Budget Reviews

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107 Reviews

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In the Car Rental Agency category

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90% users rated Terrible
2% users rated Poor
2% users rated Average
0% users rated Very Good
7% users rated Excellent
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R Redbud
52 days ago

Exceptional Service, Responsive Support, and No Hidden Costs – A Stellar Experience with Budget Car Rental

As a frequent traveler, I rely on car rental services for my transportation needs. During my recent trip to Florida, I had the pleasure of experiencing exceptional service from Budget Car Rental. From the moment I arrived at their Jacksonville, Fla. location to the drop-off at the Naples, Florida branch, every interaction with the staff was pleasant and efficient. One highlight of my experience was the seamless process of returning the car with a full tank of gas. Unlike my previous encounters with other rental companies, I did not encounter any erroneous charges for fuel. The attendant at the Fort Meyers airport promptly issued a receipt upon my request, and I was delighted to find that it accurately reflected the full tank return. What truly sets Budget Car Rental apart is their responsive customer support. When I needed to extend my rental period, the process was smooth and transparent. I appreciated their upfront approach, as there were no unexpected fees or ambiguous charges. Unlike my past experiences with other companies, Budget's pricing was straightforward, and I had full confidence in the accuracy and fairness of the final bill. In contrast to hidden fees and obscure charges, Budget Car Rental's billing was refreshingly transparent. There were no unexpected "change fees" or ambiguous line items. The absence of opaque charges allowed me to have peace of mind throughout my rental period, without the need to invest additional time and effort in deciphering the bill. Overall, my experience with Budget Car Rental was nothing short of exceptional. The absence of hidden costs, coupled with their responsive support, has earned my trust and loyalty. I highly recommend Budget Car Rental to fellow travelers, and I look forward to future journeys with a reliable and reputable car rental company.
T Tim Fuerth
54 days ago

Unforeseen Charges and Deceptive Practices: My Experience with Budget Rental Car

I recently had a disappointing encounter with Budget Rental Car that left me feeling misled and unfairly charged. Initially enticed by a $260 rate displayed online, I made the error of prepaying for my booking. However, to my dismay, I received an email shortly after, revealing an additional $123 in unexpected charges. Upon contacting their customer service to address this issue and cancel my reservation, I was informed that a $50 cancellation fee would apply due to my prepaid status. This policy seemed unjust, and I couldn't help but feel deceived by Budget Rental Car's practices. In light of this experience, I strongly advise against prepaying with Budget Rental Car, or perhaps even reconsidering renting from them altogether. The unpleasant nature of this encounter left me wishing I could assign a rating of zero stars. It's disheartening to encounter such practices, as trust and transparency are crucial in any customer-business relationship. Ultimately, my hopes are that others can learn from my experience and approach their car rental decisions with caution and discernment.
M Miss Hannah Ford
55 days ago

Resolving a Misunderstanding with Budget: A Lesson in Clarity and Communication

I recently had an experience with Budget that left me feeling frustrated and taken advantage of. Upon returning home from a trip, I noticed that additional charges had been applied to my card without my knowledge or consent. Confused and upset, I reached out to Budget to rectify the situation. After a thorough investigation, it became clear that there was a miscommunication at the rental desk. While I did sign for the extras, I was not adequately informed about the nature of these charges. It was explained to me that the additional fees were actually local taxes already included in the total, but the lack of transparency in the initial explanation led to a great deal of confusion. However, I must commend Budget for their responsiveness and willingness to address my concerns. The customer service representative I spoke with was empathetic, understanding, and took the time to listen to my side of the story. Ultimately, they acknowledged the misunderstanding and offered a resolution that left me satisfied. Moving forward, this experience has taught me the importance of clear and concise communication in all business transactions. While the initial situation was disappointing, the swift and considerate response from Budget helped restore my faith in their brand. I appreciate their efforts to make things right and ensure that future customers are not faced with similar misunderstandings. In conclusion, while my experience had its challenges, I am grateful for the opportunity to work through the issue with Budget and reach a positive outcome. It serves as a reminder that open dialogue and transparency are essential in providing exceptional customer service. Thank you, Budget, for addressing this matter with professionalism and understanding.
A Amanda Lærkner
55 days ago

Absolutely Outstanding Service – A Customer’s Delight!

Let me share my incredible experience with Budget.com - it was nothing short of exceptional! The team at Budget went above and beyond to ensure my rental needs were not just met, but exceeded. The service was prompt, efficient, and delivered with a genuine smile. From the seamless reservation process to the impeccable condition of the car, every aspect of my rental experience was top-notch. The staff exhibited professionalism and courtesy, making me feel valued and appreciated as a customer. I couldn't be more impressed with Budget.com and their commitment to providing outstanding customer service. If you're looking for a hassle-free and enjoyable car rental experience, Budget.com is the way to go! Thank you for setting the bar high and delivering excellence in every interaction.
J Jessica Orr
55 days ago

Exceptionally Disappointing Experience with Budget.com

As a frequent traveler, I rely heavily on car rental services, and I must say that my experience with Budget.com was exceptionally disappointing. Despite my initial excitement, I was dismayed to find out that the car I rented had issues, prompting me to return it the very next day. The situation worsened when I discovered that I was overcharged, and despite my attempts to resolve the matter, the customer service I encountered, particularly at the San Diego branch, was nothing short of dreadful. I had hoped for a smooth and hassle-free experience, but unfortunately, Budget.com fell short of my expectations. Regrettably, I have been left with no choice but to seek alternative car rental options in the future.
S Stephen Pickles
57 days ago

Transformed Travel Experience with Budget Car Rental at Grenoble Airport

I had the pleasure of renting a car from Budget at Grenoble airport, and despite a minor hiccup, my overall experience was incredibly positive. Upon arrival, I was offered an upgrade, and while there was a miscommunication regarding the cost, the Budget team promptly resolved the issue to my satisfaction. Despite my initial frustration, the customer service team went above and beyond to address my concerns and ensure that I left with a smile on my face. After reaching out to Budget's customer relations, I was pleasantly surprised by their responsiveness and dedication to customer satisfaction. Their willingness to understand my perspective and work towards a fair resolution truly impressed me. I eventually received a refund of €100, which highlighted Budget's commitment to making things right, even in challenging situations. While I initially felt hesitant due to some negative online reviews, my personal experience with Budget at Grenoble airport surpassed all expectations. The transparency, efficiency, and outstanding customer service exhibited by the Budget team transformed what could have been a frustrating situation into a valuable lesson in communication and problem-solving. I wholeheartedly recommend Budget Car Rental at Grenoble airport to anyone looking for a reliable and customer-centric car rental service. Thank you, Budget, for turning what could have been a disappointing experience into a memorable one filled with valuable insights and exceptional service.
L Lyndon Dofredo
58 days ago

Above and Beyond: How Budget Turned a Humiliating Experience into Unforgettable Customer Service

I recently had an unfortunate experience with Budget on the beautiful Greek Island of Mykonos. My family and I encountered a situation where the rental car attendants were unhelpful and unsympathetic towards us, which left us feeling embarrassed and frustrated. However, what happened next completely changed my perception of Budget. Upon returning to the States, I decided to reach out to Budget's Customer Service to express my disappointment. I was pleasantly surprised by the response I received. Not only did they listen to my concerns, but they also took swift action to remedy the situation. The personalized attention and genuine care they showed towards me and my family truly went above and beyond my expectations. I am deeply grateful for the outstanding customer service and support that Budget provided during a difficult time. They turned what started as a humiliating experience into an unforgettable display of empathy and professionalism. My faith in Budget has been entirely restored, and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone in need of reliable and compassionate car rental service. Thank you, Budget, for your exceptional dedication to your customers. #TA1671869
L Lyndon Dofredo
58 days ago

Empathetic Support and Exceptional Service

When my family and I had a challenging experience with Budget while renting a car on the stunning Greek Island of Mykonos, we felt disheartened and frustrated. The Budget Customer Service team's response to our concerns left us feeling let down. However, our disappointment was completely turned around when we reached out to Budget's Customer Service about the incident that occurred during our trip. Despite feeling ignored at first, we were pleasantly surprised by the empathetic and compassionate support we received. It was heartwarming to feel heard and understood as the team took the time to listen to our story and genuinely apologize for our unpleasant experience. Their exceptional service and willingness to rectify the situation went above and beyond our expectations, and we are truly grateful for their understanding and assistance. We truly appreciate the resolution provided, and it's comforting to know that Budget values their customers and strives to make things right. Thank you for turning a negative experience into a positive one. #GratefulCustomer
S steve beynon
58 days ago

Regretful Experience with Budget: Hidden Charges and Poor Customer Service

I deeply regret not checking Budget reviews before making my car rental reservation. My experience with Budget at Munich Airport through Rentalcars.com was nothing short of disappointing. Although Rentalcars.com assured me that all local charges were included, Budget added a hefty €109 local surcharge at the counter, leaving me bewildered and out of pocket. Upon my return, I took the issue up with Budget's customer service, providing evidence from my original booking that clearly stated the inclusion of local charges. However, they callously denied any wrongdoing. It's disheartening to see that many other customers have faced similar dishonest tactics, making me question if this is a deliberate scam or simply abysmal service. To make matters worse, the complexity of the invoice from Budget made it nearly impossible to discern the charges imposed by Rentalcars.com. This convoluted process seems intentional and only adds to the frustration and disillusionment. Considering the multitude of customers echoing the same grievances, there is a dire need for an Ombudsman to intervene and hold Budget accountable for their unscrupulous practices. My hope is that by sharing my experience, others can be spared from falling victim to such deceitful conduct.
S steve beynon
58 days ago

Regret-Free Booking with Budget: A Review You Can Trust

As a cautious traveler, I always do my research before booking, and I wish I had checked Budget reviews sooner. My recent experience at Munich Airport left me feeling deceived and out of pocket. Initially booking through Rentalcars.com, I was promised that all local charges were included in the price. However, upon arrival at the Budget counter, I was hit with an unexpected €109 local surcharge, which was not disclosed beforehand. Returning home, I immediately reached out to Budget customer service, armed with my original booking confirmation clearly stating no additional fees. To my dismay, they denied any wrongdoing, brushing off my concerns. Reading through countless similar reviews, it became apparent that this shady practice was not an isolated incident but rather a recurring trend. Whether intentional or a sheer lack of transparency, the end result remains - customers like me end up short-changed. What adds to the frustration is the convoluted invoicing system employed by Budget, making it nearly impossible to decipher the breakdown of charges. This deliberate complexity only serves to further confuse and mislead customers, leaving them questioning the validity of their expenses. With a growing chorus of dissatisfied voices echoing the same sentiment, there is a clear call for regulatory intervention to hold Budget accountable and put an end to these deceptive practices. Despite this disappointing experience, I urge fellow travelers to approach Budget with caution and validate every detail of their bookings. Trustworthy reviews can serve as a beacon of guidance amidst murky waters, helping you make informed decisions and avoid regrettable situations. Let my experience be a lesson - prioritize due diligence and transparency in your travel arrangements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
P Paul Caccamise
59 days ago

Exemplary Service and Reliable Communication: A Testimonial for Budget.com

I recently had the pleasure of using Budget.com for a car rental, and I must say, the experience was nothing short of exceptional. Not only was the process seamless and efficient, but the customer service was truly top-notch. From the moment I booked the car to the drop-off, every interaction with the Budget.com team was marked by professionalism and genuine care for my needs. What stood out the most was the reliable communication. Not once did I feel unheard or unimportant. The team promptly responded to all my inquiries and ensured that I had all the information I needed for a stress-free rental experience. One incident that particularly impressed me was when I returned the car with a full tank of gas. Despite the potential for misunderstandings in such situations, the Budget.com team handled it with utmost integrity. There were no surprise charges or attempts to swindle me. It was clear that honesty and transparency are deeply ingrained in their business practices. In addition to their stellar service, I was also pleasantly surprised by the attentiveness of Cody Wilson, Operations Manager. Not only was he incredibly helpful, but he also went above and beyond to ensure that my experience with Budget.com was nothing short of perfect. It's rare to come across such dedicated professionals who genuinely prioritize the satisfaction of their customers. I cannot recommend Budget.com enough for anyone in need of a reliable and trustworthy car rental service. Their commitment to excellence and their unwavering focus on customer satisfaction set them apart from the rest. Thank you, Budget.com, for setting the bar high and delivering an outstanding rental experience.
P Paul Caccamise
59 days ago

Above and Beyond: A Testimonial of Unrivaled Service at Budget.com

From the onset, Budget.com showcased signs of unparalleled service. Returning the rented car with a full tank of gas should have been routine, yet I was met with a shocking $145 charge for refueling. Despite my initial dismay towards this questionable practice, Budget.com swiftly rectified the situation with grace and professionalism, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction. The true test of a company's dedication lies in how they handle challenges. Despite encountering hurdles in reaching out for assistance, with numerous unanswered calls and emails, Budget.com persevered, ultimately proving their unwavering dedication to resolving customer issues promptly. In the midst of this journey, Cody Wilson, the Operations Manager, emerged as a pivotal figure. Despite initial communication challenges, his competence and dedication shone through as he diligently worked towards resolving the situation, showcasing a genuine commitment to customer care that transcended mere transactional interactions. Budget.com's commitment to rectifying mistakes, coupled with their proactive approach to customer service concerns, sets them apart as a beacon of excellence in the industry. It is rare to find a company that not only acknowledges their missteps but actively works towards resolving them, going above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. In a landscape where genuine care and dedication to customers can be hard to come by, Budget.com's unwavering commitment to resolving issues and prioritizing customer satisfaction is truly commendable. My experience, though challenging initially, ultimately underscored Budget.com's dedication to surpassing customer expectations and solidified my trust in their services.
L Leonid Lyublinski
59 days ago

Unforeseen Charges Turned My Business Travel Sour

I recently had a disappointing experience with Budget.com that left me feeling frustrated and taken advantage of. Despite my loyalty and increased business with them, I was shocked to find a sudden $20 late fee on my bill, seemingly for bringing them more business. This unexpected charge left a sour taste in my mouth and made me question their appreciation for my patronage. As a frequent business traveler, I value transparency and fairness in my interactions with car rental companies, and unfortunately, this experience fell short. I felt disheartened by this unforeseen penalty and its impact on my overall budget. As a result, I am considering taking my business elsewhere and exploring alternatives like Hertz or Enterprise. I hope that by sharing my experience, others can make informed decisions about where they choose to take their business. Transparency and fair treatment of customers are crucial in any industry, and I believe that my fellow travelers deserve better.
S Shervan
59 days ago

Overcoming Inconsistencies: A Personal Journey with Budget Car Rental

Unveiling the raw truth behind my recent encounter with Budget car rental through the Uber app, I found myself grappling with unanticipated challenges. As a fervent user of their services, my initial experience had been seamless, instilling a sense of trust and reliability. Therefore, I confidently proceeded with yet another booking, only to be blindsided by unforeseen hurdles. The vexing issue arose when the rental company, without prior notice, refused to release the vehicle to me due to the tenure of my driving license – an eligibility criterion obscured from clarity in both my initial rental transaction and the Uber app interface. The absence of transparent communication and consistency in policy adherence left me in a state of dismay. The repercussions were not merely emotional but also financial, with my futile journey to the pickup point resulting in incurred expenses amounting to nearly £40, coupled with the irrevocable loss of a crucial appointment. This puzzling ordeal unveiled a stark lack of upfront information dissemination, compelling me to question the integrity of the company's practices. In retrospect, a contemplative query lingers: if the company refrains from extending their services in the absence of payment, shouldn't they similarly refrain from enabling bookings that do not align with their fundamental prerequisites? This rhetorical question serves as a testament to the ordeal faced – a debacle that could have been averted through transparent policies and conscientious communication. In the wake of this disheartening experience, I grapple with disillusionment, pondering the dependability of their services. Despite the adversity encountered, I retain hope that my narrative serves as a catalyst for introspection and constructive evolution within the realms of customer service and operational transparency.
T Tim F
59 days ago

Impressed by Impeccable Car Cleanliness and Disappointed by Unexpected Charges

As a frequent traveler, I prioritize efficiency and cleanliness when renting a car. After a positive experience with Budget in the past, I recently returned to rent a car for a week-long business trip. The vehicle was in excellent condition, and I was impressed by its spotless interior and exterior. However, upon returning the car, I was unexpectedly charged a $100 cleaning fee. This came as a surprise, as I had made sure to maintain the car's cleanliness throughout my trip. As a loyal customer, this experience left me disappointed and questioning the transparency of their policies. While I truly appreciate the effort Budget puts into maintaining clean cars, the unforeseen charge has compelled me to reconsider my future rentals. As a result, I am reluctantly exploring other options, including returning to Hertz, as I value a service provider that upholds their promises and treats their customers fairly. I hope that Budget reevaluates their approach to unexpected charges, as transparency and consistency are crucial in building and maintaining customer loyalty.

Introduction

Budget.com is an online platform that offers rental car services to customers in the US and beyond. The service is known for its competitive prices and user-friendly platform that enables users to search, book, and pay for rental cars with ease. Launched in 1958, Budget Rent a Car has grown to become one of the leading car rental companies globally. With a presence in more than 120 countries, it offers a diverse selection of cars to cater to the needs of all types of travelers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Budget.com offers affordable car rental services, making it a suitable option for budget-conscious travelers.
  • The website is user-friendly, making it easy for users to navigate and make bookings.
  • Budget Rent a Car offers a wide selection of cars, including economy cars, SUVs, and luxury vehicles, to cater to the diverse needs of its customers.
  • Budget.com offers several promotions and discounts that allow customers to save on their car rentals.
  • The platform has excellent customer support that responds promptly to customer inquiries and concerns.
Cons:
  • Budget.com charges additional fees for car rentals, such as underage driver fees, fuel surcharges, and international driving permits.
  • The company does not offer hourly rentals, making it less flexible for customers who need a rental car for a short period.
  • The website does not offer a loyalty program, making it less attractive to customers who frequently rent cars.

User Experience

Budget.com offers a user-friendly platform that is easy to navigate, with a clear and simple layout that allows users to search for rental cars with ease. The site is optimized for mobile devices, making it accessible to users on the go. Customers can book rental cars using the website or the Budget mobile app, which offers an easy and convenient booking process.

Pricing and Value for Money

Budget Rent a Car offers affordable car rental services, with prices ranging from $20 to $200 per day, depending on the car type and rental period. The company also offers various promotions and discounts that allow customers to save on their bookings. Customers can save up to 35% on rentals by booking early, using discount codes or joining the Budget Fastbreak loyalty program.

Alternatives

Some alternatives to Budget.com for car rental services include Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and Thrifty. These companies offer similar car rental services, with competitive prices and various promotions and discounts. However, Budget.com stands out for its wide selection of car models and its emphasis on affordability.

Customer Service

Budget.com offers excellent customer service, with a responsive support team that promptly answers customer inquiries and concerns. Customers can contact the support team through various channels, including phone, email, live chat, and social media.

Product Quality and Selection

Budget Rent a Car offers a wide selection of car models, ranging from economy cars to luxury vehicles, to cater to the diverse needs of its customers. The cars are well-maintained and come with various features such as air conditioning, GPS navigation, and Bluetooth connectivity. Budget.com also offers additional services such as child safety seats, insurance, and roadside assistance.

Website Usability

Budget.com has a user-friendly website with a clear and simple layout that allows users to search, compare, and book rental cars with ease. The website is optimized to work on all devices, including desktops, tablets, and mobile phones. The platform is also secure, with SSL encryption and secure payment processing.

Returns and Exchanges

Budget.com has a flexible return policy that allows customers to return rental cars within 24 hours of the rental period. However, the company charges a fee for early returns, and customers may be subject to additional fees and charges if they return the car in a different location than the pickup location.

Promotions and Discounts

Budget.com offers various promotions and discounts, including an early booking discount, a summer rental discount, and a military discount. Customers can also join the Budget Fastbreak loyalty program, which offers exclusive discounts and benefits, including faster check-in and free rental days.

Reputation

Budget Rent a Car has a good reputation in the car rental industry, with positive reviews and ratings from customers. The company has won several awards for its customer service, reliability, and affordability, making it a trusted option for car rentals.

Payment Options

Budget.com accepts several payment options, including major credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards. Customers can also pay for their rentals using Budget Fastbreak points or a Budget gift card.

Loyalty Programs

Budget.com offers a loyalty program called Budget Fastbreak, which allows customers to earn points on their rentals and enjoy exclusive discounts and benefits. The program is free to join and offers a faster check-in process, free rental days, and other perks.

Customer Reviews

Budget Rent a Car has positive reviews and ratings from customers, with high scores for affordability, customer service, and selection of cars. Customers appreciate the company's competitive prices, reliable service, and flexible cancellation policies.

Community Involvement

Budget Rent a Car is involved in various community initiatives, including environmental conservation, education, and social welfare programs. The company sponsors various organizations and events, demonstrating its commitment to giving back to the community.

Shipping and Costs

Budget.com does not offer shipping services, as customers need to pick up their rental cars at a specified location. However, customers may be subject to additional fees and charges, such as fuel surcharges, underage driver fees, and international driving permits, which can increase the overall cost of renting a car.