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No booking fees. Free cancellation on most cars
Save by finding great deals and securing low price rentals
Finding a rental car at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport is easy with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of suppliers in New York with no booking fees. Rental counters for Avis, Budget, Enterprise and more sit right inside the terminal, so you can be on your way to Cornell University, downtown Ithaca or the Finger Lakes wine trails within minutes. Lock in low rates by booking ahead of popular Cornell events and fall foliage weekends.
| Location | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| ITH Airport | Immediate pickup upon arrival, Convenient return before flights, No transportation needed from airport | Limited selection during peak periods, Slightly higher rates due to airport fees |
| Downtown Ithaca | Lower rates possible, May offer more vehicle options, Close to Cornell and Ithaca College | Transportation needed from airport (taxi/rideshare around $25-35), Limited hours compared to airport locations |
Rental Companies at ITH: The airport hosts major rental companies including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz and National. Rental counters are located in the main terminal building, just steps from baggage claim.
On average, car rentals at Ithaca Airport cost around $60 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $30 per day.
Check both airport and downtown quotes: ITH terminal pickups are super handy, but downtown desks can be cheaper even after a $25–35 rideshare. Compare both before clicking "book."
Dodge Cornell surge pricing: Graduation, move-in, and homecoming weeks send rates sky-high. If dates are flexible, shift by a day or two to save big.
Leverage off-season bargains: November–March (except holidays) is quiet in the Finger Lakes. Same car, same roads, noticeably lower daily prices.
Go "weekly" for 5+ days: Weekly plans often cost less than six individual days. Do the math—sometimes adding an extra day is still cheaper.
Where to Park:
Local Driving Rules:
Book a rental car to see:
Cornell University and Ithaca College – campuses, downtown
Taughannock, Robert H. Treman and Buttermilk Falls State Parks – waterfalls, hiking trails
Finger Lakes Wine Trails – Cayuga, Seneca vineyards
Watkins Glen – state park, racetrack
What documents do I need to rent a car at Ithaca Airport?
You'll need a valid driver's license in your name and a major credit card. You usually don't need to show proof of your own car insurance, but you can buy coverage at the counter if you need it. If you're visiting from another country, you need to show a valid driver's license and your passport. We strongly recommend getting an International Driving Permit if your license isn't in English.
Can I rent a car at ITH and return it to a different location?
Yes, you can book a one-way rental, but the company may charge you extra fees. People often return cars within upstate New York (like Rochester, Buffalo). You'll usually find higher charges for returns to New York City or other states. Always check the one-way rules and fees before you book.
What type of vehicle is best for exploring the Finger Lakes region?
A standard sedan works for most trips in the Finger Lakes when the weather is good. For visiting remote wineries and state parks or for winter driving, consider an all-wheel drive SUV. It gives you better traction and more clearance on hills and unpaved roads.
Are there age restrictions for renting at Ithaca Airport?
New York State law says you can rent a car if you are a licensed driver and 18 or older. However, rental companies will charge you an extra daily fee if you are under 25. Drivers who are 18-20 pay the highest fees (around $50-70 per day) and the fee is lower for drivers aged 21-24 (about $25-30 per day). Some companies give discounts to Cornell University or Ithaca College students that can lower these extra fees.
How does the security deposit process work?
When you pick up the car, the rental company puts a hold on your credit card. This hold is usually for the total rental cost plus an extra $200–$300. They release the hold after you return the car without any damage. Some companies let you use a debit card, but they will usually ask for more proof, like your return flight ticket and another form of ID.
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