In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cancelling an Avis reservation. From how the policy works for different types of bookings to how to cancel or modify your reservation, we’ve got you covered.

1. What Is the Avis Cancellation Policy?

The Avis cancellation policy varies based on several factors, including:

• How you made your reservation (prepaid vs. pay later)

• When you cancel

• The location of the rental office

• Whether it was a direct booking or through a third party

Understanding these variations is essential so you’re not caught off guard with unexpected cancellation fees.

2. Avis Pay Now vs. Pay Later Reservations

Avis offers two main types of reservations: Pay Now and Pay Later.

• Pay Now: You pay at the time of booking. These are typically cheaper upfront but come with stricter cancellation rules.

• Pay Later: You reserve your vehicle without paying in advance. More flexible if plans change.

Let’s break down how the cancellation policy differs for each.

3. Cancelling a Pay Later Reservation with Avis

If you chose the Pay Later option, good news: Avis doesn’t charge a cancellation fee if you cancel before your scheduled pick-up time. Here’s how it works:

• Cancel any time before the reservation: No fee, no problem.

• Fail to cancel and don’t show up: This may result in a no-show fee, depending on the location.

This option is ideal if you're unsure about your travel schedule and want the flexibility to change your plans without financial penalty.

4. Cancelling a Pay Now Reservation with Avis

Pay Now reservations are a bit more complicated.

Here's what you need to know:

• Cancel more than 24 hours before pick-up: Avis will refund your money minus a $50 cancellation fee.

• Cancel within 24 hours of pick-up: You'll receive a refund minus a $150 cancellation fee.

• Fail to cancel and don’t show up: No refund at all.

So, if you’re opting for the discounted Pay Now rate, be sure you're committed to your rental schedule.

5. Avis No-Show Policy

If you don’t show up to pick up your rental and you didn’t cancel your reservation, Avis treats this as a no-show. Depending on the type of reservation:

• Pay Later: No penalty at most locations, though it's courteous to cancel.

• Pay Now: You forfeit the entire prepaid amount.

Avoid this by always cancelling, even if it’s at the last minute.

6. How to Cancel an Avis Reservation

Cancelling your Avis reservation is simple and can be done in several ways:

Online:

• Visit the official Avis website.

• Go to “View/Modify/Cancel” under Reservations.

• Enter your last name and confirmation number.

• Follow the prompts to cancel your reservation.

Mobile App:

• Open the Avis mobile app.

• Navigate to your upcoming reservation.

• Tap Cancel Reservation.

By Phone:

• Call Avis Customer Service at 1-855-590-0778 or 1-800-352-7900.

• Provide your reservation details to the agent.

Regardless of how you cancel, be sure to keep the confirmation email or screenshot for your records.

7. Can You Modify an Avis Reservation Instead of Cancelling?

Yes, you can often modify your Avis booking rather than cancelling it altogether. Modifications can include:

• Changing the pick-up/drop-off time

• Altering the car category

• Updating the renter’s information

• Switching the location

However, for Pay Now reservations, making changes may still result in cancellation and rebooking, which could incur a fee. Always check the terms before modifying.

8. What Happens If You Cancel Through a Third Party?

If you booked your Avis rental through a third-party site like Expedia, Priceline, or a travel agent, the cancellation policy of that platform applies—not Avis’s.

Here are some quick tips:

• Check the third party’s terms before booking.

• Contact the booking platform directly to make any changes or cancellations.

• Expect more restrictive policies and possibly higher fees than booking directly with Avis.

For the best flexibility, book directly through Avis.com or the official Avis app.

9. Avis Cancellation Policy for International Rentals

Policies may vary by country, especially regarding:

• Cancellation windows

• Fee amounts

• Currency exchange implications

If you’re booking an Avis rental abroad:

• Carefully read the local terms and conditions

• Be aware that international customer service numbers may differ

• Know that foreign locations may enforce stricter cancellation rules

10. COVID-19 and Emergency-Related Cancellations

Avis previously offered more lenient cancellation policies during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although those have largely ended, some flexibility may still be available under extraordinary circumstances, such as:

• Medical emergencies

• Natural disasters

• Flight cancellations

If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s best to call Avis directly. They may be willing to waive cancellation fees on a case-by-case basis.

11. Tips to Avoid Avis Cancellation Fees

Here are a few smart strategies to avoid or minimize cancellation fees:

• Choose Pay Later if your plans are uncertain.

• Set a reminder to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for Pay Now bookings.

• Always book directly with Avis for the most flexible terms.

• Check your credit card benefits—some offer travel protections that reimburse cancellation fees.

• Consider adding rental insurance or cancellation coverage at checkout if available.

12. What to Do If You’re Charged Unfairly

If you believe you’ve been wrongly charged a cancellation fee:

1. Review your confirmation email for the stated cancellation terms.

2. Call Avis Customer Service and explain the situation.

3. Be polite but persistent, especially if you cancelled in time but the system didn’t register it.

4. If necessary, dispute the charge with your credit card provider.

Documentation is key—screenshots, emails, and call logs can all help your case.

Conclusion: Is Avis's Cancellation Policy Fair?

In short, Avis offers a fairly transparent and flexible cancellation policy, especially compared to other car rental companies. The Pay Later option is highly forgiving, and even Pay Now cancellations offer partial refunds if handled correctly.

However, it’s up to you to be proactive: understand the rules, cancel early if needed, and book through the right channels. That way, you can avoid extra costs and travel stress.

Changing plans doesn’t have to be a hassle. When you know how the Avis cancellation policy works, you’re in the driver’s seat—even if your trip doesn’t go as planned.

FAQ Section:

Does Avis charge to cancel?