Bedford Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Bedford

Renting a car in Bedford offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this charming city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Santa Pod Raceway for an adrenaline-filled day or unwind at Bedford Park, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Wrest Park, with its beautiful gardens, is also within easy reach.

Beyond Bedford, a rental car allows for convenient day trips to nearby destinations like Cranfield, where you can explore Bletchley Park and Woburn Abbey, or Sharnbrook, known for its attractions like Santa Pod Raceway and Bedford Autodrome. Flitwick is another nearby city worth a visit, offering additional cultural experiences. The ability to manage your luggage and travel plans flexibly makes a rental car a smart choice, especially for families or those with outdoor gear. Navigating the roads around Bedford is straightforward, ensuring you maximise your time discovering the area's rich culture and scenic landscapes.

Most popular car rentals in Bedford

• Compact SUV: This vehicle type accommodates up to 5 travellers with space for 3 medium suitcases. The Compact SUV is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, providing a comfortable ride while allowing you to navigate the Bedford area with ease. Its size makes it versatile for both urban driving and countryside exploration, ensuring you have the freedom to travel at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV can comfortably seat up to 5 travellers and holds up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers ample space and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy longer journeys around Bedford. With its combination of roominess and reliability, you can manage your luggage with ease while enjoying the sights.
• Economy: The Economy car accommodates up to 5 travellers and provides space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is well-suited for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking a budget-friendly choice. The Economy vehicle is ideal for those who want to explore Bedford without the hassle of excessive size or fuel costs, making it a practical selection for your trip.

Top rated car suppliers in Bedford

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for car rentals in Bedford, boasting 2 convenient locations in the area. Customers appreciate the excellent service and flexibility offered by this supplier. The most popular vehicles rented through Enterprise include Compact SUVs and Economy cars, providing options that cater to varying travel needs. The company is well-regarded for its well-maintained fleet and user-friendly rental process, making it a reliable option for both leisure and business travellers exploring Bedford and its surroundings.
• Routes: Routes is another excellent car rental option in Bedford, with a single location in the area. This supplier stands out for its selection of vehicles, with Compact and Midsize SUVs being the most frequently booked choices. Routes is known for its straightforward rental process and customer-focused service, ensuring that travellers have a smooth experience. Whether you’re visiting attractions or navigating the local area, Routes provides a great way to enhance your trip with the flexibility of a rental vehicle.

Where to stay in Bedford

• Wyboston: Wyboston is an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Located near Bedford, this village offers access to a beautiful golf course and a shopping centre. Notable attractions include Bedford Park, perfect for a family outing, the Shuttleworth Collection for culture lovers, and the exciting Santa Pod Raceway for adventure seekers. With nearby dining options and bars, Wyboston makes for a well-rounded stay, particularly in the warmer months when outdoor activities are at their peak.
• Cranfield: Cranfield is a charming village that caters to those interested in city themes and culture. It is home to a modern college university and offers various attractions including Bletchley Park, a historic site rich in history; Gullivers Land, an amusement park ideal for family fun; and Woburn Abbey, a historic house that showcases culture. The vibrant shopping area adds to its appeal, making it a great place to stay for those exploring Bedford's cultural heritage.
• Marston Moretaine: Marston Moretaine is perfect for visitors seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. This village boasts proximity to a nature reserve and national park, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Key attractions like Bletchley Park and Woburn Abbey cater to culture enthusiasts, while Gullivers Land is a fantastic choice for families and adventure lovers. The picturesque surroundings make Marston Moretaine a delightful place to stay, especially in the spring and summer when the scenery is at its best.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary according to demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking early often results in lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. 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 mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: It's common to incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this may be justified for the added convenience it offers.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Bedford

The best value period to rent a car in and around Bedford is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. March and April also offer good options, with slightly low prices and average demand. However, June is the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices. July and August continue this trend, with average prices but high demand, making them busier months for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	38.8°F (3.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	39.9°F (4.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	43.0°F (6.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
May	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
June	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Slightly High
July	62.4°F (16.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
August	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
September	58.3°F (14.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
November	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
December	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average