Rental cars thru Costco in Phoenix

Question

We are Costco members and always used national because of work discounts. Now that I’m retired what is better. Alamo or Budget?

Answer

When choosing between Alamo and Budget for rental cars in Phoenix through Costco, there are a few factors to consider including pricing, convenience, vehicle selection, and overall customer experience. Both companies are owned by the same parent company (Avis Budget Group), but they cater to slightly different audiences.

Alamo:

Alamo is generally favored by leisure travelers and tends to have a straightforward rental process with minimal upsells.
Costco Alamo rates are often competitive, especially for vacationers looking for weekend or weekly rentals.
They have a reputation for easier in-and-out service at airports, which is convenient if you’re flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor.
Vehicle selection is usually broad, including compact, standard, SUVs, and minivans. Alamo often provides the option to choose your own car from the lot at many locations.

Budget:

Budget is often seen as a more business-oriented brand but still works well for leisure travelers.
Rates can sometimes be slightly lower than Alamo for similar vehicles, especially if booked through Costco promotions.
Customer service is generally good, but some reviews mention more upselling at the counter.
Vehicle selection is similar to Alamo, but in Phoenix, Budget locations may have a larger inventory of economy and standard cars.

Other considerations for Phoenix rentals through Costco:

Check both Alamo and Budget Costco pages for current promotions—sometimes Alamo offers added perks like free additional drivers, while Budget may include additional insurance coverage in the rate.
If you prefer a relaxed pickup experience and the ability to select your own car from the lot, Alamo is usually the better choice.
If your priority is saving a few dollars and you don’t mind a standard counter experience, Budget can be slightly cheaper.
Both companies have convenient airport locations at Phoenix Sky Harbor and offer shuttle service from terminals if the lot is offsite.

In summary, for retirees or leisure travelers looking for convenience, ease of use, and a relaxed counter experience, Alamo is often the preferred choice. Budget may edge out on price occasionally, but the differences are usually modest when booked through Costco.

Rental cars thru Costco in Phoenix

More Phoenix Travel Questions

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions