Avis and airports go hand in hand. The car rental company was the first to combine forces when it launched at Detroit’s Willow Run Airport back in 1946, quickly replicating its efforts at Miami International Airport. In the years since, it’s opened locations across the country and around the world, acquiring companies like Budget and Zipcar along the way.
If I had to guess, I’d bet the brand has crossed your path in your travels. What you might not know is that they’ve been streamlining the check-in and check-out process since the ’80s. That once looked like “Roving Rapid Return,” a handheld computer terminal that let customers bypass the Avis counter; today, it means you can use an app to select your car, request upgrades, and check in from anywhere. I’ve personally rented cars through Avis for weekend getaways from NYC, and can attest to how quick and easy they make the process, even from a busy hub like LGA.
If you’ve got a road trip around the corner and are looking for ways to save on your reservation, you’ve come to the right place—here are the top Avis deals and discounts available right now.
Snag up to 30% off and a free upgrade with Avis’s spring promo
Summer plans in progress? Savvy car renters can save up to 30% off standard, midsize, and full-size rentals booked through Avis as part of this flash sale, running through April 30, 2026. Trips must be taken by June 30, 2026, and the offer applies to select Avis locations in the US (including Puerto Rico) and Canada. Holiday and other blackout periods may apply, so if you’re traveling over MDW, this might not be your best bet.
Military, AARP & union members can score up to 35% off
Avis offers some pretty substantial savings to active-duty military, veterans, and their families—drivers that fit the bill can save up to 35% off Pay Now rates. In order to qualify, be sure to enroll in the WeSalute+ (formerly Veterans Advantage) program.
AARP members, you’ve also got a steep offer at your fingertips, with up to 35% off Avis base rates at participating locations, as well as a free vehicle upgrade (subject to availability) and a waived fee for one additional driver. Book here and enter code A359866 when making a reservation along with your AARP member number.
Lastly, USAA and Union members can save up to 35% off Pay Now rates with Avis. USAA members, book through the dedicated USAA portal or provide membership verification when booking directly with Avis. Union Plus members (and your families), book here and use code number B723700 to take advantage of your well-deserved discounts.
Earn a 5% college contribution plus extra discounts for Upromise members
Car rentals pretty famously cost more, if they are unavailable at all, for drivers under 25. However, Avis is making amends with younger drivers in this particular sense: Upromise members can get five percent of their rental spending contributed to a college savings account for their child, grandchild, or any other future college student in their life. To secure this benefit, use Avis AWD# K563500 to activate the Upromise member benefits during the reservation process. Contributions are made approximately 45–60 days after your rental is completed.
Maximize your travel budget with Avis coupons
Whether or not the discounts above apply to you, there are a few more ways to shave dollars off your rental car bill and improve your experience along the way. By signing up for the Avis Preferred loyalty program, for example, you can earn points toward free rental days, even while using a discount code. If a longer trip is on your radar, say for a summer road trip, you’d be wise to check out the “Weekly Rental” specials, which typically show a lower daily rate than individual day bookings.
Other tips to keep in mind: Keep an eye out for an Avis upgrade coupon, which can often be used in conjunction with a base rate discount to get a luxury vehicle at a standard price. And while browsing cars, keep in mind that “Base Rate” excludes taxes, fees, and surcharges, so you’ll want to factor those into your final budget.
