Payless Car Rental
Vermont

After you've collected your luggage at Burlington International Airport, simply follow the overhead signs for "Rental Cars" or "Ground Transportation." The Payless service counter is conveniently located inside the main terminal building, alongside other major rental agencies. This centralized location makes it easy for arriving passengers to find their way without needing to take a shuttle. Once you complete the rental process at the counter, you will be directed to the adjacent parking garage where the vehicles are staged, allowing for a quick and seamless transition to the road.

For travelers arriving on late-night flights at BTV, planning ahead can ensure a smooth start to your trip. It's always a good idea to confirm the rental counter's operating hours align with your scheduled arrival time. The rental car center is located directly within the terminal, so you won't have to worry about navigating external shuttles in the dark. Having your reservation details and driver's license ready will expedite the process at the counter. This preparation helps minimize delays, allowing you to get into your vehicle and on your way to your destination efficiently.

The most direct route from BTV to downtown Burlington is typically via Airport Drive to U.S. Route 2, also known as Williston Road, heading west. During weekday rush times, this main artery can experience some congestion, particularly as you approach the Interstate 89 interchange and the University of Vermont campus. An alternate route to consider is taking Kennedy Drive to Dorset Street, which runs parallel to the busier roads for a stretch. While it may involve more turns, it can sometimes help bypass the heaviest traffic, especially around the university and hospital areas.

Under normal conditions, the drive from Burlington International Airport to the town of Stowe takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The journey primarily follows Interstate 89 South to Exit 10 in Waterbury, followed by a scenic drive north on Vermont Route 100. During peak seasons, such as fall foliage weekends or winter ski holidays, you should anticipate potential delays. The area around the Waterbury exit can become congested with visitors, and the two-lane Route 100 leading into Stowe can slow down considerably, especially as you approach the village and Stowe Mountain Resort.

When staying near the Burlington waterfront, utilizing one of the city's public parking garages is often the most convenient option for a rental car. The Marketplace Garage and the Downtown Garage offer daily rates and provide a secure place to leave your vehicle for extended periods. This saves you from the hassle of searching for on-street parking, which often has time limits and can be scarce, especially during peak tourist season. Parking in a designated garage allows you to explore the waterfront, Church Street Marketplace, and surrounding areas on foot with peace of mind.

The most straightforward drive from Burlington to Waterbury for a day trip is taking Interstate 89 South. The trip is direct and typically takes around 25 to 30 minutes without significant traffic. Common backups occur during weekday morning and evening commutes as local traffic merges onto and off the interstate. On popular tourist weekends, especially during fall foliage season, you may also experience slowdowns at Exit 10, the Waterbury exit, as many visitors are heading to the same popular attractions in the area.

To visit both Stowe and Smugglers' Notch in a single day, it's best to start your day early to maximize your time. A logical route is to drive from Burlington to Stowe first, enjoying the morning there, perhaps at the resort or in the village. From Stowe, you can take Vermont Route 108 North, which is the scenic road that passes directly through Smugglers' Notch. After exploring the Notch, you can continue on Route 108 to Jeffersonville and then loop back towards Burlington via Vermont Route 15. Be sure to check that Route 108 is open, as this mountain pass closes for the winter.

Vermont Route 108 through Smugglers' Notch is a narrow, winding mountain pass that is a memorable drive for most visitors in a standard rental car. However, it is important to know that this road is strictly seasonal. The Vermont Agency of Transportation typically closes the road to all traffic from mid-October or early November until mid-May, depending on snow and ice conditions. Before planning your drive, always check the official status of the road, as its steep grades and tight turns make it impassable and unsafe during the winter months.

Driving the back roads between Stowe and Jeffersonville offers a classic Vermont experience, full of rolling hills, farms, and scenic vistas. These roads are typically well-maintained but are narrower and have lower speed limits than main highways. Unlike the directness of a highway, navigating these routes requires more attention to turns and signage. While it may take longer, the drive is far more picturesque and allows for spontaneous stops at local spots. In winter or during mud season in early spring, sticking to the main highways is often the more reliable and safer choice.

For a first-time Vermont driver heading from BTV to Killington, the simplest and most reliable route is to use the main highways. You will start by taking Interstate 89 South from the airport area for about 45 miles. Then, you'll take Exit 1 in Bethel and follow Vermont Route 107 West to U.S. Route 4 West. This final leg on Route 4 will take you directly to the Killington area. This route is well-signed and generally better maintained during winter weather compared to smaller back roads, making it a comfortable choice for those unfamiliar with the region.

To avoid the worst of the arrival traffic for a ski day at Stowe, it's wise to leave Burlington quite early, especially on a weekend or holiday. Aim to be on the road by 7:00 AM or even earlier if fresh snow has fallen overnight. The main congestion points are the final stretch of Mountain Road (Route 108) and the resort's parking lots, which can fill up quickly. Arriving before 8:30 AM usually allows you to secure a good parking spot and get to the lifts before the main crowds descend, ensuring you maximize your time on the slopes.

Around Burlington, drivers can encounter surprising winter conditions in several key areas. Roads near Lake Champlain, such as the causeway to the islands, are exposed to high winds that can cause drifting snow and sudden icy patches. Hilly sections and shaded back roads in surrounding towns like Shelburne or Richmond can also remain icy long after main roads have cleared. Additionally, bridges and overpasses freeze before other road surfaces, so it's important to exercise caution when approaching them, even if the rest of the drive seems clear.

When renting a car in Vermont for winter travel, it's essential to be prepared for potential snow and ice on the roads. The state's terrain includes many hills and mountain passes where good traction is crucial for safe driving. At the rental counter, it is a good practice to mention your travel plans, particularly if you are heading to a ski resort or a more remote area. This allows you to inquire about the features of your assigned vehicle and ensure you are comfortable with its capabilities for navigating typical Vermont winter conditions.

Planning a comfortable winter drive from Burlington to Montpelier is best done by sticking to Interstate 89 South, which is the most direct and well-maintained route. The drive typically takes about 40 minutes. If roads are snowy and you need a break, the town of Waterbury at Exit 10 is a perfect halfway point with easy access to gas stations, cafes, and restaurants right off the highway. This allows you to pause, assess conditions, and grab a warm drink before continuing the second half of your journey to the state capital.

Navigating parking at the University of Vermont with a rental car is most easily managed by using designated visitor parking areas. The university has several lots and a main parking garage (Jeffords lot) specifically for visitors, which typically offer hourly or daily rates. Trying to find on-street parking immediately adjacent to campus can be difficult due to permit restrictions and time limits. Heading directly to a signed visitor lot saves time and frustration, allowing you to park once and explore the campus on foot.

When leaving the BTV airport area, the most common point of confusion for visitors is the intersection of Airport Drive and Williston Road (U.S. Route 2). This is a busy, multi-lane junction where you need to quickly decide whether you're heading west toward downtown Burlington or east toward Williston and I-89. Another spot is the double-lane roundabout on Route 2 just west of the airport, which can be unfamiliar to some drivers. It's helpful to have your navigation set up before you leave the rental lot to ensure you're in the correct lane for your intended turn.

For a visitor-friendly scenic drive along Lake Champlain, the route south from Burlington on U.S. Route 7 is an excellent choice. This road takes you through charming towns like Shelburne and Charlotte, offering beautiful views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains. Another great option is to take the causeway from Colchester out onto the Lake Champlain Islands via U.S. Route 2 West. This unique drive provides a feeling of being surrounded by water and connects several quaint island communities, making for a memorable and easy-to-navigate afternoon trip.

A day trip from Burlington to Middlebury by rental car is very practical and makes for a lovely excursion. The drive south on U.S. Route 7 takes about 50 to 60 minutes each way, passing through scenic Vermont farmland and towns. A realistic timetable would be to leave Burlington in the morning, spend three to four hours exploring Middlebury's charming downtown, college campus, and local shops, and then enjoy a leisurely drive back in the afternoon. This schedule allows plenty of time to experience the town without feeling rushed.

The drive from Burlington to the Shelburne Museum is very easy and pleasant, taking only about 15 to 20 minutes. You simply head south from the city on U.S. Route 7, and the museum is prominently located right on the main road, making it impossible to miss. Parking is exceptionally straightforward, as the museum has a large, dedicated parking lot for visitors that is free of charge. The ample space means you can arrive at any time of day without worrying about finding a spot, making it a stress-free destination to visit with a rental car.

A classic and easy-to-navigate fall foliage loop from Burlington starts by taking Interstate 89 South to the Waterbury exit. From there, follow Vermont Route 100 North through Stowe, which is world-renowned for its autumn colors. Continue on Route 100 to Morrisville, then take Vermont Route 15 West, which will eventually lead you back toward the Burlington area. This route primarily uses well-marked state highways, minimizing complex turns while maximizing exposure to some of Vermont's most iconic foliage scenery in the Green Mountains.

Roads around Stowe, particularly Route 100 and the Mountain Road (Route 108), can become extremely congested during peak fall foliage weekends. Expect slow-moving, bumper-to-bumper traffic, especially in the middle of the day. To make the most of your visit, time your driving for early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Arriving in the area before 10 AM or exploring after 4 PM can help you avoid the worst of the crowds. Planning to park your car and explore the village or trails on foot is also a great strategy to bypass traffic.

While driving through the Green Mountains, you should expect cell service to be intermittent and unreliable, especially on smaller back roads and in mountain passes like Smugglers' Notch. Major corridors like Interstate 89 generally have consistent coverage, but once you venture onto state routes like VT-100 or VT-17, you will likely encounter dead zones. It is highly recommended to download maps of the region to your phone for offline use before you leave Burlington. This ensures your navigation will continue to work even when you lose your cellular signal.

When planning a side trip to Montreal, it's important to confirm that your rental agreement permits cross-border travel into Canada. At the border crossing, you and all passengers will need valid passports or other acceptable forms of identification for entry into Canada and re-entry into the United States. Be prepared for questions from border officials about your travel plans, including your destination and the length of your stay. Ensuring your documents are in order and your rental is authorized for the trip will facilitate a smooth crossing.

The drive from Burlington to the Highgate Springs–St-Armand/Philipsburg border crossing, the most common one for reaching Montreal, typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes via Interstate 89 North. Wait times at the border can vary significantly. They are often longest during holiday weekends, on Friday afternoons heading into Canada, and on Sunday evenings returning to the U.S. For the shortest wait, try to cross during off-peak hours, such as mid-day on a weekday, or check online border wait time trackers before you depart.

The easiest and most scenic route to the Lake Placid area from Burlington involves taking the Lake Champlain Ferry. You would drive from Burlington to the ferry dock in Charlotte, a trip of about 25 minutes. The ferry crosses to Essex, New York, and from there, it's a beautiful drive of about an hour to Lake Placid through the Adirondack Mountains. This route is generally faster and more direct than driving all the way around the lake. Remember to check the ferry's seasonal schedule and plan for potential wait times during peak summer and fall weekends.

Taking a rental car on the Lake Champlain Ferry is a simple and enjoyable experience, very similar to driving your own car aboard. The crew will guide you on and off the vessel, and the crossing itself offers fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's essential to check the ferry schedule online beforehand, as departure times vary by season and day of the week. During peak tourist season or on holiday weekends, it's wise to arrive at the dock at least 20-30 minutes before your desired departure to ensure you get a spot on the boat.

Shortly after leaving BTV, you'll find several convenient options for groceries and supplies. The most accessible area is along Williston Road (U.S. Route 2), just a few minutes' drive from the airport. Here you will find major supermarkets like Hannaford and Price Chopper, as well as stores like Target and Walmart. These locations are ideal for stocking up on everything you need for your trip before you head out of the Burlington area, whether you're going to a ski condo or a lakeside cabin.

Before leaving the airport for a rural cabin, confirm the exact address and consider downloading offline maps, as cell service can be spotty. It's also wise to ask the property owner about the condition of the driveway and final access road, especially during winter or mud season. Inquiring whether the road is paved or gravel, and if it's steep or regularly plowed, will help you feel more prepared. Grabbing any necessary supplies in Burlington is also a good idea, as local stores in more remote areas may have limited hours.

The most common wildlife hazard for drivers in Vermont, especially at dusk and after dark, is deer. They are frequently seen along roadways statewide, and their behavior can be unpredictable. In more rural and wooded areas, it's also possible to encounter moose or black bears, which are much larger and can pose a significant danger. It is crucial to drive cautiously, scan the sides of the road, and be aware that where you see one deer, there are often more nearby.

To out-of-state drivers, speed limits on Vermont's two-lane roads may feel a bit slower than what they are used to, often topping out at 50 mph. These limits are set for safety on winding and hilly terrain. Enforcement is present, particularly in towns and villages where speed limits drop significantly and change quickly. Visitors generally find that driving at or near the posted limit is the most comfortable and safest way to navigate the state's scenic byways, allowing ample time to react to sharp turns or wildlife.

For travelers with skis, snowboards, and other bulky winter gear, renting an SUV or a minivan is typically the easiest option. These vehicles offer generous cargo space and often feature fold-down rear seats, allowing long items like skis to fit inside the vehicle securely. The higher ground clearance of an SUV can also be beneficial for navigating snowy parking lots at ski resorts. The large rear hatches on these vehicle types make loading and unloading your equipment for a day on the slopes much more convenient than with a standard sedan.

A great family day trip from Burlington that minimizes car time is a loop to Waterbury and Stowe. You can drive about 30 minutes to Waterbury to visit the Ben & Jerry's factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill. From there, it's a short, 15-minute drive to Stowe for a walk or lunch. Another excellent option is heading south to Shelburne to visit the Shelburne Museum and Shelburne Farms, both of which are very close to each other and only 20 minutes from Burlington, offering a full day of activities with very little driving.

When driving to popular trailheads near Stowe and Waterbury, such as those for Mount Mansfield or Camel's Hump, you should expect parking to be a significant challenge, especially on weekends. The parking lots are often small and can be completely full by 9:00 AM. The access roads to some trailheads can also be unpaved and rough, requiring careful driving. It's highly recommended to arrive very early in the morning or choose a weekday for your hike to secure a parking spot and avoid disappointment.

To avoid the biggest crowds at the Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury, the best time to arrive is on a weekday, either right when they open in the morning or later in the afternoon. Mid-day, especially between 11 AM and 3 PM, and all day on weekends during the summer and fall, are the busiest times. The parking lot can fill up, leading to lines of cars waiting to enter. An early or late visit increases your chances of finding parking easily and experiencing shorter lines for the factory tour and scoop shop.

The easiest way to drive from Burlington to the Vermont State House is by taking Interstate 89 South directly to Exit 8 in Montpelier. This exit leads you right into the downtown area. For parking, there is a dedicated visitor lot located behind the State House, which is often the most convenient option. If that lot is full, there is metered on-street parking available on the surrounding streets, as well as a public parking garage a few blocks away, making it relatively simple to find a spot within a short walk of the capitol building.

For a scenic day loop, a great plan is to drive from Burlington to Stowe first, which takes about an hour. This allows you to enjoy the morning in the Stowe area. From Stowe, take the scenic Vermont Route 100 South to Waterbury, a short and pleasant 15-minute drive, where you can stop for lunch or attractions. To complete the loop, get on Interstate 89 North in Waterbury for a quick and direct 30-minute drive back to Burlington. This routing prioritizes scenic driving on the way out and an efficient return journey.

For an early morning flight from BTV in winter, it's crucial to build extra time into your travel plan. Check the weather forecast and road conditions the night before. If there's active snow or ice, you should add at least 30-60 minutes to your usual driving time, even for a short distance. The roads immediately surrounding the airport are generally well-maintained, but local roads leading to them may not be. A realistic timeline involves leaving your lodging much earlier than you would in other seasons to ensure you can return your car and check in without stress.

Travelers will find it very convenient to refuel a rental car before returning it to BTV, as there are numerous gas stations close to the airport. Several options are located directly on Williston Road (U.S. Route 2), the main road that passes the airport entrance. You will also find gas stations near the I-89 interchange in South Burlington, just a minute or two from the airport. Stopping at any of these locations on your way to the airport makes for a quick and easy refueling process.

Driving in Vermont during mud season, which typically occurs from late March through April, requires significant caution. Many of the state's unpaved dirt roads become extremely soft, muddy, and can be impassable even for vehicles with four-wheel drive. It's common for towns to temporarily close these roads to prevent damage. If your destination involves travel on a dirt road, it is essential to check on its condition beforehand and have an alternate route planned, as getting stuck is a real possibility.

When visiting Burlington during a major event, the best strategy is to park on the periphery of downtown and walk to your destination. Street closures and heavy traffic can make driving directly into the city center very challenging. Utilize the public parking garages, such as the Downtown Garage or Marketplace Garage, which are designed to handle higher volume. Arriving early in the day before the biggest crowds gather will also greatly increase your chances of finding a convenient parking spot, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without worrying about your car.