Southampton Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Southampton

Renting a car in Southampton provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With easy luggage management, you can comfortably travel to various attractions without the constraints of public transport schedules. For outdoor enthusiasts, you can easily reach the New Forest National Park, located just 16 km away, for stunning scenery and adventure experiences. A rental car also allows you to visit the Ocean Village Marina and Mayflower Park, both located within Southampton, perfect for family outings and city exploration.

Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations like Eastleigh, which is only 8 km away, and enjoy attractions such as Paultons Family Theme Park. If you’re looking for a beach experience, Fawley features Calshot Beach and other lovely parks. Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or friends, having a car allows for flexible travel plans, making it convenient to experience the diverse offerings in and around Southampton.

Most popular car rentals in Southampton

• Economy: The Economy car option is perfect for those travelling alone, as couples, or with families, accommodating up to 5 travellers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This choice is popular among visitors to Southampton, as it offers a budget-friendly way to explore the area while providing the convenience of flexible travel plans and easy luggage management.
• Compact: The Compact car is another well-booked option in Southampton, also fitting up to 5 travellers and allowing for up to 3 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it ideal for solo adventurers, couples, and families. Its smaller size offers easier navigation in urban areas, making it an excellent choice for exploring the sights around Southampton while maintaining comfort and convenience.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing more space, the Midsize SUV is an attractive option, accommodating 5 travellers and providing room for up to 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is well-suited for families, couples, or small groups seeking comfort and practicality during their trip. The Midsize SUV allows for a more spacious interior, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore Southampton and its surroundings.

Top rated car suppliers in Southampton

• Alamo Rent A Car: With 3 rental locations in the Southampton area, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice for many travellers. They are known for their well-maintained vehicles, with the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV being the most booked options. Alamo’s focus on customer service ensures a smooth rental experience, making it easy for you to manage your luggage and explore at your own pace.
• Europcar: Europcar operates 2 rental locations throughout Southampton, providing a convenient option for visitors. Their most popular vehicles include the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV, which are perfect for navigating both city streets and the surrounding countryside. Europcar is recognized for their commitment to customer satisfaction, ensuring you have a pleasant and hassle-free rental experience.
• National Car Rental: National Car Rental has 2 locations in Southampton, making it a strong contender for your car rental needs. Their Economy and Midsize SUV options are frequently booked, catering to various travel requirements. National Car Rental is dedicated to delivering excellent service, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip while they take care of your transportation needs.

Where to stay in and around Southampton

• Southampton City Centre: A vibrant neighbourhood, Southampton City Centre offers a mix of outdoor, family, and beach experiences. Explore the nearby Ocean Village Marina for adventure and water activities, or enjoy the greenery at Mayflower Park, perfect for family outings. For nature enthusiasts, the New Forest National Park is easily accessible and ideal for outdoor adventures. The area also boasts a variety of food and drink options, including local distilleries and wineries, making it a great base for your stay.
• Lyndhurst: Located 13 km from Southampton, Lyndhurst is surrounded by stunning scenery and outdoor activities. This charming city features attractions like the New Forest Museum, which caters to families and culture lovers alike. The New Forest National Park offers breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities, while the Paultons Family Theme Park - Home of Peppa Pig World provides fun for visitors of all ages. With accessible dining options, including local distilleries, Lyndhurst is an excellent choice for nature lovers.
• Brockenhurst: Situated 17 km from Southampton, Brockenhurst is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking beautiful scenery and adventure. Visit the Beaulieu National Motor Museum for a glimpse into transport history or enjoy the natural beauty of the New Forest National Park. Families can also find fun at the nearby Paultons Family Theme Park - Home of Peppa Pig World. The area offers a selection of dining options, including local wineries and distilleries, enhancing your stay in this picturesque city.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates tend to fluctuate based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre and park in busy areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, 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—may be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favourable option. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel plans, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, though this could be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
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 if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Southampton

The best value period to rent a car in and around Southampton is February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. January and March also offer similar benefits, making them ideal for those looking for quieter options. As spring approaches, demand tends to increase, with prices averaging in April and May, the latter being the busiest month of the year. July, in contrast, is usually the most expensive month, with high demand and slightly high prices.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	41.9°F (5.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	42.4°F (5.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
April	48.7°F (9.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	54.0°F (12.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	63.3°F (17.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	63.0°F (17.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly High
December	44.4°F (6.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average