Bellingham car hire

Bellingham car hire

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Bellingham car hire information

Pick-up locationBellingham
Car types
Hire locations11
Airport locations10

Cheap car rentals in Bellingham

Mini
Economy
Compact
Intermediate
Standard
Full-size
Luxury
People mover
Passenger van
SUV
Commercial
Pick-up truck

Top tips for hiring a car in Bellingham

  • Car rentals in Bellingham provide you with the flexibility to explore the city’s many interesting sights, including Whatcom Museum and the scenic Lake Padden. Head to some of the popular cities in the surrounding region, whether it be Ferndale or Burlington. Bellingham car rentals are also a great way to head to attractions that are off the beaten path, like the Fragrance Lake Trail, which is around a 20min drive from the city center.
  • If you’re considering booking car rentals in Bellingham, keep in mind that you can make your reservation for Bellingham International Airport. The airport’s car rental center is placed directly near the Arrivals Terminal and the baggage claim, meaning that you don’t have to worry about grabbing a taxi, bus, or shuttle to travel there. There are a few different car rental companies to choose from, including Avis, Budget, and Enterprise.
  • Bellingham is known for having many cyclists, and they always have the right of way, even when they are not in a crosswalk bike lane. Keep your eyes open for them, especially when driving in busy areas. The state of Washington is also known for having many HOV lanes on its freeways, which are specifically designed for cars with at least two passengers. They usually are less busy than normal lanes, so use these when available to save time.
  • Highways 5 and 542 become particularly busy during rush hour, as these are the two main roads that people use to travel to work in and out of the city. Avoid getting caught in congestion by not taking these highways during the hours of 8-9am and 5-6:30pm. Bellingham frequently has rain and snow, which can cause traffic and make the roads slippery. If you find yourself driving during this weather, try to drive more slowly than normal and make sure that your vehicle has the proper winter equipment.
  • 25% of our users found rental cars in Bellingham for $94 or less
  • Book your rental car in Bellingham at least 6 days before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Intermediate rental cars in Bellingham are around 30% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about renting a car in Bellingham

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Bellingham?

    A 4WD SUV is a convenient model to have as a rental car in the region, as it’ll help you to safely navigate poor weather and drive through many of the mountains in the area. Recreational activities are also common in Bellingham, including cycling, hiking, and biking, and this type of car will give you an ample amount of space to store any necessary equipment.

  • What’s the speed limit in Bellingham?

    Many of the streets in business and residential areas have a maximum speed limit of 25mph. If you’re driving in the vicinity of a school, you can plan on the speed limit is 20mph. Some roads that are in more remote areas of the city will have a maximum speed limit of up to 50mph, while state highways usually have a limit of 60mph, although it can be less in certain areas. Police officers are known for patrolling local highways and many of the town’s major intersections have traffic cameras, so make sure to follow speed limits to prevent yourself from being pulled over or receiving a fine.

  • Where are the best places to park in Bellingham?

    While you may be able to find free street parking in Bellingham, it usually fills up quickly. There are many different paid short-term parking options, including parking meters, which start at approximately $0.75 per hour downtown, and $0.25 per hour when further away from the city center. There are also a few parking garages to choose from, such as the Commercial Street Garage and Railroad Pay Station Lot downtown that cost around $0.75 per hour and have a $6 per day maximum.

  • How much does it cost to hire a car in Bellingham?

    On average a hire car in Bellingham costs $100 per day.

  • How much is the price of fuel in Bellingham?

    The average price of fuel in Bellingham is $6.96 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of uel costs between $84 and $111, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular car hire in Bellingham?

    Intermediate (Toyota RAV4 or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Bellingham.

  • Which hire car agencies are at Bellingham airport (BLI)?

    The only car hire company onsite at Bellingham airport is Thrifty.

  • How can I find car hires near me in Bellingham?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does an Intermediate car hire cost in Bellingham?

    An Intermediate car hire in Bellingham costs $102 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Full Size car hire cost in Bellingham?

    A Full Size car hire in Bellingham costs $152 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Special car hire cost in Bellingham?

    A Special car hire in Bellingham costs $86 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular rental car location in Bellingham?

    In Bellingham, cars are most frequently hired at Thrifty 4255 Mitchell Way (5 km from city centre ).

  • How much does it cost to hire a car for a week in Bellingham?

    On average a car hire in Bellingham costs $697 per week ($100 per day).

  • How much does it cost to hire a car long term for a month in Bellingham?

    On average a car hire in Bellingham costs $2,988 per month ($100 per day).

  • Which car hire companies in Bellingham have updated their vehicle cleaning and safety policies because of coronavirus (COVID-19)?

    One car hire company which has updated their car hire health and safety policies due to COVID-19 to make sure vehicles are clean and disinfected is Thrifty

Bellingham car rental reviews and directory

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8.6

Very Good

41 reviews
Best rated

Cleanliness

8.7

Comfort

8.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.3

Value for money

8.4

2 locations in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

1302 Iowa St

+1 360 733 4363

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00
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4255 Mitchell Way

+1 833 823 5643

Monday09:00 - 22:00
Tuesday09:00 - 22:00
Wednesday09:00 - 22:00
Thursday09:00 - 22:00
Friday09:00 - 22:00
Saturday09:00 - 22:00
Sunday09:00 - 22:00
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Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Sep 2022

KAYAK
The Enterprise on Iowa St doesn't have shuttles running to and from Bellingham airport. That is the only reason for the 4 (not 5 stars). They are different from the Enterprise that is located at the airport. However, there is a significant difference in the cost of rental. I saved a considerable amount by renting from the one on Iowa St (6 miles from airport). Only had to schedule/locate taxi and Uber services myself. It is not their fault for not having a shuttle service to the airport. There is some kind of agreement that prevents them from servicing the airport. Other than that, they are excellent.

4.8 Mediocre

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

The mini van was what I had reserved, ran well, was full of fuel.

Cons:

It could have been ready on time ( was 50 minutes late) could have been more thoroughly cleaned (candy wrapper on floor, road dust visible in interior). The Assistant manager said she had personally helped clean the vehicle as it was not ready on time. I’m sure she did. I’m also sure I was given a vehicle that had not been thoroughly readied for pick up, which is quite serious given we are in a Global health crises And that Enterprise promises rigorous cleaning of a car given their responsibility to do all possible to reduce contamination between renters.

8.0 Very Good

Oct 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

yes

Cons:

survey button for excellent not working so I checked good instead

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Ryan couldn't have been more kind and understanding about a last-minute change due to a family emergency and got us into a larger car at minimum cost.

Cons:

Really no complaints!

10.0 Wonderful

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

YES

Cons:

NO COMPLAINTS - construction site made it a bit awkward to enter - but that will pass.

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

The service was excellent. Would return the next time I'm in Bellingham.

1 out of 7

Hertz

8.5

Very Good

31 reviews

Cleanliness

7.9

Comfort

8.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.1

Value for money

8.2

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way #6

+1 360 733 8336

Monday12:30 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Wednesday12:30 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Sunday12:00 - 17:00
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Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The check out staff was very friendly. We did not see anyone when we dropped off the car.

Cons:

We probably paid too much for paying for a half tank of gas before taking car. I’m sure we didn’t use that much.

10.0 Wonderful

Aug 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Brian and Brent were great to work with!

Cons:

Inside of the windshield could have been cleaner.

10.0 Wonderful

Apr 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Car, care

2.0 Poor

Jan 2018

KAYAK

Cons:

I paid for a rental car on line with my debit card. I arrived to pickup the car only to find out that I couldn't because you don't accept debit cards. I want my money returned to my debit account. You accept credit cards only, so why accept payment via debit card?

8.4 Very Good

Jan 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Very convenient to pick up and drop off the car.

Cons:

I ordered a compact, but the car seemed more like an economy

2.0 Poor

Dec 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Absolutely nothing.

Cons:

We reserved a car but there were no cars. I expected to pay $78 but had to spend $210 to rake an uber to the airport rather than the rental car. The person at the desk said they were out of cars and asked corporate to stop allowing cars to be rented but there was no response.

1 out of 5

Dollar

8.6

Very Good

6 reviews

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.6

Value for money

8.0

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way

+1 866 434 2226

Monday12:30 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Wednesday12:30 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Sunday12:00 - 17:00
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Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Jan 2023

KAYAK
There's nothing to improve. Everyone was super-professional and friendly, the service was very convenient, and the car was great.

2.0 Poor

May 2022

KAYAK
Closed

10.0 Wonderful

Nov 2021

KAYAK
A really smooth process overall!

1 out of 1

Alamo

7.9

Cleanliness

7.7

Comfort

7.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.5

Value for money

7.5

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way

+1 360 714 0243

Monday09:00 - 22:00
Tuesday09:00 - 22:00
Wednesday09:00 - 22:00
Thursday09:00 - 22:00
Friday09:00 - 22:00
Saturday09:00 - 22:00
Sunday09:00 - 22:00
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Show reviews that mention

Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Helpful staff and easy dropoff

Cons:

Redundant insurance policies between kayak and the actual rental agency, don't offer the kayak one.

2.0 Poor

Nov 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Nothing - because you show up, and no one is at the desk and then you are stuck with no car. This is the 2nd time Alamo does it. Learned my lesson - NEVER RENT WITH THEM!

Cons:

If someone was actually there to give me a car, that would be a plus - so I don’t have to be in a city with NO RENTAL CAR. Showing up for work is a plus in my book guys.

8.0 Very Good

Oct 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly. Pick-up and drop-off were very easy.

3.6 Poor

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was great, easy pickup and drop off

Cons:

I ordered a Cadillac or similar, they didn't have any, so I got a smokey Mazda SUV that I could barely fit into instead, without a price drop or any other options given.

6.8 Okay

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly but didn't know what options the car had.

Cons:

Staff should have available to them all of the options available on any car. Also the interior front window was not clean

10.0 Wonderful

Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Very friendly staff

1 out of 4

Budget

7.5

Cleanliness

8.1

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.1

Value for money

7.5

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way Number 4

+1 360 671 3800

Monday20:00 - 21:3009:00 - 22:00
Tuesday09:00 - 22:00
Wednesday09:00 - 22:00
Thursday20:00 - 21:3009:00 - 22:00
Friday09:00 - 22:0020:00 - 21:30
Saturday09:00 - 22:00
Sunday09:00 - 22:00
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Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Oct 2022

KAYAK
People were great Car was clean and drive fine but had horrible blind spots for me

10.0 Wonderful

Jul 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Everything was good

2.0 Poor

Feb 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

They overcharged me $250 this company is terrible will never use Budget again.

Cons:

Honesty

10.0 Wonderful

Dec 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Easy pick up and drop off.

Cons:

It was all good.

5.6 Fair

Aug 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

Representative was pleasant, but not helpful.

Cons:

I pointed out the contract from Sacramento was wrong and was told I'd need to contact them to correct.

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Easy process, good customer service at the airport terminal. Easy in & out process.

1 out of 4

Avis

7.2

Cleanliness

6.6

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.3

Value for money

7.3

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way Suite 6

+1 360 676 8840

Monday20:00 - 21:3009:00 - 22:00
Tuesday09:00 - 22:00
Wednesday09:00 - 22:00
Thursday09:00 - 22:0020:00 - 21:30
Friday09:00 - 22:0020:00 - 21:30
Saturday09:00 - 22:00
Sunday09:00 - 22:00
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Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

We reserved an economy car, however none was available, so we were given a larger SUV with no extra charge. Very comfortable ride!

Cons:

Nothing, it was a positive experience all around. The car was nice and clean!!

10.0 Wonderful

Feb 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

When I got to the counter the associate was very friendly, even found me a better deal and put me in a way nicer car.

8.8 Very Good

Jun 2016

KAYAK

Pros:

The care was in very good condition and fun to drive.

Cons:

The check-out process was a bit slow. I am beginning to realize this is standard for the entire car rental industry. It would be nice to get some more help behind the check-out counters.

2.0 Poor

Jul 2023

KAYAK
Our flight was late getting in, and instead of someone staying, several of us were left stranded, and the one hotel near by was sold out. This was the worst experience. We had to pay for a 3 hr Uber since all hotels were sold out within all surrounding cities due to a Taylor Swift concert.

10.0 Wonderful

Mar 2023

KAYAK
Avis did have any cars when I arrived, and the agent worked with Enterprise Car Rental to get me a car for the same rate. That was very thoughtful of them. Thanks

2.0 Poor

Jun 2022

KAYAK
we showed up and got rerouted to Bellingham specifically to rent a car and drive to mercer Island (100 miles) but we got there only to be told they didn't have any cars! even with confirmation and had to take $200 Uber ride!

1 out of 2

Thrifty

7.1

Cheapest deal
Most popular

Cleanliness

7.6

Comfort

7.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.1

Value for money

6.8

One location in Bellingham

Show locations
from $94/day

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way

+1 877 283 0898

Monday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Tuesday12:30 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Wednesday12:30 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:0012:30 - 17:30
Sunday12:00 - 17:00
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Reviews

8.0 Very Good

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Told me to bring it back full

10.0 Wonderful

Sep 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Pick up and drop off

Cons:

Freee gas..... Haha

2.0 Poor

Jul 2023

KAYAK
Offer a refund if you don’t need the rental.

6.0 Okay

Oct 2022

KAYAK
The extra charges on my statement after I turned the car back in.

2.0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
They’re trying to charge me 400$ on top of what I already paid!!!

10.0 Wonderful

Mar 2022

KAYAK
It was a wonderful experience.

1 out of 3

Easirent

4.7

Mediocre

No reviews available

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

Bellingham International Airport

Opening times not available

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No reviews available

National

No score available yet

One location in Bellingham

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Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way

+1 360 714 0243

Monday09:00 - 22:00
Tuesday09:00 - 22:00
Wednesday09:00 - 22:00
Thursday09:00 - 22:00
Friday09:00 - 22:00
Saturday09:00 - 22:00
Sunday09:00 - 22:00
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No reviews available

Sunnycars

No score available yet

One location in Bellingham

Show locations

Locations in Bellingham

4255 Mitchell Way

Opening times not available

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Filters

No reviews available

140 travellers who rented a car in Bellingham gave the car agency they used an average rating of 4.8

Car hire locations in or near Bellingham

Good to know

Most popular agency

Thrifty

Most popular car type

Intermediate

Average price

$100/day

Good deal

$94/day

When to book a car hire in Bellingham

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches