Planning a road trip or need a reliable vehicle for your business travel? Avis Car Rental has been a trusted name in the car rental industry for nearly 80 years, offering quality vehicles and exceptional service. But why pay full price when you can save big with the right discount codes and insider strategies?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you how to unlock substantial savings on your next Avis rental, explore the best current deals, and share expert tips that could save you hundreds of dollars.
What Makes Avis Car Rental Stand Out?
Founded in 1946 at Willow Run Airport in Michigan, Avis has grown from a three-car operation to become one of the largest car rental companies globally. As part of the Avis Budget Group, the company operates in North America, South America, Europe, India, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Avis distinguishes itself through several key advantages:
- Airport Convenience: Avis was the first car rental company to establish operations at airports, making it incredibly convenient for travelers
- Extensive Vehicle Selection: From compact economy cars to luxury sedans and premium SUVs, Avis offers vehicles for every need and budget
- Avis Preferred Program: Skip the counter and go straight to your car with expedited service at most locations
- Best Rate Guarantee: If you find a lower rate elsewhere within 24 hours, Avis will match it and give you an additional 10% discount
How to Find and Use Avis Discount Codes
Understanding Avis Discount Code Types
Avis offers two main types of discount codes: AWD numbers (Avis Worldwide Discount) and coupon codes. Understanding how to use these can maximize your savings:
AWD Numbers: These are special discount codes that provide percentage discounts on your base rental rate. They're often tied to corporate partnerships, membership programs, or special promotions.
Coupon Codes: These typically offer specific dollar amounts off or additional benefits like free rental days or upgrades.
Step-by-Step: Applying Your Discount Code
Discount codes must be applied at the beginning of your transaction, not at the end. Here's how to do it correctly:
- Visit the Avis website or CouponReals.com to find active discount codes
- Enter your pick-up and return locations, dates, and times
- Look for the "Discount Codes" tab below the date and time fields
- Enter your AWD number and/or coupon code
- Click "Select My Car" or "Continue" to see your discounted rate
Pro Tip: You can stack AWD numbers with coupon codes, but you cannot combine multiple AWD numbers or multiple coupon codes in a single reservation.
Current Avis Deals and Promotions (2025)
Here are some of the most valuable ways to save on your Avis rental:
Membership Discounts
AARP Members: Seniors can enjoy significant savings on base rates plus earn credits toward future rentals
Military Discount: Active-duty service members, veterans, National Guard, and Reservists can save up to 35% on Pay Now rates through the WeSalute program
AAA Members: Auto club members receive exclusive discounted rates
Special Promotions
- Weekly Rentals: Save up to 25% off when renting for 5 days or more
- Pay Now Rates: Prepaid reservations can save up to 35% with the Lowest Price Guarantee
- Email Sign-Up: Get 25% off your first rental when you subscribe to the Avis newsletter
- Upgrade Offers: Free upgrades are frequently available when booking certain vehicle classes
Seasonal Savings
Watch for enhanced discounts during:
- Holiday weekends and major travel periods
- Off-peak seasons in popular destinations
- Last-minute booking specials
Insider Tips to Save Even More
1. Avoid Airport Rental Fees
Renting from downtown locations instead of airports can save over $100 by avoiding airport rental car fees. Consider taking public transportation or a rideshare to an off-airport Avis location.
2. Leverage the Best Rate Guarantee
If you find a lower Avis rate on another website, submit a claim within 24 hours of your reservation. Avis will match the rate and provide an additional 10% discount when you choose the Pay Now option.
3. Join Avis Preferred for Free
The Avis Preferred program offers:
- Expedited service at most locations
- Ability to earn points on every rental dollar
- Skip the counter and go straight to your vehicle
- Exclusive access to member-only deals
- Points redeemable for free rental days
4. Book in Advance
Generally, booking your rental car 2-3 weeks in advance provides better rates than last-minute bookings, though Avis occasionally offers last-minute deals for immediate travel.
5. Compare Vehicle Classes
Sometimes, mid-size or full-size vehicles are priced similarly to economy cars due to fleet availability. Always check multiple vehicle categories before booking.
6. Consider Rental Duration
Longer rentals often provide better daily rates. If you're deciding between a 4-day or 7-day rental, the weekly rate might offer significant per-day savings.
7. Decline Unnecessary Add-Ons
Review your personal auto insurance and credit card benefits before purchasing additional coverage at the rental counter. Many credit cards provide rental car insurance when you use them to pay for the rental.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Hidden Fees: Watch out for airport concession fees, customer facility charges, and young driver surcharges (typically for renters under 25)
Fuel Policies: Always return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid expensive refueling charges
Mileage Limits: Confirm whether your rental includes unlimited mileage or has restrictions
Additional Driver Fees: Some memberships and promotions waive fees for additional drivers, but standard rentals may charge daily
One-Way Rentals: These often incur substantial drop-off fees, so round-trip rentals are usually more economical
The Best Times to Rent from Avis
Peak Season Considerations
During major holidays and summer vacation periods, book as far in advance as possible. Demand is high, prices increase, and vehicle availability becomes limited. Peak periods include:
- Thanksgiving week
- Christmas and New Year's
- Spring Break
- Summer months (June-August)
Off-Peak Opportunities
You'll find the best deals during:
- January and February (post-holiday slowdown)
- September and October (after summer travel)
- Weekdays versus weekends in leisure destinations
- Mid-week rentals in business travel cities
Avis Preferred Rewards Program Explained
The Avis Preferred program offers three tiers: Blue, Plus, and President's Club. Benefits increase with each tier:
Blue (Entry Level):
- Expedited service
- Point earning on eligible rentals
- Profile storage of preferences and payment information
Plus (Mid-Tier):
- Priority service
- Enhanced point earning
- Confirmed vehicle class guarantee
President's Club (Top Tier):
- Highest priority service
- Maximum point acceleration
- Complimentary upgrades when available
- Dedicated customer service line
Points can be redeemed for free rental days, upgrades, and accessories like GPS units or child safety seats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get the best deal on an Avis rental?
Start by checking CouponReals.com for the latest Avis discount codes and AWD numbers. Combine these with membership discounts (AARP, AAA, military), book in advance, and consider off-airport locations to avoid extra fees. The Best Rate Guarantee ensures you're getting the lowest available price.
Can I stack multiple Avis discount codes?
Yes and no. You can combine one AWD number with one coupon code, but you cannot use multiple AWD numbers or multiple coupon codes on the same reservation. Choose the combination that provides the greatest discount.
Does Avis offer discounts for AAA or AARP members?
Absolutely! Both AAA and AARP members receive special discounted rates on Avis rentals. AARP members also earn credits toward future rentals. Simply provide your membership number when booking to access these exclusive rates.
What is an Avis AWD number?
An AWD (Avis Worldwide Discount) number is a special code that provides discounted rates on car rentals. These numbers are typically associated with corporate accounts, membership organizations, or promotional partnerships. They're entered during the booking process to apply the discount to your base rental rate.
How far in advance should I book my Avis rental?
For the best rates and vehicle selection, book 2-4 weeks in advance. However, last-minute deals occasionally appear for immediate travel. Holiday periods and peak travel seasons require even earlier booking—ideally 1-2 months ahead.
What's included in the Avis Best Rate Guarantee?
If you book directly with Avis and then find a lower rate for the same rental on another website within 24 hours, Avis will match that rate and provide an additional 10% discount when you select the Pay Now option. This applies to identical rental terms, dates, and vehicle classes.
Are there age restrictions for renting from Avis?
The minimum rental age is typically 25 years old, though this varies by location. Renters between 21-24 years old can usually rent but will incur an additional daily young renter surcharge. Some locations may have different age requirements.
Can I modify or cancel my Avis reservation?
Most Avis reservations can be modified or cancelled without penalty, especially if you choose the standard pay-at-counter option. However, Pay Now rates (which offer discounts) may have different cancellation policies. Some offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up, while others may be non-refundable.
Does Avis offer one-way rentals?
Yes, Avis allows one-way rentals where you pick up the vehicle at one location and return it to another. However, be aware that one-way rentals typically incur additional fees, which can be substantial depending on the distance and locations involved.
How do I earn and redeem Avis Preferred points?
Join the free Avis Preferred program and you'll earn points on every eligible dollar spent. Points can be redeemed for free rental days, upgrades, and accessories. The earning rate increases as you move up through the program tiers.
What types of vehicles does Avis offer?
Avis maintains a diverse fleet including economy cars, compact vehicles, intermediate and full-size sedans, SUVs (small to large), minivans, luxury vehicles, and premium models. Availability varies by location, but major airports and cities typically offer the widest selection.
Is insurance necessary when renting from Avis?
Before purchasing insurance at the counter, check your personal auto insurance policy and credit card benefits. Many credit cards provide collision damage coverage for rental cars when you use the card to pay for the rental. Your personal auto insurance may also extend to rental vehicles.
Make Your Booking Count
Renting a car from Avis doesn't have to break your travel budget. By utilizing discount codes, understanding the timing of promotions, and following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can significantly reduce your rental costs while enjoying the quality and convenience Avis is known for.
