Question 1

How do I get to the rental car facilities at PHL, and what are the hours?

Accepted Answer

All PHL car rental agencies operate free shuttle buses from the airport terminals to their nearby facilities. After you land and grab your luggage, follow the purple signs for “Rental Car Shuttle” to Zone 2 outside. There, wait for the shuttle of your rental company (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, etc.). They usually run 24 hours a day, matching the flight schedule so even if you arrive at midnight, shuttles will be available (sometimes on a 15-minute interval if late). The ride is just 5-7 minutes. Each rental company’s facility is typically open early morning until late night. At PHL, major companies have staff on duty as long as flights arrive (many are effectively 24/7 or at least have an overnight drop box for returns). If you have a reservation and your flight is delayed to 2 AM, most will honor it just provide your flight number when booking so they know you’re coming. In summary: shuttles are easy to catch and run consistently; rental counters align with flight times. When returning, you’ll shuttle back from the lot to the terminal (allow maybe 10-15 mins for that). It’s a well-oiled system thousands of travelers use it daily. If you have special timing concerns (say, picking up at 3 AM due to a super late arrival), it’s wise to call the local office number (on your confirmation) to confirm someone will be there or arrange after-hours pickup. But standard practice at PHL covers nearly all hours.

Question 2

Can I rent a car at PHL and drop it off at another airport (one-way rental)?

Accepted Answer

Yes, one-way rentals from Philadelphia Airport are commonly available. All the major companies allow you to pick up at PHL and drop at other locations, be it another airport or downtown in a different city. Popular one-ways include PHL to New York (NYC area airports or Manhattan), PHL to Washington D.C., PHL to Boston, or even longer road trips like PHL to Florida. When booking on our site, just select your desired drop-off city/airport. We’ll show you options and include any one-way fee in the price. One-way fees vary: for close cities (Philly to NYC or DC), sometimes there’s no drop fee or a modest one (~$50-100) depending on demand. For far distances (Philly to Miami or Chicago), the fee could be several hundred. We make it clear so you can decide. Note: not every vehicle class might be allowed on one-ways (for example, high-end luxury or special vans might be restricted to local use), but standard cars, SUVs, and vans usually are fine. Tip: if you’re doing a one-way north or south along the East Coast, consider that some toll transponders might charge differently out-of-state but that’s a minor detail. Also, one-ways between airport and downtown Philly are easy if you wanted to drop off in the city to avoid parking fees; that often incurs little or no extra cost. In short yes, feel free to plan a one-way adventure from PHL. Just be sure to inform the rental at pickup what your drop point is (they’ll know from the reservation, but reconfirm). And try to stick to that plan; changing drop locations mid-rental can incur renegotiated fees. As long as you book it properly, one-ways are a breeze.

Question 3

Are the rental car shuttles at PHL accessible for travelers with disabilities or lots of luggage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The rental car shuttle buses at Philadelphia Airport are designed to accommodate travelers with various needs. They are typically coach-style buses with wide doors and low entry steps or kneeling capability, and many have ramps or lifts for wheelchair access. If you use a wheelchair, you can absolutely get on the driver will assist with deploying the lift and securing the wheelchair inside (the buses have designated areas). These shuttles also have plenty of space for luggage; drivers will often help load large bags or strollers. If you have mobility concerns but not a wheelchair, you’ll find grab handles and sometimes the bus can “kneel” (lower) to reduce the first step height. Philadelphia’s airport is accustomed to high volumes of passengers, so they’ve made these shuttles user-friendly. Additionally, if you have an oversized item (like a bike box or skis), it can fit in the shuttle’s luggage rack or the open floor area. The only scenario to be mindful of is if you have an extreme amount of luggage (like 8-10 suitcases) and a full bus, you might wait for the next shuttle which could come in just a few minutes. But drivers are usually very accommodating they won’t leave someone behind if their bags can’t be loaded immediately; they’ll find a spot. If you need special assistance (e.g., you’re visually impaired or have other specific needs), airport staff at the Ground Transportation desk (inside by baggage claim) can often coordinate or radio the shuttle to ensure they assist you. Overall, the process is smooth for all travelers. Once at the rental center, the facilities themselves are generally accessible (ramps, etc.). And if you need hand-controls installed in your rental car due to a disability, most rental companies can provide that at PHL with advance notice (usually 48 hours notice needed, at no extra charge). Let us or the rental company know ahead, and they’ll have the car equipped for you. Travel should be inclusive, and PHL’s rental experience strives to be just that.

Question 4

I’m arriving late at night. Will the rental counter be open, and is it safe to pick up a car around midnight?

Accepted Answer

PHL’s major rental car counters are staffed to match flight arrivals. If you have a confirmed reservation and your flight arrives at, say, 11:30 PM or even 1:00 AM, there will typically be staff to serve you (some companies might consolidate to one counter for late hours e.g., a single agent handling multiple brands in the same family, like Alamo/National). If your flight is very delayed, it’s a good practice to call the rental location and inform them, or include your flight number so they can track it. But generally, yes you can pick up your car late at night. Safety-wise, the rental facilities are in well-lit commercial areas adjacent to the airport. There’s security and other customers around (especially after a big flight unloads). The shuttles run 24/7, and you won’t be alone at the facility usually there are other renters on the shuttle with you, and cleaning crews, security, etc. around. Philadelphia Airport’s vicinity is overall safe; it’s near hotels and the airfield. Standard precautions apply: keep your personal items secure, but there’s no specific crime issue at the rental lots. Driving out of the airport at midnight is typically very quiet light traffic. Stick to the highways (I-95, etc.) which are well-lit and you’ll be at your destination in no time. If you’re super tired after a long flight, consider staying at an airport hotel that night (there’s one connected to Terminal B via walkway, and many others a short shuttle away) and renting in the morning but if you’re up for it, driving at night has the benefit of almost no traffic. We advise setting up your GPS before you depart the lot so you’re not fiddling with it on the dark road. And remember, you can always call the rental’s roadside assistance if something happens, but that’s unlikely. In summary: late-night rentals at PHL are routine and the area is secure. Just be sure your reservation reflects your correct pickup time (if it’s past midnight, put the next day’s date technically to avoid confusion). And take a deep breath of that cool night air Philly’s skyline is actually beautiful at night if you catch a glimpse driving in!

Question 5

What if my flight is delayed or my plans change? Can I adjust my rental pickup time at PHL without penalty?

Accepted Answer

We know travel can be unpredictable. If your flight is delayed a few hours on the same day, don’t worry the rental companies at PHL will usually hold your reservation (commonly up to 6-12 hours). It helps immensely if you provided your flight number; they then track the flight and adjust your pickup time accordingly. If your flight is seriously delayed to the next day or canceled, you should contact us or the rental office as soon as you know. Generally, modifying the pickup time by a small amount (within the same day) doesn’t incur any penalty or rate change your rate is locked from when you booked. If you shift to the next day, the rate might adjust if you’ve now dropped a rental day or changed rental length, but often we can keep the same price or very close. Cancellation policies are generous most allow free cancellation up to 48 hours before. If it’s last-minute due to flight cancellation, the rental co. might waive any no-show fee especially if you reschedule. The key is communication: we’re here 24/7, so call or use our app to modify your booking. AirportVanRental doesn’t charge our own change fees. You might see a slight difference if you shorten/extend the rental, but we’ll always explain it. Example: You booked 3 days but now only need 2 because you got in late the daily rate for a 2-day might be a hair higher, but we’ll try to honor the per-day as close as possible, or find you a better deal. If you need to extend (say you arrive, then realize you actually need the car an extra day), you can usually call the rental’s national line or modify through us and just pay the extra day at the same rate you booked, assuming the car isn’t promised to someone else immediately (they usually have plenty). In summary, PHL rentals are flexible. They won’t give away your car the moment your original pickup time passes they know flights vary. Just keep them (or us) in the loop for significant changes. We want you to have a car when you need it, not pay for when you don’t. Our aim is to make sure a travel snag doesn’t become a rental snag. And in the worst case, if something goes awry, we’ll work to find you an alternative car even at a different company if needed but that’s rarely necessary. So rest assured, we’ve got your back through the twists and turns of travel schedules.

Question 6

Are there gas stations near Philadelphia Airport where I can refill before returning the car?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are several gas stations very close to PHL, perfect for topping up your tank. A popular one is the Sunoco on Bartram Avenue (6410 Bartram Ave) which is just off I-95’s Airport exit many renters swing by here because it’s less than 5 minutes from the rental car drop-offs. Another option is Gulf at 7801 Essington Ave, also right by the cluster of rental lots. Additionally, there’s a Wawa (with gas) at 9101 Tinicum Blvd, about 1.5 miles from the airport Wawa is a beloved local convenience store, and their gas prices are often competitive. If you’re coming from the south via I-95, there’s a 7-Eleven gas station on 291/Penrose Ave as you approach the airport. Generally, prices near the airport can be a tad higher (maybe 10-20 cents more) than further out. If you want cheaper: driving a bit into South Philly or over into Delaware County might save a few cents, but realistically the convenience of those near-airport stations is worth it. Pro tip: fill up a few miles away rather than right next to the rental lot if you want to avoid any surcharges but honestly, any receipt within, say, 10 miles/30 minutes of return and they’ll consider it full. Just make sure to get a full tank; the rental companies charge high per-gallon rates if you return less than full on a full-to-full policy (often $9-10/gallon!). It can be a bit confusing navigating to a gas station in the maze around PHL, so plan which one you’ll hit. For instance, if coming down I-95 North, hop off at Exit 10 (Bartram Ave) and hit Sunoco or Gulf. If coming via I-476 or I-95 South into the airport, the Wawa on Tinicum is on your right as you approach. Many rental return routes actually pass right by a station you’ll likely see signs or at least the station itself. And yes, Pennsylvania is self-serve for fuel you might see attendants at the Sunoco only because it’s a busy highway station, but typically you’ll pump. Summing up: plenty of choices to refuel near PHL. Save your receipt if you’re paranoid but rentals rarely ask for it nowadays; they just check the gauge. Top off properly until the pump clicks to avoid the gauge reading slightly below full (modern cars can be sensitive one burp of missing fuel and the gauge might drop a notch after driving). Doing this simple step avoids hefty refuel fees and is a smooth end to your rental experience.

Question 7

I heard about special policies like e-tolls or clean air zones anything I should know for Philly?

Accepted Answer

Philadelphia doesn’t have any congestion charge or low emission zone fees like some European cities do, so you’re clear on that front. The main “special” thing is the toll system (which we covered using E-ZPass or toll-by-plate on turnpikes/bridges). Philadelphia itself has some quirks: for instance, certain parts of the city have automated red-light cameras (like on Roosevelt Blvd, though you likely won’t drive there unless heading to NE Philly). If you inadvertently get a camera ticket, it will be mailed to the rental company, who will charge it to you plus a processing fee, so drive cautiously and stop on red! Also, Philly has a lot of one-way streets the rental’s GPS or your phone map is invaluable for navigation, because making illegal turns down one-ways is something to avoid (for safety and tickets). Parking wise, note street cleaning schedules and don’t park in snow emergency routes during declared emergencies the city tows aggressively then. Another note: Pennsylvania law requires headlights on when windshield wipers are in use (so if it’s raining, turn those lights on, even in daytime). It’s a ticketable offense if you don’t. And phones: PA has a no-texting while driving law; handheld calling is legal for adults as of 2025 (they’re working on a full ban), but best practice is to use Bluetooth and keep the phone down distracted driving tickets and, worse, accidents, ruin a trip. No unique “clean air” stickers needed or emissions charges your rental will have up-to-date inspection, etc. Fuel is standard (87 octane unleaded). If you rented an electric vehicle (EV) not super common yet at PHL but possible there are charging stations throughout Philly and rest stops, just plan accordingly (PlugShare or similar apps show them; also some rental fleets have deals with charging networks). Driving into neighboring states: your PA rental can go anywhere in the US and Canada typically no paperwork needed at state lines. Just be mindful of toll systems (e.g., some NY bridges only do toll by mail, which the rental will bill). We covered that pretty well. So, nothing too exotic to worry about policy-wise just normal good-driving rules and maybe a refresher that school buses with flashing red lights you must stop (PA is strict on that). But that’s standard US practice. We want you to feel at ease behind the wheel. When in doubt about any local rule, feel free to ask us or check your car’s visor some rentals have quick ref guides. Enjoy Philadelphia and drive safely!

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