Book Budget car rental
Budget positions itself on price rather than premium service, and is a sensible option when the vehicle simply needs to do a job. It also rents moving trucks in some markets, which most competitors do not.
Rental brand
BD
USA / GlobalWhat Budget is known for
Competitive headline pricing for leisure renters, plus a moving-truck arm alongside the passenger fleet.
Tends to suit
- Cost-conscious trips
- Leisure travel
- Moving and hauling
Vehicles and categories
Mainstream cars and SUVs, generally a little older on average than the premium brands, which is part of how the pricing works.
Because the headline rate is the selling point, it is worth checking what is excluded. We set out the extras before you commit so the final figure is not a surprise.
Popular Budget pick-up points
Locations our customers ask about most. Coverage changes, so we confirm your branch and its opening hours before booking.
- Cancun
- Guadalajara
- Houston
- Los Angeles
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
Before you book
These apply to every rental company, Budget included, and they are where most unexpected charges come from.
What you need to collect a car
A full driving licence held for the operator's minimum period, a payment card in the main driver's name for the security hold, and photo ID or a passport when renting abroad. Some countries also ask for an International Driving Permit alongside your home licence.
How insurance and excess work
Rentals include basic cover with an excess - the amount you are liable for if the car is damaged. You can reduce it at the counter, through a separate policy, or sometimes through your own credit card. We explain the options; the choice stays yours.
Fuel policies
Full-to-full is usually the fairest: you collect a full tank and return it full. Prepaid fuel only pays off if you return the car close to empty. We tell you which policy applies before you book.
Driver age and extra drivers
Drivers under 25 often face a young-driver surcharge and are restricted from larger or premium categories. Additional drivers must be registered and usually carry a daily fee. Tell us who is driving and we will price it properly.
How to request a Budget car
Use the search above to set your pick-up point, dates and collection times, then send the request. Tell us the group size, how much luggage you have and who is driving. Our team checks what is available, confirms the total including extras, and only then arranges the booking. No payment is taken on this website.
Budget questions
Why is the advertised rate lower than the final price?
Headline rates typically exclude taxes, airport fees, insurance and extras. We quote you the realistic total rather than the teaser figure.
Is the cheapest option always the best value?
Not always. A slightly higher rate with fuel and insurance included can work out cheaper than a low base rate with everything added at the counter. We will show you both.
Can I rent a moving truck?
In some markets, yes. Availability varies considerably by country and branch, so ask us and we will check your specific location.
Travelzeo is an independent travel agency. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorised agent of the rental companies named on this page, and all trademarks belong to their respective owners. These guides are provided for information only. Vehicle availability, rates and rental terms are set by the rental company and confirmed with you before any booking is made.