Budget Car Rental at Las Vegas Car Rental Center good/bad?

Question

Has anyone rented a car recently from Buget Car Rental location at the Las Vegas AIrport Rental Center.

They have the best rates but reviews are just so bad. I'm thinking to make a second reservation with another rental company in case i get there and the budget line is crazy long or they try tacking on additonal fees as others have posted in reviews.

Did you have a good bad experience? Thanks.

Answer

You’re asking a very good — and common — question. The short answer: yes — you *can* rent from Budget at the Las Vegas Car Rental Center (on arrival at Las Vegas airport) — but people’s experiences recently are highly mixed. Many report serious frustrations, so your hesitation and plan to have a backup reservation with another company is very reasonable. Below is a detailed breakdown of what many renters have said about Budget – both the good and the bad — and what to watch out for if you go ahead with them.

What people often like about Budget in Las Vegas

Sometimes the cheapest base rates — Budget tends to advertise lower prices than many competitors, which appeals especially for short rentals or when comparing several weeks ahead.
There are occasional positive reviews — some renters report smooth pickup/drop-off, clean cars, and staff who helped sort out issues when the agency was “on” that day.

Common complaints / what seems to go wrong frequently

Very long wait times at check-in: Multiple reviewers say the desk lines can be extremely long — regardless of how early you are — even when other rental companies’ lines move quicker.
Pushy upsells (insurance, fuel packs, etc.): Many renters report heavy pressure to buy extra insurance or fuel-purchase plans — even when they already have their own coverage. Some say they were told by staff that the insurance was mandatory when it wasn’t.
Often the reserved car type isn’t honored: Several customers say they reserved a compact or SUV, but when they arrived were handed a larger, less economical car — sometimes without a price reduction or even explanation.
Reports of hidden fees or unexpected charges: Complaints include being charged fuel fees despite refueling the car themselves, or being billed extra for “cleaning” or “vehicle damage” after return — charges they dispute.
Vehicle maintenance / quality issues: Some renters say cars were poorly maintained, had leaks or mechanical issues, or arrived with cleanliness problems.
Poor or inconsistent customer service: Several reviewers describe rude, unhelpful staff who push sales, hastily process paperwork, or don’t properly document preexisting damage — which can lead to disputes when you return the car.

Why the mixed reviews — and what that means for you

There are days when Budget operates relatively smoothly, and if you’re lucky — especially with a FastBreak membership (or other loyalty/ pre-paid deal) — you may get in and out quickly with a decent car. But many reports show systemic problems: understaffed counters, aggressive upselling, unreliable fleet, and frequent billing disputes. The inconsistency seems to depend heavily on what day/time you arrive, how busy Las Vegas is, and even which employee you get at the counter.

What I’d do if I were you — my recommendation

Make the Budget reservation (if their rate is significantly lower) — but treat it as a “placeholder,” not a guarantee. Keep your backup reservation with another reputable rental company.
If you go with Budget, get a loyalty/fast-check-in program (e.g. FastBreak) so you can skip long lines.
Bring printed proof of your own insurance (or have a copy of your declarations page) before arrival — that’s often required to avoid being forced into paying their insurance upsell.
Inspect the car very carefully before driving away — check for dents, scratches, interior wear, cleanliness, fuel level, and photograph (or video) everything. That helps if they try to charge you for “damage” or “cleaning” later.
Avoid their “gas-return package” or fuel-up charges unless you want convenience and accept paying more; better to refuel yourself before returning.
If pickup lines are too long or the counter staff seems aggressive, be ready to abandon B-budget for your backup reservation — it’s not worth a ruined vacation start.

Bottom line: Budget at the Las Vegas Car Rental Center can work — and you might get a good deal — but only if things go right. The many negative reviews about hidden fees, poor service, and car/insurance hassles suggest it’s a risky bet if you go with no fallback. Your idea of having a backup reservation is smart and highly advisable. Personally, I’d say Budget is only worth it if you arrive well prepared (insurance proof, careful inspection, time buffer) — otherwise pick a rental provider with a stronger reputation for reliability and transparency.

Budget Car Rental at Las Vegas Car Rental Center good/bad?

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