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Budget Car Hire Reviewed

Budget Locations

Befitting a company of its size Budget offer over 200,000 cars in 3,350 locations in over 120 countries. They are strong in offering airport locations which are normally situated in or close to the terminal.

Clarity of Information on the Budget website

The Budget website is easy to use, and by going through 'Extras' and then 'Additional Cover' you will find all the information you need to make an informed decision. You can even add in Roadside Assistance Plus.

Budget do provide the details around both mandatory and additional covers, although it has to be said the detail takes a bit of reading through.

Why use Budget?

Apart from the wide range of locations, strong brand, good airport coverage and good quality fleet they are often the most competitive of the major rental companies.

The company charge no credit card fees - meaning you can get the extra protection booking which a credit card provides at no extra cost.

Budget Premier - The company have a premium car hire range offering executive cars, sports cars and 4x4 SUV’s for hire in the UK. All of these have Sat Navs fitted (which are included within the rental price). Cars brands offered include Audi, BMW, Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes and Jaguar.

Where using Budget has both advantages and disadvantages

Discounts for prepayment. Budget do give a discount for prepaid rentals - which is good news. Pre paid agreements can normally be cancelled as long as it's more than 24 hours before you were due to collect your car, subject to a £20 fee. You can also amend your booking more than 24 hours ahead of pickup, although no refund will be paid if the amended cost is lower (and you have to pay the extra if it's higher).

Pay on collection arrangements have more flexibility but cost slightly more.

If you do think you might need to amend or cancel a booking on a Budget car think about booking through a broker such as Clarify Car Hire , who advise which company you are booking with but then offer free cancellation or amendment right up to 48 hours before pickup.

Insurance

Budget specify the excess levels and costs of protection policies when you click on their 'Extras' and 'Additional Cover' link. It is worthwhile checking these carefully as the costs of excess cover can be significant.

For more information see our Budget Insurance Information pages.

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This content was last reviewed on 03/10/2023