Appleton Airport Car Hire Guide

Arriving at Appleton International Airport (ATW) and need wheels to explore the region? Renting a car is often the most convenient way to navigate the Fox Valley and beyond. This guide provides essential information to help you secure your ideal rental vehicle at ATW, with a particular focus on the policies and procedures of Avis, a prominent car rental provider at the airport.

Finding Car Rentals at ATW

Appleton International Airport (ATW) streamlines the car rental process for travellers. The car rental facilities are conveniently situated just outside the baggage claim area. Upon exiting the terminal, follow the signs and proceed across the street to the designated drop-off and pick-up lanes. Here, you'll find a selection of reputable car rental companies ready to serve you.

Avis Car Rental Policies and Procedures

Avis is a well-established car rental company with a presence at ATW. Understanding their rental policies is crucial for a smooth pick-up and return experience. Here's a breakdown of key information:

Reservations and Confirmations

It is imperative to retain your reservation confirmation number. This number is your key to making modifications, cancellations, or processing no-show refund requests. Changes to a prepaid reservation can be made online through Avis's official websites or directly at the rental counter. Be aware that at the time of any change, current rates, taxes, and fees will apply, which may differ from your original booking.

Payment Methods

Avis accepts most major credit cards, including Avis Charge Card, American Express, AT&T Capital, Diner's Club Intl, Discover, China Union Pay, JCB, MasterCard, and Visa. Some locations may have specific card acceptance limitations. Your credit or debit card will be charged upon reservation confirmation. Once confirmed, the method of prepayment cannot be altered.

Debit Card Considerations

While debit cards with a Visa or MasterCard logo are accepted at most U.S. locations for renters aged 25 and over, there are important caveats. Debit cards are not accepted at all Avis locations and are not the recommended form of prepayment. Crucially, even if you prepay online with a debit card, it may not be accepted for the required credit hold at pick-up. In such cases, you’ll need to present a credit card or another acceptable form of payment for the hold. Furthermore, prepaid charge cards and gift cards (including Avis gift cards) are not accepted as a form of credit identification to pick up a vehicle. They are only accepted for payment at the time of return.

Credit Holds and Authorizations

At the time of rental pick-up, Avis typically requires an authorization hold on your credit or debit card to cover estimated charges. This hold can vary:

• Standard rentals: Estimated rental charges plus $200 USD.
• Prepaid with a debit card: Estimated rental charges plus $250 USD.
• Rentals of 4 days or more: Estimated rental charges plus $300 USD.

If you are renting in a non-U.S. currency, a credit card in the same currency with an equivalent USD amount will be required for the hold. It's vital to understand that these authorized funds will not be available for your use until the hold is released after your rental concludes. Avis is not responsible for any returned checks or overdraft fees resulting from these holds.

Driver and Vehicle Requirements

To pick up your rental vehicle, the driver must present a valid driver's license and a credit card (or a debit card at participating locations) in the driver's name. The name on all rental credentials, including your license and payment card, must match the name on the reservation. If there’s a discrepancy, it’s considered a non-permissible change, and you may need to cancel and re-book.

International Drivers

If your driver's license is not U.S.-issued, you will need to present your license along with either a passport or a Canadian enhanced license, all in the driver's name.

Underage Drivers

Avis now rents to drivers between the ages of 21-24, provided they have a valid credit card and driver's license. An underage surcharge will be applied automatically. However, renters in this age group are restricted from renting luxury cars, mini-vans, 12-passenger vans, specialty cars, full-size SUVs, and premium SUVs. Specific surcharges and age restrictions apply in New York and Michigan, with minimum rental ages of 18 in those states under certain conditions.

Additional Drivers

Adding another driver to your rental is generally permitted, with most states charging approximately $13 USD per day per additional driver, capped at $65 USD per rental. Nevada and New York have slightly different fee structures. Certain individuals are exempt from additional driver charges, including the renter's spouse or domestic partner, employer or fellow employee on company business, and disabled renters who have completed the necessary forms. In California, immediate family members like children, siblings, and grandparents are also exempt.

Fuel Options

If you opt for the Fuel Service Option, the fuel price is not included in your initial reservation total. The prevailing market rate will be added to your bill when you return the vehicle.

Modifying and Cancelling Reservations

There is typically no fee to modify certain aspects of your reservation, such as vehicle type, optional add-ons (like GPS or protection plans), rental period dates/times, or adding other drivers. You can also switch between participating prepaid pick-up locations within the same country without a fee. However, any changes may affect your overall rental terms and the original quoted price. Non-permissible changes include altering the method of prepayment, the name on the reservation, or changing your pick-up location to a non-participating or out-of-country location. For these types of changes, you will likely need to cancel your existing reservation, potentially incurring a cancellation fee, and then re-book at the current rates.

Late Returns

Avis offers a 29-minute grace period for vehicle returns. If you return the car between 30 and 89 minutes late, a partial-day charge (3/4 of a day plus a nominal fee and taxes) will apply. Returns exceeding 90 minutes late will incur a full-day late charge plus taxes. There is no grace period for rental fees, surcharges, or optional equipment; late charges will apply immediately for these items.

Table: Accepted Credit Cards by Avis

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Where exactly are the car rental desks at Appleton Airport?

A1: The car rental facilities are located just outside baggage claim. Exit Door #3 and proceed across the street to the pick-up and drop-off lanes.

Q2: Can I use a debit card to rent a car with Avis at ATW?

A2: Avis may accept debit cards at ATW if they have a Visa or MasterCard logo, provided you are 25 or older. However, a credit check will likely be performed, and the debit card may not be accepted for the required authorization hold at pick-up. A credit card is generally preferred for the hold. Always check the specific location's policies.

Q3: What identification do I need to pick up my rental car?

A3: You will need a valid driver's license and a credit card (or debit card where accepted) in the driver's name. If your license is not U.S.-issued, you'll also need a passport or a Canadian enhanced license.

Q4: What happens if I return the car late?

A4: Avis provides a 29-minute grace period. Returns between 30 and 89 minutes late incur a partial-day charge, while returns over 90 minutes late are charged a full day.

Q5: Can I change my reservation after it's confirmed?

A5: Yes, you can usually modify aspects like vehicle type or rental dates without a fee, but current rates and fees will apply. Certain changes, like the payment method or pick-up location outside the country, require cancellation and re-booking.

Comparing Car Rental Options

While this guide focuses on Avis, ATW makes it easy to compare options across all car rental companies operating at the airport. Take a moment to search and compare before making your final decision to ensure you get the best deal for your needs.

Renting a car at Appleton International Airport is a straightforward process. By familiarizing yourself with the policies, particularly those of Avis, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.