Already booked with Budget - some questions

[Zaby]

I have already made a booking of a compact 2 door with Budget (silver option) via UScarhire.co.uk. I probably should have asked these questions BEFORE booking but hey ho.

Our flight arrives at 18:27 and I have told Budget that we would be at the desk by 19:00. We will already have gone through US customs in Phillie, so I thought this would be enough time to get through internal checks and grab our bags. Do you think this will be enough time? And would there be an issue if we couldn't get to the Budget desk until 19:30 or laterg? I know that hire companies can be picky.

Also I booked the compact car (plenty for 2 people) knowing it would likely be a Focus, but ideally I'd prefer the free upgrade to a G6. Reason I booked the compact was because I'm a tight Scot and I wanted to save £30, given the reasonable chance I'd get upgraded for free. Does anyone know the most popular class of car and what the likelyhood is of there being mid-size cars left at the start of June? Is the 'free upgrade' offer just sales waffle, or do they actually upgrade regularly? The more I think about it, the more I'd prefer the G6 in terms of road size and comfort and I'm wondering if I can change my booking to be sure (Roger - is that possible?)

Also, if we did have to take a Focus, what age will the car be? Reason I ask is I note the new shape (and rather attractive) 2008 US focus, which I'd prefer over the older looking version.

Lastly, what is the provision of local gas stations like at MCO? Silver option requires us to fill tank on return, and I'm just wondering the closest garage to the Budget returns area.

Thanks as always.

[roger]

The times you have given will be fine - it may take slightly over half an hour even without immigration but won't be far off.

Most people do get the free upgrade from Compact to Intermediate (which could be one of several models including Pontiac, Mustang and Sebring).

If you prefer to upgrade specifically before you go then you can upgrade to the Intermediate but then you will most likely be given an upgrade to Full Size (something like a Ford Taurus). You could then opt not to take the free upgrade and stick with the Intermediate car if you prefer what they offer you on the Intermediate.

[sundowner]

We always book with Budget through this site and have never had problems arriving early or late when getting our car, which has always been an upgrade.

The cars are pretty new (our last one only had approx 12 miles on the clock) and in very good condition.

I am sure you will not be disappointed.

[SteveandJan]

I have used Budget twice and got an upgrade once to a 4x4.

You won't be disappointed

[Zaby]

Thanks for the input. Good to hear positive stories re Budget.

I think I'll stick with the Compact and hope for an upgrade. After all, a Focus will be plenty spacious and comfortable for 2 people. I do like the look of a G6 (or a Mustang [8D]) but that's the boy racer in me. I drive a Fiesta so any of these cars will feel massive.

Any comments re the nearest gas station to the airport?

[sundowner]

Depends where you are staying and which route you would be taking to the airport.

We take Boggy Creek Road where there is a cross roads a few miles from the airport. We tend to fill up there before returning the car. We have never been charged for being 'short' of the full tank.

If you are renting a villa, it might be a good idea to ask the owners what they do.

Others will be able to help with other routes.

[Zaby]

I believe we will also be using the 'Boggy Creek' route. Our villa is just south of boggy creek road in Remington (or Windsor Park).

I'm sure I will be able to spot the nearest petrol station when we arrive.

Thanks again for the responses, most helpful.