Car rental lines?

Question

Hello,

I was reading horror stories from last year about long wait times at the car rental counters at the airport. Is this still the case? (Arriving Tuesday am). Is any company better for quick service?

Are there agencies downtown that we could taxi to? Thanks for any help.

Answer

Car rental at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) has historically experienced long lines, especially during peak travel seasons, but weekdays like Tuesday mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends or holiday periods. However, wait times can still vary depending on staffing, flight arrivals, and rental company efficiency.

Here’s what to consider for quicker service:

Use Express or Online Check-In: Many major car rental companies (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, Budget, National, Alamo) offer online check-in and mobile apps where you can upload your license and payment info before arrival. This can significantly reduce your wait time at the counter.
Preferred Companies for Faster Service: National, Alamo, and Enterprise are generally known for more efficient processes. National’s “Emerald Aisle” allows members to skip the counter entirely and pick a car directly from the lot. If you’re eligible, signing up beforehand is recommended.
Off-Airport Rentals: Downtown Savannah has several rental locations (Enterprise, Avis, Budget) where you can take a taxi or ride-share. These locations typically have shorter wait times since they serve fewer customers than the airport. However, you’ll need to factor in taxi fare and the 10–15 minute drive to the downtown offices.

Additional tips:

Arrive early in the morning; first flights often lead to slightly shorter lines.
Check whether your airline or rental company offers curbside shuttle service to the rental lot—some airport rental facilities require a short shuttle ride.
If you have flexibility, consider booking a smaller, less popular company (like Thrifty or Fox) which can sometimes have shorter lines, but verify online reviews for reliability.
Ensure your reservation is fully confirmed and printed or saved on your phone; this can prevent additional delays at the counter.

In summary, Tuesday morning arrivals are typically better than peak weekend times, but using mobile check-in, preferred rental companies with bypass options, or off-airport downtown locations can save significant time. Planning ahead with these strategies will help you get on the road faster and avoid the longer airport lines.

Car rental lines?

More Savannah Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions