Car rental guide for UK travellers

How to choose a rental car

Selecting the appropriate vehicle depends on purpose, passenger numbers and where you plan to drive. For urban stays, compact cars are easier to park and tend to be more fuel-efficient. For rural or multi-passenger trips, consider a small SUV or estate with larger boot space. Think about luggage capacity, fuel type (petrol, diesel, hybrid) and whether you need child seats or roof storage. Check the vehicle’s fuel policy and whether manual or automatic transmission suits your comfort — automatics are often more expensive but easier in busy traffic.

Booking and pickup tips

Book early to secure a wider choice of vehicles and better rates, particularly during holiday periods. Compare quotes from established providers and reputable aggregator sites, focusing on the total price including taxes and mandatory fees. On pickup, inspect the car thoroughly for existing damage and ensure damage records are documented. Confirm pick-up and drop-off locations and times, as additional charges may apply for after-hours or airport collections. If you need collection from local services or specific depots in your area, verify opening hours and any shuttle arrangements.

Insurance and liability options

Understand the insurance offered by the rental company and which parts of liability it covers. Most rentals include basic collision damage waiver (CDW) but with an excess — your financial responsibility in case of damage. You can often purchase supplemental cover to reduce or eliminate excess, either from the provider or through third-party insurers. Also check whether theft protection, windscreen cover and tyre cover are included or optional. If you use a credit card with rental insurance, read the card’s terms carefully to confirm what is covered and any exclusions.

Local services, extras and additional fees

Rental agreements often include optional extras such as GPS, child seats, additional drivers and roof racks; these usually add daily fees. Be aware of administrative charges for fuel policy violations, late returns or cleaning. Some providers charge for returning a vehicle to a different location. When hiring from airport or city centre locations, compare costs with local services in your area, as airport surcharges can be higher. Always ask for a full breakdown of fees in writing and confirm the final total before accepting the vehicle.

Fuel, mileage and driving rules in the UK

Fuel policies vary: full-to-full is common and generally the most transparent — you pick up and return the car with a full tank. Pay attention to mileage limits; many rentals include unlimited mileage for standard hires but check for restrictions on longer-term or speciality vehicles. In the UK, drive on the left and be prepared for narrow country roads, roundabouts and congestion zones in major cities. Some urban areas have clean air or congestion charges; confirm whether the rental includes tolls or congestion payments and how these are billed.

Payment, documentation and cross-border travel

You will usually need a valid driving licence, passport or national ID, and a credit or debit card in the main driver’s name. Some providers require proof of address or return travel details. Minimum age and licence holding period vary between companies and vehicle categories; younger drivers or those with less than a year’s licence may face surcharges or restrictions. If you plan to drive outside the UK, notify the provider and check insurance validity, any additional fees and required paperwork such as a green card or international driving permit.

Conclusion

A well-planned car rental can make travel in the UK more flexible and efficient. Prioritise clarity on insurance, fees and fuel policy, inspect the vehicle on pickup, and confirm all terms in writing. Understanding local driving norms and the documentation required will reduce surprises and help ensure a smoother hire experience.