Dover Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Dover

Renting a car in Dover provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This popular choice allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans, making it iDeal for tourists. With a rental car, you can visit notable attractions such as the stunning White Cliffs of Dover, perfect for outdoor and scenic experiences, and the historic Dover Castle, which adds a touch of culture and romance to your trip. You can also take a short drive to Folkestone Beach, located 10 km away, for a relaxing beach day. Additionally, you can explore nearby cities like Folkestone, just 11 km from Dover, where you can find the Folkestone Harbour and more views of the White Cliffs. Deal, located 12 km away, offers attractions such as Walmer Castle and Walmer Beach. For a quaint experience, St Margaret's at Cliffe features both the cliffs and the castle. Whether you're an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or someone looking for a beach getaway, a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Dover.

Most popular car rentals in Dover

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a popular choice for those seeking space and versatility. With the capacity to accommodate 5 travellers and up to 3 large suitcases, a midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups. It offers ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it an ideal option for exploring the attractions in and around Dover comfortably.
• Compact SUV: The compact SUV is another highly booked option, providing a balance of space and efficiency. It can comfortably seat 5 travellers and hold up to 3 medium suitcases, making it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or families. This car type is great for manoeuvring through Dover’s streets while still offering enough room for the essentials during your journey.
• Economy: If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the economy car fits the bill. Accommodating 5 travellers with up to 2 medium suitcases, this type is well-suited for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. An economy car is perfect for those who want to explore Dover without the added expense while still ensuring a comfortable ride.

Top rated car suppliers in Dover

• Europcar: With 1 rental location in the Dover area, Europcar is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility during their trip. They offer a range of vehicles, with the most booked options being the Compact SUV and Economy cars, catering to various travel needs. This supplier allows you to explore the attractions around Dover comfortably and at your own pace.
• Enterprise: Another leading supplier in Dover, Enterprise features 1 rental location that provides a diverse selection of vehicles. The most booked choices are the Fullsize Van and Midsize SUV, making it an excellent option for families or groups. With Enterprise, you can enjoy convenience and the ability to manage your luggage easily while discovering the beautiful sights in and around Dover.
• Keddy By Europcar: Also boasting 1 rental location in the Dover area, Keddy By Europcar offers travellers a great selection of vehicles. Like Europcar, their most popular rentals include the Compact SUV and Economy, allowing for a practical and economical travel experience. Renting from Keddy ensures you have the freedom to create your own itinerary while enjoying the attractions of Dover and its surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Dover

• Folkestone: Located 11 km from Dover, Folkestone is a vibrant city perfect for those seeking outdoor and family experiences. Enjoy the beautiful Folkestone Beach and the scenic Folkestone Harbour, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. The nearby White Cliffs of Dover offer stunning views and adventure opportunities. With a range of dining options, including local wineries, Folkestone is a great choice for travellers looking to combine beach fun with cultural exploration.
• Deal: Situated 12 km from Dover, Deal is an excellent destination for beach and outdoor enthusiasts. The picturesque Walmer Beach provides a serene spot for sunbathing, while the historic Walmer Castle and Gardens offer a glimpse into local culture and romance. The area around Deal features the iconic White Cliffs of Dover for breathtaking scenery. With golf courses and bars nearby, Deal invites visitors to enjoy both relaxation and recreational activities.
• River: Located within the Dover area, River is a charming village that caters to families and outdoor lovers. Explore the iconic White Cliffs of Dover and visit the impressive Dover Castle, which adds a touch of culture to your stay. The local Dover Harbour provides beautiful views and recreational opportunities. With dining options available, River is a peaceful retreat ideal for families and those looking to enjoy nature while being close to urban amenities.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Tailor your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for warm summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, apply filters on Expedia to help you discover the best match 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. Booking in advance typically allows you to access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are usually more affordable to rent and easier to park 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 available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. 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 often the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling options, which can be fine as well—just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience may be worth the cost.
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 expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Dover

The best value period to rent a car in and around Dover is February, which enjoys lower prices and average demand. March and April follow closely with similar pricing and demand patterns, offering a good opportunity for budget-conscious renters. As the summer approaches, prices rise, especially in August when demand is high and rentals can be more costly. September and October also see increased demand, with prices remaining steady during this busy time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Moderately High
February	43.3°F (6.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Moderately Low
March	45.5°F (7.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
May	53.4°F (11.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately High
August	64.0°F (17.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
September	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	57.0°F (13.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	High	Average
November	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	46.2°F (7.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average