National Car Hire
Nevada

After collecting your luggage at baggage reclaim, you will need to go outside to the designated shuttle bus area. Harry Reid International Airport has a consolidated Rental Car Centre located a few miles from the main terminals. Look for the prominent blue and white signs directing you to the rental car shuttles. These dedicated buses run continuously, transporting travellers directly to the facility where the National Car Rental counter is located.

The most straightforward method is to use the airport’s dedicated shuttle service. Once you have your bags, follow the overhead signs for Ground Transportation and Rental Car Shuttles. These signs will lead you out of the baggage reclaim area to a specific kerb where the shuttles pick up passengers. The ride to the off-site Rental Car Centre is typically short and, upon arrival, you’ll enter the main building where you can easily find the National Car Rental service desk.

The process remains consistent even for late-night arrivals, as the Rental Car Centre is designed for 24/7 operations. The shuttle service from the airport terminals continues to run, and the facility is well lit and clearly signed. Once inside the centre, locate the National counter to complete your rental agreement. The garage levels are also well illuminated, with clear signage directing you to the exit. Your primary focus should be having your destination pre-loaded into your navigation app before you start driving.

While exact times can vary, it’s wise to plan for the entire process during busy periods like weekends. You should allow for several steps: deplaning, walking to baggage reclaim, waiting for luggage, then waiting for and riding the shuttle to the Rental Car Centre. At the centre, peak times can mean a queue at the counter. National’s Emerald Aisle service can significantly speed up this final step. Factoring in all these stages helps set a realistic expectation for how long it will be before you drive away.

A practical meeting point is directly within the baggage reclaim area assigned to your flight. This allows everyone to collect their luggage in one place before moving on as a single group. Once everyone is accounted for, you can all proceed together to the shuttle bus stop. Alternatively, if you’re arriving on different flights, a landmark such as a particular Starbucks or information desk within the main terminal, before security, can serve as a central meeting location.

The most convenient waiting spot is typically near the baggage reclaim carousels or in the seating areas just outside the main security exits. This keeps the group and luggage in one place within the terminal, avoiding the need to transport all the bags to the Rental Car Centre and back. Once the driver has the car, they can follow the signs for passenger pick-up at the appropriate terminal and meet the rest of the group at the kerb.

National staff will provide clear directions to the parking garage after you complete your paperwork. The garage is well organised with large, easy-to-read signs indicating different car classes and row numbers. Your rental agreement will often specify a particular area or bay number. For Emerald Club members using the Aisle service, you’ll be directed to a specific section of the garage where you can choose any available vehicle.

The best place to get set up is before you even leave your parking bay in the rental garage. Take a few minutes there to adjust your seat, mirrors, and steering wheel. This is also the ideal time to pair your phone with the car’s Bluetooth or infotainment system and enter your first destination into navigation. If you prefer to do this after exiting, consider pulling into a spot on one of the upper, less-crowded levels of the garage before heading down to the exit gates.

The exit from the Rental Car Centre puts you straight onto main roads with immediate motorway access, which can be disorientating. A common mistake is getting into a motorway on-ramp lane for I-15 or I-215 before you’re certain of your direction. It’s crucial to know whether you need to head towards the Strip, Henderson, Summerlin, or Downtown before you leave the garage. Following your GPS closely from the very start is the best way to ensure you choose the correct lane for your intended route.

When approaching your hotel, pay close attention to the resort’s own signage over your GPS instructions for the last few hundred feet. Most large resorts have multiple entrances, and the lanes for valet, rideshare, and self-parking can split abruptly. Look for large overhead signs that explicitly say "Self-Parking", which often direct you to a side entrance or a specific lane that bypasses the main hotel porte-cochère. Staying in the middle or right-hand lanes as you approach the property is often a good strategy.

GPS systems can become unreliable amid the dense, multi-level infrastructure of the Las Vegas Strip. Your navigation may announce that you’ve "arrived" when you are on a flyover or in a tunnel directly above or below your actual destination. For the final approach to your hotel, it’s best to reduce your speed, look for the official hotel and parking signs, and use your GPS for general guidance rather than exact turn-by-turn commands. Trust the physical signs to lead you into the correct self-parking garage entrance.

To avoid the heaviest Strip traffic, a straightforward route involves using surface streets. From the Rental Car Centre, you can take Gilespie Street north, which runs parallel to the Strip. This road eventually allows you to connect to major east–west streets like Tropicana or Flamingo. From there, you can turn onto Paradise Road or Koval Lane and head north. These roads take you past the convention centre and ultimately allow for a much less congested approach to downtown and the Fremont Street area.

The most efficient way to reach either Henderson or Summerlin is by using the I-215 Beltway. The on-ramps for the beltway are located very close to the Rental Car Centre, allowing you to bypass the Strip entirely. For Henderson, take I-215 East. For Summerlin, take I-215 West. This modern motorway circles the Las Vegas Valley and is the preferred route for locals travelling to these suburban communities.

Before beginning a desert journey, a quick vehicle check is a great idea. Take a moment in the parking bay to ensure the headlights and brake lights are working. Check the dashboard for any low tyre pressure warning lights, as temperatures can affect this. It’s also crucial to confirm that the car’s USB ports or 12V outlets are working for charging your devices. Finally, test the windscreen wipers and fluid, as sudden desert rainstorms or dusty conditions can occur unexpectedly.

Before you even start the engine, it’s essential to plug your phone into the car’s USB port to see if Apple CarPlay or Android Auto activates on the infotainment screen. Not all vehicles or trim levels are equipped with this feature, even if they have a large screen. Confirming it connects and that your preferred navigation app displays properly will save you from trying to troubleshoot while driving. If it doesn’t work, you can ask a National representative if another vehicle in your class has the feature.

A mid-size saloon or a compact SUV often provides the best balance for a Las Vegas trip. These vehicles are manoeuvrable enough to navigate the narrow turns and tight spaces commonly found in older casino parking garages. At the same time, they offer sufficient comfort, stability, and power for extended motorway drives to destinations like the Hoover Dam or Valley of Fire. A larger vehicle can feel cumbersome in parking structures, while a subcompact might be less comfortable over long distances.

When travelling with significant luggage, vehicle choice is key. For saloons, look for a model with a deep, wide boot opening rather than a narrow one. With SUVs, a vehicle with a flat, unobstructed cargo floor when the third row is folded down (if applicable) is ideal. It’s good practice to physically test-fit your largest suitcase before you finalise your vehicle choice on the rental lot. This ensures all your luggage will fit securely without blocking your rear view.

The most stress-free place to install car seats is in the parking bay where you pick up your vehicle. This lets you take your time and ensure they’re secured correctly without the pressure of holding up traffic. If the area is particularly busy, you could also drive to a less-crowded spot on an upper level of the parking garage. This gets you out of the main flow of traffic and provides a safer, more relaxed environment to get everything properly set up.

For international visitors, a few local driving norms are important. In Nevada, you are generally permitted to turn right at a red light after coming to a complete stop, unless a sign specifically prohibits it. On motorways, it’s crucial to keep up with the flow of traffic, which can be faster than in other regions. The far-left lane is typically reserved for overtaking, so you should stay in the middle or right-hand lanes for cruising. Also, be aware of frequent and sudden lane changes from other drivers, especially near the Strip.

To sidestep the worst traffic, try to plan your pick-up time outside peak congestion hours. The most challenging times to drive on and around the Strip are typically during weekday rush hour, from about 4pm to 7pm. Friday and Saturday nights can also be extremely slow-moving due to the influx of tourists and event traffic. If your flight arrives during these windows, consider having a meal at the airport or relaxing for a bit before picking up your car to let the heaviest traffic subside.

After leaving the Rental Car Centre, you can easily find shops by avoiding the roads that lead directly to the Strip. A simple option is to head east on Warm Springs Road or south on Eastern Avenue. These surface streets have numerous shopping centres with supermarkets, pharmacies, and convenience stores. This lets you stock up on essentials without navigating the complex airport road system or dealing with tourist-heavy traffic.

The desert sun can make a parked car’s interior extremely hot. A foldable sunshade for the windscreen is highly effective for keeping the steering wheel and dashboard at a more tolerable temperature. When you park, if it’s safe to do so, slightly cracking the windows can help vent some of the hot air. Always be cautious of touching metal seatbelt buckles or dark leather seats when you first re-enter the vehicle, and never leave children, pets, or sensitive electronics in a parked car.

High winds are common in the Nevada desert and can affect driving, especially on open stretches of motorway. It’s important to maintain a firm, two-handed grip on the steering wheel to counter sudden gusts. This is particularly true if you’re driving a high-profile vehicle like an SUV or van. Be extra cautious when driving alongside large lorries, as they can create powerful air turbulence. Finally, watch for blowing dust or sand, which can reduce visibility unexpectedly.

The most direct and traffic-free route to Red Rock Canyon is to use the I-215 Beltway. From the airport area, get on I-215 West. You’ll follow this motorway for several miles as it curves around the western edge of the city. Your navigation system will then direct you to exit onto Charleston Boulevard (State Route 159) and head west. This route completely bypasses Las Vegas Strip congestion and provides a scenic drive straight to the park’s entrance.

The drive to Valley of Fire State Park is fairly straightforward, but there is one key turn. After taking Interstate 15 North for about 30–40 miles, you’ll see signs for the Valley of Fire Highway exit. The most common mistake is missing this exit, as it can come up faster than expected on a long, straight stretch of motorway. Once you exit, the park entrance is well signed, but paying close attention for that initial I-15 exit is the most critical part of navigation.

As you approach Hoover Dam from Las Vegas via US-93 South, you will first pass through Boulder City. The road then descends towards the dam. Pay close attention to the signs directing you to visitor parking. The most convenient option is the main parking garage on the Nevada side, which will be one of the first parking entrances you encounter. Following the signs for this garage helps you avoid the more complex series of car parks and turnarounds further down near the Arizona side of the dam.

For a simple and scenic introduction to Lake Mead, the entrance via Boulder City is an excellent choice. From the Las Vegas area, drive south towards Boulder City as if you were going to Hoover Dam. Before reaching the dam, you’ll see clear signs for the Alan Bible Visitor Centre and the entrance to the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This route leads you directly to popular spots like Boulder Beach and the Lake Mead Marina, offering great views and easy access to the water.

The drive to Mount Charleston involves a significant change in both elevation and climate. As you leave the flat desert floor, the roads become winding and steep, requiring more attentive driving. The most dramatic difference is the temperature; it can be 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit cooler on the mountain than in Las Vegas. Even on a hot summer day, it’s wise to bring a jacket. The air becomes thinner at higher altitudes, and the scenery transforms from desert scrub to pine forests.

The route to southern Utah is quite simple from anywhere in Las Vegas. Your goal is to get on Interstate 15 North. From the airport area, you can use the I-215 Beltway to connect to I-15 North without having to navigate the complex downtown "Spaghetti Bowl" interchange. Once you are on I-15 North, it’s a direct and well-maintained motorway that takes you all the way across the corner of Arizona and into Utah, where you’ll find the exit for Zion National Park.

The drive to Bryce Canyon is a multi-hour journey, and breaking it up is a good idea. St. George, Utah, located just over the state line, is an excellent major stop with plenty of petrol stations, restaurants, and shops. It’s a perfect place for a meal and to stretch your legs. Further along your route, the smaller town of Cedar City, Utah, is another reliable and convenient stopping point for a quick break before the final scenic drive to Bryce Canyon National Park.

A trip to Death Valley requires careful planning due to its remote, extreme environment. Before leaving Las Vegas, make sure you have a full tank of fuel, as petrol stations are scarce and expensive within the park. Pack plenty of water—much more than you think you’ll need—plus snacks. Mobile phone service is virtually non-existent in most of the park, so download maps for offline use and let someone know your itinerary.

For a ‘park once’ approach, consider the large self-parking garages at resorts in the central or northern Strip. Garages at properties such as The Venetian, Wynn or Resorts World are often more modern and spacious, with well-marked entrances and exits that are easier to navigate than some older, tighter garages. Parking in one of these lets you explore a large section of the Strip on foot and use pedestrian bridges and walkways.

Driving to a major event means planning for heavy congestion. Expect road closures or restricted access on key roads such as Las Vegas Boulevard, Tropicana Avenue and Frank Sinatra Drive in the hours before and after the event. Afterwards, be prepared for long delays leaving car parks and surrounding streets. It can often take an hour or more for traffic to clear, so patience is essential, and it’s best not to schedule anything time-sensitive immediately after.

Several petrol stations are conveniently located just a few minutes from the Rental Car Centre. You can find multiple options along Warm Springs Road, one of the main cross streets near the centre’s entrance. Another good area is on Eastern Avenue, just south of the airport. Using one of these stations allows for a quick and easy refuel without navigating complex junctions or heavy tourist traffic right before you need to return the vehicle.

As you get close to the airport, the overhead road signs start to distinguish between the main airport terminals and the Rental Car Centre. Make sure you move into the lanes designated for "Rental Car Return". These signs are typically separate from those for "Departures" or "Arrivals". Following this specific signage is crucial, as it guides you directly to the dedicated entrance for the rental facility, keeping you out of the passenger drop-off and pick-up loops.

The entrance to the Rental Car Centre is very well lit and clearly marked, making it easy to spot even at night. As you approach the airport complex, continue following the large, illuminated overhead signs for "Rental Car Return". The final turn-off is a dedicated entrance leading into the multi-level garage structure. The facility’s bright lighting makes it stand out from the surrounding roads, so you can confidently identify the correct entrance.

The process is quite logical. First, follow the main airport signs for "Departures" and proceed to the correct terminal for your airline. You can drop off passengers and luggage at the kerb. After they are safely on their way, rejoin the main airport roadway and begin following the signs for "Rental Car Return". This loops you back around to the separate Rental Car Centre, where you can return the vehicle.

Once you have returned your vehicle and completed the check-in process with National, proceed into the main lobby of the Rental Car Centre. From there, follow the signs for the airport shuttles. These are the same buses that brought you to the facility on arrival. The shuttles run continuously back to the airport terminals, with separate stops for Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, so be sure to board the correct bus for your airline.

While returning the car is usually quick, the steps afterwards can take longer than expected. Waiting for the shuttle from the rental centre to the terminal can involve a short delay. The biggest variable is the time needed for airline check-in and TSA security queues at the terminal, which can be especially long during peak early-morning periods. It’s best to allow extra time for these steps to avoid stress.

A simple, low-stress strategy is to pick a nearby landmark a few miles from the Rental Car Centre. For example, agree to meet at a specific large petrol station or a coffee shop on Warm Springs Road or Eastern Avenue. The car park of a large supermarket also works well. This allows both drivers to leave the airport area independently, get their bearings, and then regroup in a calm environment to co-ordinate the next leg of the journey.