Getting the best deal on a car or van rental can be challenging. This article outlines current offers and restrictions on Budget’s best rate guarantee, free day rental, and free upgrade options for car and van rentals. Understanding these details will help you secure the most affordable and convenient rental for your needs.
Understanding Budget’s Best Rate Guarantee for Cars & Vans
Budget offers a best rate guarantee for car and van rentals booked through their website. To qualify, create or log in to your Budget.com account. However, there are several important exceptions to note:
- Competitor Rates: Rates from other rental companies (e.g., Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Sixt) are excluded.
- Discounted Rates: Pre-negotiated, group, government, corporate, tour, insurance replacement, and other discounted rates do not qualify.
- Package Deals: Rentals included in travel packages (e.g., flight + hotel + car) are ineligible.
- Auction/Wholesale Sites: Rates from sites that hide the rental company until after purchase are not covered.
- Membership-Based Sites: Rates requiring membership logins are excluded.
Free Day Car & Van Rental After 3 Days
Rent an intermediate (group C) to full-size four-door (group E) car or van for at least three days and get one day free on the time and mileage charges. Keep in mind:
- Extra Costs: Taxes, concession recovery fees, customer facility charges (e.g., $10/contract in California), and fuel are not included. Optional extras like LDW insurance also apply.
- Additional Charges: You are responsible for charges exceeding the free day.
- Restrictions: This offer is unavailable for one-way rentals, cannot be combined with other discounts, and is valid only at participating Budget locations in the contiguous U.S. (excluding the New York Metro area). Blackout dates may apply.
- Booking Requirements: An advance reservation with a linked profile number is mandatory. Reservations must be canceled by the rental date to avoid coupon usage. Vehicle availability varies. The free day is applied at the time of rental for Budget.com bookings. Budget may change terms and refuse or expire coupons without notice. Coupons cannot be applied retroactively. Standard age, driver, and credit requirements apply, including potential surcharges for drivers under 25. This offer expires on December 31, 2023.
Free Car & Van Upgrade Options
Enjoy a free one-car-class upgrade when booking a compact to full-size four-door car or van, subject to availability at the time of rental.
Conclusion
Budget offers various deals on car and van rentals, including a best rate guarantee, a free rental day, and free upgrades. However, understanding the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions is crucial to maximize your savings. Carefully review the details before booking your next car or van rental to ensure you get the best possible deal.
