EN
No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Finding a car rental at Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices from dozens of suppliers across Pennsylvania with no booking fees. Pick up your car on the terminal's ground floor and cruise straight to downtown Harrisburg, Hersheypark, or Lancaster in minutes.
Car rental counters at MDT are located on the ground floor of the terminal building, just past baggage claim.
| Location | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| MDT Airport Terminal |
|
|
| Middletown/Harrisburg East |
|
|
| Downtown Harrisburg |
|
|
On average, car rentals at Harrisburg Airport cost around $83 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $11 per day.
Compare airport vs. off-airport pickup: Downtown Harrisburg or Middletown branches dodge the 10-15 % airport surcharge. A short rideshare can cost less than the fee.
Time your booking to demand, not just the calendar: Hersheypark season and big events spike prices, so reserve 2-4 weeks ahead for those dates. In quieter months, last-minute deals often beat early rates.
Go weekly if your trip is 4+ days: MDT rentals frequently price weekly packages 15-25 % lower per day than a short daily rental. Slide your pickup/return a day to hit that sweet spot.
Choose a smaller class: Economy or compact cars run about $10-20 cheaper per day and are plenty for I-83 and Route 283 driving.
| Parking Type | Availability | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Airport Short-Term | Limited | Convenient for pickup/dropoff |
| Airport Long-Term | Abundant | Shuttle service to terminal |
| Downtown Harrisburg | Moderate | Multiple garages available; street spots metered weekdays |
| Hershey Attractions | Ample | Paid lots at most attractions |
| State Capitol Area | Limited | Best to use public garages; street spots strictly enforced |
Local Driving Rules:
Pick up wheels at Harrisburg International Airport to reach Central Pennsylvania's highlights quickly.
Downtown Harrisburg – Susquehanna riverfront, State Capitol Complex
Hershey – Hersheypark, Chocolate World
Lancaster – farmlands, outlet malls
Gettysburg – Gettysburg National Military Park
What do I need to rent a car at MDT?
You'll need a valid driver's license, a credit card in your name and proof of insurance. If you're visiting from another country, you should bring your passport and you may need an International Driving Permit.
How early should I book a rental car at Harrisburg Airport?
To get the best car selection and prices, we recommend you book 2-3 weeks in advance. During the summer or special events like the Hersheypark season and Farm Show, you should book 3-4 weeks ahead.
Are there toll roads near Harrisburg International Airport?
Yes, the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) is a toll road. Most rental companies will offer you a toll pass for an extra daily fee of about $3-5, plus the cost of the tolls.
Can I return my rental car after hours?
Yes, most major rental companies at MDT let you return cars after hours. You just need to park in the right area, lock the car and drop the keys in the secure drop box. Make sure to ask about this service when you book.
Is there a gas station at the airport?
No, there are no gas stations right at the airport. You can find the closest ones along Route 230 (Eisenhower Boulevard), about 1-2 miles from the terminal. You should plan for an extra 10-15 minutes to get gas before you return the car.
Popular Countries
24/7 Support