CAR RENTAL REVIEWS ON BUDGET AT PORTLAND AIRPORT, PDX

It was my first time renting a car in the US. At pickup, they asked if I needed to purchase various insurances, but I didn't. Wanted a small Ford, and with the staff's help, successfully changed the car. Midway, had a flat tire, and my phone had no signal. Communication was difficult when I got back to a big city, so I decided to go to a rental point for face-to-face help. The staff helped me switch to a new red Dodge. As for the tire, they said someone might contact me about compensation, but friends said it should be fine. When returning the car, there is no shuttle bus from 01:00-04:00. As I had an early flight, I returned the car around 5:00. There aren't many 24-hour gas stations near Portland, so I recommend checking Google Maps and calling ahead to avoid last-minute rush. Returning the car was very smooth; they just took a look and printed out my receipt. Overall, it was a good experience.

The counter staff on pick up was very helpful sorting thru a slight problem that I caused by booking on the UK site instead of the US.

Very convenient, the rental process is simple.

Satisfied

I booked a Dodge Avenger, but they said it wasn't available and gave me a Corolla instead. I understand that an exact match can't always be guaranteed, but grouping a Dodge Avenger with a 2.4L engine and a Toyota Corolla with a 1.8L engine into the same category doesn't seem logical. They offered an upgrade and insurance when I picked up the car, but I declined. The return process was very quick, and overall, the service was professional. There's a 7-Eleven convenience store to the north of the branch that provides fuel.

Arrived at the airport at 1 AM. Despite having provided flight number, arrival time, and pickup time when booking, I was told at the pickup point that the Budget staff had already left and I needed to take a shuttle to a further pickup location. Waited for the shuttle for half an hour but it didn’t arrive. Called but no one answered. Finally, airport staff told me I could pick up the car from Avis since they are related companies. Ended up getting the car after 2 AM. Terrible company; avoid if you have a late flight!!!

Well-organized and satisfactory, a bit unfamiliar with the self-service operation

The company offered us a free upgrade to an SUV which was really helpful

Like: Car came from major company but for less money and no discernible drop off fee. No brainer. I travel a lot.
Dislike: Perfect experience

Like: comfortable, modern amenities, plenty of room
Dislike: We didn't get to have insurance because for some reason our reservation went through a British company!