






Find competitive rental car prices at Hilo International Airport (ITO), Hawaii with Road Genius. Find rates for SUVs, hatchbacks, minivans and reserve with no booking fees. All major brands including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National are a two minute walk from baggage claim, so you can take Highway 11 toward Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or drive into downtown Hilo without waiting for a shuttle. Book early for low prices and free cancellation on most deals.
| Feature | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Directly across from terminal | No shuttle needed - simply walk across the street |
| Companies | All major rental agencies | Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National and others |
| Access | Walking distance from baggage claim | Easy 2-3 minute walk even when carrying luggage |
| Hours | Most open 6AM to 9-10PM | Varies by company; confirm if arriving on late flights |
| After-hours | Drop boxes available | Most companies allow after-hours returns |
| Convenience | Immediate pickup and drop-off | One of the easiest airport rental experiences in Hawaii |
Advantage of ITO Airport Rentals:
Considerations:
Compare, book, then keep checking. Most ITO reservations are free to cancel. Lock in a deal, watch rates with our alerts, and rebook if prices drop.
Peak months (Jun-Aug, Dec): reserve 3-6 months out. Cars vanish fast over summer and the holidays, so early still wins. For Oct-Nov or Jan-Mar, waiting until 3-4 weeks out often scores lower rates.
Skip the "just in case" SUV. Almost every must-see spot near Hilo sits on paved roads. A compact or midsize is cheaper to rent and lighter on Big Island gas prices.
Refuel on Kekuanaoa St (5 min from ITO). Topping off here avoids the airport's premium refueling fee.
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| Short-term parking | Short-term spaces available near the terminal |
| Cell phone waiting area | Free short-term spaces for pickup |
| Terminal distance to rental area | About 200 feet |
| Rental return | Clearly marked return lanes in the rental lot |
| Fuel options | Several gas stations within a short drive of the airport |
How early should I arrive to pick up my rental car at ITO?
ITO is a smaller airport and things run smoothly. Plan on about 30 minutes to get your car after you claim your bags, though it's often quicker.
Can I pick up at ITO and drop off in Kona (KOA)?
Yes, most major companies offer one-way rentals between ITO and KOA, but they usually charge a one-way fee of about $50–85.
Do I need a 4WD vehicle if renting from ITO?
Most visitors find a standard 2WD vehicle is all they need. The main roads and tourist spots you can reach from Hilo are paved. You only need a 4WD for certain remote areas.
Is there a grace period for returns at ITO?
Most companies give you a 29–59 minute grace period, but you should confirm their policy when you pick up your car to avoid extra charges.
Can I add an additional driver to my ITO car rental?
Yes, most companies let you add other drivers for a daily fee, usually $10–15 per day. Some companies don't charge this fee for spouses or domestic partners.
What happens if my flight arrival is delayed past the rental counter closing time?
You should contact your rental company directly if your flight is delayed. Some can arrange a late pickup, or you may need to take a taxi to your hotel and go back to the airport the next day.