Ashford Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Ashford

Renting a car in Ashford offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, as a rental vehicle provides ample space for luggage and gear, making travel more comfortable and convenient. With your own car, you can easily visit key attractions like the Wye National Nature Reserve and Willesborough Windmill, both located in the Ashford area. For those interested in cultural experiences, Godinton House and Gardens is also nearby.

A rental car allows for seamless day trips to popular destinations such as Hythe, which is 14 km away and features the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park and Gardens, or Tenterden, located 16 km from Ashford, where you can visit the Kent and East Sussex Railway. Headcorn is another nearby city, home to historical sites like Leeds Castle and Sissinghurst Castle and Garden. With a rental car, you can manage your travel plans flexibly, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this charming region of England.

Most popular car rentals in Ashford

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. With a midsize SUV, you can explore Ashford and its surroundings comfortably, enjoying the flexibility to travel at your own pace while managing luggage with ease.
• Luxury Van: Perfect for larger groups, the luxury van accommodates up to 15 travellers and offers space for up to 6 large suitcases. This option is ideal for large families or groups looking to travel together. Renting a luxury van ensures that everyone can enjoy the journey while providing ample room for both passengers and luggage.
• Fullsize Van: Similar to the luxury van, the fullsize van comfortably accommodates up to 10 travellers with space for up to 6 large suitcases. This option is also great for larger families or groups who want to explore Ashford together. With a fullsize van, you can enjoy the convenience of travelling as a group without sacrificing comfort or space.

Top rated car suppliers in Ashford

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travellers in Ashford, recognized for its exceptional customer service and convenient location. With a focus on flexibility, they provide a range of vehicles to suit your needs, including the highly requested Midsize SUV and Luxury Van. Customers appreciate the helpful staff and easy booking process, making it a reliable option for your car rental needs in the area.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental stands out for its premium vehicle offerings, ensuring a comfortable driving experience while exploring Ashford and its surroundings. With a single rental location in the area, they make the process seamless for customers. Their most popular vehicle choice is the Premium car, which combines style and performance, ideal for travellers looking to make the most of their trip.

Where to stay in and around Ashford

• Hythe: Located 14 km from Ashford, Hythe offers a delightful outdoor and family-friendly experience. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golf at local courses and explore shopping centres. Notable attractions include the Port Lympne Wild Animal Park and Gardens, Dover Castle, and Folkestone Beach. The area is also home to various food and drink options, including wineries and bars, making it a great spot for relaxation and exploration.
• Tenterden: Situated 16 km away from Ashford, Tenterden is a charming city known for its romantic and entertainment-themed experiences. Visitors can engage in recreational activities, including golf, and explore historic landmarks such as the Kent and East Sussex Railway and St Mildred's Church. Camber Sands beach is also nearby, offering a picturesque beach getaway. The local wineries and breweries provide excellent dining and tasting opportunities.
• High Halden: Nestled in the vicinity of Ashford, High Halden is a quaint village that caters to those seeking romantic and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include the beautiful Camber Sands beach, Leeds Castle, and Sissinghurst Castle and Garden, each steeped in culture and history. The village also features nearby wineries, perfect for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Ashford

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use Expedia's filters to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to access lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind should the unexpected occur during your trip. Adding rental car insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.