Renting a car at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu is the perfect way to explore the beautiful island of Oahu at your own pace. Whether you’re heading to Waikiki Beach, the North Shore, or Pearl Harbor, having a rental car provides the flexibility to discover Hawaii’s stunning landscapes and hidden gems. This guide will walk you through the process of picking up your rental car at HNL.
Step 1: Arrive at Honolulu International Airport
After landing, proceed to the baggage claim area in your terminal. Once you have collected your luggage, follow the airport signs to ground transportation and rental car services.
Step 2: Get to the Consolidated Rent-A-Car (CONRAC) Facility
The CONRAC facility at Honolulu Airport houses all major car rental companies in one convenient location. Here’s how to get there:
From Terminal 2 (Baggage Claims 19-31)
- Exit the baggage claim area and follow signs for Rental Car Services.
- The CONRAC facility is located directly across from Baggage Claims 26 and 31.
From Terminal 1, Terminal 2 International Arrivals, and Terminal 3
- Head to the rental car shuttle pick-up areas:
- Terminal 1: Ground level median (blue & white curb) across from Baggage Claims 8 and 9.
- Terminal 2: Ground level median (blue & white curb) across from Baggage Claim 18.
- Terminal 3: Outside the terminal building.
- Shuttle buses operate daily from 4:00 AM to Midnight, providing quick and free transport to the rental car center.
Step 3: Choose Your Rental Car Company
The Consolidated Rent-A-Car Facility (CONRAC) houses the following major rental car providers:
- Alamo
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- National
- Payless
- Thrifty
- Sixt
If you have a reservation, proceed to your rental company’s counter to finalize the paperwork. If you need to book a car on arrival, most companies allow same-day rentals, though availability may be limited during peak travel seasons. You’re better off booking in advance from a service like AutoRentals to be sure to avoid disappointment.
Step 4: Complete Your Rental Agreement
- Required Documents: Bring a valid driver’s license and a credit card in the driver’s name.
- International Travelers: If your driver’s license is not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- Additional Options: Ask about adding extra drivers, GPS, child seats, or insurance if needed.
Step 5: Pick Up Your Rental Car
- Inspect the vehicle: Before leaving, check for any existing damage and report it to the rental agency.
- Understand your fuel policy: Some companies require a full tank upon return.
- Familiarize yourself with the car: Adjust mirrors, seats, and GPS settings before hitting the road.
Step 6: Exiting the Airport & Navigating Oahu
- Follow exit signs leading to Nimitz Highway (HI-92) for direct access to Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.
- Take Interstate H-1 if heading to the North Shore, Pearl Harbor, or Ko Olina.
- Plan for rush hour traffic (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM), which can affect travel times.
Step 7: Returning Your Rental Car
Return your car to the Consolidated Rental Car Facility located at 300 Rodgers Boulevard, Honolulu, HI 96819. Follow the rental car return signs and park in your rental company’s designated area. Allow extra time for shuttle transfers if returning from Terminal 1 or 3. If returning after hours, most rental companies offer a drop-box for keys.
Final Tips for Renting a Car at HNL
- Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Check for discounts and loyalty program perks before booking.
- Be mindful of gas station locations near the airport to refuel before returning.
- Follow Hawaii’s local driving laws, including no texting while driving.
Remember, while all information is accurate at the time of this writing, be sure to visit the official Honolulu Airport Car Rental Page for the latest information.
By following these steps, you’ll have a smooth and stress-free car rental experience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Oahu at your own pace.
