Exeter Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Exeter

Renting a car in Exeter offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit significant attractions such as the stunning Exeter Cathedral and the historic Exeter's Quayside, both ideal for cultural experiences. Additionally, the nearby Powderham Castle provides a romantic backdrop for those seeking cultural exploration. The convenience of a car makes it simple to manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as needed.

For those looking to venture further, destinations like Exmouth, located 14 km from Exeter, feature beautiful spots such as Devon Cliffs Beach and Exmouth Beach. Topsham and Woodbury, both in the area, also offer access to Powderham Castle and other scenic locales. Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or seeking outdoor adventures, having a rental car ensures that you can make the most of your trip to Exeter and its picturesque surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Exeter

• Compact: The Compact car is a highly popular choice for those visiting Exeter, accommodating up to 5 travellers along with 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking for a practical and efficient way to explore the city and its surroundings. Its smaller size makes it easy to navigate through Exeter’s streets while ensuring you have enough space for your luggage.
• Economy: If you are looking for an affordable yet comfortable option, the Economy car is an excellent pick. It also accommodates up to 5 travellers but is designed to hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families seeking to travel light without compromising on convenience. The Economy car allows you to enjoy the flexibility of discovering Exeter at your own pace.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize SUV is the top choice, accommodating up to 5 travellers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases. This option is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who require extra room for their luggage and gear. The Midsize SUV offers a comfortable ride, ensuring you can explore Exeter and beyond with ease and style.

Top rated car suppliers in Exeter

• Europcar: With a rental location in Exeter, Europcar is a popular choice for travellers seeking flexibility in their journey. Known for its well-maintained fleet, the most booked vehicles with Europcar are the Compact and Midsize SUVs, making it an excellent option for those who want comfort and space while exploring the surrounding attractions.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car boasts two convenient rental locations in Exeter, catering to a variety of traveller needs. Their most popular options include the Compact SUV and Economy vehicles, perfect for those looking for an efficient and budget-friendly way to navigate the city and its nearby sights.
• Enterprise: With three rental locations in Exeter, Enterprise offers travellers maximum convenience and accessibility. Their Midsize SUVs and Compact cars are among the most booked, ensuring you have a reliable vehicle for your adventures. The extensive presence of Enterprise in the area makes it easy to find a suitable car for your trip.

Where to stay around Exeter

• Exmouth: Located 14 km from Exeter, Exmouth is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beauty. With attractions like Devon Cliffs Beach and Exmouth Beach, it’s perfect for a beach holiday. The famous Powderham Castle offers a taste of culture and romance. Alongside these natural wonders, visitors can enjoy local dining options, making it a well-rounded stay for those who appreciate nature and adventure.
• Dawlish: Situated 16 km from Exeter, Dawlish is known for its beautiful beaches and recreational activities. Dawlish Beach and the nearby Devon Cliffs Beach are excellent choices for beach lovers. The area also features Powderham Castle, which adds a cultural touch to your visit. With access to parks and local wineries, Dawlish offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation for travellers.
• Hennock: Hennock, a charming village located 15 km from Exeter, is perfect for those seeking an adventure in a picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy fishing and swimming while exploring nearby attractions such as Powderham Castle and Exeter Cathedral. The village also offers cozy dining options for a pleasant dining experience after a day of outdoor activities. Hennock’s scenic surroundings make it a serene retreat for travellers looking to unwind.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to obtain lower rates and greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to manoeuvre and park in busy locations. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced option in terms of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. 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 be restricted. This could also impact renters older than 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements mandate a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most economical choice. Others might have full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unwarranted expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans involve long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional 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 Exeter

The best value period to rent a car in and around Exeter is February, with slightly low prices and average demand. January also offers decent rates, while March sees prices and demand at average levels. April is when demand increases, leading to higher costs, and May tends to be the busiest month, making it the most expensive time for rentals. Following that, July and August maintain slightly high prices alongside average demand, reflecting a peak in rental activity.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	42.8°F (6.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
June	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	61.5°F (16.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	48.2°F (9.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average
December	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average