returning car rental at OGG early AM?

Question

For a 7am flight out of OGG, we need to return the rental car very early (5ish am)-

Since the car rental is closed, I think there is a drop box for the keys, can someone confirm?

However, the shuttles (from what I've read) back to the airport from the car rentals don't run that early so how does one get back to the airport?

OR is there a drop off that is closer to the terminals for early morning drop offs?

Anyone done this and can comment?Thanks.

Answer

Returning a rental car early in the morning at Kahului Airport (OGG) is a common concern for travelers with early flights. Here's a detailed overview of how it works and tips based on recent experiences:

Most major rental car companies at OGG, such as Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget, provide a 24-hour “after-hours” key drop service. This allows you to return the car even when the counter is closed.

Key drop procedure: Locate the drop box at the rental car area (usually near the main rental counter or parking lot). You typically need to leave the keys, rental agreement, and any required forms inside an envelope or attach the paperwork to the keys as instructed.
Documentation: Take photos of the car’s odometer, fuel level, and any existing damage for your records, as this helps prevent disputes later.

The main challenge is transportation from the rental lot to the terminal since shuttles may not operate very early (before 5:30am). Here are some common solutions:

Walking: Some rental lots are within a 5–10 minute walk of the terminal. Check the specific location when you pick up the car.
Ride-sharing or taxi: Many travelers opt for a quick Uber, Lyft, or local taxi after dropping off the car, especially if the shuttle isn’t running yet.
Hotel or private shuttle: If you’re staying at a nearby hotel, some provide early morning shuttle service to OGG even before the public car rental shuttles start.

Tips for a smooth early morning return:

Confirm the exact after-hours drop-off instructions when you pick up your rental.
Ask the rental company for recommendations for early morning transport back to the terminal.
Allow extra time since early morning logistics can vary slightly, especially if flights are during pre-dawn hours.

By using the key drop and arranging a short ride to the terminal, returning your rental car for an early flight at OGG can be stress-free. Most travelers who have done this report it works smoothly as long as you confirm procedures ahead of time and allow a little buffer for transport to the terminal.

returning car rental at OGG early AM?

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