Thrifty Car Rental

- 2200 Norview Ave, Norfolk, VA 23518

For many Virginians, whether planning a weekend escape to the coast, a family visit across the state, or simply needing a reliable vehicle while their own is out of commission, securing a car rental is a common necessity. When flying in or out of the Hampton Roads area, airport car rental agencies often provide the most convenient solution. This article will offer a direct and informative overview of Thrifty Car Rental at Norfolk International Airport (ORF), detailing its location, services, and, most importantly, key considerations derived from recent customer experiences to help local users in Virginia make an informed choice for their transportation needs.

Thrifty Car Rental is known for its value-oriented approach, often appealing to those looking for competitive pricing. However, understanding the complete picture, including the real-world experiences of other customers, is vital. Our goal here is to provide a factual and practical guide, allowing you to weigh the pros and cons of renting from this specific Thrifty location at ORF.

Thrifty Car Rental is conveniently located at 2200 Norview Ave, Norfolk, VA 23518, USA, placing it directly within the Norfolk International Airport (ORF) complex. This prime location offers maximum accessibility for air travelers arriving at or departing from Norfolk. The Thrifty counter is typically found within the airport terminal, allowing customers to easily transition from their flight to the rental process without the need for off-site shuttles. The vehicle pickup area is usually a short walk from the counter, ensuring a swift start to your journey.

For Virginia residents living in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or surrounding areas, this airport location is easily accessible via major roadways leading to ORF. This central access point makes it a practical choice for picking up or dropping off a rental car, whether you're heading directly home, embarking on a road trip across the Commonwealth, or simply need a temporary vehicle while yours is in the shop. Thrifty at ORF generally operates with extended hours, typically from 6:30 AM to 11:59 PM, seven days a week, accommodating a wide range of flight schedules and personal needs.

Thrifty Car Rental, as part of a larger national and international network, generally offers a standard suite of services designed to meet diverse customer demands. At their Norfolk International Airport branch, you can typically expect:

• Variety of Vehicle Classes: Thrifty usually provides a selection of vehicles ranging from economical compact cars for budget-conscious travelers, standard sedans, SUVs for more space, and sometimes minivans or specialized vehicles, depending on fleet availability. This allows customers to choose a vehicle that aligns with their travel plans and budget.

• Flexible Rental Periods: Customers typically have the option to rent vehicles for daily, weekly, or monthly durations, catering to short trips, extended stays, or longer-term temporary transportation needs.

• Optional Add-ons: Common optional amenities include GPS navigation systems, child safety seats (for various age groups), and various protection plans to cover potential damages or liabilities during the rental period.

• "Blue Chip Express" Program: Thrifty offers a loyalty program designed to expedite the rental process for frequent travelers. Members can often enjoy perks like a dedicated "Blue Chip Express Line" and faster counter service, aiming to get them on the road quicker.

• One-Way Rentals: Depending on availability and destination, Thrifty often facilitates one-way rentals, allowing customers to pick up a vehicle at one location and return it to a different Thrifty branch, providing flexibility for varied itineraries within Virginia or across states.

While Thrifty aims to provide economical rental solutions, recent customer reviews for the Norfolk International Airport location highlight several significant concerns that prospective renters should be aware of:

• Vehicle Cleanliness and Condition: A major recurring issue is the cleanliness and general condition of the rental vehicles. Customers have reported cars with strong odors, suggesting they were previously used for smoking despite Thrifty's non-smoking policy (which levies a $400 cleaning fee for violations). Disturbingly, one customer found a "chicken bone" in the cup holder of a vehicle, leading to serious concerns about sanitary conditions. As the review states, "When we got in this car it smelled like they took the interior out of a 2006 and put it in a 2019... in the last row's cup holder, there was a chicken bone!! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?" This suggests a potential lapse in thorough vehicle cleaning and inspection protocols.

• Safety Concerns: The lack of perceived cleanliness and attention to detail has led at least one customer to question the safety of the vehicle. "Seriously though, when I called corporate to complain about the nastiness of this vehicle... If they don't fix the stuff you can see, imagine what's not fixed that you can't see? At this point, my safety is in question." This points to a deeper concern about overall vehicle maintenance beyond just cleanliness.

• Customer Service and Compensation Policy: Feedback indicates that resolving issues, particularly those related to vehicle condition, can be frustrating. A customer reported that corporate stated they "DO NOT COMPENSATE" for issues, instead offering to send roadside assistance to clean the vehicle, which was seen as an "inconvenience." This suggests that immediate resolution or compensation for unsatisfactory vehicle conditions may not be readily available.

• Comparison to Competitors: Some customers have explicitly advised against renting from Thrifty at this location, suggesting that spending "5-10 extra elsewhere" might "spare yourself the risk of filth." They also noted that "The other 2 car rental companies were getting people through very quick," implying better efficiency from competitors at the same airport.

For direct contact with Thrifty Car Rental at Norfolk International Airport, please use the following information:

• Address: 2200 Norview Ave, Norfolk, VA 23518, USA

• Phone: (877) 283-0898

For locals in Virginia considering Thrifty Car Rental at Norfolk International Airport, the primary draw may be its potentially competitive pricing and convenient airport location. However, recent and significant customer feedback highlights considerable concerns regarding vehicle cleanliness, maintenance, and the responsiveness of customer service in addressing these issues. While Thrifty aims to offer an economical option, the experiences shared by other Virginians suggest a potential compromise on vehicle quality and the overall rental experience. It is highly advisable for prospective renters to thoroughly inspect any vehicle provided by Thrifty at this location upon pickup, documenting any cleanliness or maintenance issues with photos or videos immediately. While the "Thrifty" price point might be appealing, weighing the potential for inconvenience and dissatisfaction against a slightly higher cost from a competitor known for better vehicle quality and service is a crucial consideration for ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey across Virginia.

Thrifty Car Rental

2200 Norview Ave, Norfolk, VA 23518, USA