Ready to secure your ride at ANC? Use the search form at the top of this page to find real-time deals and compare prices from dozens of rental companies: • Pick-Up Location: Select Ted Stevens Anchorage Int’l Airport (ANC) as your pick-up point (or choose another Anchorage location if it fits your plans). The airport location has the largest inventory of vehicles, so it’s a great default choice for most travelers. • Dates & Times: Enter your travel dates and preferred pick-up/drop-off times. Whether you need a car for a quick weekend or a several-week expedition, we’ll find options to match. (Tip: book early for summer, Alaska’s peak season, to ensure availability.) • Vehicle Type & Company: Filter results by car category (Economy, SUV, Minivan, 4x4, etc.) or by rental company. We partner with all major brands plus local specialists, so you’ll see all the best deals in one place. Hit the “Search” button, and in seconds you’ll see all available cars and rates for ANC. Choose your ideal vehicle and book it online in moments. Most rentals include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up, so you can lock in a great price now and change plans later if needed.
Flying into Anchorage? Picking up a rental car at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) is the fastest way to kick off your Alaskan adventure. Instead of waiting for shuttles or paying high taxi fares, you can step off the plane and hop straight into your own vehicle. ANC’s on-site rental center offers a wide selection, from compact cars for city exploring to rugged 4x4 SUVs and vans perfect for mountain roads. The booking process is a breeze: reserve online (most rentals don’t require prepayment), then upon arrival follow the signs to the Rental Car Center right by the terminal. With keys in hand, you’re free to explore Alaska on your schedule, no tour timetables, no rideshare surge pricing. Enjoy the freedom to roam from downtown Anchorage to Denali and beyond, all on your own terms.
Why Choose AirportVanRental at Anchorage Airport?
When you rent through AirportVanRental at ANC, you get more than just a car, you get peace of mind and great value. Here are our top customer benefits:
Top Anchorage Airport Car Rental Deals
Pricing above is based on recent findings and includes standard fees. Summer (June–August) is peak season in Anchorage, economy cars can start around $80+/day then, while winter rates (November–March) often drop as low as $30/day. Book early for summer trips, as rental inventory can sell out months in advance. And remember, our quotes always show the full cost with taxes before you confirm.
Driving in Anchorage: Tips for the Road
Driving around Anchorage and the surrounding wilderness is exciting and generally straightforward, but Alaska has its own quirks. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and make the most of your journey:
Road Trips from Anchorage
Anchorage isn’t just the largest city in Alaska, it’s also the perfect launching point for epic road trips. With your rental car, you can reach pristine coasts, towering mountains, and remote villages that tours might miss. Here are three unforgettable drives from Anchorage to consider (each offers a unique taste of Alaska):
Seward Highway to Kenai Fjords, Anchorage to Seward
Distance: ~125 miles one-way (about 2.5 hours of driving without stops). Many travelers turn this into a full weekend trip (2–3 days) to fully enjoy the sights along the way.
Route: From Anchorage, take the Seward Highway (AK-1) heading south along the Turnagain Arm. The highway hugs the coastline for the first 50 miles, a famously scenic stretch from Anchorage to Portage. Continue past Girdwood and Portage Valley; at the junction near Tern Lake (around 90 miles from Anchorage), turn onto AK-9 south which leads you the final 35 miles to the town of Seward on Resurrection Bay.
Highlights: This drive is often ranked among the most beautiful in the world, and it starts virtually at the airport’s doorstep. As you leave Anchorage, you’ll wind along Turnagain Arm with the Chugach Mountains on one side and tidal waters on the other. Keep an eye out for the bore tide, a unique wave that sometimes rushes down the inlet when the tide comes in. Pull over at spots like Beluga Point to look for beluga whales (especially in late summer when salmon are running) or scan the cliffs for Dall sheep. Consider a stop in Girdwood, a charming ski town about 40 miles south of Anchorage, grab a treat at a local bakery or ride the Alyeska Resort tram for a panoramic mountain view. Further on, take a short detour into Portage Valley: you can visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (see bears, moose, musk oxen, and more in a natural sanctuary) or drive to Portage Lake for a glimpse of Portage Glacier. Back on the main highway, you’ll climb through Turnagain Pass, a lush alpine area with wildflowers in summer and deep snow in winter. Nearing Seward, pass by picturesque Moose Pass (yes, that’s a town) and its roadside waterfall. Once in Seward, you’re at the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Don’t miss the easy walk to Exit Glacier just outside of town, one of the few road-accessible glaciers in Alaska, or the world-class boat tours that depart from Seward’s small boat harbor. A 6-hour Kenai Fjords cruise can show you towering tidewater glaciers crashing into the sea and wildlife like sea otters, puffins, whales, and maybe even orcas. Back in Seward, stroll the waterfront and check out the Alaska SeaLife Center, an aquarium and marine research facility where you can see puffins, sea lions, and learn about the Gulf of Alaska ecosystem.
Tips: The Seward Highway can get busy on summer weekends (lots of locals driving RVs or boats to fishing spots), so start early to beat the traffic and have popular viewpoints to yourself. Weather along the coast is fickle, it might be sunny in Anchorage but misty or drizzly along the Arm and in Seward. Pack a rain jacket and embrace the dynamic weather; the clouds only add to that mystical “Lord of the Rings” feel of the fjords. Observe speed limits (55 mph for much of the Seward Hwy, with some 65 mph sections), not only because state troopers patrol, but also to stay safe on curvy stretches and through wildlife crossing zones. There are many pullouts, use them to let faster cars pass, or to stop and take photos safely. If you have time, consider overnighting in Seward so you can fully experience the area (lodging can fill up fast in summer, so book ahead). Driving back to Anchorage in the late evening on a clear summer day can reward you with a gorgeous sunset over Turnagain Arm around 10–11 PM. In winter, the road is maintained daily; however, after heavy snow, authorities may briefly close Turnagain Pass for avalanche control, check the road status if traveling in winter conditions. This Anchorage-to-Seward journey is truly a drive where the journey is as spectacular as the destination.
2. North to Denali, Anchorage to Denali National Park (via Talkeetna)
Distance: ~240 miles to the Denali Park entrance (approximately 4.5–5 hours drive time nonstop). To fully enjoy this trip, plan at least 3–4 days: one day driving up with stops, a day or two exploring the Denali area, and a day to return.
Route: Head north from Anchorage on the Glenn Highway (AK-1), then after about 35 miles, merge onto the Parks Highway (AK-3) near the town of Wasilla. The Parks Highway will take you the rest of the way (roughly 200 miles) north through Alaska’s interior all the way to Denali National Park. Key mileposts: Wasilla at ~45 miles from Anchorage, Talkeetna Spur Road at ~100 miles (this 14-mile side road leads to Talkeetna), the small town of Cantwell at ~210 miles (just 27 miles shy of Denali), and Denali Park Entrance around mile 237.
Highlights: This drive showcases Alaska’s vast interior landscapes, think wide river valleys, rolling hill country, and if the weather cooperates, stunning views of Denali (formerly Mt. McKinley), the tallest peak in North America at 20,310 feet. About an hour north of Anchorage, you might detour into Palmer (via the Glenn Hwy) to see a bit of the Matanuska Valley farming region (famous for giant vegetables thanks to the midnight sun!). As you turn onto the Parks Hwy, you’ll pass through Wasilla, known as the home of Iditarod sled dog race headquarters, there’s a small museum and gift shop if you’re curious about sledding history. A must-do side trip is the town of Talkeetna: at about the 98-mile point, turn left on Talkeetna Spur Road and drive 14 miles to this historic frontier town. Talkeetna is quirky and fun, with an old Main Street, local craft shops, and great eateries (try a slice of pie or a hearty breakfast at the Talkeetna Roadhouse). On clear days, Talkeetna offers jaw-dropping views of Denali and the Alaska Range from the end of Main Street by the river. It’s also the launch point for flightseeing tours, you can take a small plane ride around Denali and even land on a glacier (an unforgettable experience if your schedule and budget allow). Back on the Parks Hwy, continue north through birch and spruce forests and over broad rivers like the Susitna. You’ll drive through several small towns (Houston, Willow, Cantwell), keep an eye out around mile 135 at Denali State Park’s South Viewpoint and mile 163 at the North Viewpoint for designated stops that, weather permitting, offer panoramic vistas of Denali towering above the landscape. These are some of the best roadside photo ops of “The Great One.” As you approach Denali National Park, you might spot the Alaska Railroad tracks paralleling the highway, sometimes you’ll see the blue-yellow passenger train running between Anchorage and Fairbanks. At the park entrance area (around mile 237), you’ll find lodging, gas, and the Denali Visitor Center. Private vehicles can only drive the first 15 miles into Denali National Park on the park road, beyond that, you must take an official park shuttle or tour bus to go deeper (definitely worth doing if you have a day: you’ll have chances to see grizzly bears, caribou, wolves, and epic mountain vistas deep in the park). Even at the 15-mile mark, you can get a spectacular view of Denali from Savage River on a clear day. Also consider checking out Denali Village (the small commercial area by the highway) for restaurants, or book a fun side excursion like a rafting trip on the Nenana River.
Tips: The weather is key for this trip, Denali is so massive it creates its own weather, and often hides in clouds. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see the mountain; the drive is beautiful regardless. Talkeetna is worth the slight backtrack, but plan it into your day (maybe lunch or overnight there) to avoid rushing. Gas up in Wasilla or Talkeetna, as the stretch between Talkeetna and Denali has long portions with no services (though there are a couple of gas stations in the tiny town of Trapper Creek and at Cantwell near Denali’s turnoff). On the Parks Highway, the speed limit is mostly 55 mph, with some 65 mph sections, but watch for slower RVs and wildlife, especially moose, along the roadway. Keep your camera handy for Denali viewpoints; if it’s a clear day, you’ll want to capture the mountain from different angles as you get closer. One-way rentals: If you don’t want to drive back to Anchorage, some travelers rent a car one-way to Fairbanks (another 120 miles past Denali) or vice versa. AirportVanRental offers one-way options within Alaska, just be aware of any drop fees. Finally, cell service becomes spotty north of Talkeetna, so don’t rely on streaming music or navigation beyond that, download playlists or maps beforehand. Visiting Denali by car is incredibly rewarding, giving you flexibility to stop, take photos, and soak in Interior Alaska’s grandeur on your own schedule.
3. Alaska’s Playground, Anchorage to Homer (Kenai Peninsula Road Trip)
Distance: ~220 miles to Homer (approximately 4.5 hours if driven straight, but plan 2–3 days to truly enjoy this route).
Route: Start by driving the same Seward Highway (AK-1) south from Anchorage along Turnagain Arm. Follow AK-1 past Girdwood and through the mountains. At Tern Lake junction (about 90 miles from Anchorage), bear right to stay on AK-1 (do not turn left toward Seward this time). AK-1 becomes the Sterling Highway as it winds west across the Kenai Peninsula through Cooper Landing, Soldotna, and continues south along Cook Inlet all the way to Homer at the peninsula’s southwestern tip.
Highlights: This road trip offers a mix of coastal scenery, rivers, and authentic Alaskan communities. The first segment repeats the gorgeous Turnagain Arm drive described in the Seward trip, it’s just as stunning the second time. After passing the turnoff to Seward, you’ll be heading into the central Kenai Peninsula, often called “Alaska’s Playground” for its wealth of outdoor activities. Near Cooper Landing, the highway starts paralleling the Kenai River, famed for its striking turquoise-blue water (colored by glacial silt) and legendary salmon fishing. In July and August, don’t be surprised to see dozens of anglers wading in the river, this is prime salmon run season, and places like the Kenai River at Cooper Landing or the Russian River (a short side road at mile 52) are hot spots for fishermen. Continuing west, you enter the broad flats of the Kenai/Soldotna area. Soldotna (mile 140 or so) is a major hub on the peninsula, consider stopping at the Kenai River Bridge, where there’s a walkway behind the visitor center that overlooks the river (you might spot huge salmon or trout in the water below!). A 10-mile detour off the main highway takes you to the town of Kenai with its historic Russian Orthodox Church and a bluff viewpoint where the Kenai River meets Cook Inlet, on clear days you might see volcanic peaks across the inlet. Back on the Sterling Highway heading south, you’ll drive through small communities like Kasilof and Ninilchik. Ninilchik is worth a quick stop: it’s an old Russian settlement with a photogenic little church on a hill and a beach where locals launch fishing boats. As you drive further south, the road begins to follow the coast of Cook Inlet, you’ll catch glimpses of ocean on your right and maybe even the white-capped volcanoes (Mt. Iliamna, Mt. Redoubt) on the far side of the water. The final approach to Homer is unforgettable: as you crest the last hill at Baycrest Hill, an expansive view of Kachemak Bay and the snowy peaks of the Kenai Mountains explodes into view. There’s a scenic viewpoint here to take it all in. Homer itself is a charming end-of-the-road town known for arts, fishing, and hospitality. Drive down the famous Homer Spit, a 4.5-mile long gravel bar that juts into the bay, it’s lined with quirky shops, cafes, seafood shacks, and charter boat offices. You can arrange a halibut fishing trip (Homer is the “Halibut Fishing Capital of the World”) or hop a ferry or water taxi to remote communities and parks across the bay (like Seldovia or Halibut Cove) if you have extra time. Even just walking the docks at the small boat harbor is fun, see the day’s catch being unloaded, watch for sea otters playing in the marina, and drop into the Salty Dawg Saloon, Homer’s iconic lighthouse-shaped tavern, for a root beer or beverage. The town of Homer has a vibrant art scene as well, with galleries and neat cafes in the historic Old Town.
Tips: Wildlife is plentiful on the Kenai Peninsula, be vigilant for moose crossing the highway, especially in wooded areas around Cooper Landing and again near Anchor Point north of Homer. In summer, expect slower traffic on weekends due to RVs and boat trailers heading to fishing spots; patience is key, but there are passing lanes on some hills. Fuel up in Soldotna or Kenai, as gas stations between Soldotna and Homer are few (there are some in Anchor Point, 15 miles before Homer, and of course in Homer itself). Weather can vary dramatically: inland areas (Soldotna) might be warm and sunny, while Homer on the coast could be cool and misty, bring layers and a rain jacket so you’re comfortable everywhere. The Sterling Highway is fully paved; just watch for occasional frost heaves (bumps caused by winter freeze-thaw) and summer construction zones. If you’re into fishing, plan an extra day, the Kenai and Kasilof Rivers are world-famous for salmon, and Homer offers halibut charters and even roadside fishing for silver salmon at certain times. Many travelers break up the drive by overnighting in Cooper Landing (for river fishing) or in Homer to soak up the local vibe. As the literal end of the road on Alaska’s highway system, Homer gives you a sense of accomplishment, you’ve driven to where the road runs out, and every mile was worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
We strongly recommend booking in advance, especially for Anchorage in the summer. During June, July, and August, Alaska experiences a huge influx of visitors. Rental cars have been known to sell out completely on certain summer days. If you walk up without a reservation in peak season, you might find no cars available or only over-sized vehicles at premium rates. Booking ahead (as early as 2-3 months before your trip, if possible) not only guarantees you a car, but also usually gets you a better price. Rental rates tend to rise as the pick-up date draws near and inventory drops. By reserving early, you lock in a lower rate, and since most reservations through AirportVanRental come with free cancellation, there’s little downside. In shoulder seasons or winter, you could potentially rent on arrival and even get a decent rate (Anchorage’s winter demand is lower, and agencies have plenty of cars then). However, even in winter, we suggest booking at least a few days in advance to save time at the airport and ensure the vehicle type you want is ready. Another factor: if you need special equipment (like a car seat, or you absolutely require a large SUV or van), definitely book ahead so the company can hold that for you. In short, Alaska is not the place to wing it last-minute for a rental car, particularly in summer. Use our easy online system to reserve your Anchorage Airport car as soon as your travel dates are set. Then you can step off the plane knowing your car will be waiting, no stress, no scrambling. It’s the best way to start your Alaska journey smoothly.
Prices for rental cars at ANC vary greatly by season and vehicle type. In summer (June–August, peak tourist season), demand is at its highest, an economy car might start around $80–$100 per day, with larger SUVs or vans often $130–$200 per day due to limited supply and lots of visitors. It’s not uncommon for rental prices in mid-July to be double or triple what they are in winter. In winter and off-season (Oct–April), prices drop significantly. You might find small cars for $30–$40 a day or an SUV for $50–$60/day in the winter months. Shoulder seasons (May and September) are variable, they can be closer to summer rates but occasionally you’ll snag a deal if inventory is healthy. Beyond seasonality, the type of vehicle affects cost: a standard sedan or compact will be cheaper, while a 4x4 truck, luxury SUV, or 12-passenger van will cost more. Also, one-way rentals (if you plan to drop the car in another city) will usually incur an additional fee. To save money, consider booking a weekly rate if you need the car for 5+ days, weekly rates often lower the average daily price. Booking in advance is crucial for summer: reserve as early as possible (several months ahead if you can for June/July) to lock in a reasonable rate, because last-minute rentals in summer can be very expensive or even sold out. AirportVanRental’s search will automatically apply any available discounts or promo rates, and you might catch special deals during winter holidays or spring. Additionally, check if your auto insurance or credit card offers any rental discounts and avoid optional add-ons you don’t need (like GPS or child seats) if you can bring your own, to keep the cost down. In summary, a rental at ANC might cost as little as ~$35 a day in the winter or as much as $150+ a day in peak summer, it all depends on when you come and what you drive. We update our “from $X/day” pricing on this page frequently to reflect current deals, so you know what to expect.
Yes to snow tires, no to chains (in most cases). Major rental companies in Alaska equip their fleets with winter tires during the snowy season. In Anchorage, this typically means from late fall through early spring, your rental car will likely have either studded tires or high-grip winter/all-season tires suitable for ice and snow. Studded tires (tires with small metal studs for traction) are common on rental cars here from around October 1 to April 30 (these dates can vary if laws or conditions change, but that’s the usual timeframe allowed by Alaska law for studded tire use). This is a big advantage, it means even a 2WD sedan will handle better on winter roads than it would in, say, Seattle or New York with standard tires. On the other hand, tire chains are generally not provided with rentals, and rental agreements typically forbid using chains because they can damage the vehicle if not installed properly (and they’re seldom needed on maintained roads). The philosophy is: if road conditions are so bad that chains would be required, those roads will probably be closed or you shouldn’t be driving on them. In extreme cases (for example, if you planned to drive somewhere like a remote mountain pass in deep winter, which most visitors don’t), you’d need to make special arrangements, but for normal travel around Anchorage and the popular routes, winter tires do the job. One tip: if temperatures will be below -10°F for extended periods (more common up in Fairbanks than in Anchorage), ask the rental agency if the car has an engine block heater cord you can borrow, some cars have heaters installed but no cord provided unless requested. This can help with cold starts if you’re parked outside overnight in severe cold. For the vast majority of travelers, you can be confident that your Anchorage rental in winter will be winterized appropriately. Always drive cautiously on snow/ice even with good tires, those studs help, but they’re not magic! Leave extra space, brake gently, and you’ll be fine. If a big storm hits, consider delaying your road trip for a few hours until plows clear the way (Alaska DOT is pretty efficient on major highways).
Not necessarily. In the summer months (May–Sept), nearly all of Alaska’s attractions accessible by road can be reached with a regular 2-wheel-drive car. The main highways and roads, including those to Seward, Denali, Fairbanks, Homer, etc., are paved and well-maintained. If you stick to the standard tourist routes, an economy car or mid-size sedan will do just fine. However, there are a few considerations: if you plan to explore gravel roads or remote trails, or if you’ll be here in winter, a vehicle with 4-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is a good idea. In winter, Anchorage does plow streets, but ice and snow can make traction tricky, an AWD car or 4x4 SUV will give you extra confidence (especially combined with winter tires, which rentals usually have). If you’re visiting places like ski areas, trailheads, or doing activities off the beaten path (think driving up a rough gravel road to a remote cabin or a fishing spot), a higher-clearance AWD vehicle is beneficial year-round. Many visitors find that an SUV provides a nice balance: you sit up higher (better for wildlife spotting and views), and you have the capability if conditions turn poor. That said, plenty of travelers rent normal cars and have zero issues, it really comes down to season and personal comfort. Note that some smaller rental car classes (compact, economy) in Anchorage might be front-wheel drive, which handle reasonably well in snow with proper tires, but they’re not meant for off-roading. Our recommendation: If traveling in winter or early spring, lean towards renting an AWD/4x4 (many mid-size or full-size SUVs will have it, and even some minivans). In summer, if you know you’ll stick to highways and paved roads, you can save money with a regular car. If you’re unsure, an intermediate SUV (RAV4, Rogue, etc.) is a popular choice that covers all bases. Rest assured, all rental vehicles, 2WD or 4WD, are capable of the basic drives around Anchorage, just drive carefully according to conditions.
Yes. Most of the major rental agencies at ANC operate 24/7 or have very extended hours to accommodate Anchorage’s unique flight schedules. Many flights arrive late at night or in the early morning (especially during summer), and rental counters adjust accordingly. For example, brands like Alamo, Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis typically have staff available no matter what time your flight gets in. If you have a reservation and your flight is delayed past midnight, don’t panic, as long as the rental company has your flight info, they will usually hold your car and be open when you arrive. (It’s always a good idea to provide your flight number when booking, so the rental staff know you’re coming in late.) In short, car rental at ANC is essentially a 24-hour operation, ensuring you can pick up or drop off whenever you need to.
Anchorage’s rental car facility is conveniently located on airport grounds. After you land and collect your luggage, follow the signs for “Rental Cars”. All rental car counters and vehicles are housed in the Rental Car Center across from the South (Domestic) Terminal. It’s just a short walk via a skybridge or a quick free shuttle ride (shuttles run continuously between terminals and the rental center). When you arrive at the Rental Car Center, you’ll check in at your chosen company’s counter, then walk to the garage area to pick up your car. It’s a fairly quick process, much faster than going off-site, since ANC’s rental center is right at the airport.