Car Rental Gatwick Airport (LGW)

Reasons to book a car rental at London Airport

Renting a car at London Airport (LGW-Gatwick) is an excellent choice for tourists looking to explore the area at their own pace. With the convenience of managing your luggage easily and having flexible travel plans, a rental car allows you to visit attractions like Chessington World of Adventures, located 24 km away, or Hever Castle and Gardens, just 20 km from the airport. Additionally, Hampton Court Palace, which is 30 km away, offers a glimpse into history and culture.

This option appeals to various types of travellers, including those seeking friendly interactions, budget-conscious adventurers, and business-related experiences. With a rental car, you can easily access nearby cities such as Horley and Tinsley Green, both just 2 km away, where you can find more attractions like the Gatwick Aviation Museum. The freedom to travel on your schedule means that you can maximize your sightseeing opportunities while enjoying the comfort of your own vehicle, making your trip to London Airport both enjoyable and memorable.

Most popular car rentals near London Airport

• Compact SUV: A popular choice for those travelling around London airport, the Compact SUV accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a balance between space and manoeuvrability. With its higher driving position and versatility, you can easily navigate urban areas and enjoy the freedom to explore at your leisure.
• Economy: The Economy car option is another excellent choice for those visiting London airport. Also accommodating up to 5 travellers, it provides space for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families with lighter luggage. This option is perfect for budget-conscious travellers who still want the convenience of a rental car to enhance their travel experience in the area.
• Midsize SUV: For families, couples, or small groups needing extra space, the Midsize SUV is a top contender. It accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is great for those who want a comfortable ride with more room for luggage, making it easier to manage your belongings while enjoying the flexibility of a rental car around London airport.

Top rated car suppliers near London Airport

• Budget: Known for its friendly service and clean vehicles, Budget boasts an impressive overall rating of 9.4 out of 10. With a rental location less than 1 km away from London airport, it provides a convenient option for travellers. The most booked cars with Budget are the Compact SUV and Economy, making it an excellent choice for those seeking versatility and comfort during their trip.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo offers a seamless rental experience with a location less than 1 km from London airport. Travellers frequently opt for Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which are popular for their spaciousness and efficiency. Known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, Alamo is a reliable choice for those looking to explore the surrounding attractions comfortably.
• Enterprise: With a rental location situated less than 1 km from London airport, Enterprise is a popular choice for many travellers. It offers a wide selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Compact SUVs, which cater well to various needs. Enterprise is celebrated for its helpful staff and efficient service, ensuring a smooth experience for all customers.

Where to stay near London Airport

• Gatwick: Located in Gatwick, this city offers a rich blend of family, culture, and city-themed experiences. With attractions such as Chessington World of Adventures, Hever Castle and Gardens, and Hampton Court Palace nearby, it's a great base for those looking to explore. Enjoy local food and drinks at various wineries and restaurants, while also taking in the symbolic landmarks and urban parks in the area.
• Horley: Just 2 km from Gatwick, Horley is an ideal spot for outdoor and family activities. Visitors can explore the Gatwick Aviation Museum or enjoy the recreational areas and local parks. The presence of shopping venues and a variety of dining options, including wineries, makes it convenient for tourists looking for a blend of culture and leisure.
• Crawley: Situated 5 km away from Gatwick, Crawley is perfect for families and sports enthusiasts. The city features an aquatic centre and recreational facilities, along with urban parks that provide ample green space. Notable attractions like Worth St. Nicholas' Church and TeamSport Karting Crawley add to the charm, while numerous restaurants and wineries cater to diverse culinary tastes.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near London

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economy car for extra luggage, Expedia's filters can assist you in locating the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It’s generally advisable to reserve your LGW car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1 to 3 months ahead is especially beneficial, particularly before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have limited availability. This can also apply to drivers over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also work well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from London Airport

The best time to rent a car from London Airport is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This period offers great value for those looking to save. March and November also provide moderate pricing and average demand, making them good alternatives. However, July and August see higher prices and significant demand, while December tends to be the most expensive month with lower demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
February	41.4°F (5.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
March	44.4°F (6.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	48.6°F (9.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.7°F (17.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	47.1°F (8.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	43.0°F (6.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly High