Key Facts

• Some airport rental branches operate around the clock, while others shorten hours or close on holidays.
• Budget’s Paine Field airport branch lists closures on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day in 2026; SIXT’s San Francisco airport location lists public holiday hours and 24-hour returns.
• A 24-hour return option does not guarantee that a counter will be open for pickup.
• Enterprise, National and Alamo say participating airport branches may stay open up to two hours past closing for delayed customers who supplied valid flight information.
• Those companies say delayed-flight reservations remain valid for 24 hours after the scheduled pickup time, but that does not guarantee staff will be available all night.
• After-hours returns are allowed only at locations that offer the service; some companies say charges and customer responsibility continue until the branch reopens and checks the vehicle.
• The article advises travelers to confirm branch procedures and document the car’s condition, fuel level and mileage before an after-hours return.