At Avis we know that when it comes to hiring a car, our customers know they want great value, unrivalled service and a comprehensive range. But we also understand that with such an extensive fleet you can be spoilt for choice and deciding which car is exactly right for the trip you’re planning can be hard. That’s why we’ve created a checklist of questions to help make sure the car you rent with Avis fits your needs perfectly.
Who’s going?
The more people travelling, the bigger the rental car you’ll need. Avis’ extensive fleet has economical small cars, through medium family saloons to seven-seater people carriers. It’s a good idea to always book the biggest car in your budget range as space is a necessity. But remember that if you fill a people carrier to capacity, there probably won’t be enough room for everyone’s luggage. A seven-seater may be great value for a day trip, but two cars may be a better option for a holiday.
You’ll also need to consider the age of your travellers. While kids can nip easily into the back of a two-door rental car, older people may need a four-door option for easier access. Avis can supply baby and child seats on request – children up to about 11 years old will each need one. You can also use your own but if you’re not sure they will all fit in the car you intend to rent, call 0844 581 81 81; the Avis team is always happy to double check.
Where are you off to?
What seems like the ideal vehicle here in the UK may not cope with a much hotter or colder climate. Most Avis rental cars come with air conditioning/heating as standard and you can also book snow tyres or chains for skiing trips. Don’t forget to book continental cover if you are driving through Europe – you won’t need it if you are hiring and driving in just one country but its essential if you pass between one country and another. As you will be venturing into unfamiliar territory, Avis also provides GPS.
How many bags?
Don’t forget to allow enough space for your luggage and never underestimate how much people think they need, even for a short trip. A smaller car may seem like a saving, but may regret it after several hours with a bag on your lap or a box at your feet. Avis offer a range of estate cars with plenty of space for everything from boxes of student stuff – to boots and skis.
Are we there yet?
If you’re travelling a long way, or planning to tour around when you get there, why not insure an extra driver to share the driving? Or add a little luxury to your trip by choosing from the Avis Prestige range. These high quality executive cars will make the going just as good as the getting there.
What about cost?
You can check out the latest offers on car rental from Avis to find out which cars are available to suit your needs and your budget. Whatever your choice, you can still opt for any of the additional services that Avis is known for.
We hope this check list helps. Don’t forget to let us know if you think we have missed anything or if you have any other suggestions or questions.



November 5th, 2010 at 6:30 pm
I frequently need to hire a car one way from Home to a UK Airport or vice versa. Is there some scheme/tariff for such an occasion. Sometimes I have paid £57 for just a 3 hour rental which I think is a bit steep when I see your adverts for £16 a day if one rents for a week that is.
November 5th, 2010 at 6:31 pm
PS I am a Preferred Customer by the way.
November 9th, 2010 at 12:23 pm
Hi William,
The best scheme/tariff for this type of thing is called a “Holiday Transfer Rate” which can be booked through our normal reservation lines.
This rate brings down the one-way fee down to £10. Bookings should be from a downtown branch to an airport or vice versa. Ports (e.g. Southampton) are accepted also.
Please note this is only available for 1 day, 1 way rentals, both rentals must be booked at the same time and is only available for groups A, B, C, D, E, F & L
The rates you mention sounds like you are already getting this rate. Unfortunately the £16 per day are sale rates and won’t apply for one-ways.
I hope this helps,
Regards,
Michael.
February 17th, 2011 at 8:54 pm
What different types of large estates are currently on fleet?
Thanks.
February 21st, 2011 at 12:09 pm
Hello Phil,
When renting with Avis in the UK, we have the following large Station Wagon’s available:
Group H:
Skoda Octavia Sw
Saab 93 SW
Volkswagen Passat SW
We can’t guarntee make and model but you can always make a note for a preference when making the booking.
Hope this helps Phil.
Desiree – Reservations UK
February 28th, 2011 at 11:11 pm
Desiree – thanks, good to know. Some nice cars there. Are they well equipped, Diesels, cruise control, etc? I couldn’t see where to express a preference online though, maybe i was missing something?
Thanks!