Car Rental in 5 Minutes? Avis Still Tries Harder….

Sometimes, you come across the guys who “get” mobile.

I landed at Atlanta airport a couple of days ago, with no way to get to my hotel. On the tram from the terminal to baggage claim, I tried to book a car from my trusty (rusty?) Blackberry.

First stop was National’s website. They have no mobile site. I gave up in 5 seconds….. #fail.

Then I tried Avis. I came to a simple mobile-optimized site. It’s sole purpose was to let me book a car;  60 seconds to fill in the absolute minimum data, with simple selectors. Add my membership number. Job done.

And then it just got better. Within 5 minutes of booking the car, I was at the Avis garage. My name was displayed on the board, telling me to go to the counter; they had the contract already printed and ready to go. 5 more minutes and I was in the car, and leaving the garage.

And National? Probably still trying to load their homepage!

Domestic travel isn’t too much fun these days. So Kudos to anyone who makes the expereince easy and pleasant!