Avis travel context

Review

Avis Review: Paying More to Skip the Counter

A newer fleet, faster pickup, and the most dependable one-way inventory among the majors.

Updated
August 2026
Author
The Modern Rutter Editorial
Score
8.4 / 10
Avis logo

Quick verdict

Avis charges a premium and mostly delivers on it: shorter counter time, newer cars, and better one-way availability. If your trip is time-sensitive, that premium is usually the right buy.

Best for
Business travel
Best for
One-way road trips
Best for
Late arrivals at busy airports

Pros

  • Loyalty tier lets you skip the counter at most large airports
  • Newer fleet and better midweek upgrade odds
  • Reliable one-way and out-of-state drop-offs
  • Consistent airport coverage nationwide

Cons

  • Base rates above value brands
  • Prepaid fuel and upsells are rarely good value
  • Peak-season rates spike hard in leisure markets

Pricing

What it costs

Typically $52 to $95 per day at major airports
Taxes and airport concession fees add 20 to 30 percent
Weekly rates are often cheaper than five separate days

Features

What you get

  • Counter bypass for members
  • One-way rentals
  • Additional-driver options
  • App-based pickup and return

Ease of use

Living with it on a trip

The app plus member profile is the fastest pickup flow of the big three when it works as intended.

Alternatives

What else to consider

Budget logo

Budget

Lower daily rate on the same kind of trip if you can absorb a counter wait.

Amtrak logo

Amtrak

If both ends of your trip are walkable downtowns, skip the car entirely.

Final verdict

Choose Avis when timing and one-way flexibility matter more than the last $15 per day.

FAQ

Common questions

Who should use Avis?

Travelers whose schedule is worth more than $15 per day, and anyone doing a one-way drive.

How much does it cost?

Typically $52 to $95 per day at major airports Taxes and airport concession fees add 20 to 30 percent Weekly rates are often cheaper than five separate days

Is it easy to use?

The app plus member profile is the fastest pickup flow of the big three when it works as intended.