Rent a Car at Bern Downtown

• Retain your reservation confirmation number as it is necessary for modification, cancellation or no-show refund requests. Changes to your prepay reservation must be made either on Budget.com, Budget.com.au or Budget.co.nz or at the rental counter. At time of change, current rates, taxes and fees apply.
• Your credit or debit card will be charged upon reservation confirmation. Method of prepayment toward your rental may not be changed after confirmation.
• Debit cards are not accepted at some Budget locations and are not a recommended form of prepayment.
• While a debit or prepaid charge card is an acceptable form of rental prepayment online, they may not be accepted for the credit hold required when you pick up your vehicle.
• Please review the terms and conditions on our confirmation page regarding credit or debit card acceptance at the location. To release the vehicle to you at time of pick-up, all rental terms and conditions must be met, regardless of your original prepayment.
• Prepaid Debit/Gift cards are not acceptable methods of credit identification to pick up a vehicle at any location. One of the above mentioned cards must be presented. Prepaid Debit/Gift cards are accepted at time of return only.
• The same credit or debit card used to complete an online Pay Now reservation must be presented at the rental pick-up counter as a form of identification.
• Generally, at the time of rental, we'll require an authorization hold on your credit card or debit card. A prepaid charge card is not accepted for this required hold.
• The card presented at pickup will be the card of record for the rental.
• If you use a debit card at a location that accepts them, we will perform a credit check to ensure credit worthiness before releasing the vehicle and you must also present a second form of current identification.
• Prepaid reservations are only offered at participating locations.
• Upon paying your rental with a Debit Card, Budget will generally request an authorization hold against your account for the estimated charges of the rental but reserves the right in its sole, discretion, to request extra value based on certain factors as we deem appropriate. Some exceptions may apply. THESE FUNDS WILL NOT BE AVAILABLE FOR YOUR USE.
• If you selected Fuel Service Option, fuel price isn't included in your reservation total, but prevailing market rate will be added when you return your vehicle .
• Budget accepts most major credit cards as credit identification at the time of rental. Accepted credit cards: Budget Charge Card, American Express, AT&T Capital, Diner's Club Intl, Discover, China Union Pay, GE Capital, JCB, MasterCard, PHH, Sears and Visa. Some locations may not accept each of the referenced cards.
• Coupons may be applied to prepay rentals. Vouchers or Budget rental certificates cannot be used in conjunction with a prepay reservation.
• Gift Cards (Budget or any other) are not allowed on prepay reservations.
• When the rental is over, we will process the reversal but the bank may take time to post it back to the account - unless you already paid toward your rental, in which case the hold will be only $100 USD. While this hold is in place, the funds will not be available for your use.
• Budget is not responsible for any returned checks or overdrafts based on this policy.
• Your quoted rental rate is based on the exact parameters (locations, dates, etc.) of your particular rental - changing your confirmed reservation parameters could result in a different rate.
• There is no fee for making the following changes: vehicle type, options (GPS, protections, etc.), rental period dates/times, adding other drivers, switching between participating prepay pick-up locations within the same country. To change to a non-participating location or one outside of the original pick-up country, you must cancel your original reservation (with applicable cancellation fee) and re-book at then current rates.
• Non-permissible changes include: method of prepayment; name on reservation; changing your pick-up to a non-participating prepay location or one outside of the original pick-up country. If you still wish to make these changes, you must cancel your original prepay reservation with applicable cancellation fee and re-book at then current rates.
• At time of rental pick-up, location rental qualification rules apply. The name on all rental credentials (license and credit or debit card) must match the name on the reservation. If the names do not match, it is deemed a non-permissible change to your prepay reservation and must follow procedures to cancel and re-book at then current rates (with applicable cancellation or no-show fees).
• At the time of pick up, driver must present a valid driver's license and credit card (or debit card at participating locations) in the driver's name. A prepaid charge card is not an acceptable credential. All drivers must have a safe driving record.
• At time of pick up, driver must present a valid, drivers license and credit or debit card in the driver's name. If the drivers license is not U.S.-issued, you must present your drivers license and either a passport or a Canadian enhanced license in the driver's name.
• At the time of rental, the renter or authorized driver may be subject to an electronic DMV check from the issuing state of the driver's license, or may be asked to sign a declaration attesting to specific criteria.
• Positive identification in addition to your driver's license may be required.
• Your total rental rate is calculated based on the information provided at time of reservation.
• Vehicles are rented on a daily (24-hour) basis. There is a 29-minute grace period for returns. After 30 minutes late, a 3/4-day late charge + $.01 + taxes apply. After 90 minutes late, full-day late charges + taxes apply. There is no grace period for rental fees, surcharges and optional equipment or protections charges, so full-day late charges will apply for these items.
• Extensions or late returns result in additional charges.
• Rather than requiring customers to be 25 to rent, Budget now rents to customers between the ages of 21-24 with a valid credit card and driver's license. At time of rental, we will automatically apply an additional underage surcharge for these drivers.
• The collection, use and retention of your information, including your personally identifiable information, provided to us in connection with payment for our services and products, or participation in our programs, whether directly by you or on your behalf through a payment service, is subject to our Privacy Notice.

Cancellation Policy

• Changes to a reservation must be done at Budget.com, Budget.com.au, or Budget.co.nz using the "Modify/Cancel" option.  Any changes to the reservation may impact the rental charges.  If a prepaid reservation is cancelled more than 24 hours before the pickup time, a $50.00 USD cancellation fee will be assessed.
• If you need to cancel during the 24 hour period prior to the scheduled pick-up time, we will refund the full prepaid amount less a $150 USD processing fee. 
• If you do not cancel the reservation prior to the time of pick-up and the rental vehicle is not picked up on the rental date, no portion of the prepaid amount will be refunded.
• If you return the vehicle before the original return date (early return), you will not be refunded any portion of the payment.
• All refund requests must be submitted within six months of the scheduled rental pick up date. No refunds will be granted after this six month window.
• Underpayments will be handled at the counter at time of rental return. Unfortunately, we can't promise that your prepaid daily vehicle rate will apply if you change vehicle types, lengthen or shorten your rental period or change your pick up location.
• Upon returning the vehicle, Budget will process a release of the unused portion of the hold subject to your bank's procedure. This hold may take up to two weeks to be released by your bank.
• If you have already paid toward your rental using a debit card, we will reverse any hold when the rental is over. The bank, however, may take time to post it back to your account. While this hold is in place, the funds will not be available for your use.

Supplemental Liability Insurance is not available at this location.

Damage

What products reduce the amount I have to pay if the vehicle is damaged during the rental?

If you have Damage Waiver (CDW) and the vehicle, keys , any accessories or any vehicle documents are damaged, the amount your have to pay for the damage will be reduce to no more than the excess stated on your rental agreement meaning you will pay for the cost of repair or replacement plus a damage processing fee of CHF 32.40 or the excess, whichever is less. If you can show the damage was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund these costs to you. If you can show the damage was less than we said, we will refund you the difference.

How much is the excess?

If CDW is purchased your liability is reduced to an amount ranging from CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,500 depending on the car group rented. You can reduce the excess eve further by buying an excess reduction product. This also reduces the administration fee.

How do I get Damage Waiver?

In most cases, Damage Waiver is provided with the vehicle as standard. If it is included, it will be stated on your rental agreement and in your booking confirmation email. If it is not included the price depends on the vehicle you are renting and where you are renting it from.

Is there an excess reduction product available to reduce my excess further?

Yes, Super Damage Waiver (SCDW) is an excess reduction product which reduces your excess to zero. The price depends on the vehicle and the location, but you can expect it to cost between CHF 32.00 and CHF 59.00 per day.

Will I need to pay if the windscreen is damaged?

Yes, it will be treated the same as any other damage to the vehicle.

What happens if I damage any optional extras I rent from you?

If any optional extras are damaged, you have to pay for the cost of replacement or their estimated repair costs in addition to the rental fee.

Are there any times when the excess would not apply?

Yes, the amount you pay will not be reduced if damage was caused by or a result of:

• Driving the vehicle without due care and attention
• Driving or using the vehicle in breach of your contract

What do I have to pay if I do not have Damage Waiver?

If the vehicle, keys, any accessories or any vehicle documents are damaged during your rental, unless you can prove the damage was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, you will have to pay:

Either the cost of replacement, or the estimated repair costs whichever is cheaper

• Plus our loss of use
• Plus an administration fee

Where can I find information of damage charges I have paid?

If we find damage, we will charge the amount you have to pay to your card. Unless you have asked us to send you a receipt by post or email, you will be able to find details of this payment here.

Theft

What products reduce the amount I have to pay if the vehicle is lost or stolen during the rental?

If you have Theft Protection waiver (TP) and the vehicle is stolen, the amount you have to pay will be reduced to no more than the excess stated on your rental agreement meaning you will pay for the cost of repair or replacement or the excess, whichever is less. If you can show the damage was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund these costs to you. If you can show the damage was less than we said, we will refund you the difference. If you can show the loss or theft was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund these costs to you.

How much is the excess:

Your liability will be an amount ranging from CHF 2,000 to CHF 3,500 depending on the car group rented. You can reduce the excess even further by buying an excess reduction product.

How do I get Theft Protection Waiver?

In most cases, Theft Protection waiver is provided with the vehicle as standard. If it is included, it will be stated on your rental agreement an din your booking confirmation email. If it is not included, the price depends on the vehicle you are renting and the place you are renting from.

What happens if I lose any optional extras I rent from you or they are stolen?

If any optional extras are lost or stolen, you have to pay for the cost of replacement in addition to the rental fee.

Are there times when the excess would not apply?

Yes the amount you pay will not be reduced if the loss or theft was caused by or as a result of:

• Keys being left in the vehicle
• Keys being lost or stolen
• Using the vehicle in breach of the contract

What do I have to pay if I do not have Theft Protection?

If the vehicle, keys , any accessories or any vehicle documents are lost or stolen during your rental you will have to pay:

• The cost of replacement
• Plus our loss of use

If you can show theft was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund these costs to you.

Where can I find information of theft charges I have paid?

If a loss or theft has occurred, unless you can prove the theft was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will charge the amount you have to pay to your card. Unless you have asked us to send you a receipt by post or mail you will be able to find details of this payment here.

Damage to people and their property

What do I have to pay if I injure someone whilst driving?

Third Party Liability (TPL) cover is provided with the vehicle as standard. This means that if you have an accident in our vehicle and you injure someone, including any of your passengers, or you damage anything which belongs to them, you will not have to pay any of their costs. Third Party Liability cover does not cover any death or injury suffered by the driver of our vehicle or any damage to personal items in our vehicle.

Are there times when third part liability cover would not apply?

If the law requires us to provide you with third party liability cover, the minimum cover required by law will still apply but we, or our insurer, may seek to recover our costs from you if the accident was caused by:

• By you breaking the contract (for example allowing someone we had not approved drive the vehicle or driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other unlawful substance),
• By you breaking the law
• As a result of your negligence or recklessness

What products cover the driver of the vehicle?

Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) covers the driver of the vehicle in the event of an accident. Personal Accident Insurance provides the following benefits:

• A maximum of CHF 99,720.00 in the event of death, loss of limbs or eyes or permanent total disability
• A maximum of CHF 4,986.00 towards emergency medical expenses related directly to the accident
• Medical assistance and rescue costs (conditions apply)

Who provides Personal Accident Insurance?

Personal Accident Insurance is underwritten by AIG Europe Limited. You will need to agree to their terms and conditions. Our agent, Avis Europe Risk Management Limited retains 20% of the price you pay after insurance premium tax has been deducted, as commission.

How do I get Personal Accident Insurance?

If you have bought Personal Accident Insurance, it will be stated on your rental agreement. The price depends on the location you are renting from , but you can expect it to cost between CHF 6.00 and CHF 8.00 per day.

Can I increase my cover and reduce my excess?

Yes, Super Personal Accident Insurance (SPAI) provides the following enhanced benefits:

• A maximum of CHF 489,600.00 in the event of death, loss of limbs or eyes or permanent total disability
• A maximum of CHF 24,930.00 towards emergency medical expenses related directly to the accident
• Medical assistance and rescue costs (conditions apply)
• Baggage up to CHF 9,972.00 per vehicle, excluding any items you rented through us (again, there are conditions and a limit per item may apply)
• Expenses for replacing main house keys and locks up to CHF 831.00
• Emergency travel expenses up to CHF 831.00

Is Super Personal Accident Insurance available when renting any vehicles?

Yes, you can buy Super Personal Accident Insurance no matter which vehicle you rent.

How do I get Super Accident Insurance?

If you have bought Super Personal Accident Insurance, it will be stated on your rental agreement. The price depends on the location you are renting from, but you can expect it to cost between CHF 8.00 and CHF 14.40 per day.

For information, passengers are considered third parties and would benefit from the third party liability cover provided with the vehicle as standard.

Protection Packages

I want to buy more than on protection product, can a get a protection package?

Yes, we offer a protection package:

• Full Protection Package includes Super Damage Waiver, Super Personal Accident Insurance and Roadside Assistance.

The price depends on the vehicle and location but you can expect it to cost between CHF 50.00 and CHF 75.00 per day.

Third party protection products

I have bought a protection package from an external provider. Can I use it?

If you decide to buy cover from someone else, you will have to pay our full costs, then you will need to make a claim with the external provider to get your money back. It is your responsibility to ensure you understand the terms of any cover you buy from an external provider and for any claim you make. We are unable to help you with your claim.

 

Damage/Loss/Repair Processing Fee:

Please see the section titled "Damage, loss, injury or theft" in the General Conditions which provides information on how and when we charge costs if the vehicle, keys, any accessories, or any vehicle documents are lost, stolen or damaged.

You can purchase additional waiver and protection products to reduce the amount you would otherwise owe please see details in Part 2 below.

As well as charging for any damage or loss suffered, we will also charge you a damage processing fee in accordance with our "Theft, Loss & Damage Policy" (see General Conditions). In Switzerland, the Damage/ Loss/ Repair Processing Fee is CHF 40.00.
The Damage/ Loss/ Repair Processing Fee is CHF 40.00.

Unless you've asked us to send you a receipt by post or email, you'll be able to find details of the charges owed by you here: http://www.budget.ch/budgetonline/ch-gb/budget.nsf/c/get_a_quote,rental_invoice_information

 

We accept:

• American Express (excluding American Express Travellers Cheque cards)
• Diners Club
• Visa credit/debit cards
• MasterCard credit/debit cards
• Budget issued charge cards/vouchers

Prepaid cards can only be used for making payments at the end of your rental. To rent our vehicles you need to present the payment cards listed above.

We do not accept Visa electron cards, Maestro cards, Cirrus cards, JDB cards or any other cards not listed above.

We do not accept Digital Payment Cards.

Can I pay by cash?

No, regrettably, we are not able to accept cash.

 

MasterCard Debit cards and Visa Debit Cards are accepted
Prepaid cards can only be used for making payments at the end of your rental. 
We do not accept Visa Electron cards, Maestro cards, Cirrus cards, JCB cards.

Requirement to bring a valid driving licence with you

In Switzerland, all drivers must bring their valid driving licence with them.

If any of the following applies:

• their driving licence was issued in Europe,
• their driving licence was issued in a non-European country or,
• their driving licence was issued in a non-roman alphabet language like Arabic, Greek, Russian, Hebrew or Japanese,

and we cannot confirm with certainty the details included within the driving licence, the driver will also need to provide either an international driving licence or an official German, French, Italian or English translation, by a notary, of their driving licence. If this might apply to you, please contact us (prior to your pickup date) as we would be pleased to confirm if an international licence or official translation will be required.

We do not accept digital driving licences.

Minimum licence requirements

All drivers must have held their licences for at least 6 months from the date of pick-up. A higher minimum age limit and licence validity may apply for certain vehicles. This will be shown during the booking process or disclosed to you before completing the booking.

If a licence does not show the driver has held it for the minimum period, then they must provide evidence, such as:

• previous driving licences; or
• a letter from their driving licence authority stating that they have held it for this minimum period.

As well as your driving licence, you must bring:

• the payment card that was used to make your booking. For some vehicles, two payment cards in your name will be required and one of these must be a credit card, in addition to the payment card used to make your booking; and
• photo ID featuring a recognisable photo taken in the last 10 years. We will accept your passport if it contains a photo, a national identity card.

If you do not pass our identification checks and you are a resident of Switzerland, you may also be required to provide proof of where you live this could include a recent utility bill or bank statement. In these circumstances, your driving licence will not be accepted as proof of your address.

Public liability insurance is with in accordance of the insurance laws of the country. Customer may inquire for additional information of the benefits, conditions and acceptance at the time of rental.

Additional drivers must meet the same requirements as the primary driver.  Additional Driver fees may apply for all additional drivers. Check at the time of rental for complete details.

How old do I need to be to drive a rental vehicle?

To drive our vehicles you and all of your drivers need to be at least 21 for all car groups, except for the following: minimum age is 19 for car group A (Economy), minimum age is 25 for car groups J (Luxury), P (Luxury Wagon), and I (Luxury).

I am under 25, do I need to pay a young driver surcharge?

No, so long as you hold a full, valid driving license for at least 1/2 year, and for vehicle groups F, H, J and P for at least 3 years.

Are there any maximum age restrictions?

No, so long as you hold a full, valid driving license for at least 1/2 year, and for vehicle groups F, H, J and P for at least 3 years

Estimated total includes base rate, taxes, and surcharges. Items such as coupon discounts, child safety seats and gas are NOT included in the estimated total. Optional coverages and one-way fees are subject to tax in certain locations. This tax is not reflected in the Estimated Total.

Estimated total is subject to change based upon exchange rates at the time of rental.

Should I bring the vehicle back with a full tank of fuel?
Yes. The vehicle will normally be supplied with a full tank of fuel. You must return it to us with the same amount of fuel it had in it when you picked it up, usually a full tank, as shown on the factory-installed fuel gauge. We recommend you fill up as close to the return location as you can on the return date, and keep the receipt to show us. If you do not return the vehicle with a full tank and you ca not show us a receipt for fuel we will charge you.

Fuel Options

I plan to travel more than 120 kilometres, and want peace of mind, do you have a fuel option for me?
Yes, with Fuel Up Front you pay for a full tank of fuel, based on the manufacturers stated fuel tank capacity for your vehicle plus our costs of refuelling the vehicle for you. Then you just return the vehicle with whatever is left in the tank (even if it is virtually empty) so long as the engine still runs.
How do I calculate the cost of Fuel Up Front?
Depending on where you are renting, we charge the average fuel price at the start of your rental period. For further details on the price for Fuel up Front, please ask the rental station. However, you do not get a refund for any fuel you do not use.
Can I get Fuel up Front at any time?
No, if you want to take advantage of Fuel Up Front, you must ask for it during the booking process or when you pick up the vehicle.
I plan to travel less than 120 kilometres, do I still need to fill up?
Yes, often the fuel gauges stills look full so we ask you to fill up the tank near to the return location and show us a copy of the receipt. If you do not have time to fill up the tank, or can not show us a receipt, we will apply EZ Fuel to cover our costs of refuelling the vehicle for you.
How much is EZ Fuel?
EZ Fuel is a fixed fee of CHF 25.80.
What are my options if I do not return the vehicle full and have not bought Fuel up Front?
Pay on Return will apply if you have driven more than 120 kilometres and:

• Do not buy Fuel Up Front
• Do not return the vehicle with a full tank

How do I calculate the cost of Pay on Return?
You pay for fuel based on the factory-installed fuel gauge rounded down to the nearest eighth (1/8) of a tank. This is based on the manufacturers stated fuel tank capacity.
We charge between 1.5 and three times the average fuel price at the end of the rental period. The price per litre will be stated on your rental agreement. This charge covers our cost of driving to the nearest petrol station at short notice, and potentially delaying the next customer’s rental.

 

Electric Vehicles

How much battery charge should I return an electric vehicle with?

 

You must return the vehicle with at least a 70% battery charge, or the same % battery charge as it had at the time of pick-up.

What am i charged if I fail to return an electric vehicle with the required 70% battery charge, or the same % battery charge as it had at the time of pick-up?

We charge a fixed amount dependent on the battery life showing on the factory-installed battery gauge. This is the Pay on Return rate. the amounts charged are set out below:

Battery Charge	Fixed cost (inclusive of VAT)
If you return the electric vehicle with 70% or more battery charge.	No Cost
If you return the electric vehicle with between 11%-69% battery charge.	CHF 31.04
If you return the electric vehicle with 10% or less battery charge	CHF 54.87

Do I need to bring proof of identification?
Yes, you must bring:

• the payment card that was used to make your booking. For some vehicles, two payment cards in your name will be required. One of these must be the payment card used to make your booking.
• your passport featuring a recognisable photo taken in the last 10 years.

You may also need to bring proof of where you live. This could include a recent utility bill or bank statement. If your driving licence shows your address, we will accept it as proof of your address.

Other requirements

Will I need to give a pre-authorisation or pay a security deposit?
Yes, you must give us a pre-authorisation on your payment card before we release the vehicle to you. A pre-authorisation holds money in your account.
What do I need to do to give a pre-authorisation or security deposit?
You will need to give us a payment card in your own name that has enough money available on it. 
How much is the pre-authorisation?

The amount of the pre-authorisation taken on pick-up of the rental vehicle is calculated as follows:
(The vehicle rental price* + EUR 200 (or if applicable, the equivalent amount in your local currency) MINUS (Any sum you have already paid when making a "Pay Now" booking)

* The "vehicle rental price" includes the vehicle rental cost and all optional extras you've requested, calculated at the start of the rental based on the intended length of the rental. For the avoidance of any doubt, any "Pay at Location" amount you owe in relation to the vehicle rental (including any optional extras) will be included as part of the pre-authorisation and will be charged to you at the end of the rental (using the card provided for the purposes of the pre-authorisation, unless agreed otherwise).

** If you buy our "Fuel Up Front" product, we will reduce the EUR 200 (or if applicable, the equivalent amount in your local currency) by the amount we charge you for the "Fuel Up Front" product

The EUR 200 (or if applicable, the equivalent amount in your local currency) is included as part of the pre-authorisation in case we have to charge you at the end of the rental for any of the following:
i. costs to refuel the vehicle (where relevant);
ii. additional rental charges in circumstances where you fail to return the vehicle or any optional extras at the end of the agreed rental period (or to the agreed return location);
iii. any additional charges or fines you incur relating to your use of the vehicle (which we have been notified of prior to you returning the vehicle, which will include, for example, charges relating to traffic violations); and/or
iv. costs incurred as a result of exceeding any relevant mileage restrictions.
Where the pre-authorisation we take does not cover the charges you incur, we will request you make a further payment for the additional amounts owed.

Please see the section titled "Damage, loss, injury or theft" in the General Conditions which provides information on how and when we charge costs if the vehicle, keys, any accessories, or any vehicle documents are lost, stolen or damaged.

You can purchase additional waiver and protection products to reduce the amount you would otherwise owe please see details in Part 2 below.

As well as charging for any damage or loss suffered, we will also charge you a damages processing fee in accordance with our "Theft, Loss & Damages Policy" (see General Conditions).
The Damage/ Loss/ Repair Processing Fee is CHF 40.00.

Unless you've asked us to send you a receipt by post or email, you’ll be able to find details of the charges owed by you here: http://www.budget.ch/budgetonline/ch-gb/budget.nsf/c/get_a_quote,rental_invoice_information

BUDGET CUSTOMERS PROCEED TO AVIS COUNTER 
All Swiss cars have the highway sticker. 

Can I let anyone else drive?
Yes, but only if we have approved them. You must not let anyone else drive the vehicle.
We charge a fee for every Additional Driver we allow to drive the vehicle. The price depends on the location you are renting from, but you can expect it to be between CH 14.50 and CHF 17.40 per day.
If you rent the vehicle for more than 10 days, you will only be charged for a maximum of 10 days and get cover for the duration of your rental, up to 28 days.
All additional drivers must meet our age, driving licence and ID requirements. 
If any additional driver is outside of our age restrictions, we will also charge a driver surcharge.
Do you offer a Meet and Greet service?
No, unfortunately we are unable to offer a meet and greet service at this time.
Can I pick up the vehicle outside your normal opening hours?
Yes, some rental locations offer an out of hours pick-up service where you can collect the vehicle and any optional extras outside the rental locations normal opening hours. Please contact your rental station for further information.
My rental has a mileage allowance. I have driven more than the allowance, how much will I pay for excess mileage
Many of our vehicles are provided with unlimited mileage. If a mileage allowance applies, it will be stated on your rental agreement and in your booking confirmation email. If you go over the mileage allowance, the price depends on the vehicle and location. Your excess mileage charge will be stated on your rental agreement.
Can I smoke in the vehicle?
No, you are not allowed to smoke in it. If we believe anyone has smoked in the vehicle during the rental period, a specialist cleaning charge will apply.
Are there any roads or zones where I need to pay a fee before I can enter?
Yes, there are toll roads and toll bridges which require you to pay a fee if you wish to use them.  If you do not pay these charges before you use such roads or bridges, you will incur a fine. 
We recommend you check the Internet to find out about any restricted areas before you travel. Websites such as www.urbanaccessregulations.eu provide useful information. If the rental location is in or near a restricted area, we will tell you about it when you pick up the vehicle. We are unable to tell you about any other restricted areas.
I have been caught speeding, and did not pay a parking charge, what will I have to pay?
You are responsible for all fines and charges issued as a result of you or your additional drivers using the vehicle. Fines and charges could include:

• All parking fines or charges
• Toll charges
• Towing charges
• Clamping costs
• Traffic fines or charges
• Speeding fines
• And any other charges or fines

If a fine or charge is sent to us because you have not paid a charge or complied with the law, we will take payment for:

• Our administration fee of CHF 50.00 for each fine or charge issued, which will be charged in the currency of the country where the fine occurred.
• Plus the fine or charge if we have to pay it

I have left the interior of the vehicle very dirty and made it smell. Will I be charged to clean it?
Yes, if the interior of the vehicle is especially muddy, dirty, stained or smelly, and our standard cleaning procedure will not fix it, you will be charged a Specialist Cleaning Charge between CHF 75.60 and CFH 260.00 plus our Administration Fee of CHF 60.00.

Roadside Assistance

What happens if I break down because of a mechanical failure?
All our vehicles are maintained to the manufacturers standards, and they are roadworthy when you pick them up so mechanical failure in our vehicles is rare. So long as you are using the vehicle in a country we have agreed to, we provide roadside assistance or recovery free of charge. You can only use our roadside assistance provider to help you. You will find their contact details inside the vehicle.
What happens if I break down because of a non-mechanical failure or in another country?
You must tell us if you break down or have an accident. If you need roadside assistance, we will arrange this for you but you will have to pay for it. You will also be charged for any costs we incur getting the vehicle back on the road in the country of rental. This may include, but is not limited to:

• Towing call out fee and recovery costs up to a maximum of 300 Euro (unless there is need of a special towing rescue, repatriation, or breach of contract in which the maximum charge could be up to 600 Euro).
• Repair costs
• Loss of use
• Repatriation costs
• An administration fee
• Any costs to take you, and/or any of your passengers, to another location.
• Electrical Charge for EV Vehicles (Where the cable is in working order)

What products do you have to protect me if I break down because of a non-mechanical problem?
Roadside Assistance Plus provides roadside assistance if you break down as a result of…

• e.g. Flat batteries
• Flat tyres
• Keys locked in the vehicle
• Running out of fuel

Provided you are using the vehicle is a country we have agreed to.
You will only need to pay for the costs of any additional items needed to get the vehicle back on the road, like fuel or tyres.
How much does Roadside Assistance Plus cost?
The price will depend on where you are renting, but you can expect it to be between CHF 8.00 and CHF 9.60 a day. If you rent the vehicle for more than 10 days, you will only be charged for a maximum of 10 days and get cover for the duration of your rental, up to 28 days.
What happens if I do not return the incident report form or European accident form?
If you are involved in an accident, or the vehicle, keys, any accessories, any vehicle documents or any optional extras are damaged, lost or stolen; you must complete and return an incident report form and if available, the European accident report form.

Can I pick up the vehicle from one rental location and return it to another?
Yes, some rental locations let you collect the vehicle and any optional extras from one rental location and return them to another.
How much is the One-Way fee?
The price depends on the rental location. If you want to pick up the vehicle and return it to a different location please ask the rental station.
How do I get a One-Way rental?
You can request a one-way rental when you book or you can ask for it when you get to the rental location.
If you asked for a one-way rental when you booked, the fee will be included in your rental price.
How much will it cost if I did not request a One-Way rental but return the vehicle to a different location?
You will be charged a one-way fee at the pay at location prices available on the day you return the vehicle.

The prices we give you for optional extras when you book will generally be the price you will pay. Exchange rates or other reasons beyond our control may alter prices.

Customers with disabilities

I have a disability, do you offer adapted vehicles?No, regrettably, we do not currently offer adapted vehicles.
I have a disability, do you offer hand controls?
No, regrettably, we do not currently offer hand controls or panoramic mirrors at this time.

Popular optional extras to rent

I have small children, do you offer child seats?
Yes, we offer baby, child and booster seats. A baby seat is typically suitable for a child from birth to 12 months old and weighing no more than 13 kilos.. A child seat is typically suitable for a child aged 9 months to 12 years old and weighing between 9 and 13 kilos. A booster seat is typically suitable for a child aged 4 to 12 years old and weighing between 20 and 45 kilos.
In some rental locations, we may arrange for a third party to fit the seat for you. But remember, it is always your responsibility to check the seat is fitted correctly before you drive away.
Please note: In Switzerland, all children must normally use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 150 cm tall.
How much are your child seats?
The fee for renting a seat will depend on where you are renting, but you can expect it to cost between CHF 45.00 and CHF 78.00 per rental.
If the seat is damaged, lost or stolen, you will have to pay for a replacement. This is likely to cost between CHF 20.00 and CHF 250.00 on top of the hire fee. If you can show the damage or loss was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund this cost to you.
I am not familiar with the area; can I rent a GPS (satellite navigation system)?
Yes, the fee for renting a GPS will depend on where you are renting, but you can expect it to cost between CHF 14.00 and CHF 16.80 a day. If you rent the vehicle for more than 10 days, you will only be charged for a maximum of 10 days and get to use the GPS for the duration of your rental, up to 28 days.
If the GPS is damaged, lost or stolen, you will have to pay for a replacement. This will cost CHF 150.00 on top of the hire fee. If you can show the damage or loss was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund this cost to you.
Please note: In some countries, it is against the law to use a GPS that tells you where speed cameras are. It is illegal in Switzerland. If you rent a GPS from us, it will not give you speed camera information.
Do you offer an audio tour guide service on your GPS?

No, unfortunately we do not offer an audio tour guide service at this time.
I want to be able to access the internet anywhere I go, do you offer a solution?
Yes, we offer Mobile Wi-Fi devices. To use this service you will need to read and agree to separate terms and conditions. We will give you these terms and conditions at the rental location.
Please note: In many countries, including Switzerland, it is illegal to drive while using a handheld mobile phone, tablet or other communications device. It is your responsibility to drive safely and according to the laws of the country you are driving in.
How much does Mobile Wi-Fi cost?
The fee for hiring mobile Wi-Fi will depend on where you are renting, but you can expect it to be between CHF 15.00 and CHF 20.00 a day.
If the mobile Wi-Fi device is damaged, lost or stolen, you will have to pay for a replacement. This is likely to cost from CHF 120.00 to CHF 150.00 on top of the hire fee. If you can show the damage or loss was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund this cost to you.
I am intending to drive along toll roads; do you offer a device to make this quicker and easier for me?
No, unfortunately we do not offer any electronic toll charging devices at this time.

Winter equipment to rent

I am concerned about the road conditions, do you offer all-weather tyres?
Yes, if the rental location you are hiring from is in an area where it is illegal to drive without all-weather tyres at certain times of year, the vehicle will automatically be supplied with them and the fee will be included in your rental fee or contract.
We can also supply all-weather tyres for a fee. This will depend on where you are renting, but you can expect it to be between CHF 9.72 and CHF 11.66 a day. During the winter season (15 November to 31 March) our rental cars in Switzerland come with tyres that are suitable for winter conditions. The fee for this is already included in the rental fee (conditions for business customers may differ.)

If any all-weather tyre is damaged, lost or stolen, you will have to pay for a replacement pair. If you can show the damage or loss was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund this cost to you.
Please give us at least 24 hours’ notice if your rental does not automatically include all-weather tyres and you want to hire them. If you need them at shorter notice, please call the Reservations team.
Not sure if you need all-weather tyres? Please ask a member of our team.
I am going skiing, do you offer snow chains?
Yes, if the rental location you are hiring from is in an area where it is illegal to drive without Snow Chains or all-weather tyres at certain times of year, the vehicle will automatically be supplied with snow chains and the fee will be included in your rental fee. You can ask not to have these but we recommend that you take either snow chains or all-weather tyres at these locations.
Snow chains are also available in some other rental locations. The fee for snow chains depends on where you are renting, but you can expect it to be between CHF 50.00  and CHF 60.00 per rental.
If any snow chain is damaged, lost or stolen, you will have to pay for a replacement pair. If you can show the damage or loss was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund this cost to you.
We can not fit snow chains for you, and we can not arrange for them to be fitted.
Not sure if you need snow chains? Please ask a member of our team.
I am have brought my own skis with me, do you rent ski racks?
Yes, all rental locations offer ski racks. You can expect to pay between CHF 50.00 and CHF 70.00 per rental to rent a Ski Rack from us.
Ski racks can not be fitted to all our vehicles, so you may need to upgrade if you need one. This may increase the price of the vehicle and any excess you have to pay.
If the ski rack is damaged, lost or stolen, you will have to pay for a replacement. This is likely to cost between CHF 100.00 and CHF 300.00 on top of the hire fee. If you can show the damage or loss was not in any way your fault or due to your negligence, we will refund this cost to you.
Please give us at least 24 hours notice if you want to hire a ski rack.

I have left my hands-free kit behind, do you rent them?
No, unfortunately we do not offer hands-free kits at this time.
I am moving items, do you rent blankets?
No, unfortunately we do not offer blankets at this time.
I am moving items, do you rent trolleys?
No, unfortunately we do not offer trolleys at this time.

I want to keep the vehicle for longer, what should I do?

If you want to extend the rental please contact us as soon as possible. At the latest, this should be before the end date and time on your rental agreement. Extra days will be charged at pay at location prices.

What happens if I don't extend the rental?

If you fail to extend your rental and are late returning the vehicle, we will charge you for an extra days rental plus a late return administration fee for each day or part of a day until the vehicle is returned. 
If you fail to extend your rental and are late returning the vehicle, we will on the third day after your agreed return date pre-authorise payment for an additional 5 days rental charge on your debit card or, 10 days if you are using a credit card, at pay at location prices. If you return the vehicle within those 5 or 10 days (whichever applies), you will only be charged for your actual rental days, plus any other charges you owe us.
If you fail to return your vehicle as agreed, we will also charge you a late return administration fee for each day or part of a day until the vehicle is returned.
The late Return Administration fee is CHF 20.00 per day.

 

International journeys are permitted for certain countries outside Austria, but always require the prior consent of Budget.

In the event of approval by Budget, a Cross Border Fee (CBD) must be paid. This amounts to a minimum of EUR 12.00 per day and a maximum of EUR 84.00 per rental. If Budget has given its consent, the following provisions apply:

 

What countries am I allowed to take the vehicle to?

You may drive the vehicle in the following countries with exceptions:

• Austria (A)
• Andorra (AND)
• Belgium (B)
• Switzerland (CH)
• Croatia (HR)
• Czech Republic (CZ)
• Germany (D)
• Denmark (DK)
• Spain (E)
• France (F)
• Finland (FIN)
• Hungary (H)
• Liechtenstein (FL)
• Italy (I)
• Ireland (IRL)
• Luxembourg (L)
• Monaco (MC)
• Norway (N)
• Netherlands (NL)
• Poland (PL)
• Portugal (P)
• San Marino (RSM)
• Sweden (S)
• Slovakia (SK)
• Slovenia (SLO)

Entries to Croatia (HR) and Slovenia (SLO), Slovakia (SK), Czech Republic (CZ), Poland (PL) and Hungary (H) are not allowed for vehicles from car group I and Select groups N ans Select E.
You are not allowed to use the vehicle in the Albania (AL), Armenia(AM), Azerbaijan (AZ), Bulgaria (BG), Bosnia and Herzegovina (BIH), Belarus (BY), Cyprus (CY), Estonia (EST), Georgia (GE), Greece (GR), Hungary (H), Iceland (IS), Kazakhstan (KZ), Kosovo (RKS) Latvia (LV), Lithuania (LT), Malta (M), Macedonia (MK); Moldavia (MD), Montenegro (MNE), Romania (RO), Russia (RUS), Slovakia (SK), Serbia (SRB), Turkey (TR), Ukraine (UA) and any country outside continental Europe.
Not allowed are also: Balearic Islands, Canaries, Corsica, Crete, Sardinia

Please note, that there are certain travel restrictions for EU residents:

If you are EU resident and drive a vehicle with Swiss registration and number plate, you are only allowed to drive the vehicle in Switzerland and Liechtenstein. You must not take the vehicle into the EU, except for the purpose of directly returning to your place of residence in the EU, which must be stated on your rental agreement. You must pay for all damages and costs we incur as a result of you or any Additional Driver not complying with this obligation including payable customs, tax charges and loss of use, if you or an additional driver gets detained at Customs. Please note, that a breach of customs regulations may result in criminal charges against you or your Additional Driver. If you plan to travel cross-border into the EU, please let us know at the time of booking, so that we can choose the right vehicle for you.

Violations of or non-compliance with any of the aforementioned provisions shall entitle Avis to terminate the rental agreement without notice or to withdraw from the rental agreement. Claims for compensation by the Hirer are excluded in such a case. The claim for compensation for damages incurred by Avis due to the breach of one of the above provisions shall remain unaffected.

Can I buy a product to allow me to drive in other countries?

No, unfortunately we do not offer any other products that allow you to travel to other countries.

 

In the event of a breakdown caused by customer fault (or where the breakdown takes place in an unpermitted country)

 

In these circumstances you will be charged a “call out” charge for our partners to come out and provide assistance “roadside”. This charge will be between CHF 300.00 and CHF 600.00.

 

An administration of fee of 40.00 CHF will also be charged.