Fort Myers Airport Car Rental, Directions & Nearby Travel Options
Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), commonly referred to as Fort Myers Airport, is the main gateway to Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Sanibel Island, Naples, and the wider Gulf Coast region. Its compact layout, modern facilities, and easy access to on-site car rental make it especially convenient for visitors who want to start exploring right after landing.
Whether you are planning a beach holiday, a golf getaway, or a business trip, choosing a car rental Fort Myers airport service is one of the simplest ways to stay flexible and comfortable during your stay. Below you will find detailed directions to the rental car center, a list of available companies, and practical information on alternative transport options, nearby hotels, and travel tips.
Getting Oriented at Fort Myers Airport (RSW)
Fort Myers Airport has a single main terminal building with multiple concourses (B, C, and D). All concourses share the same central arrivals and departures halls, which makes navigation straightforward:
- Departures – upper level with airline check-in counters and security.
- Arrivals & baggage claim – lower level, where you collect your luggage and exit to ground transportation.
- Parking garage & car rental center – directly across the road from the terminal, connected by short, clearly marked walkways.
Most ground transportation, including rental cars, taxis, hotel shuttles, and rideshares, is located immediately outside the arrivals level, so you can reach everything with only a short walk.
Fort Myers Airport Location & Map
Where to Find the Car Rental Area at Fort Myers Airport
The main car rental facility at RSW is located on-airport, on the ground level of the parking garage directly opposite the terminal. Car rental desks are easy to reach and feel like an extension of the terminal itself – you do not need to take a shuttle bus or tram if you are renting from one of the on-site companies.
Step-by-step directions from arrivals and baggage claim
- After landing, follow the signs to Baggage Claim on the lower level.
- Once you have collected your luggage, look for overhead signs reading Rental Cars or Car Rental.
- Exit the terminal through the doors leading to the parking garage and ground transportation area. These are located just beyond the baggage claim belts.
- Use the marked pedestrian crosswalks across the roadway. You will see clear signs pointing to the Rental Car Center.
- Enter the parking garage at ground level, where the rental counters are lined up next to each other. The actual vehicles are parked in dedicated areas within the same garage, just a short walk from the desks.
The walk from baggage claim to the rental car counters usually takes only 3–5 minutes, making it very convenient to rent a car Fort Myers airport immediately after you arrive.
On-Airport Car Rental Companies at RSW
The airport hosts a number of major brands, so finding the right vehicle class and deal is usually straightforward. Companies typically operating within the on-airport rental car center at Fort Myers include:
- Alamo
- Avis
- Budget
- Dollar
- Enterprise
- Hertz
- National
- Payless
- Sixt
- Thrifty
All of these counters are located side by side in the same area of the parking garage, so you can easily compare options or find your pre-booked provider. For the best Fort Myers airport car hire deals, it is wise to reserve online before your trip, especially in peak season.
Off-Airport Car Hire Near Fort Myers Airport
If you are looking for cheap car hire Fort Myers airport options, you might also consider off-airport providers. Several independent and budget brands operate close to the terminal, in the surrounding commercial zones along Treeline Avenue, Daniels Parkway, and Interstate 75.
These companies are not inside the parking garage but offer free shuttle buses from the terminal to their offices. Look for the designated Off-Airport Rental Car pick-up area along the curb outside the arrivals level. Typical off-airport brands may include regional agencies and discount operators that can offer competitive prices, especially for longer rentals.
How to Reach the Rental Area: Walking & Shuttles
Walking to the on-airport rental car center
For rentals booked with on-site companies, walking is the only transfer you need. The route is flat, short, and well signed:
- Use elevators or escalators from the concourse level to baggage claim if needed.
- Follow Rental Cars icons to the nearest exit.
- Cross at the marked pedestrian crossings to the parking garage.
- Enter the garage and proceed to the row of rental counters.
The walk is generally suitable for travelers with wheeled luggage and families. Accessible routes and elevators are available for passengers with reduced mobility.
Shuttle buses to off-airport rental companies
If your confirmation shows an off-site address, you will be met by a branded shuttle:
- After leaving baggage claim, head to the Rental Car Shuttle or Off-Airport Shuttle signs.
- Wait at the designated curbside zone for your company’s bus, which usually runs every 10–15 minutes.
- The ride to most off-airport locations takes around 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Tips for Picking Up and Returning Your Rental Car
To make your car rental Fort Myers airport experience as smooth as possible, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Have documents ready: Keep your driver’s license, credit card, and booking confirmation at hand before you reach the desk.
- Check your pick-up location: Confirm whether your reservation is on-airport (inside the parking garage) or with a company providing shuttle service.
- Inspect the vehicle: Before driving away, walk around the car, note any existing scratches or damage, and ensure this is recorded on the rental agreement.
- Understand tolls: Southwest Florida roads, including some routes toward Miami or Tampa, may use electronic tolling. Ask the agent how tolls are handled and what transponder options are available.
- Fuel policy: Clarify if your plan is full-to-full or pre-purchase. If you need to refuel, note that there are several gas stations along Treeline Avenue and Daniels Parkway, just a few minutes from the airport.
- Allow extra time when returning: At the end of your trip, follow signs for Rental Car Return as you approach RSW. The return area is in the same parking garage. Allow at least 20–30 minutes before check-in, more at busy times.
- Keep the rental paperwork: Save your final contract and fuel receipts until you’ve checked your final invoice.
Other Transport Options from Fort Myers Airport
While many travelers choose to rent a car Fort Myers airport for flexibility, several other options are available if you prefer not to drive.
Taxis
Licensed taxis are available just outside the arrivals hall. They operate on a metered or zone fare basis, with fixed pricing to popular neighborhoods in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and nearby beach communities. Taxis are convenient for direct transfers but can become expensive for longer stays compared with car hire.
Rideshare services
Rideshare apps such as Uber and Lyft typically operate at RSW. Dedicated pick-up zones are clearly signposted near the arrivals curb. Book a ride once you have your luggage, and the app will guide you to the exact meeting point.
Public buses
LeeTran, the local public bus network, connects Fort Myers Airport with parts of the city via specific routes (for example, services linking to Daniels Parkway and US-41). Bus stops are usually located in the ground transportation area. Public buses are the most economical option, but journey times can be significantly longer, and services may be limited on evenings and weekends.
Hotel shuttles
Many hotels near RSW operate complimentary shuttle buses to and from the terminal. These typically pick up passengers outside the arrivals level; check in advance with your hotel for schedules and pick-up procedures.
Trains and long-distance connections
There is currently no passenger train station at Fort Myers Airport or in downtown Fort Myers. Travelers needing rail connections usually transfer via larger cities such as Tampa, Orlando, or Miami by car, bus, or shuttle. This is one reason why a car hire near Fort Myers airport is particularly helpful for regional travel.
Why Renting a Car at Fort Myers Airport Makes Sense
Southwest Florida is spread out, with beaches, nature reserves, and residential communities located miles apart. Having your own vehicle makes it much easier to explore:
- Beaches and islands: Drive to Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel Island, Captiva, and Bonita Springs at your own pace, stopping at viewpoints along the way.
- City and shopping: Visit downtown Fort Myers, Cape Coral, or shopping hubs such as Gulf Coast Town Center and Miromar Outlets.
- Day trips: Enjoy short drives to Naples, Marco Island, or the Everglades without relying on tour schedules.
Opting to rent a car Fort Myers airport allows you to travel directly from the terminal to your hotel, villa, or meeting, with no need to coordinate multiple transfers. Compared to relying on taxis or rideshares for every journey, a rental car is often more cost-effective and comfortable for couples, families, or groups staying several days.
Hotels Close to Fort Myers Airport
If you have an early flight or arrive late at night, staying near the airport can be very convenient. Popular hotels within a 5–10 minute drive include:
- Hampton Inn Fort Myers-Airport & I-75
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Fort Myers Airport/FGCU
- Four Points by Sheraton Fort Myers Airport
- Courtyard by Marriott Fort Myers I-75/Gulf Coast Town Center
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Myers Airport
Many of these properties offer free airport shuttles, but having a rental car makes checking in, dining out, and heading to the beach the next morning much easier. You can pick up your car at the airport, drive to your hotel, and be ready to explore first thing the next day.
How to Find the Best Fort Myers Airport Car Hire Deals
To secure the most attractive Fort Myers airport car hire deals, consider the following strategies:
- Book early: Prices usually rise as you get closer to your travel dates, especially in winter and spring when Southwest Florida is busiest.
- Compare on-airport and off-airport providers: On-airport pickups are more convenient, while some off-site outlets may offer lower daily rates for cheap car hire Fort Myers airport options.
- Adjust your times: Sometimes shifting pick-up or drop-off by a few hours can avoid extra day charges.
- Check mileage and extras: Most hires come with unlimited mileage, but always confirm. Compare the cost of extras such as GPS, child seats, and additional drivers.
- Look for package deals: Bundling flights, accommodation, and a car rental Fort Myers airport in a single booking can occasionally unlock better rates.
Plan Ahead and Book Your Car Rental Online
Fort Myers and the surrounding Gulf Coast are best enjoyed at your own pace, and a rental car is one of the easiest ways to make that happen. By arranging your vehicle in advance, you can arrive at RSW knowing that your chosen car category is reserved, paperwork is minimized, and all you have to do is follow the signs to the rental car center.
Whether you are looking for a compact city runabout, a spacious SUV for family trips, or a convertible for scenic coastal drives, booking online before you travel helps secure better availability and pricing. With a wide choice of on-site companies and additional car hire near Fort Myers airport providers just a short shuttle ride away, it is simple to find a vehicle that fits your budget and itinerary.
Reserve early, compare Fort Myers airport car hire deals, and enjoy the freedom to go from plane to beach, city, or nature reserve in comfort and on your own schedule.