Car rental in USA Vermont

Why rent a car in Vermont

Vermont is a rural state with limited public transport between towns. Burlington's Church Street is easy to explore on foot, but a car is much easier for reaching ski resorts, covered bridges, farm stands, and small villages like Stowe and Woodstock. With a rental car, you can follow scenic backroads, especially during the autumn foliage season.

Tips for finding a cheap car rental in Vermont

Looking for a cheap car rental in Vermont? With EconomyBookings, you can easily compare multiple providers to find the best possible deal in Vermont, whether you pick up at Burlington Airport or elsewhere in the state. For winter ski trips, an SUV may be worth comparing for snowy mountain roads.

• Compare pickup locations - Select the broader city instead of a specific location to unlock more deal options, including potential off-airport savings.
• Slightly adjust pickup times and dates - Even changing your booking by an hour can reveal lower rates.
• Choose economy or compact cars - These vehicle types are usually the most budget-friendly.
• Consider both price and availability - Rental prices are often lowest 2-31 days before pickup, but booking earlier may give you a better choice of cars, especially during busy periods.
• Use free cancellation to look for a better deal - If your booking includes free cancellation, you can keep checking prices and rebook if you find a better deal.

Car rental requirements in Vermont

Requirements can vary by rental supplier, but you'll generally need the following when picking up a rental car in Vermont:

• Driving licence - A valid licence from your home country is generally accepted for visitors. If your licence is not in English, bring an International Driving Permit (IDP) or official translation, as some suppliers may ask for one. US drivers only need their valid state license.
• Passport or ID - International visitors should bring a valid passport. US residents can use a valid driver's license as photo ID.
• Payment card - A credit card in the main driver's name is usually required for the deposit. Accepted card types and deposit amounts vary by supplier.
• Booking voucher - Have your EconomyBookings voucher ready, either digital or printed if the supplier requires it.
• Insurance - Basic liability cover is required by state law, but what is included in the rental price varies by supplier. Check whether your booking includes liability and damage cover, and consider supplemental liability protection, especially if you don't have US car insurance.

Always check your rental terms before pickup, as licence, age, deposit, payment, and insurance requirements can vary by supplier.

Driving in Vermont

Parking

In downtown Burlington, there are public garages near Church Street, and street meters can be paid at the meter or with a pay-by-phone app. In winter, cities may announce parking bans during snowstorms, so check local notices. In most small towns, ski resorts, and attractions, parking is usually easy and often free.

Tolls

Vermont has no toll roads, so you can drive across the state without paying tolls. If your trip continues into neighbouring states such as New Hampshire or Massachusetts, ask your rental supplier at pickup how any tolls are billed.

Road conditions & driving culture

Main roads are in good condition, but many rural roads are unpaved, and in spring, during mud season, some may become difficult to drive, so check your rental terms before leaving paved roads. Mountain passes such as Smugglers' Notch may close in winter. Snow and ice are common from November to April, and moose may cross roads, especially at dawn and dusk.

Popular road trips from Vermont

Vermont is ideal for slow, scenic drives. Popular road trips from Burlington include:

• Shelburne - approx. 15 minutes, a large outdoor museum and a working farm by Lake Champlain.
• Stowe - approx. 45 minutes, a classic ski town with mountain trails and cafes.
• Lake Champlain Islands - approx. 45 minutes, island villages, orchards, and lake views.
• Woodstock - approx. 2 hours, a picturesque village with covered bridges and historic farms.
• Boston - approx. 3.5 hours, a historic city in Massachusetts. Check your supplier's policy on travel to other states.

Final checklist before you pick up your rental car in Vermont

• Bring your documents - Driving licence (plus IDP if applicable), passport or ID, booking voucher, and the payment card required by your rental supplier.
• Check your rental terms - Review the deposit, fuel policy, mileage, insurance coverage, and any additional fees before signing.
• Confirm cross-border travel - Most suppliers allow travel to neighbouring states, but if you plan to drive into Canada (Quebec), confirm permission and any extra fees in advance and bring a valid passport.
• Inspect the car - Take clear photos and videos of the vehicle before leaving and make sure any existing damage is recorded on the rental agreement.