Question 1

Which car rental companies are on-site at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, and where do I pick up my car?

Accepted Answer

Bozeman Airport hosts eight major rental agencies on-site: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty all have counters right in the baggage claim area of the terminal. There’s also a specialty luxury rental (Go Rentals) serving private aviation, but the main brands listed cover most travelers. Picking up is simple: after you land and grab your luggage, you’ll see the rental car counters along the wall in the arrivals hall (the airport is small, you can’t miss them). Check in with your specific company they’ll direct you to the rental car lot just outside. All rental cars at BZN are parked in a designated lot immediately adjacent to the terminal about a 1-3 minute walk from the counters. No shuttles needed at all. You exit the terminal, cross a small roadway, and you’re in the rental lot. The lot is divided by company look for the signage (e.g., “Hertz” or “Budget”) or the row number given on your rental agreement. Most times, an attendant may escort you or you’ll locate the car via its number and key fob. It’s very traveler-friendly, even in winter (the walk is short, though bundle up in deep winter as it can be cold on the tarmac). In summary: all major rentals are on-site at BZN for ultimate convenience counters in baggage claim, cars immediately outside. Just check in, walk out, and drive off!

Question 2

What are the rental car hours at BZN? My flight arrives late at night will I still be able to get my car?

Accepted Answer

The rental car agencies at Bozeman Airport adjust their hours to align with flight schedules. Generally, most counters are open as early as 5:30-6:00 AM and stay open until the last incoming flight of the night (which in peak season can be near midnight). If you have a reservation and your flight is delayed until after the counter’s normal closing time, don’t panic they routinely wait for delayed flights if they have the flight info. It’s important when booking to provide your airline and flight number; the agents use that to track arrival times. For example, if your flight was due in at 11 PM but lands at 12:30 AM, the rental staff usually remain on-site (or on-call) to accommodate those customers. That said, if you face a severe overnight delay (say into the wee hours), the counter might close and reopen for you first thing in the morning. In those rare cases, or if your flight is cancelled and you come next day, the rental will typically honor your reservation when they open (usually around 7 AM). If you know you’ll arrive after midnight, it’s wise to call the rental office earlier that day to confirm any special pick-up arrangement but again, at BZN this is common practice and they are quite used to late-night arrivals (especially in winter with weather delays).

For early morning departures, most agencies have drop boxes for keys, so you can return the car even if the counter isn’t staffed yet (more on that below). But picking up is different you need an agent to release the vehicle to you. The bottom line: yes, you should be able to get your car even on a late flight, as long as you have a reservation. The airport is very customer-friendly. If anything unexpected occurs (like your flight diverts to another city and comes next day), the rental will usually hold your car through the next day as a courtesy (though it’s good to inform them or us if possible). Bozeman knows flights can be irregular, so rental operations are flexible. We at AirportVanRental also have a 24/7 support line so if you experience an extreme delay, you can call us and we’ll coordinate with the local office to ensure your car is ready when you finally get in. In summary: typical hours cover all scheduled flights, and with flight info on file, someone will be there to hand you the keys after that late-night touchdown.

Question 3

Is it better to rent at the airport or rent in Bozeman city? (I’ve heard of “airport fees.”)

Accepted Answer

For most travelers, renting at the airport is the best choice for convenience. While it’s true that airport rentals include an airport concession fee (about 10% at BZN) and sometimes a facility charge, the base rates at the airport are often highly competitive due to the number of companies and large inventory. Bozeman Airport’s fees are relatively modest compared to big city airports. By the time you factor in the cost and hassle of getting from the airport to a downtown location (a taxi to town might be $40), the savings of renting off-airport often vanish.
That said, if you’re on a tight budget or arriving during business hours, you could compare rates. Occasionally, a downtown Bozeman location (like Enterprise on Huffine or Budget on 7th) might have a slightly lower base rate or waive some fees. But you’ll need to get there (no free shuttles from BZN to downtown for car rental). If you have someone picking you up or you’re staying overnight and renting the next day, an in-town rental could save maybe 5-10%. We show both airport and city locations in our search results when you input Bozeman so you can easily compare total prices.
Keep in mind: airport rentals give you instant mobility. If you rent in town, you must rely on a ride or shuttle to get there and align with that office’s hours (which usually are 8 AM 6 PM, no late night hours). Also, if your trip involves returning to the airport anyway, it’s simpler to drop the car at BZN and walk to check-in. With a city rental, you might have to budget taxi time (and cost) to the airport after drop-off.
In short, while yes, renting at BZN includes a couple of fees (concession and rental car facility fee, already included in our airport quotes), it’s usually worth it for the time and convenience saved. Most travelers choose the airport pickup for that reason. If you’re extremely cost-conscious and your flight times align, you can explore downtown pick-up we support both. But Bozeman isn’t an airport with crazy high surcharges (unlike some big hubs). For example, renting a midsize at BZN might be $50/day total, versus $45/day total in town a small difference for most. Plus, the fleet at the airport is larger, so you’re more likely to get the exact car class you want.
TL;DR: It’s generally better to rent at the airport for convenience. The fees are relatively minor (~10%) and often offset by competitive rates and zero transfer hassle. Only consider an off-airport rental if you have a specific reason (like staying car-free in Bozeman for a few days first, then renting later). We find 90% of visitors go with BZN pickup and are glad they did.

Question 4

How far is Bozeman Airport from downtown, and what’s the best way to get to town if I don’t rent a car?

Accepted Answer

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is located in the town of Belgrade, about 8 miles northwest of Bozeman’s city center. Driving, it takes roughly 12–15 minutes to reach Bozeman’s downtown via I-90 and the N. 7th Avenue exit. It’s a straight shot on the interstate, or you can take the scenic Frontage Road which parallels I-90 (that takes a few minutes longer but drops you into Bozeman’s Main Street directly).
If you’re not renting a car (though we highly recommend doing so for flexibility), your options to get to Bozeman or Belgrade are:
•	Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis (like Greater Valley Taxi) are usually waiting for major flight arrivals. A taxi to Bozeman downtown costs around $35–$45. Uber and Lyft also operate at BZN (the ride-share pick-up area is outside the arrivals door). An Uber to Bozeman might run $30–$40 depending on demand. Both are convenient for point-to-point, but if you’re in a large group, you might need multiple vehicles. Also, late at night Ubers can be sparse (taxis are more consistently available at 1 AM, for example, whereas Uber drivers might be fewer).
•	Shuttle Van: During the winter ski season, there are shuttle companies (like Karst Stage or Skyline Bus) that run scheduled vans from BZN to Big Sky Resort and sometimes into Bozeman hotels. The Skyline “Link” shuttle operates a few times daily between the airport and Big Sky ($5 fare), but note it’s limited schedule and requires advance check. There isn’t a regular shuttle to downtown Bozeman except private hotel shuttles (a few hotels like Bozeman’s Best Western or larger chains may offer airport pick-up for guests check with your lodging).
•	Public Bus: Currently, there is no direct public bus from BZN into Bozeman. The local Streamline Bus doesn’t service the airport (the closest stop is in Belgrade town, which would still require a short taxi from the airport). So, no, you can’t rely on a city bus or train (there’s no train) from the airport.
In summary, if you don’t rent a car, you’ll likely use a taxi or rideshare to get to Bozeman. The ride is quick (under 15 minutes outside of rush hour). But consider that if you plan to explore beyond Bozeman (like going to Yellowstone or even around town to hikes), you’ll then be spending a lot on rideshares or tours. That’s why many opt to rent a car at the airport 8 miles isn’t far, but Montana’s attractions are spread out, and public transit is minimal. Renting a car gives you freedom right away (for often the same cost as two taxi rides). If your plan, however, is to stay just in Bozeman city limits for a short visit, a taxi or Uber from BZN is perfectly fine and relatively painless.

Question 5

How do I get to Yellowstone or Big Sky from Bozeman Airport?

Accepted Answer

Getting to Yellowstone or Big Sky is straightforward from BZN one reason this airport is so popular. Here are the basics:
•	Yellowstone National Park North Entrance (Gardiner, MT): From the airport, take I-90 East toward Livingston (Billings). It’s about 105 miles on I-90 to Livingston (Exit 333). Take that exit and turn right (south) onto US-89 South. Then drive about 53 miles down the beautiful Paradise Valley along the Yellowstone River until you reach Gardiner, MT, which is the North Entrance of Yellowstone (you’ll see the Roosevelt Arch). This route is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes drive time from BZN (about 158 miles). Roads are all paved and usually in good condition year-round (they plow US-89 in winter promptly, but watch for wildlife). This is the fastest way to reach Yellowstone from Bozeman. The North Entrance is open year-round and leads you to Mammoth Hot Springs inside the park.
•	Yellowstone National Park West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT): From BZN, take MT-85 (Jackrabbit Lane) South this will turn into US-191 South at Four Corners (stay straight at the light). Continue on US-191 through Gallatin Canyon, passing Big Sky, and eventually you’ll arrive in West Yellowstone, MT (the town at the park’s West Entrance). Distance is about 90 miles, drive time roughly 1 hour 45 minutes as well. This is a stunning drive through the mountains along the Gallatin River (keep eyes peeled for elk and bighorn sheep especially in winter). Note: A small stretch of US-191 actually crosses briefly into the NW corner of Yellowstone Park but it’s a public highway open year-round, so don’t worry about that. West Yellowstone entrance brings you near Old Faithful and the geyser basins (another hour inside the park to Old Faithful from the gate). This route can have more snow issues in mid-winter (Gallatin Canyon gets snowy), so 4WD or cautious driving is advised Nov–March.
•	Big Sky Resort: Easiest of all 45 mirabbit Lane/MT-85 South from the airport to Four Corners (a junction with US-191 at a traffic light, about 8 miles). Continue straight onto US-191 South into Gallatin Canyon. After about 27 more miles, you’ll see the signed turnoff for Big Sky (MT-64, aka Lone Mountain Trail). Turn right and drive up the mountain about 9 miles to Big Sky Mountain Village (the ski resort base). Total time ~1 hour 0 minutes in good conditions. In winter, they do plow US-191 frequently, but it’s a mountain canyon so go steady if roads are slick. Cell service can be spotty in the deepest canyon sections. Keep an eye out for moose and deer near the road. If staying in Big Sky Meadow or Town Center, those are about 7 miles off US-191 (same turn but closer). The signage is clear. Essentially one highway all the way you can’t get lost.
•	Other directions: To Bozeman (city) head east on I-90, 10-15 min. To Belgrade (small town right there) exit the airport and in 2 miles you’re in Belgrade, no freeway needed. To MSU Campus take I-90 E to 7th Ave exit, then south ~4 miles. To Chico Hot Springs on the way to Gardiner (Paradise Valley), 1.5 hours from BZN (look for Emigrant, MT).
In summary, Yellowstone North vs West are roughly the same drive time from BZN, just different routes. North Entrance keeps you on freeway more; West Entrance is more scenic through canyon. Big Sky is very close one of the reasons Bozeman Airport is the air gateway for Big Sky ski vacations. With a rental car, all these routes are yours to explore easily. And don’t worry Montana highways are well-marked, and we provide a map at the rental counter if you need one. You can also use your phone’s GPS (Verizon and AT&T have decent coverage until deep in the mountains). Enjoy the drives they’re part of the adventure!

Question 6

Can I drop my rental car at a different location or city (one-way from BZN)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many rental companies at BZN allow one-way rentals, meaning you can pick up at Bozeman Airport and drop off somewhere else. Popular one-ways include: drop in Jackson Hole, WY (common for those doing a southbound Yellowstone/Teton trip), drop in Billings, MT (if you’re flying out of Billings), or even drop in Seattle or Denver if you’re doing a big road trip. However, be aware that one-way rentals usually incur a drop fee. The fee depends on the distance and demand between locations. For example, Bozeman to Jackson Hole might have a few-hundred-dollar fee, since it’s a different state and fleet. Bozeman to Billings sometimes has a smaller fee (or occasionally none) because it’s within Montana and not too far (and those airports often exchange cars).
How to arrange it: When booking on our site, select your return location in the form. We will display the available one-way options and include the drop fee in the quote so you see the full price. Not all vehicle categories are allowed for all one-ways (e.g., sometimes large SUVs or specialty cars can’t be dropped in certain locations due to fleet logistics). It’s best to book one-ways well in advance they are subject to availability.
A few things to note: You typically cannot drop a car in Yellowstone Park itself (since that’s not a staffed rental office), but you can drop in gateway towns like Jackson, Cody, West Yellowstone (some companies have offices in West Yellowstone seasonally), etc. Dropping in another state is fine unlimited mileage still usually applies, so drive as much as you want. If you decide mid-trip to do a one-way when you hadn’t planned, call us or the rental company ASAP they need to adjust the contract (and you’ll be charged the fee). Never just abandon the car at a non-designated location that leads to huge penalties. But official one-ways are perfectly okay.
One-way rentals are super popular for people flying into Bozeman and out of, say, Salt Lake City or Spokane after a big road trip. Just factor in the fee and make sure it’s worth it for you. (Sometimes the fee is well worth the convenience of not backtracking hundreds of miles). Example: a family did BZN to Rapid City, SD one-way saved them a return 10-hour drive and the fee was about $300 they felt it was totally worth it given gas and time saved.
Bottom line: Yes, you can drop off elsewhere. We recommend reserving one-ways as early as possible, because each location only allows so many one-way vehicles at a time. We’ll make sure all costs are clear. Montana’s open roads often inspire a change of plans just keep us in the loop and we’ll facilitate that one-way freedom!

Question 7

Do I need a 4WD/AWD vehicle from Bozeman Airport? (What about winter driving?)

Accepted Answer

The need for four-wheel drive really depends on season and your plans. If you’re visiting in winter (late Nov through early March) or plan to drive into mountain areas (Big Sky, Bridger Bowl, Yellowstone in winter), an AWD or 4x4 is highly recommended. Montana winters bring snow and ice highways are plowed, but conditions can still be slick or snow-packed, especially on secondary roads or during a storm. AWD/4WD gives you better traction when accelerating in snow and can be reassuring on hilly or unpaved roads. Many locals drive Subarus or trucks for this reason. If you rent a front-wheel-drive car, you’ll still likely get around they do put all-season (M+S) tires on rentals but you must drive cautiously.
Bozeman Airport sees a LOT of AWD SUVs and Subaru-type vehicles in its fleet specifically because travelers demand them for winter. If coming to ski or expecting to drive canyon roads (like to Big Sky or through Yellowstone’s mountain passes in spring), we say go for AWD. The cost difference is usually minor for the added safety margin.
In summer and fair weather, a 2WD car is fine in 99% of situations. All major attractions (Yellowstone, cities, etc.) are accessible via paved roads. If you plan any off-highway travel (like a dude ranch up a gravel road, or a trailhead down a dirt path), conditions are usually dry and a regular car can handle maintained gravel roads easily. Just take it slow to avoid dust and rock kicks.
Note: Off-roading (blazing your own trail or extremely rough 4x4 roads) is typically not allowed by rental agreements. But there are plenty of unpaved forest roads you might legally drive AWD helps on those if they’re muddy or steep. Also, winter tires: rentals here usually have all-season tires, not dedicated snow tires (some might in winter, but not guaranteed). AWD + all-seasons is generally sufficient for visitors. If you hit a severe storm, best practice is to delay travel until roads are cleared (Montana DOT is efficient; main highways rarely close except brief blizzard conditions).
So, ask yourself: Am I coming between November and March? Am I going to mountain locales (Big Sky, ski areas, rural cabin) or could there be snow where I go? If yes, choose an AWD/4x4 category. If I’m here July or August just doing national parks and city to city a 2WD is perfectly fine and you might save a little on gas.
One more factor: comfort & familiarity if you’re used to AWD at home, you might feel more secure renting one. Most of our SUVs are intuitive to drive (many are automatic AWD systems, you don’t have to do anything). If renting in winter and you get 4x4 with a selector, the rental agent can show you how to engage it (but typically you can leave it in auto or 4-High for on-road use).
In summary, AWD/4WD is not required, but it’s strongly recommended in winter or off-pavement scenarios. And of course, regardless of drivetrain, adjust your driving to conditions slower speeds, longer following distances on snow, etc. Montana’s roads are well-maintained, but Mother Nature is unpredictable. When in doubt, err on the side of traction!

Question 8

What is the minimum age to rent a car at Bozeman Airport?

Accepted Answer

The minimum age to rent at BZN (and anywhere in Montana) is generally 21 years old. Renters age 21-24 are considered “young drivers” and can rent with us, but will pay a Youthful Surcharge (usually around $25–$30 per day extra)【14†L719-L727】. Additionally, if you’re under 25, some higher-end vehicle classes might be off-limits (typically you won’t be able to rent premium SUVs, luxury cars, or 12-passenger vans most companies restrict those to 25+). But standard cars, sedans, SUVs, etc., are available to 21-24 year-olds with the surcharge.
If you happen to be 18-20 years old and traveling for leisure, unfortunately you cannot rent at BZN the only exceptions are if you’re an active duty military or on official government orders (in which case some companies will rent at 18 with documentation, but that’s a special case).
For drivers 25 and older, no surcharges apply and all vehicle types are open (assuming you have a valid license and credit card, of course). On the flip side, thaximum age** seniors are welcome as long as you’re fit to drive.
One important note: All renters and additional drivers must have a valid driver’s license (doesn’t expire during the rental period). If you’re from outside the US, see the next question about IDPs. And you’ll need a major credit card (debit sometimes accepted but often with additional requirements) in the driver’s name for the security hold.
So if you’re a 22-year-old coming to ski at Big Sky, yes you can rent just budget for that under-25 fee. We automatically include the surcharge in your online quote when you input your age, so you’ll see the true total. Also, some rental brands waive young driver fees for certain memberships or military personnel ask us if any promotions apply.
A quick tip: If you’re between 21-24 and traveling with someone 25+, it can be cheaper to list the 25+ person as the primary renter (no surcharge) and you as an additional driver (many companies still charge a fee for additional driver, but sometimes spouses are free, etc.). But do note the under-25 fee often still applies to any additional driver under 25, depending on company. It’s best to compare what makes sense we can assist in figuring the most cost-effective arrangement.
In summary: 21+ to rent (with fee under 25). We love our young renters just drive responsibly and enjoy Montana (no crazy driving; those under-25 fees sting, we know, but in a couple years they’ll be behind you!).

Question 9

How do I return my rental car at Bozeman Airport, and what if I have an early flight before the rental counters open?

Accepted Answer

Returning your car at BZN is simple. As you approach the airport (whether from I-90 or via Belgrade), follow the signs for “Rental Car Return” it’s usually a right-hand lane as you enter the airport loop road. The return area is in the same vicinity as where you picked up, just on the other side of the lot. You’ll see markers or perhaps a booth.
During normal hours, you’ll: park in the designated return lane for your rental company (they’re typically labeled e.g., “Budget Return”). An attendant may come out to meet you, or you might note the mileage/fuel and walk to the counter. Typically, the agent will quickly inspect the car (checking fuel level and any damage), then finalize your bill and you’re done. The process only takes a few minutes. It’s a small airport, so the walk from the car return to the terminal check-in is only a couple minutes. That’s great you can literally drop the car and be at airline security in no time.
After hours (early morning or late night returns): All BZN rental companies have an after-hours drop procedure. If you arrive and no attendant is present (say it’s 4:30 AM or the counter is closed for the night), do this: park the car in your rental company’s return area (usually there will be signage or use the same area where you picked up if not indicated). Remove all your belongings. Do not lock the keys inside instead, locate the drop box. Each company has a secure drop slot often on the rental counter inside (the terminal is open 24/7) or a drop safe by the return area. The exact instructions are usually given on your rental contract or at pick-up. But generally, you’ll put the keys (and the contract if instructed) into an envelope (if provided) and drop them in the slot. The rental staff will collect the keys when they open in the morning and then check in your car. They’ll time-stamp the return for when you dropped it (so if you dropped at 5 AM, you won’t be charged past that point even if they only process it at 7:30 AM). It’s a good idea to take photos of the car and dash (showing fuel level, odometer) when you drop off, just for your records. But issues are rare. They’ll email you a receipt typically.
One tip: Fuel up before dropping off. The nearest gas station is a Cenex/Exxon at Airport Rd and Frontage Rd (less than 5 min away). There’s also a Conoco in Belgrade just off I-90. It’s wise to fill the tank within 5-10 miles of the airport. If you return with less than full (and didn’t prepay fuel), you’ll get charged a higher refuel rate, so avoid that.
Also, give yourself a few extra minutes if you’re returning during busy times (midday in summer) occasionally there’s a short line of cars to be processed. But even then, it moves quickly. Bozeman Airport is not huge, so you won’t face the massive car return queues you might see in, say, Denver or LAX.
If you have any confusion on where exactly to leave the car, the airport is small enough that you can easily ask any staff or even airport parking personnel. But again, signage is clear.
So, in summary: returning is hassle-free. Follow the Rental Car Return signs, park in the appropriate area, and drop keys either to an attendant or in the drop box if it’s off hours. Then you’re free to catch your flight. Many of our customers comment on how quick and painless the return was which is what we want for you as the final step of your trip!

Question 10

Can I rent a car from Bozeman Airport in winter and drive to Yellowstone? (Are there road closures I should know about?)

Accepted Answer

This is a great question Montana winters do bring some road closures, especially inside Yellowstone National Park. Here’s what to know:
Bozeman to North Yellowstone (Mammoth via Gardiner) This route is open year-round. Highway 89 from Livingston to Gardiner is maintained through winter. The North Entrance at Gardiner and the road to Mammoth Hot Springs stays open all year (it’s the only park road open to regular vehicles in winter, going from Gardiner to Mammoth to Cooke City). So yes, you can drive a rental to Mammoth Hot Springs in January just be prepared for winter driving conditions and required park entrance pass, etc. The road beyond Mammoth toward Tower and Lamar is also open (plowed) up to Cooke City, making winter wildlife viewing possible in Lamar Valley by car. Do note: Mammoth is at 6,000 ft altitude and can have lots of snow/ice an AWD vehicle is strongly recommended if you’re doing this winter trip, and sometimes Gardiner-Mammoth road can temporarily close for avalanche control or heavy snow, but it reopens quickly.
Bozeman to West Yellowstone (West Entrance) US-191 to West Yellowstone is open year-round too (it’s a state highway through the corner of the park plowed all winter). You can drive to the town of West Yellowstone easily. However, the West Entrance into the park is CLOSED to cars from about early November to late April. In winter, West Yellowstone is a snowcoach/snowmobile entry only. So you cannot drive your rental beyond West Yellowstone into Old Faithful area in winter those interior park roads are closed to wheeled vehicles. If your plan was to see Old Faithful in January, you’d have to book a snowcoach tour or guided snowmobile from West Yellowstone or Mammoth (those are amazing but not via your own car). So keep that in mind: you can reach the gateway towns year-round, but most interior park roads (Old Faithful, Canyon, etc.) shut in winter. They typically reopen in late April or early May (and close again by early Nov).
Big Sky and other roads All the highways outside the park (191, 89, I-90) remain open and plowed. Some scenic roads like Beartooth Highway (to Red Lodge) close in winter, but that’s beyond Yellowstone’s NE in summer only anyway. If you’re renting in winter with intention to tour Yellowstone, best bet is to drive to Mammoth (via Gardiner) and do Lamar Valley, or drive to West Yellowstone and do a guided snow tour from there.
Rental Car in Winter Tips: We touched on AWD earlier definitely get one if possible in winter. Montana law does not require snow chains (in fact, rental cars typically do NOT come with chains, and using chains on a rental is generally not allowed, plus you won’t need them on plowed roads chains are mostly for mountain passes when mandated, which rarely happens on highways here). Instead, use good judgment: if a road is marked closed, do not bypass gates. Check road condition reports (Montana DOT has a great website and app “MDT Travel Info” showing road conditions and camera feeds). Carry an emergency kit if venturing far (blanket, water, flashlight especially if going to remote Lamar Valley with spotty cell service).
One quirky thing: Bozeman Airport rentals often have ski racks available (you can request if needed for your gear), and most will have ice scrapers in the car (to clear windows). Give yourself a few extra minutes each morning to de-ice the car.
In summary: Yes, you can absolutely rent in winter and drive to many places, but Yellowstone’s interior roads have seasonal closures. North entrance is accessible year-round by car; other entrances are not (Old Faithful etc. require specialized snow travel). Plan accordingly. And enjoy winter it’s a magical time here if you’re prepared!

Car Rentals at Bozeman Yellowstone Airport (BZN) Land, Pick Up & Go

Why rent a car at Bozeman