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One way car rental from Anchorage to Homer

We are traveling in July. Does anyone have experience renting a car in Anchorage and returning the vehicle in Homer? We are flying home from Anchorage but thinking it might be easier to catch a short flight back to Anchorage vs doing the drive again??

Driving from Anchorage to Homer is a beautiful journey along the Sterling Highway, roughly 220 miles one way, and typically takes about 5–6 hours without long stops. Many travelers consider a one-way car rental for this route, but there are a few important details to keep in mind.

Most major car rental companies in Anchorage do allow one-way rentals to Homer, but availability is limited and there is usually a significant one-way fee. Some local rental agencies may have more flexible policies for Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula, so it’s worth comparing options.

Pros of renting a car for a one-way trip to Homer:

  • Full flexibility to stop along the way at scenic points such as Beluga Point, Turnagain Arm, or Seward.
  • Opportunity to explore towns and attractions along the Kenai Peninsula at your own pace.
  • Avoids the constraints of fixed flight times or shuttle schedules.

Cons or considerations:

  • One-way rental fees can be high; some companies charge $100–$200 or more.
  • Availability may be limited in July, which is peak tourist season, so booking early is essential.
  • Returning the car in Homer means you’ll need to plan your flight back to Anchorage, as Homer has limited commercial flights.

Alternative option – flying one way:

  • Several airlines operate short flights between Homer and Anchorage, about 45 minutes.
  • This saves time and avoids driving the same route twice, especially useful if you have a tight schedule.
  • Some travelers choose to rent a car in Homer instead, do local sightseeing, and then fly back to Anchorage.

Recommendation: If you want the freedom to explore the Kenai Peninsula and scenic stops along the Sterling Highway, a one-way rental can be worth it, but factor in the fee. If minimizing driving and stress is a priority, consider flying back from Homer to Anchorage and renting only for local driving in Homer.

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