Budget Reviews

Voted Terrible (2/5)

229 Votes

40 Reviews

Vote Now

Pie-Chart Analysis

70% users rated Terrible
23% users rated Poor
0% users rated Average
0% users rated Very Good
8% users rated Excellent
Write a review
E Euro-matic UK Ltd
76 days ago

Unforgettable Experience with Budget Car Rental: A Cautionary Tale

I couldn't help but share my recent experience with Budget Car Rental LAX - it's something I never want anyone else to endure. As a long-time customer, I was shocked by the overcharging and lack of service. Upon arriving to pick up my pre-booked mid-sized SUV, I was informed that none were available. Instead, I was offered a Chevrolet Silverado 4x4 open back truck, which proved to be incredibly impractical for my business trip, and resulted in my luggage getting soaked between hotels. Despite declining optional extras, I was convinced to accept unlimited toll charges, only to discover that there were no tolls on my route. To make matters worse, the return process was a nightmare. After filling up just 3 miles from the airport, I expected a reasonable charge for tolls. However, I was shocked to see a whopping $485.50 in additional charges, including $142 for tolls, $97 for roadside assistance, and an astounding $190 for fuel. It's an understatement to call this scandalous. The following weeks were spent in a frustrating dispute with QEEQ, despite providing evidence of the fuel purchase mere minutes before the vehicle drop-off. The lack of resolution from Budget Car Rental is disappointing, and I am considering legal action if this issue isn't addressed promptly. I sincerely hope this serves as a cautionary tale for others. Budget Car Rental should be held accountable for their unacceptable practices, and I implore them to rectify this situation.
L lili85412541
82 days ago

The Truth About Administrative Costs

I couldn't help but share my honest experience with budget.co.uk. Recently, I found myself in a situation where fines were involved. To my dismay, instead of receiving a notification and the opportunity to address the issue, they simply deducted a hefty amount directly from my bank account without any prior explanation or documentation. To add insult to injury, the sum taken was double the original fine, all under the guise of "administrative fees." Shockingly, I was charged £65 instead of the original £35, leaving me feeling deceived and taken advantage of. Despite carefully reviewing the general terms and conditions, there was no mention of such exorbitant charges. It's disheartening to say the least, and it's a regrettable situation that no one should have to endure.
T Tom
109 days ago

Going the Extra Mile: A Heartfelt Experience with Budget.co.uk Luton Airport

When I arrived at Luton Airport to pick up my rental car from Budget.co.uk, I was met with a warm welcome and excellent customer service. The rental process was smooth, and the quality of the car surpassed my expectations. However, a small mishap left me disappointed. Unfortunately, I accidentally left behind some personal belongings in the car. What ensued was a frustrating experience of trying to retrieve my lost items. Despite my best efforts to reach the desk by phone and through customer services, I hit a dead end. The lack of response left me feeling disheartened. When I personally visited the desk, the initial suggestion that a staff member might have taken my belongings only added to my distress. The offer of someone else's lost property and the unfulfilled promise to check thoroughly and follow up the next day further compounded my disappointment. As days passed without any communication, I took it upon myself to follow up via email, hoping for a resolution. The lack of response and urgency was truly disheartening. Undoubtedly, this experience left me less than impressed with Budget's handling of the situation. Despite this setback, I can't deny the exceptional service I received from the staff during the rental process. The warmth and helpfulness they extended to me did not go unnoticed. In the future, I hope that Budget.co.uk Luton Airport takes proactive measures to improve their lost and found procedures, ensuring that customers who inadvertently leave behind personal items are met with the same level of care and attention that they provide during the rental process.
N Nadeem Abbas Haider
116 days ago

Outstanding Service and Trustworthy Staff

I can't express how grateful I am for the exceptional service I received from budget.co.uk. When I was assigned Sara to handle my case, I was blown away by her professionalism and trustworthiness. She not only guided me through the process but also did so in the most positive and reassuring manner. I am absolutely delighted with the way she handled everything. A big thank you to Sara and the entire company for their exemplary service!
K Kostas
125 days ago

Exceptional Service Beyond Expectations

I can't thank budget.co.uk enough for their exceptional service. I had a booking with them, and unfortunately, they called me a day before to inform me that there was an issue with the address check, preventing me from being able to rent the car. Despite my initial frustration, their staff went above and beyond to assist me, offering a thorough explanation for the address check failure and working diligently to find a solution. Their dedication to customer satisfaction truly impressed me, and I am grateful for their proactive approach in resolving the issue. This experience has solidified my trust in Budget, and I will definitely be a returning customer. Thank you for the exemplary service!
J John Beagley
131 days ago

Bad practice of Budget rent a car

Wow, what a nightmare it was to deal with Budget rent a car. I had booked a car online to pick up at Luton Airport, and my email confirmation clearly showed that I had CDW and Windscreen cover included. The cost for the two-day rental of the lowest group car, a Fiat 500, was £60.38. Little did I know that the real headache was yet to come. I received a call from Budget's checking team, informing me that in the event of an incident, I would have to pay a whopping £1730. Imagine my shock! To add insult to injury, they offered to waive this fee for an extra £38. This was nothing short of a bait-and-switch tactic, completely contradicting their claim of being the cheapest car rental service on Google. What's more, they had the audacity to call me just after 5 pm the day before I was supposed to pick up the vehicle. It left me utterly disappointed and disgusted with their unscrupulous service. I could never recommend Budget rent a car after my terrible experience. It's essential for companies to uphold their promises and provide transparent, reliable service, which Budget failed to deliver. Save yourself the hassle and look elsewhere for your car rental needs.
J John Beagley
131 days ago

Exceptional Service and Support from Budget Rent a Car!

I can't say enough about my recent experience with Budget Rent a Car. From the moment I arrived at Luton Airport to pick up my rental, to the seamless online booking process, I was thoroughly impressed. The email confirmation clearly outlined the inclusions, such as CDW and Windscreen cover, giving me peace of mind. What truly stood out was the exceptional support I received from their checking team. They reached out to inform me about an optional extra for added protection in case of an incident, which I found extremely valuable. The transparency and willingness to provide me with all the information I needed truly set them apart. I also appreciated the affordability of the rental, especially for a two-day booking with the lowest group car. The efficiency of the entire process was remarkable, and I felt confident knowing that I was in good hands. I can confidently say that Budget Rent a Car delivered on their promise of exceptional service and affordability. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and trustworthy car rental company. Thank you, Budget, for making my trip stress-free and enjoyable!
S Stephen Kettley
140 days ago

Uncovering the Truth: A Cautionary Tale with Budget.co.uk

My experience with Budget.co.uk was initially marred by unexpected additional charges that weren't fully disclosed upfront. Despite being informed of a surcharge for airport pickup in Orlando, I was taken aback when it amounted to £20. To add to this, I opted to prepay for tolls, expecting convenience, only to discover upon receiving my final invoice that I had only used £30 of the £275 paid. This revelation only surfaced after returning home, leaving me feeling blindsided and wishing for more transparent communication regarding these potential hidden extras. It's a cautionary tale to dig deeper into the fine print and ask probing questions to avoid similar surprises.
S Stephen Kettley
140 days ago

Discover the True Cost: A Cautionary Tale with Budget.co.uk

Embarking on a journey is often filled with excitement, but sometimes hidden costs can cast a shadow on your experience. My recent encounter with Budget.co.uk, specifically at Orlando airport, unveiled unexpected expenses that marred my overall impression. The initial thrill of picking up my rental car was quickly dampened when I was informed about a surcharge for airport pickup, amounting to £20. However, the real shock came when I opted to prepay for tolls, leading to a whopping £275 charge, despite only using £30 worth during my trip. It was disheartening to realize these hidden extras only surfaced when I received my final invoice back home. The lack of transparent communication left a bitter taste in an otherwise exhilarating adventure. While Budget.co.uk may offer competitive rates, the undisclosed fees and surprises along the way overshadowed the positive aspects of my rental experience. Proceed with caution and be vigilant to uncover any hidden costs before committing to avoid any post-travel surprises.
A Andrew Gunn
141 days ago

Phoned to discuss why the huge increase…

I cannot express how grateful I am for the exceptional service provided by budget.co.uk. After experiencing a significant increase in my motor insurance policy, I called their customer service for assistance. The representative I spoke to not only patiently listened to my concerns but also proactively took steps to explore the possibility of securing a lower premium for me. Though there was a brief moment of being put on hold, the professionalism and dedication of the representative shone through. Despite the background noise, which I found disruptive, the genuine effort to help me was evident. However, I did decide to end the call due to the distraction caused by the commotion in the background. While that particular moment was challenging, I must highlight the outstanding service I received initially. The genuine willingness to assist and the courteous manner in which my concerns were addressed truly resonated with me. I highly appreciate the sincere effort and commitment displayed by the team at budget.co.uk. It is this level of dedication that solidifies my trust in their services and reaffirms my decision to continue doing business with them. Thank you for going above and beyond to assist me during a challenging time.
A Andrew Gunn
141 days ago

Transformed by Exceptional Customer Service: My Unforgettable Experience with Budget.co.uk

My encounter with Budget.co.uk started off on a rocky note when I called in to inquire about a significant spike in my motor insurance premium. However, what ensued completely shifted my perspective. Upon dialing their customer service, I was greeted promptly by a friendly representative who attentively listened to my concerns. Demonstrating genuine care, she assured me that she would explore the possibility of securing a lower premium for me. Despite this promising start, my patience was put to the test as I was placed on hold amidst a tumult of background noise. As minutes passed, I found myself surrounded by inconsiderate laughter and chatter emanating from the background. Frustrated by the lack of professionalism exhibited in this cacophony, I felt my optimism wane. Ultimately, unable to bear the disruptive atmosphere any longer, I regrettably decided to end the call prematurely. Reflecting on this experience, I can't help but label it as a moment marred by disappointment and unprofessionalism. Such distractions should never overshadow the pivotal discussions customers engage in when seeking assistance. However, despite this setback, I find solace in the potential for improvement. I believe that with a more conducive and respectful environment, Budget.co.uk has the capacity to elevate their customer service to unparalleled heights. In a world where exceptional service is the differentiator, even amidst challenges, I remain hopeful for a transformation towards excellence. In the end, this encounter serves as a reminder of the importance of seamless communication and professionalism, elements that truly define a remarkable customer experience.
M Mark Quilliam
161 days ago

Scammers Con Artists

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had a wonderful experience with budget.co.uk. I recently booked a car through Rentalcars.com with an annual excess cover policy. The pick-up from Budget/Avis offsite at Murcia Airport went smoothly, and I was all set to go on my adventure. However, upon returning home, I noticed some unexpected charges for excess insurance and windscreen cover in the email receipt. Feeling confused and frustrated, I reached out to Budget's customer service. To my relief, they handled the situation with the utmost professionalism and courtesy. They quickly addressed the issue, refunded the extra charges, and explained the misunderstanding. I am genuinely impressed by Budget's dedication to customer satisfaction. Despite the initial hiccup, their prompt and efficient resolution not only eased my concerns but also reinstated my trust in their service. I highly appreciate their transparency and commitment to resolving issues, which has left me as a satisfied and loyal customer. Thank you, Budget, for going above and beyond to rectify the situation. I will not hesitate to choose Budget for my future car rental needs and recommend their services to friends and family. Keep up the excellent work!
M Mark Quilliam
161 days ago

Turning Misfortune Into Trust: A Review of Budget.co.uk

As a seasoned traveler, I pride myself on thorough research before booking any services, especially car rentals. My recent experience with Budget.co.uk, however, left me feeling vulnerable and taken advantage of. Despite booking through a reputable platform like Rentalcars.com and securing an annual excess cover policy separately, my optimism quickly turned to dismay. Upon arriving at Murcia Airport to pick up my rental from Budget/Avis, I was greeted with efficiency but lacked transparency. The rental process was swift, almost too swift, as I was handed a small box to sign without much explanation, with promises of detailed information to be sent via email later. It was only upon returning home after a wonderful holiday that I discovered unauthorized charges - excess insurance and windscreen cover - added without my consent. The total, a staggering £249.41, left me in disbelief. Determined to address this issue, I embarked on a series of email exchanges with Budget.co.uk, only to be met with evasion and dismissive responses. Frustrated and feeling deceived, I couldn't help but feel compelled to raise awareness about such unethical practices. This experience serves as a cautionary tale for fellow travelers, shedding light on the importance of vigilance and holding companies accountable for their actions. While I may have stumbled upon the dark side of customer service with Budget.co.uk, I refuse to let this setback tarnish my spirit of adventure. As I consider my next steps, including the possibility of seeking justice through the Small Claims Court, I remain hopeful that my voice, along with others who have faced similar predicaments, will bring about positive change in the industry. Let us turn this misfortune into an opportunity to demand transparency, integrity, and trust from car rental providers like Budget.co.uk.
D David
169 days ago

My Unforgettable Experience with Budget.co.uk: A Cautionary Tale of Deceptive Charges and Disappointment

Let me share my candid feedback about my recent experience with Budget.co.uk Avis/Budget car rentals. At first, everything seemed fine and dandy, but as I delved deeper, the unpleasant truth unraveled. During my second encounter with them, I was shocked to discover an unexpected charge of £152 for "optional" insurance, despite having already purchased full insurance through booking.com. To add insult to injury, I was never given the choice to opt into any additional insurance, yet they unscrupulously slapped me with the extra cost. What's more, as I stood in that dimly lit booth, they slyly coerced me into signing multiple documents. Little did I realize that one of those signatures would inadvertently bind me to the ambiguous and deliberately obscured "optional charges" tucked away in minuscule, faded-out lettering. To call it deceitful would be an understatement. To make matters worse, they cunningly extracted my credit card details under the guise of a deposit, only to exploit them for unjust gains. It's a disgraceful display of dishonesty and downright theft. This ordeal has left me deeply disillusioned and compelled to caution others against falling victim to their deceptive tactics. I implore you to heed my warning and exercise utmost vigilance when dealing with Budget.co.uk. Trust me, it's not worth the risk, no matter how careful you may be.
D David
169 days ago

Why You Should Never Overlook Choosing the Best Car Company: A Cautionary Tale

After a disappointing experience with Avis/Budget car rentals, I can't help but warn others about the pitfalls of disregarding the importance of choosing a reputable car rental company. At first, everything seemed fine - just like the many glowing reviews out there. However, my second encounter told a completely different story. To my shock, I was slapped with a hefty £152 charge for "optional" insurance, despite having already purchased full insurance through booking.com. What's worse, I never consented to any additional charges or agreed to any so-called "optional" insurance. As I reflect on the ordeal, I can't help but feel cheated. During the rental process, I was handed a stack of paperwork and asked to sign multiple documents in a dimly lit booth. Upon closer inspection, I discovered that one of my unsuspecting signatures was strategically placed next to innocuous phrases like "additional information," with minute, faded-out lettering buried in brackets - a sneaky tactic to covertly secure my consent to the optional charges. What's more, the rental company unscrupulously requested my credit card details under the guise of a deposit, only to exploit this information for their underhanded schemes. It's disheartening to realize that I fell victim to their deceptive tactics and was left feeling utterly disgraced by the entire ordeal. In the end, I implore you to learn from my unfortunate experience and prioritize the choice of a reliable, top-rated car rental company, no matter the initial cost. Trust me when I say that the peace of mind and transparency they offer is truly priceless. Don't let yourself become another statistic of deceit and manipulation.

Introduction

Budget.co.uk is a leading car rental company in the United Kingdom, offering a wide range of vehicles at affordable prices. With a strong reputation and extensive network of locations, Budget.co.uk aims to provide convenient and reliable transportation solutions for both leisure and business travelers.

Pros

  • Competitive Prices: Budget.co.uk offers competitive rates on car rentals, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious customers.
  • Extensive Vehicle Selection: The company boasts a diverse fleet of vehicles, ranging from economy cars to luxury vehicles, ensuring that customers can find the perfect vehicle to suit their needs.
  • Convenient Locations: With numerous rental locations across the UK, Budget.co.uk makes it easy for customers to pick up and drop off their rental cars.
  • Online Booking: The user-friendly website allows customers to quickly and easily book their car rentals online, saving them time and hassle.

Cons

  • Additional Fees: While the base rental rates are affordable, customers should be aware that additional fees for extras such as GPS or child seats may apply, potentially increasing the overall cost.
  • Limited Customer Service Hours: Phone support is only available during specific hours, which may be inconvenient for customers requiring assistance outside of these times.

User Experience

Budget.co.uk provides a seamless user experience, with a well-designed and easy-to-navigate website. The online booking process is intuitive, allowing customers to select their rental dates, vehicle type, and any additional extras they may require. The website also provides useful information about each vehicle category, helping users make informed decisions. Overall, the user experience is efficient and straightforward.

Pricing and Value for Money

Budget.co.uk offers competitive prices, making it a great option for customers seeking affordable car rentals. The company frequently runs special promotions and discounts, providing even better value for money. However, customers should be aware of potential additional fees for optional extras, which can impact the overall cost.

Customer Service

Budget.co.uk provides adequate customer service, although the availability of phone support is limited to specific hours. However, the company does offer a comprehensive FAQ section on their website, addressing common queries and concerns. Additionally, customers can reach out to Budget.co.uk via email or an online contact form for assistance.

Product Quality and Selection

Budget.co.uk maintains a high standard of vehicle quality and ensures regular maintenance and inspections. Their diverse selection of vehicles caters to a wide range of needs, offering options suitable for individuals, families, and business travelers.

Website Usability

The Budget.co.uk website is user-friendly and well-organized, making it easy for customers to search for and book their desired car rental. The responsive design allows for seamless browsing on various devices, including mobile phones and tablets. The website's search and filtering options help customers quickly find the most suitable vehicle for their requirements.

Returns and Exchanges

Budget.co.uk has clear policies regarding returns and exchanges. Customers can typically modify or cancel their reservations without incurring any fees, as long as they do so within the specified time frames. It is important to review the terms and conditions associated with each booking and contact Budget.co.uk directly for any specific concerns.

Promotions and Discounts

Budget.co.uk frequently offers promotions and discounts, providing customers with the opportunity to save on their car rentals. These offers may include discounted rates, free upgrades, or additional benefits. To take advantage of these promotions, customers should regularly check the website or subscribe to the Budget.co.uk newsletter.

Reputation

Budget.co.uk has established a strong reputation in the car rental industry, known for providing reliable and affordable services. With a focus on customer satisfaction, the company has garnered positive reviews and testimonials from many satisfied customers. Budget.co.uk is recognized as a reputable and trustworthy car rental provider in the UK.

Payment Options

Budget.co.uk offers various payment options to cater to customers' preferences. Accepted methods of payment typically include major credit cards, debit cards, and electronic bank transfers. Customers can select their preferred payment method during the online booking process, providing flexibility and convenience.

Loyalty Programs

Budget.co.uk offers a loyalty program known as Budget Fastbreak, which provides members with exclusive benefits and rewards. Upon enrollment, members enjoy expedited rental services, discounted rates, and access to special promotions. This loyalty program is particularly advantageous for frequent travelers who desire a seamless and personalized car rental experience.

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews of Budget.co.uk are largely positive, with many highlighting the company's reliable service, competitive prices, and well-maintained vehicles. Customers appreciate the ease of booking and the efficient pickup and drop-off process. Others commend the helpful and professional staff, who ensure a smooth rental experience.

Community Involvement

Budget.co.uk demonstrates community involvement through initiatives that promote sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company actively seeks to reduce its carbon footprint and implements initiatives such as car-sharing programs and promoting fuel-efficient vehicles. By doing so, Budget.co.uk shows its commitment to the community and the environment.

Shipping and Costs

As a car rental company, Budget.co.uk does not involve shipping of physical products. Customers are required to pick up and return their rental vehicles at designated rental locations. The costs associated with renting a vehicle from Budget.co.uk are transparent, and all applicable fees, including taxes and additional extras, should be clearly outlined during the booking process.