Budget Car Rental Photos



Budget Car Rental Introduce
For residents and visitors in the greater Knoxville area, securing reliable, affordable temporary transportation is often a necessity, whether you are dealing with an insurance replacement, planning a family trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or coordinating logistics for a local event. Budget Car Rental at 3083 Alcoa Highway in Alcoa, TN, stands out as a critical local resource, offering a full range of car and van rentals just a short distance from McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS).
As a neighborhood branch, this location specializes in meeting the day-to-day needs of the Tennessee community, often providing a more personalized and flexible experience than the large, always-busy airport counters. It’s positioned conveniently for those in Alcoa, Maryville, and South Knoxville who need a reliable vehicle without traveling far. The company’s commitment to providing a variety of vehicles at competitive rates, coupled with the local team's ability to assist with complex rental requirements—like the notable success story of guiding a customer who arrived without the required credit card for an airport pick-up to their location—makes it a go-to choice for many.
The inventory at this Alcoa Budget branch spans everything from compact and economy cars, perfect for saving on gas during a trip through East Tennessee, to spacious SUVs and large vans for group travel. Their designation as a Van rental agency means they are well-equipped to handle the transportation needs of large groups heading to a Vols game or managing a corporate event in the region.
However, as with all local branches of national chains, customer experience can vary, often resting on the interaction with individual staff members. While many customers report a wonderful experience with friendly and helpful staff, the occasional conflicting report regarding manager interactions suggests that customers should always confirm their booking, payment method, and any specific requests directly with the office before arrival. Being informed and prepared is the best way to ensure a smooth, positive rental transaction in Alcoa.
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The Budget Car Rental branch in Alcoa is strategically positioned to serve the region efficiently, offering a convenient alternative to the bustle of the McGhee Tyson Airport terminals.
- Address and Proximity: The location is at 3083 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701, USA. This address places it right on the main artery, Alcoa Highway, making it highly accessible from Knoxville, Maryville, and the airport area.
- Off-Airport Convenience: Being a non-airport location, it often provides more focused service for local residents and can be a life-saver for customers who had issues with the stricter, often less-flexible policies of on-airport counters, particularly regarding debit card usage.
- Hours of Operation: The branch maintains generous operating hours to accommodate the local community’s schedule:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Physical Accessibility: The location prioritizes access for all customers, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance and a dedicated Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
- Parking and Pick-Up: On-site parking is available for customers, and the branch often offers a free pick-up service for local renters. The rental cars are conveniently located on-site, simplifying the transition from the counter to the vehicle.
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The Budget Alcoa branch is a full-service transportation provider, offering a comprehensive fleet and various programs to make renting easy and flexible for the Tennessee traveler.
- Full-Range Car Rental Agency: The core service is renting a diverse fleet of quality vehicles, including economy cars, midsize sedans (like the popular Intermediate class, which is often reported as the most affordable), full-size cars, SUVs (including full-size models perfect for the Smoky Mountains), and luxury vehicles.
- Van Rental Agency Services: Catering to group travel and large family needs, the location offers van rental, including minivans and large passenger vans (12- to 15-seaters), which are ideal for school, church, or extended family trips.
- Flexible Payment Options: The branch accepts all major Credit cards and Debit cards. It also supports modern NFC mobile payments for a quick and convenient transaction at the counter.
- Debit Card Acceptance (with Caveats): Unlike some airport locations with very strict credit-card-only requirements, this neighborhood Budget location will accept a debit card for the required deposit. However, be aware that the company's policy often requires either a credit report check or a third form of identification if you use a debit card, so customers should be ready to present these credentials.
- One-Way Rentals: Budget facilitates one-way rentals, allowing customers to pick up a vehicle in Alcoa, TN, and drop it off at a different Budget location, whether across Tennessee or in another state, subject to specific fees and availability.
- Fastbreak Program: Registered Fastbreak members can bypass the standard counter process, accelerating their check-in and pick-up time, which is a great time-saver for frequent renters.
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Choosing this specific Budget location in Alcoa, TN, offers several key advantages for local users that go beyond standard car rental:
- Reliable Local Staff Support: The staff at this location have shown the ability to provide exceptional customer service, even in complex situations. One customer review highlighted the staff’s willingness to make extra calls and arrangements to help a customer who was denied a rental at the airport due to payment restrictions, demonstrating a commitment to local problem-solving.
- Direct Airport Overflow Solution: Due to its close proximity to McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), the Alcoa Highway branch often serves as an efficient alternative for travelers facing inventory shortages or stringent policies at the airport.
- Affordable Local Focus: The neighborhood branch frequently offers competitive pricing and deals tailored to local renters who need long-term rentals (such as Budget by the Month) or quick replacements while their vehicle is undergoing maintenance.
- Smoke-Free Fleet: Budget enforces a 100% smoke-free fleet policy, ensuring that vehicles are clean and fresh upon pick-up, contributing to a pleasant rental experience for all customers.
- Accessibility and Convenience: The combination of dedicated on-site parking, a wheelchair-accessible facility, and a central location on Alcoa Highway provides unparalleled convenience for customers in the Knoxville metro area.
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To make a reservation, inquire about vehicle availability (especially vans and SUVs), or confirm specific debit card and young renter policies, contact the Alcoa, TN, office directly.
- Address: 3083 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701, USA
- Phone (Local): (865) 229-3481
- Phone (Mobile/Primary): +1 865-229-3481
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The Budget Car Rental location on Alcoa Highway is an excellent choice for a variety of users in East Tennessee, particularly those who prioritize local support and flexible service.
You should strongly consider choosing this Budget branch if:
- You need a Van or Large SUV: Given its dual designation as a Car and Van rental agency, it is a guaranteed source for larger vehicles necessary for groups exploring the beautiful Tennessee countryside or for local commercial transport needs.
- You Plan to Use a Debit Card: While strict rules apply, the local branch is a viable option for debit card users, unlike the 'credit card only' restrictions often found at airport counters. However, you must call ahead to understand and prepare for the required verification steps (credit check or extra ID).
- You Value Local Problem-Solving: The demonstrated willingness of the staff to go the extra mile to resolve unexpected issues for customers—even when the problem originated at a different, stricter location—is a strong indicator of dedicated, customer-focused service.
- You Seek an Alternative to Airport Rentals: If you are local or prefer to avoid the high volume, long lines, and slightly higher costs often associated with the TYS on-site facility, this close-by, corporate-owned neighborhood location offers a high-quality alternative.
It is prudent to note that customer experiences with management have been mixed, suggesting that while the general staff is highly helpful, any complicated issues should be handled with clear communication and a printed confirmation of your reservation and all agreed-upon terms to ensure the rental goes smoothly. By confirming all details in advance, the Budget Car Rental on Alcoa Highway is perfectly situated to be your trusted partner for transportation across Tennessee.
Budget Car Rental Details
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Parking
- On-site parking
Budget Car Rental Location
Budget Car Rental Reviews
airportprices
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1I did not realize I had to have a credit card to pick up at the airport. I thought I was cooked. But the wonderful staff made some calls and got me right down the road to their other location and fixed me right up. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. I do t think I will ever rent from another company.
Oct 05, 2025 · Lindsay HighsmithThis was absolutely the worst experience I’ve ever had renting a car. The franchise owner, Shawn, From the moment I walked in he was rude and combative and when I told him I don’t like people talking to me that way, he demanded that I leave the location. Corporate really needs to investigate this guy and oust him right away.
Aug 22, 2025 · WilliamI wish I could give this location zero stars. I originally thought I had booked my rental from the airport location, which has always provided excellent service, but unfortunately, I made a mistake and ended up here instead. What a terrible experience.From the moment I walked in, I felt unwelcome. I believe the man’s name was Shawn, who claimed to be the owner. Right away, before the door even closed behind me, he demanded my name in a harsh tone and immediately launched into a rant about my reservation. I had believed my pickup was scheduled for 1 PM, as I always book at that time, but somehow it had been set for 10 AM. The moment I arrived, he aggressively informed me that I was late and threatened to charge me extra. He made it clear that if I didn’t return the car at 10 AM on the due date, I would be charged for an additional day. When I questioned why he was being so rude, his exact words were: “This is my cars and my place.”As a business owner myself, I understand how important good customer service is, and this man has no place in a customer-facing role. He was unprofessional, rude, and completely dismissive of any concerns. When I finally saw my bill, it was over $300 more than what I originally signed up for. On top of that, the vehicle he attempted to give me was old, dirty, and clearly not cleaned properly. He even took the time to badmouth the airport location, which was ironic given the lack of professionalism at his own.In the end, I had no choice but to cancel, which completely ruined my trip. I strongly advise anyone considering this location to avoid it at all costs and book with the airport location instead. Save yourself the time, frustration, and extra charges. Shame on Budget for allowing someone like this to represent their brand.
Mar 19, 2025 · Tiekel FinnikinWorst experience I’ve had at a budget management with a big attitude problem and wasn’t helpful at all. Had to rent at a complete different car rental company. Centerline Drive budget would have never treated me that way. Won’t use this budget ever again. Sad when they treat local people like that. If I could put no stars I would.
Jun 27, 2025 · Ryan SellsShawn provided great customer service and answered any/all questions. We were provided a vehicle that was super clean. The rate was of good value compared to other nearby rentals. Will definitely be a returning customer when back in the Knoxville area.Make note the address of the facility may not be what Costco shares on their site; the correct address is 3069 Alcoa Hwy.
Aug 26, 2023 · Joanna Wakeland
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