How to Return a Rental Car at Memanbetsu Airport | Fueling and Vehicle drop-off Checklist

How to Return a Rental Car at Memanbetsu Airport | Fueling and Vehicle drop-off Checklist

As the final day of your trip to eastern Hokkaido approaches, many of you are probably wondering when to drop-off the vehicle, where to fill up on gas, and how to get back to the airport after returning the car.

At Memanbetsu Airport, the vehicle drop-off process varies depending on the rental car company. Some companies provide shuttle service to the airport after you return the vehicle at the branch, while others may have different return locations and procedures. In addition, returning to the airport from destinations such as Shiretoko, Lake Akan, Lake Mashu, and Lake Kussharo often involves long driving distances. To make sure you catch your flight without stress, it is important to allow plenty of time on your final day of travel. If you would like to learn about the process of renting a car, please also check this article.

Related Article ▶ How to Rent a Car at Memanbetsu Airport | From Arrival to Departure

The Typical Process for Returning a Rental Car at Memanbetsu Airport

The Typical Process for Returning a Rental Car at Memanbetsu Airport

① Plan your trip to the rental office based on your flight schedule

On the return day, make sure to consider not only your flight departure time but also the time required for the return procedures at the branch and the transfer to the airport. If you are returning from areas such as Shiretoko or Lake Akan, travel time may take longer than expected depending on road conditions and weather. To enjoy your trip until the very end without rushing, it is recommended to leave with plenty of extra time.

② Return the Car with a Full Tank of Gas

Many rental car companies require vehicles to be returned with a full tank of gas. Make sure to refuel at a gas station near the rental office or at a designated gas station before returning the vehicle. You may be asked to provide the fuel receipt, so it is recommended to keep it until the return process is complete. ※Vehicle drop-off conditions vary depending on the rental car company, so please check the information provided at the time of contract.

③ Check the Vehicle for Any Belongings Left Behind

Before returning the car, make sure to check the inside of the vehicle. Commonly forgotten items include:

  • ETC cards
  • Smartphones
  • Wallets
  • Sunglasses
  • Souvenirs
  • Drinks

Be sure to check under the seats, in the door pockets, and in the trunk as well.

④ Vehicle Inspection and Vehicle drop-off Procedures

At the branch, staff will check the condition of the vehicle and complete the return procedures. After returning the car, follow the rental car company's instructions to make your way to the airport. Some companies provide shuttle services, but the vehicle drop-off process and transportation methods vary by company, so it is recommended to confirm the details when making your reservation.

Points to Check Before Returning Your Rental Car

Plan Your Schedule with Long-Distance Travel in Mind

Eastern Hokkaido has long distances between sightseeing destinations, and returning to Memanbetsu Airport from areas such as Shiretoko and Lake Akan may take considerable time. On your final day of travel, avoid packing in too many sightseeing plans and allow plenty of time so you can return the car without stress.

Refuel Early

Some areas have fewer gas stations once you leave urban areas. Instead of assuming that you can refuel near the rental office, it is recommended to fill up the tank with plenty of time to spare.

Be Careful Not to Leave Your ETC Card Behind

One of the most commonly forgotten items when returning a rental car is the ETC card. Before returning the vehicle, check it together with your wallet and smartphone, and make one final inspection of the car interior to ensure nothing has been left behind.

Summary

When returning a rental car at Memanbetsu Airport, it is important to plan your schedule by considering not only your flight time but also the travel time from destinations such as Shiretoko and Lake Akan to the airport. The vehicle drop-off process and shuttle service to the airport vary depending on the rental car company, so checking the details in advance will help ensure a smooth experience on the day.

Remember to refuel the vehicle and check for any belongings left behind, so you can enjoy your eastern Hokkaido trip with peace of mind right until the end.

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