Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Milwaukee, WI

North America

United States

# Thrifty Rent A Car – Affordable Car Rentals in Milwaukee, WI
Thrifty Rent A Car, located at General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, WI, offers budget-friendly car rental services. Established with a vision to provide economical transportation solutions, Thrifty has become a key player in the car rental industry. The company is known for its competitive pricing, although customer reviews highlight significant concerns regarding service quality and transparency. Over the years, Thrifty has built a reputation that is a mix of affordability and customer dissatisfaction, making it a topic of discussion among travelers in the Milwaukee area.

## History
### The story of Thrifty Rent A Car
Thrifty Rent A Car was founded with the intention of providing cost-effective car rental options to travelers. The company aimed to cater to budget-conscious customers who seek reliable transportation without breaking the bank. Over the years, Thrifty has expanded its operations, becoming a recognizable name in the car rental sector.

### Milestones and growth
- Established as a budget car rental service in the mid-1950s.
- Expanded its fleet and locations across the United States and internationally.
- Became part of the Hertz Corporation, further enhancing its market presence.
- Introduced loyalty programs to attract repeat customers.

### Cultural and local influence
Thrifty Rent A Car has made a mark in local communities by providing affordable transportation options for both residents and visitors. Its presence at airports like General Mitchell International Airport makes it a convenient choice for travelers arriving in Milwaukee. However, the company has also faced criticism for its customer service practices, which have influenced public perception.

### Continuing the tradition
Despite challenges, Thrifty continues to operate with its original mission of affordability. The company strives to adapt to changing market conditions and customer expectations, although it often struggles to maintain a balance between low prices and high-quality service. Thrifty's ongoing efforts to improve customer experience reflect its commitment to its founding principles.

## Community
### Community involvement
Thrifty Rent A Car engages with the local community by providing essential transportation services, particularly for travelers. The company has been involved in various local initiatives, although specific community programs are not widely documented. Its role in facilitating travel contributes to the local economy, especially in tourism.

### Community notion about the place
The community's perception of Thrifty is mixed. While some appreciate the affordability of the service, many customers express frustration over customer service issues and hidden fees. This dichotomy has led to a reputation that is often scrutinized, with many locals recommending alternative rental services.

### Events and gatherings
Thrifty does not host specific events or gatherings, but its presence at airports and travel hubs makes it a common choice for attendees of various local events. Travelers often rely on Thrifty for transportation to and from conferences, festivals, and other gatherings in Milwaukee.

## Offerings
### What Thrifty Rent A Car offers
Thrifty Rent A Car provides a range of vehicles for rent, catering to different needs and budgets. The company focuses on delivering economical options, making it a popular choice for cost-conscious travelers. However, customer experiences suggest that the service quality may vary significantly.

### Dining and food experience
As a car rental service, Thrifty does not offer dining options. However, its location at the airport allows easy access to various food outlets nearby, providing travelers with convenient meal options before or after their rental experience.

### Events and packages
Thrifty offers various rental packages, including weekend deals and long-term rental options. These packages are designed to attract budget travelers, although customers often report issues with unexpected fees and charges that can diminish the perceived value of these packages.

### Facilities and features
- Wide selection of vehicles
- Competitive pricing
- Loyalty programs for frequent renters
- Convenient airport location
- Online booking options

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Customer reviews of Thrifty Rent A Car reveal a range of experiences, from positive interactions to severe dissatisfaction. Many customers highlight the affordability of rentals but express frustration over hidden fees and poor customer service.

### Compliments and strengths
Some customers appreciate the variety of vehicles available and the ease of bypassing the counter for Blue Chip members. Positive experiences often mention the convenience of the airport location and the overall affordability of rentals.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Contrastingly, numerous reviews emphasize the lack of effective customer service. Many customers report difficulties in reaching support and express dissatisfaction with the handling of complaints. The inconsistency in service quality has led to a significant number of negative reviews.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Thrifty Rent A Car offers affordable rental options, but potential customers should be cautious of the service quality and hidden fees. While the company has its strengths, the negative feedback highlights critical areas for improvement, particularly in customer service and transparency.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Thrifty Rent A Car is conveniently located at 5300 South Howell Ave, Milwaukee, WI, within the General Mitchell International Airport. This prime location makes it easily accessible for travelers arriving in Milwaukee. The surrounding area features various attractions, including the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum, making it a strategic starting point for exploring the city. Reviews indicate that the airport's proximity to downtown Milwaukee enhances the rental experience for visitors.

## FAQs
**What are the rental requirements** You need a valid driver's license and a credit card to rent a vehicle.
**Is there a mileage limit** Generally, rentals come with unlimited mileage, but check specific terms.
**Can I modify my reservation** Yes, modifications can be made online, but customer service may be difficult to reach.
**What is the fuel policy** Thrifty typically requires you to return the car with a full tank unless you pre-purchase fuel.
**Are there additional fees** Yes, customers often report unexpected fees, so review your rental agreement carefully.

## Visit Thrifty Rent A Car Today
Thrifty Rent A Car in Milwaukee offers budget-friendly options for travelers seeking economical transportation. While the company has a rich history and a commitment to affordability, customer feedback suggests a need for improvement in service quality. With its convenient airport location and a variety of vehicles, Thrifty remains a viable option for those looking to explore Milwaukee. However, potential renters should be aware of the mixed reviews and consider their options carefully before making a reservation.

174ae489-f4d2-4196-9b6b-c582ac740346

Do not rent from thrifty they don't deserve any stars. They are a big scam. Purchased the full option and when signing the paper work the lady renting the car made it seem that it would be cheaper to pre purchase the full and at no time made it clear that you will not get a refund so the only way that this works is if you return the car on empty. Everything is extra at thrifty and their customer service is a joke. Do not rent from them. Would leave zero stars if possible. Do not rent from thrifty.

9cdf4311-f3b8-431a-af75-300d8c036733

HORRIBLE experience trying to contact customer service to make a simple change to my pick up time. I had a flight that was delayed by a full day. Tried to change the reservation online and kept getting an error message. I "contacted support" through some old-fashioned form that looked like it was from the 1980's on Bill Gate's first computer...no reply. I tried to call multiple times and couldn't speak to a person- the automated system just keeps listing a bunch of options and then gives you another recorded message in an endless loop of recordings. I'd hate to know what the (non)response would be if I had an emergency while renting with them. What I ended up doing was calling my credit card company and disputing the charge- which was EASY and now I love Chase bank for life. Cancelling this reservation and never again booking with Thrifty. (FYI- Dollar is also owned by Hertz so you might want to avoid Dollar, too.) Enterprise is worth the extra cash and I will never deviate from Enterprise again.

6ee3a24f-dcb8-498c-b543-5b5030ceee83

Do not use Thrifty. 1. They will overcharge you somehow, someway. When the counter attendant saw how much luggage we had she happily told us that she would get a bigger car for us - oh how nice, right? WRONG. We were charged $35/day UPGRADE fee and the agent was so talkative and acting like our new best friend that I did not catch this fee on the form. SUCKER - they just got a whole lot more money from us. LOOK OVER EVERYTHING before you leave the counter. Even if you are tired and frustrated otherwise you WILL be charged for something. 2. Good luck getting to a person. You will NEVER get anyone on the phone. I waited on three separate occasions well over 40 minutes to speak to someone, nada. I finally called HERTZ customer service because they are the same company - surprise! - and was told that because I signed at the counter I am out of luck. Never again Thrifty.

e219dc83-e821-4d15-9e29-27f6a9cf5a8d

Excellent service as a Blue Chip member with Thrifty! I was able to bypass the counter and go straight to the garage. VARIETY in makes/models, unlike the large National brand rental! (See my previous review for the National location, and you will understand why variety is important). The staff went above and beyond and provided a requested car at last minute (Kia Soul. Good for zipping around and good on fuel).

46a2d69c-f692-4819-a45b-5c0e19259c60

I originally had a reservation for the weekend at a special $11/day rate picking up 16 July 2016 Saturday returning Monday for a total of only $57 with the taxes added. I got some bad news just before picking up the car (father in law very sick, maybe dying) so at the counter I asked about the cost of extending the rental for a couple of days. I knew from the original agreement that if I didn't return the car on Monday there was a $30/day penalty, which seemed like a pretty good rate so I was surprised when the Thrifty counter person said that extending the reservation would only cost $21/day. I asked her to repeat this as it sounded too good to be true. Fortunately although not good, my father-in-law was better than described by frightened relatives, I returned the car and was shocked to see that I was charged for the whole week, even though I only had the car from Saturday to Wednesday for a total of just under $200. Even at the original weekend rate with two penalty days I would have come under this amount, but what I should have gotten was two special weekend day rates at $11/day, and two weekday days at $21/day. I realize the difference may not seem like a lot of money but for me, it's the principle of the matter, I feel like I got cheated, at the least very misled into spending more money without getting anything more in return. No one working there had the authority to fix the overcharge, I couldn't even get an apology, I contacted customer service and got a scripted (macro) response, it was obvious my complaint with all these details wasn't even read or considered. The response was that I "received the lowest possible rate at the time." Clearly not the case. Because of the special rate, there was a long line at the counter, slowed by the scripted attempts to up-sell daily insurance coverage. Check with your credit card company, and your insurance agent, virtually nobody needs their additional coverage, and even if you have purchased it and you're in a fender bender, their insurance will first milk whatever they can out of your personal auto insurance which is sure to jack up your rates. At any rate, when the line is long, stop with the up-sell attempts, work through the line faster, not slower. If they could apply some of the organized collective effort into honest customer care at the level they put into trying to deceive renters into buying insurance coverage virtually no one needs, they could turn things around.

ce176da8-4a93-42df-b6fb-5427550ce1dd

Horrible company, poor customer service. DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY!! If it were possible to give negative stars I would. Do not rent from this company. The website misinforms you about who you are actually giving your card info to. Then they will deny you service because you don't have a plane ticket, saying that it's require ld by state law, which it isn't. Then they'll refuse to give you a refund. Trust me, go rent from Enterprise!!

5b96999f-1efd-4d34-962c-8138e207ab26

I would never rent from this location again! As a Blue Chip Member, the kiosk for members was not open, so I had to trek back into the building to get into the back of the line and wait for over 20 min to get a car. Unfortunately they didnt even link my blue chip number and I was provided a number to call to have them link them. After being on hold for 10 minutes during my call, they were unfriendly and unwilling to assist me. Upon returning the car there was 10 people waiting to check their cars back in, with one person working and no organization at all. People that were first in line were helped last. Completely unorganized and via phone, unprofessional and with poor customer service.

0e8e0d07-d982-426e-ae02-31f40f02ca8a

Absolute worst worst customer service SPEND YOUR MONEY somewhere that gives a crap about customer service!!!!!! Worst ever and BLUE CHIP is a waste because it does absolutely nothing to make this long line less painful. Burned out reps that could care less!! Never renting from this company ever ever again!

6d96b351-d0cf-4b82-ace0-8a83159ed06d

Unethical, unethical, unethical company. How stupid to save a few pennies over Enterprise or Budget. 1. Unethical: According to dictionary.com, unethical means "not in accord with the standards of a profession." 2. This particular branch: they have a sign up that says unless you buy their prepaid gas, you MUST show a receipt for a gas station within 5, yes FIVE, miles of their location. Note: since this is an airport, almost no station is within five miles. Note 2: In Portland, Or for example, the Thrifty requires within 75 miles. 3. Enter the unethical: Once I drove off, I saw that the gas tank they had recorded as "Full" was in fact closer to 3/4 than Full. I took a picture as I know this greasy location will try to get every cent from me. They require rigid proof of a full tank at return; they rip you off before you even drive off the lot with a less than full tank. 4. Hey Thrifty, want to sue? The defense for libel is the truth. I love the law. 5. Finally, let's talk about their desk agent. Surly, rude and wanting to be anywhere else but where she was-the female version of Grumpy Old Men. Ironically, friendly staff were helping Thrifty customers, but these staff were from Hertz who came to help as she was processing so slowly. All Yelp readers: please vote with your feet--avoid this Thrifty station. I was treated just fine in Portland and will be rating them in a positive light shortly.

5d822a52-529f-4af3-9d7a-40623a3f4a56

After the trip I rec'd a $112 invoice for unpaid tolls, $90 of which was an "administrative fee". I had asked for and rec'd a transponder when I picked up the car, no fee was ever mentioned. Obviously the transponder didn't work, but when I called re the invoice, I was then informed that they could change the fee to the $85 transponder fee. Of course, I'm going to be disputing this as they never informed me of that charge. I'll never rent from Thrifty again.

Discover Thrifty Rent A Car near Milwaukee's General Mitchell Airport for affordable, reliable vehicle rentals. Book now for your easy travel experience.

Thrifty Rent A Car near Milwaukee Airport | Affordable Rentals

Milwaukee

Thrifty Rent A Car

Wisconsin

Explore the full menu at Thrifty Rent A Car in Milwaukee. Discover rental options, special deals & must-know info. Visit us at 5300 South Howell Ave.

Thrifty Rent A Car Menu – Car Rentals at Milwaukee Airport

Learn about Thrifty Rent A Car at Milwaukee Airport. Your trusted car rental partner offering great deals, wide selection & excellent service. Located at 5300 South Howell Ave.

About Thrifty Rent A Car, Milwaukee Airport

Opening hours for Thrifty Rent A Car, Milwaukee Airport. Find opening hours for Thrifty Rent A Car at 5300 South Howell Ave, Milwaukee.

Thrifty Rent A Car Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Thrifty Rent A Car

Chili's

Cork 'N Cleaver

Host Marriott General Mitchell Intrntl Arprt Fd Ct