Yes, you can return a rental car to Long Beach Airport (LGB). All major rental car companies operating at LGB—including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget—have their facilities conveniently located on-site. The process is straightforward: simply follow the airport signs for "Rental Car Return," which will direct you to the dedicated rental car return area adjacent to the main terminal.
The key advantage of an on-airport return is the proximity to the terminal. After dropping off the car, it's typically just a short walk to the check-in counters. However, it's crucial to be aware of the operating hours. If your flight is very early in the morning or late at night, you'll need to confirm if the rental counter is open for an after-hours drop-off. Each company has specific procedures for this, often involving locking the keys in a designated drop box and taking detailed photos of the car's condition for your records.
To ensure a smooth experience, always check your rental agreement for the exact return location and any specific instructions. Here is a quick reference for the major companies at LGB:
| Rental Company | On-Airport Location | After-Hours Drop-Off Available? | Estimated Walk to Terminal |
|---|
| Enterprise | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 2-3 minutes |
| Hertz | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 3-4 minutes |
| Avis | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 2-3 minutes |
| Budget | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 3-4 minutes |
| Alamo | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 2-3 minutes |
| National | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 2-3 minutes |
| Dollar | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 3-4 minutes |
| Thrifty | Yes | Yes, with key drop | 3-4 minutes |
Before you leave the vehicle, do a final walk-around to make sure you haven't left any personal belongings. Also, keep your rental contract handy until you receive a final receipt, usually emailed to you shortly after return.
