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Avis or Alamo at LAX?

Got good prices for both Alamo as Avis. Which one to choose at LAX and why?

Thank you!

Both Avis and Alamo are reputable car rental companies at LAX, and your choice may depend on your priorities such as convenience, fleet availability, loyalty programs, and ease of service. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Location & Shuttle:

  • At LAX, all rental companies operate from the centralized Rental Car Center (RCC). You will need to take the free LAX shuttle from your terminal, which stops at every terminal approximately every 10–15 minutes.
  • Both Avis and Alamo are equally accessible from the shuttle, so there’s no significant difference in location convenience.

Fleet & Vehicle Selection:

  • Avis is known for a wide range of vehicles including luxury options, hybrids, and SUVs.
  • Alamo typically offers competitive rates for economy and standard vehicles, and they often have larger vehicles for family travel at good prices.
  • If you have a specific vehicle type in mind, check which company has it available for your dates.

Customer Experience & Ease:

  • Alamo is generally praised for quick pick-up and return procedures, which can be a plus if you want to get on the road quickly.
  • Avis sometimes requires a bit more paperwork or upsell options, but they have a solid reputation for customer service.
  • If you’re a member of Avis Preferred or Alamo Insider, you can skip lines and speed up the rental process.

Pricing & Insurance:

  • Compare the total cost including taxes, fees, and insurance. Sometimes Alamo appears cheaper at first glance but charges more for certain add-ons.
  • Check your own car insurance and credit card coverage—this can save you money by declining the rental company’s insurance.

Other Considerations:

  • If you are traveling with family and want a straightforward experience with minimal hassle, Alamo is often recommended for its simplicity.
  • If you prefer more vehicle choices or have a loyalty program membership that can earn points or upgrades, Avis may be the better choice.

In summary, if your priority is quick service and competitive rates, Alamo is slightly better for most travelers at LAX. If vehicle selection or loyalty perks are more important, Avis may be preferable. Both are safe and reliable, so you can’t go wrong either way.

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