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24/7 SupportCar Rental Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE)
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Compare car rental prices from leading suppliers at Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) with Road Genius. From small economy cars to luxury SUVs and minivans, you'll find vehicles at low prices in convenient locations. Grab your keys just steps from baggage claim, then hop on US-22 or I-78 for an easy drive to Allentown, Bethlehem, Philadelphia or the Pocono Mountains.
Car Rental Locations & Options
Key Rental Locations and Options
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| ABE Airport Terminal | • On-site rental counters • No shuttle needed - walking distance • Open for all arriving flights • Multiple companies to compare | • Around 18% higher rates than off-airport • Airport concession fees added to rental cost • Possible lines during peak arrival times |
| Allentown Downtown | • Lower base rates • No airport surcharges • Some offer pickup service | • Transportation needed from airport (taxi/rideshare) • Limited business hours • Smaller vehicle selection |
| Bethlehem/Easton Area | • May offer competitive rates • Convenient if staying in these areas | • Requires transportation from airport • Limited hours compared to airport location |
Car Rental Prices
Low-cost rental tips
- Check both airport and downtown pickups. ABE terminal is ultra convenient but usually carries an 18 % airport premium. If you're cool with a short rideshare, downtown Allentown or Bethlehem counters can be cheaper even after the taxi fare.
- Tweak your dates. Mid-week returns often run 10-15 % less than Sunday drops and a 7-day "weekly" rate can beat a 5- or 6-day booking. Play with the calendar before you click pay.
- Peak season? Lock then re-shop. Summer and fall foliage push prices up. Grab a free-cancellation reservation early, then check again 1-2 weeks before arrival and rebook if the rate dips.
- Skip pricey toll gadgets. The PA Turnpike (I-476) is cashless. Bring your own E-ZPass or opt for Plate-by-Mail to dodge the daily toll device fee some agencies charge.
- Refuel off-airport. Stations on Airport Rd (Sheetz, Wawa) are 5 minutes from the return lot and priced like the rest of town, saving you the inflated "we'll fill it for you" charge.
Car rental prices at Allentown Airport 2025/2026
Parking and Driving
Airport Parking
- Short-term parking: Located directly across from the terminal
- Long-term parking: Available at reasonable rates compared to larger airports
- Reserved spots available through the airport website
Driving Rules
- Pennsylvania requires headlights when windshield wipers are in use
- Right turn on red is allowed after a complete stop unless signed otherwise
- Speed limits: 25 mph in residential areas, 35–45 mph on main roads, 55 mph on highways, 65–70 mph on interstates
- Allentown has recently approved red-light cameras at certain intersections
Local Tips
- The Lehigh Valley area has multiple bridges and sometimes confusing highway interchanges
- GPS/navigation apps are highly recommended for first-time visitors
- Winter driving (November–March) may require caution in snowy or icy conditions
- The airport is surrounded by hilly terrain, so be prepared for elevation changes
Why rent a car in Allentown and the Lehigh Valley
Having your own wheels makes it simple to reach highlights across eastern Pennsylvania and beyond.
- Bethlehem – SteelStacks arts district, Christmas market
- Pocono Mountains – hiking trails, ski resorts, lakes
- Jim Thorpe – Victorian downtown, Lehigh Gorge scenic railway
- Easton – Crayola Experience, farmers market
- Philadelphia – museums, Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market
- New York City – Times Square, Central Park
Local Rental Locations
- Allentown, PA
- Altoona, PA
- Car Rental Harrisburg International Airport (MDT)
- Car Rental Lancaster, PA
- Car Rental Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
- Erie, PA
- Harrisburg, PA
- Johnstown, PA
- King Of Prussia, PA
- Mechanicsburg, PA
- New Castle, PA
- Pennsylvania
- Philadelphia, PA
- PHL Airport
- Pittsburgh, PA
- Pottstown, PA
- Reading, PA
- Scranton, PA
- State College, PA
- Washington, PA
- West Chester, PA
- Wilkes Barre, PA
- York, PA
FAQs
Which car rental companies operate at ABE Airport?
Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless and Thrifty all have counters in the terminal. You can easily walk to them from baggage claim.
How early should I arrive to return my rental car?
You should arrive at least 60–90 minutes before your flight. This gives you time to return the car and check in for your flight. You can find the return area right near the terminal.
Is it necessary to get a rental with all-wheel drive in winter?
You don't absolutely need one, but an AWD or 4WD car is safer during the winter. It's a good idea if you plan to visit the Pocono Mountains or rural areas where road crews may not clear the roads as quickly.
What's the best route to Philadelphia from ABE Airport?
You can take I-476 South (PA Turnpike Northeast Extension) for the most direct route. It is a toll road. The drive takes about 1–1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
