Boise Airport Car Rental

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.

Renting a car at Boise Airport is one of the most popular ways to explore the city and the surrounding region of Idaho. The airport is located only a few minutes from downtown Boise, but many of the most interesting destinations in the state—such as mountains, lakes, and national recreation areas—are easier to reach by car. For this reason, many visitors choose to pick up a rental vehicle immediately after landing.

The process is straightforward: passengers can collect their luggage and walk directly to the rental car counters inside the terminal before heading to the nearby parking areas where vehicles are stored.

Location of the Rental Counters

Rental car counters are located on the first floor of the terminal building, close to the baggage claim area. After completing the paperwork at the desk, passengers are directed to the nearby parking lot where the rental vehicles are parked.

This layout makes the process quick and convenient because the pick-up location is within walking distance from the terminal.

During busy travel periods such as summer or ski season, rental counters can be busy. Completing your reservation online and using express pickup can save time.

Approximate Rental Prices

Car rental prices at Boise Airport vary depending on the type of vehicle, the season, and how far in advance you book.

Typical daily rental prices include:

Economy or compact cars: about $40–$60 per day
Standard or midsize sedans: around $60–$80 per day
SUVs: approximately $70–$100 per day
Minivans or larger vehicles: $75–$120 per day

On average, a rental car at Boise Airport costs around $60–$70 per day, although cheaper deals can sometimes be found from about $39–$46 per day.

Rental prices are usually lowest in winter months like January or February, while summer and holiday periods tend to be more expensive.

Most Popular Types of Rental Cars

Travelers renting cars at Boise Airport typically choose from several common vehicle categories:

Economy and compact cars
These are the cheapest options and are ideal for city driving or short trips.

Mid-size sedans
These are among the most popular rentals in Boise because they offer a balance of comfort and fuel efficiency.

SUVs
SUVs are particularly popular with visitors who plan to explore Idaho’s mountains or travel during winter when snow is common.

Minivans and larger vehicles
Families or groups often choose vans, which can accommodate more passengers and luggage.

If you plan to drive into the mountains or visit ski resorts, renting an SUV with all-wheel drive can be helpful during winter conditions.

Popular Destinations by Car from Boise Airport

Having a rental car allows travelers to visit many destinations that are difficult to reach by public transportation.

Common driving destinations include:

Sun Valley
One of the most famous ski resorts in the United States, located about 2.5 hours from Boise.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area
Known for hiking, camping, and alpine lakes.

McCall and Payette Lake
A popular vacation area for outdoor activities such as boating, skiing, and mountain biking.

Snake River Canyon
A scenic natural attraction famous for rafting and dramatic landscapes.

Idaho is known for outdoor recreation, so renting a car makes it much easier to explore the region beyond the city.

Car Rental Insurance Explained

When renting a car in the United States, several types of insurance or protection options are usually offered.

Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
This covers damage to the rental vehicle. Technically it is a waiver that reduces or eliminates your financial responsibility if the car is damaged. Some rental companies charge about $13–$30 per day for this protection.

Liability Insurance
Covers damage or injury to other people or vehicles if you are responsible for an accident.

Personal Accident Insurance
Provides medical coverage for the driver and passengers.

Theft Protection
Covers the cost if the vehicle is stolen.

Many travelers are already covered through their personal car insurance or credit card benefits, so it is worth checking your coverage before purchasing additional insurance.

Requirements to Rent a Car

Most rental companies at Boise Airport require:

A valid driver’s license
A credit card in the driver’s name
Minimum age of 21 years old (drivers under 25 may pay an additional fee)

Always inspect the car and take photos before leaving the parking lot to avoid disputes about existing damage.

Final Overview

Renting a car at Boise Airport is a convenient and flexible way to explore Boise and the surrounding areas of Idaho. With multiple international rental companies located inside the terminal and a wide selection of vehicles available, travelers can easily find an option that suits their budget and travel plans. For visitors planning to explore Idaho’s mountains, national parks, or ski resorts, a rental car is often the most practical transportation choice.