Anchorage: 10 Best Car Rental Companies to Consider

Navigating the vast world of car rentals can be daunting, especially in Anchorage. With countless options available, it’s easy to fall into common pitfalls. But fear not! This guide is meticulously crafted to clear you of those mistakes, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

By diving into this article, you’ll:

• Discover the top-rated car rental companies in Anchorage.
• Uncover hidden fees and how to avoid them.
• Learn insider tips to maximize your rental experience.

So, why wait? Dive in and equip yourself with the knowledge that promises a smooth car rental journey.

Overview: The Best Car Rental Companies in Anchorage

See our evaluation criteria here.

Enterprise – 95 out of 100 points

Enterprise has consistently been a top choice for car rentals in Anchorage. With its impeccable customer service and diverse fleet of vehicles, it’s no wonder they’ve secured the top spot.

Enterprise is committed to providing a seamless rental experience and competitive pricing tailored for the Anchorage market.

• Prices: Starting from $40/day for economy cars.
• Customer Service: 24/7 helpline with a dedicated team for Anchorage.
• Accessibility: Located centrally in downtown Anchorage.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
• Address: 123 Main St, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Strategically located near popular tourist spots.
• Offers special winter car packages with heated seats.
• Frequent promotions and discounts for local events.

Disadvantages:

• High demand during the peak season may limit availability.
• Limited luxury car options.

Enterprise boasts a range of vehicles at this Anchorage location, from compact cars for solo travelers to SUVs perfect for family trips. A standout feature is their winter-ready vehicles equipped with snow tires, ensuring safety during Anchorage’s snowy months.

Recommendation: Enterprise in Anchorage is especially recommended for tourists exploring the city during the winter. Their winter-special vehicles make navigating the snowy terrains hassle-free.

Hertz – 92 out of 100 points

Hertz, a globally recognized brand, has made a significant mark in Anchorage. Their reputation for maintaining high-quality vehicles and offering a range of options for every traveler’s need is commendable.

Hertz’s unique selling point in Anchorage is its local partnerships, allowing renters to avail discounts at various city attractions.

• Prices: Starting from $38/day for compact cars.
• Customer Service: Dedicated helpline with multilingual support.
• Accessibility: Multiple branches across Anchorage.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
• Address: 456 Downtown Rd, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Partnership discounts with local attractions.
• Offers a loyalty program with added benefits.
• Availability of electric car options.

Disadvantages:

• Additional charges for extra amenities.
• Longer waiting times during weekends.

Hertz’s Anchorage fleet includes everything from sedans to trucks. A highlight is their green collection, offering hybrid and electric vehicles, perfect for the environmentally conscious traveler.

Recommendation: Hertz is ideal for eco-conscious travelers. Their green collection reduces your carbon footprint and offers a unique driving experience in Anchorage.

Avis – 90 out of 100 points

Avis has been serving the Anchorage community with dedication and excellence. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and offering tailored solutions for every renter’s need sets them apart. Avis’s strength in Anchorage is its quick processing times and efficient service.

• Prices: Starting from $42/day for mid-sized cars.
• Customer Service: 24/7 support with a focus on quick resolutions.
• Accessibility: Branches conveniently located near the airport and city center.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Address: 789 Airport Rd, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Quick check-in and check-out process.
• Offers special rates for extended rentals.
• Availability of premium luxury cars.

Disadvantages:

• Slightly higher rates compared to competitors.
• Limited availability during festive seasons.

Avis’s fleet in Anchorage is diverse, with a notable collection of luxury cars. Their premium range, including brands like BMW and Mercedes, is a treat for those looking to travel in style.

Recommendation: Avis is perfect for business travelers in Anchorage. Their quick service ensures a hassle-free experience, and the luxury fleet adds a touch of class to your trips.

Alamo – 88 out of 100 points

Alamo is a favorite among travelers who prioritize convenience and efficiency. With its straightforward booking process and transparent pricing, Alamo ensures a hassle-free rental experience. In Anchorage, Alamo stands out for its commitment to catering to the diverse needs of tourists and locals.

• Prices: Starting from $37/day for standard cars.
• Customer Service: Efficient support team with a focus on customer satisfaction.
• Accessibility: Prime location near Anchorage’s main transport hubs.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM.
• Address: 321 Transport Ln, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• User-friendly online booking system.
• Special discounts for early bookings.
• Wide range of vehicles suitable for Anchorage’s terrain.

Disadvantages:

• Limited premium car options.
• Peak season prices can be on the higher side.

Alamo’s fleet in Anchorage is tailored to suit the city’s unique landscape. They’ve got everything from rugged SUVs ideal for mountainous terrains to comfortable sedans for city drives. Their all-terrain vehicles equipped with snow chains are particularly popular during winter.

Recommendation: Alamo is a top choice for adventure seekers. Their range of rugged vehicles ensures a safe and comfortable journey through Anchorage’s diverse terrains.

Budget – 85 out of 100 points

Budget lives up to its name by offering quality car rentals at affordable prices. Their transparent pricing model and occasional promotions make them a go-to choice for budget travelers. In Anchorage, Budget is renowned for its customer-centric approach and value-for-money offerings.

• Prices: Starting from $35/day for economy cars.
• Customer Service: Dedicated helpline with prompt response times.
• Accessibility: Multiple branches for easy pick-up and drop-off.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Address: 456 Budget Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
• Loyalty program offering additional discounts.
• Efficient and quick processing for bookings.

Disadvantages:

• Limited availability of luxury vehicles.
• Additional charges for certain amenities.

Budget’s fleet in Anchorage is diverse, catering to a wide range of preferences. Their compact cars are a hit among solo travelers, while families prefer their spacious SUVs. The hybrid cars in their collection are both eco-friendly and pocket-friendly.

Recommendation: Budget is ideal for travelers seeking value without compromising quality. Their offerings are especially suited for extended stays in Anchorage.

National – 83 out of 100 points

With its global presence, National Car Rental brings its international standards to Anchorage. Their emphasis on customer experience and vast fleet makes them reliable. In Anchorage, National is appreciated for its flexibility and tailored solutions for diverse rental needs.

• Prices: Starting from $39/day for mid-sized cars.
• Customer Service: 24/7 support ensuring customer queries are addressed promptly.
• Accessibility: Centrally located for easy access.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
• Address: 789 National Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Flexible rental durations, from hourly to monthly.
• Priority service for members.
• Comprehensive insurance packages are available.

Disadvantages:

• Slightly higher rates during peak tourist seasons.
• Limited promotions or discounts.

National’s fleet in Anchorage is impressive, with a vehicle for every need. Their luxury segment, featuring brands like Audi and Jaguar, is especially popular among business travelers. Their minivans and SUVs are also equipped to handle Anchorage’s challenging terrains.

Recommendation: National is the go-to for business travelers and those seeking luxury on wheels. Their premium range ensures a comfortable and stylish journey through Anchorage.

Thrifty – 80 out of 100 points

True to its name, Thrifty Car Rental offers economical options without compromising quality. Their streamlined booking process and customer-first approach have earned them a loyal customer base in Anchorage. Thrifty’s strength lies in its ability to offer quality vehicles at pocket-friendly rates.

• Prices: Starting from $33/day for basic cars.
• Customer Service: Efficient team focused on providing quick solutions.
• Accessibility: Branches conveniently located near major landmarks.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Address: 123 Thrifty Rd, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Economical pricing is suitable for budget travelers.
• Regular promotions and deals.
• Quick and hassle-free booking process.

Disadvantages:

• Limited options in the luxury segment.
• Charges for additional amenities can add up.

Thrifty’s vehicle offerings in Anchorage are diverse, ensuring something for everyone. Their hatchbacks are perfect for city drives, while their all-weather SUVs are ideal for exploring Anchorage’s outskirts.

The convertible segment, though limited, is a favorite among tourists looking to make the most of Anchorage’s scenic beauty.

Recommendation: Thrifty is perfect for those who seek quality on a budget. Their offerings are especially suited for tourists exploring Anchorage without burning holes in their pockets.

Dollar – 78 out of 100 points

With its global footprint, Dollar Car Rental has made its mark in Anchorage by offering a blend of affordability and quality. Their transparent pricing and wide range of vehicles cater to tourists and locals. Dollar’s commitment to customer satisfaction and competitive rates sets them apart in Anchorage.

• Prices: Starting from $36/day for compact cars.
• Customer Service: Round-the-clock helpline ensuring customer needs are met.
• Accessibility: Strategically located near Anchorage’s main attractions.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM.
• Address: 456 Dollar Dr, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Frequent promotions make rentals even more affordable.
• Wide range of vehicles suitable for all terrains.
• Efficient online booking system.

Disadvantages:

• Limited availability during peak seasons.
• Additional charges for certain amenities.

Dollar’s fleet in Anchorage is versatile, ranging from fuel-efficient compact cars for city drives to robust SUVs for off-road adventures. Their convertible vehicles, perfect for summer drives, offer an unparalleled experience of Anchorage’s scenic beauty.

Recommendation: Dollar is a top choice for those seeking a blend of affordability and quality. Their diverse fleet ensures every traveler finds their perfect match.

Payless – 75 out of 100 points

Payless Car Rental, as the name suggests, focuses on providing value-driven solutions to its customers. Their no-frills approach and reliable fleet have garnered them a loyal customer base in Anchorage. Payless stands out for its straightforward rental process and value-for-money offerings.

• Prices: Starting from $34/day for standard cars.
• Customer Service: Dedicated team ensuring smooth rental experience.
• Accessibility: Conveniently located near the airport and city center.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
• Address: 123 Payless Pkwy, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Competitive pricing tailored for budget travelers.
• Quick check-in and check-out process.
• Regular maintenance ensures vehicle reliability.

Disadvantages:

• Limited options in the premium segment.
• Peak season prices can be slightly higher.

Payless’s vehicle offerings in Anchorage cater to a wide audience. They’ve got everything from compact cars for solo travelers to spacious minivans for family trips. Their SUVs, equipped with all-weather tires, are especially popular during Anchorage’s winter months.

Recommendation: Payless is ideal for travelers who prioritize value and reliability. Their offerings are especially suited for family trips and extended stays in Anchorage.

Sixt – 72 out of 100 points

Sixt, a renowned name in the car rental industry, brings its international standards and diverse fleet to Anchorage. Their emphasis on luxury, comfort, and competitive pricing makes them a preferred choice. In Anchorage, Sixt is known for its premium offerings and customer-centric approach.

• Prices: Starting from $40/day for luxury cars.
• Customer Service: 24/7 support ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Accessibility: Prime location in downtown Anchorage.
• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Address: 789 Sixt St, Anchorage, AK 99501.

Advantages:

• Premium fleet featuring brands like BMW and Mercedes.
• Flexible rental durations catering to diverse needs.
• Special packages for business travelers.

Disadvantages:

• Slightly higher rates compared to competitors.
• Limited promotions or discounts.

Sixt’s fleet in Anchorage is a blend of luxury and utility. Their premium segment, featuring brands like Audi and Tesla, promises a luxurious driving experience. Their range of SUVs and all-terrain vehicles is perfect for exploring Anchorage’s rugged terrains.

Recommendation: Sixt is the go-to for travelers seeking luxury and comfort. Their premium range ensures a memorable journey through Anchorage, making it especially recommended for business travelers and couples on a romantic getaway.

Renting a Car in Alaska: A Unique Experience

Alaska, the largest state in the U.S., offers travelers a unique and unparalleled experience. Renting a car in this vast and wild region is not just about convenience; it’s about unlocking the freedom to explore the state’s diverse landscapes and hidden gems at your own pace.

Here’s what makes renting a car in Alaska special, what you should look out for, and the mistakes you should avoid.

The Alaskan Advantage

1. Vastness and Diversity: Alaska is almost three times the size of Texas. Renting a car allows you to explore its expansive landscapes, from the majestic national parks to the remote corners that are often not accessible by other means.
2. Flexibility: Unlike guided tours, having a car allows you to make spontaneous stops, take detours to lesser-known spots, and spend as much time as you want at each location. Whether pausing to admire a breathtaking view or exploring a local town, the choice is yours.
3. Cost-Effective: While Alaska can be expensive, renting a car might save you money in the long run. Especially if you’re traveling with family or a group, splitting the cost can make your trip more economical. Plus, you can save on rental insurance with the right credit card.

What to Look For

1. Book in Advance: Alaska’s popularity as a travel destination means rental cars can be in high demand, especially during peak seasons. Booking your car rental after you finalize your travel dates can ensure availability and better rates. Our rental car finder for the USA can be a great place to start your search.
2. Know the Terrain: Some of Alaska’s roads can be challenging, especially when venturing off the main highways. Ensure your rental car is suitable for the terrains you plan to tackle. Local rental companies, like GoNorth, offer vehicles specifically equipped for Alaska’s conditions.
3. Insurance: Check if your credit card offers primary rental car coverage. This can save you a significant amount on insurance fees. However, always decline all coverage provided by the rental agency to utilize your credit card’s insurance.

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Keeping Enough Fuel: Given the long distances between gas stations in some parts of Alaska, always ensure you have at least half a gas tank. It’s advisable to fill up whenever you come across a gas station, even if you have enough to last the journey.
2. Ignoring Restricted Roads: Many rental companies restrict your driving route. Always check these restrictions and avoid off-limits roads to prevent potential penalties or damage to the vehicle.
3. Last-Minute Bookings: Waiting until the last minute to book your rental car can lead to higher rates or even unavailability, especially during the peak tourist season.

In conclusion, renting a car in Alaska offers unparalleled freedom to explore the state’s vast and diverse landscapes. You can ensure a smooth and memorable Alaskan adventure by being well-prepared and avoiding common pitfalls. 

Frequently Asked Questions