. The state-run Hooksett Welcome Centers on I-93, just north of Manchester, are excellent first stops with clean restrooms and visitor information. Further north, the town of Tilton at Exit 20 offers numerous restaurants and shops right off the highway. Planning a stop in a town like Plymouth or Lincoln before entering the more remote scenic byways ensures everyone is comfortable.

After a winter storm, out-of-state drivers are often surprised by the conditions on secondary and rural roads, even after main highways are cleared. Shaded backroads can remain icy for days, and narrow lanes caused by high snowbanks require extra caution. Additionally, be prepared for frost heaves, which are bumps in the pavement caused by freezing and thawing that can be jarring if you hit them at speed. Always reduce your speed to match the conditions.

In wet or icy conditions, the series of interchanges connecting I-293, I-93, and Route 101 require special care. Many of the ramps are curved and can be slick, so reducing your speed well before entering them is critical. The on-ramps from city streets onto the highways can also be short, demanding a careful and deliberate merge into traffic. Always allow for extra following distance and avoid sudden braking or acceleration in these areas.

To ensure a smooth morning drive to the ski resorts, the best strategy is to leave Manchester early, especially on weekends and holidays. Aim to be on I-93 North no later than 7:00 AM to get ahead of the main wave of traffic heading toward popular mountains like Loon, Cannon, or Waterville Valley. Packing your car the night before and having a quick breakfast plan will help you get on the road promptly and maximize your time on the slopes.

For a pleasant half-day scenic drive, explore the area west of Manchester in the Monadnock Region. Take Route 101 West toward towns like Peterborough and Dublin, known for their classic New England charm. You can loop back by taking Route 137 or other local roads south toward Jaffrey before rejoining Route 101 East to return to Manchester. This route offers rolling hills, quaint village centers, and beautiful scenery without the time commitment of a trip to the White Mountains.

When planning a trip between New Hampshire and Vermont, the primary route from the Manchester area is I-89 West, which crosses the Connecticut River into Vermont. There are no border formalities, but be aware that driving laws can differ, such as Vermont's stricter rules on handheld cell phone use. When planning your route, note that services and gas stations can be sparse in the rural areas between larger towns, so it's wise to fuel up before heading into more remote regions.

To best enjoy the Kancamagus Highway, timing is everything. If possible, plan your visit for a weekday, as weekends can be extremely crowded, especially during peak foliage season. If you must go on a weekend, start your day very early, leaving Manchester in time to be at either the Lincoln or Conway entrance to the highway by 8:00 AM. This allows you to get ahead of the main crowds and find parking more easily at the popular scenic overlooks.

When driving in New Hampshire's charming small towns, the key is to slow down and be courteous. Adhere strictly to the posted lower speed limits, as they are often enforced. Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, as they have the right-of-way. Be prepared for tight parallel parking on main streets and take your time when maneuvering. A patient and observant driving style is always appreciated by local residents.

On multi-lane highways like I-93 and the Everett Turnpike, standard lane discipline is to keep right except when passing. Traffic often moves at a brisk pace, so be prepared to maintain the flow of traffic when conditions allow. When merging onto the highway, use the acceleration lane to get up to speed before merging smoothly and decisively. Always use your turn signals to clearly indicate your intentions to other drivers.

A great place to meet up at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is in the main terminal's baggage claim area. It's easily accessible for all arriving passengers and provides a comfortable indoor space to gather. If one person has already picked up the rental car, the airport's cell phone lot is the perfect spot to wait. You can park there for free until your friends call to say they are at the arrivals curb and ready for pickup.

Before beginning a long drive, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the vehicle's essential features. Adjust your mirrors, seat, and steering wheel for comfort. Pair your phone with the car's Bluetooth system for hands-free calls and navigation. It's also a good idea to locate the controls for the headlights, windshield wipers, and hazard lights before you start driving, ensuring you're prepared for any changing conditions on the road.

To avoid the heaviest beach traffic on Route 101 East, timing is crucial. On a summer weekend, plan to leave Manchester early and aim to be parked at Hampton Beach before 9:00 AM. Alternatively, consider a late afternoon trip, arriving after 3:00 PM when many of the early crowds are beginning to leave. Weekdays are always a better option for a less congested drive and more available parking near the shore.

A day trip to Concord is very easy, as it's a direct 25-minute drive north from Manchester on I-93. For convenient and walkable access to the city's downtown area and the State House, park in one of the municipal parking garages. The Storrs Street Garage or the School Street Garage are both excellent options. Parking here allows you to leave your car for the day and comfortably explore Concord's Main Street shops and historical sites on foot.

From the airport area, the most orderly way to access the major highways is to follow the Airport Road to the Everett Turnpike (also signed as I-293 and Route 3). Head south on the turnpike for a very short distance. The interchanges are well-signed; stay in the right lanes for Route 101 East toward the seacoast, or follow the signs to merge onto I-293 North, which will then lead you directly to I-93.

The most common issue when short on time is underestimating traffic on the way back to the airport. Another potential delay is missing the specific entrance for "Rental Car Return," which is separate from the main departures and arrivals roadways. Be sure to follow the airport signage carefully as you approach the terminal. Forgetting to refuel the car if required by your rental agreement can also add unexpected time and expense to your return process.

For a stress-free early morning departure, plan to arrive at the airport's rental car return area at least two hours before your flight is scheduled to leave. This timeline allocates about 15-20 minutes for the vehicle return process and the short walk or shuttle ride to the terminal. The remaining time provides a comfortable buffer for airline check-in, baggage drop, and clearing through security without feeling rushed.

The most efficient method is to first drive to the airline departures curb at the main terminal. Here, you can drop off all passengers and their luggage, allowing them to proceed directly to check-in. After they are safely on their way, the driver can then proceed alone to the rental car return area. This approach saves everyone from having to manage luggage on the shuttle or walkway from the rental facility.

Once you have completed your vehicle return at the designated Payless drop-off area, the process to get to your airline is simple. The rental car center at Manchester's airport is connected directly to the main terminal via an enclosed walkway. Simply follow the prominent signs for "Airline Ticketing" or "Main Terminal." This convenient skywalk will lead you directly to the second-floor departures level where all the airline check-in counters are located.